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This study was conducted to determine the yield and quality characteristics of white clover at different harvest time. The study was carried out according to the randomized blocks experimental design in 2021 and 2022, and the Rivendel variety of white clover was used as the plant material in the study. Four different harvest time of white clover, as early bloom, mid-bloom, full bloom, and after-bloom, were considered as the research subject. In the experiment, the plant height, green forage yield, dry matter yield, dry matter ratio, crude protein, crude protein yield, insoluble fiber in acid detergent (ADF), insoluble fiber in neutral detergent (NDF), relative feed value and phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium contents of white clover were investigated. It has been determined that the differences in all of these examined features in different harvest time of white clover were statistically significant. In the research, white clover reached the highest plant height (32.3 cm and 27.8 cm), green forage yield (38.367 kg ha-1 and 52.080 kg ha-1), dry matter yield (10.707 kg ha-1 and 13.424 kg ha-1), and crude protein yield (1987 kg ha-1 and 2544 kg ha-1) in full bloom in both years. In 2021, the highest crude protein and relative feed value and the lowest ADF and NDF ratios were obtained during early bloom and mid-bloom, while in 2022, the highest values for these characteristics were obtained only from early bloom stages. It was determined that the lowest phosphorus and potassium contents and the highest calcium and magnesium contents were obtained from the after bloom stage in both years. As a result, since the highest yield values and average quality values are obtained from the full bloom stage, it has been concluded that it was more advantageous for the producer to harvest the white clover at this stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panicum virgatum L., also known as switchgrass, is a warm season short-day, C4-perennial crop gaining attention in feedstock production. The harvest stage of the forage crops and the cultivars used directly affect the feed quality as animal feed. In this study, differences were evaluated in various macro element contents of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) cultivars at different harvest stages. Eight different switchgrass cultivars (Alamo, BoMaster, Kanlow, Cave in Rock, Long Island, Shawnee, Shelter, and Trailblazer) were evaluated in the study. According to the results of the study, significant differences were found among the cultivars studied for phosphate (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg). The Long Island cultivar had the highest mineral concentration (0.223% P, 1.049% K, 0.581% Ca, and 0.201% Mg). As harvest proceeded, the levels of P and K in the plants decreased while the levels of Ca and Mg increased. The highest P (0.223%) and K (1.030%) values were obtained from plants harvested at the pre-flowering stage, while the highest Ca (0.538%) and Mg (0.183%) values were obtained from plants harvested at the full flowering stage. Switchgrass cultivars were found to be insufficient to meet animal needs for P and Ca content throughout the plant's harvest stages. Mg was found to be sufficient in all harvest stages, while K was sufficient in the first two harvest stages, pre-flowering and 50% flowering, but insufficient in the full flowering stage. The dry matter's Ca/P ratio, regardless of cultivar or harvest stage, posed no risk to animal health. The K/(Ca+Mg) ratio varied between 0.807 and 1.235 depending on the cultivar and harvest stage. This ratio does not pose any risk to animal health. Based on these results, it would be appropriate to supplement feed rations with materials containing P and Ca or to use switchgrass in animal feeding together with feeds rich in these minerals when using dry matter obtained from switchgrass cultivars alone as roughage. In general, although Panicum virgatum has an important potential as a feed source in animal nutrition, it needs to be supplemented with nutrient-containing additives. It would also be appropriate to determine the nutrient content of these varieties under different ecological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panicum virgatum L., also known as switchgrass, is a warm season short-day, C4-perennial crop gaining attention in feedstock production. The harvest stage of the forage crops and the cultivars used directly affect the feed quality as animal feed. In this study, differences were evaluated in various macro element contents of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) cultivars at different harvest stages. Eight different switchgrass cultivars (Alamo, BoMaster, Kanlow, Cave in Rock, Long Island, Shawnee, Shelter, and Trailblazer) were evaluated in the study. According to the results of the study, significant differences were found among the cultivars studied for phosphate (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg). The Long Island cultivar had the highest mineral concentration (0.223% P, 1.049% K, 0.581% Ca, and 0.201% Mg). As harvest proceeded, the levels of P and K in the plants decreased while the levels of Ca and Mg increased. The highest P (0.223%) and K (1.030%) values were obtained from plants harvested at the pre-flowering stage, while the highest Ca (0.538%) and Mg (0.183%) values were obtained from plants harvested at the full flowering stage. Switchgrass cultivars were found to be insufficient to meet animal needs for P and Ca content throughout the plant’s harvest stages. Mg was found to be sufficient in all harvest stages, while K was sufficient in the first two harvest stages, pre-flowering and 50% flowering, but insufficient in the full flowering stage. The dry matter’s Ca/P ratio, regardless of cultivar or harvest stage, posed no risk to animal health. The K/(Ca+Mg) ratio varied between 0.807 and 1.235 depending on the cultivar and harvest stage. This ratio does not pose any risk to animal health. Based on these results, it would be appropriate to supplement feed rations with materials containing P and Ca or to use switchgrass in animal feeding together with feeds rich in these minerals when using dry matter obtained from switchgrass cultivars alone as roughage. In general, although Panicum virgatum has an important potential as a feed source in animal nutrition, it needs to be supplemented with nutrient-containing additives. It would also be appropriate to determine the nutrient content of these varieties under different ecological conditions.

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), adapted to arid and semiarid regions, is grown for seed and petal production, but the present study aimed to evaluate the possibility of simultaneous forage and seed production in the autumn and middle types of safflower varieties in dual-purpose cultivation in semiarid areas in the shortfall forage period. An experiment was done based on a randomized complete block design with nine treatments and three replications at the Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, Agriculture Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran. The treatments included the cultivation of Parnian, Goldasht, and Golmehr varieties with the purpose of seed harvesting as control treatments; the same varieties (Parnian, Goldasht, and Golmehr), once with the aim of forage harvesting at 50% stem elongation stage and seed harvesting; and again with the aim of forage harvesting at 50% branching stage and seed harvesting. The results showed that forage harvesting at the 50% branching stage significantly increased the dry and fresh forage yield compared to the 50% stem elongation stage. The highest fresh and dry forage yields (DFY) (42,229 and 11,266 kg/ha) were related to the Golmehr variety at the 50% branching stage. Forage harvesting at the stem elongation stage decreased the crude protein, protein content, and digestibility compared to the branching stage in three safflower varieties. Parnian variety had the maximum seed yield (2,226 kg/ha) without forage harvesting. The highest seed yield in the second year (2018–2019) of the experiment belonged to the Golmehr variety (1,310 kg/ha) to harvest forage at 50% stem elongation (rapid stem growth) and seed harvest treatment, which compared to the first year (2017–2018), showed an increase of 25%. Finally, the forage harvested amount of all three varieties studied was higher in the branching stage than in the stem elongation stage. These results implied that the Golmehr variety (11,266 kg/ha DFY and 520 kg/ha seed yield) is for dual-purpose cultivation, and the Parnian variety (2,226 kg/ha seed yield) is suitable for only seed production for the semiarid region of Karaj in Iran and similar areas in terms of climate.

Dioscorea opposita Thumb. cv. Tiegun is commonly consumed as both food and traditional Chinese medicine, which has a history of more than two thousand years. Harvest time directly affects its quality, but few studies have focused on metabolic changes during the harvesting process. Here, a comprehensive metabolomics approach was performed to determine the metabolic profiles during six harvest stages. Thirty eight metabolites with significant differences were determined as crucial participants. Related metabolic pathways including phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, stilbenoid, diarylheptanoid and gingerol biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis and tryptophan metabolism were the most active pathways during harvest. The results revealed that temperature has a significant impact on quality formation, which suggested that Dioscorea opposita thumb. cv. Tiegun harvested after frost had higher potential value of traditional Chinese medicine. This finding not only offered valuable guidance for yam production, but also provided essential information for assessing its quality.

Green stem syndrome is one of the major problems encountered in soybean production in the world because it makes harvesting with a combine harvester difficult. Although the prevalence of the green stem syndrome Turkey is unknown, in recent years it has started to be observed frequently. Leaf color characters in the growing stages of some soybean varieties have been determined according to varieties in this study. Color changes in the leaves from V3 to R8 phase were monitored using L*, a*, b* color scale. Possibility of detecting changes in leaf color before the R8 stage was studied. Some quality parameters have been evaluated in seed samples obtained from plants with and without symptoms in the R8 stage. It was determined that the germination rate of the seeds obtained from the plants with the syndrome decreased by 61.4% on average compared to those from healthy plants. Furthermore, compared to non-symptomatic seeds, symptomatic seeds were larger, had a lower fat ratio, lower palmitic and linoleic fatty acid values, and higher oleic fatty acid values. At this study was determined that the most significant difference was manifested in terms of stem moisture values during germination and harvesting. In addition, detection of green stem syndrome can be used b* color value as a marker. The hypothesis of the study is that the syndrome can be diagnosed at early stage by following color values in the soybean leaves. In the future studies the color of the leaf can also be a parameter available for the machine learning models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a study conducted in 2016–2018 in the temperate conditions to evaluate the content and uptake of P, K, Ca and Mg in mixtures of narrowleaf lupin with spring triticale grown for green fodder. Two factors were analysed in the experiment: A – the proportion of components in the mixture: narrowleaf lupine 100%, narrowleaf lupine + spring triticale 75 + 25%, 50 + 50%, 25 + 75%, and spring triticale 100%; B – the harvest stage the flowering stage of narrowleaf lupine, the stage of flat green pod of narrowleaf lupine. Increasing the proportion of spring triticale in the sown mixtures in relation to narrowleaf lupine resulted in a decrease in the content of the analysed macroelements by 8.9%–28.7% on a g/kg DM basis. The greatest uptake on a kg/ha basis of macroelements was found in the mixture with an equal share of both components. Harvesting mixtures at a later stage of development increased the uptake of P, K, Ca and Mg by 98.7%–111.8% because of greater DM yield, but reduced the content of these macroelements by 12.6%–20.8% in the more mature fodder. Mixtures of narrowleaf lupine with spring triticale can provide valuable mineral nutrients for livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Asafoetida (Ferula assa foetida L.) is a crucial pharmaceutical-industrial species native to Iranian rangelands and is harvested by local communities. The resulting slurry is a significant export in the medicinal plants sector. However, the quality of the product declines as local beneficiaries collect slurries from different age bases, mix them, and supply them to the market. This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial properties, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) of asafoetida slurry obtained from different harvest methods to optimize product quality. Methodology: A factorial completely randomized design was employed in the rangeland of Tangsorkh, Boyerahmad County. Asafoetida slurry was harvested from three age groups (5-6 years old, 7-8 years old, and 9-10 years old) in June, July, August, and September. Essential oil extraction, TPC, and TFC measurements were conducted, and the antimicrobial effects (MIC and MBC) were tested against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus parasiticus. Results: The results showed that the TPC and TFC of asafetida slurry essential oil obtained from different ages and harvest times did not significantly differ. In terms of age, the highest (92 mg GA/g) and lowest (74 mg GA/g) TPC values belonged to the groups of 1 and 3, respectively. Similarly, the highest (37 mg quercetin/g) and lowest (20 mg quercetin/g) TFC values were respectively associated with the groups of 1 and 3. In terms of the harvest time, the highest TPC (93 mg GA/g) was found in the essential oil obtained in June, while the lowest TPC (56 mg GA/g) was related to the essential oil extracted in September. Similarly, the highest (37 mg quercetin/g) and lowest (19.3 mg quercetin/g) TFC values were respectively associated with the essential oils obtained from the products harvested in June and September. The results also demonstrated that the MICs of the essential oil were equal to 1250, 312.5, 625, and 625 ppm for E. coli, S. aureus, A. flavus, and A. parasiticus, respectively. Furthermore, the MBCs of the essential oil were respectively equal to 2500, 650, 1250, and 1250 for the four microorganisms. Conclusion: The study highlights the influence of plant age and harvest time on the nutraceutical composition of asafoetida slurry. Younger plants harvested earlier exhibited higher TPC and TFC, accompanied by more pronounced antimicrobial effects. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing harvest methods to enhance the quality of asafoetida slurry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Silage is achieved by anaerobic fermentation of lactic acid bacteria. However, harvest stage and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) content affect the changes of microbial community in silage, which play an important role in silage quality and mycotoxin levels. The current study evaluated the effects exerted by the application of L. plantarum on fermentation, mycotoxins and bacterial community of whole-crop corn silage at different harvest stages. The fresh whole plant corn from the same area was harvested during the milk stage and the dough stage, following which from each harvest stage was subjected to four L. plantarum treatments: 0 cfu/g; 1 × 106 cfu/g; 1 × 107 cfu/g; and 1 × 108 cfu/g in a 2 × 4 factorial experimental design. Samples were collected on days 0, 3, 7, 21 and 42. Subsequently, nutrition parameters, fermentation parameters, mycotoxin levels and bacterial community were determined. Results Prolonging the harvest stage resulted in an increase in the levels of starch and dry matter as well as deoxynivalenol in corn silage. Addition of 1 × 107 cfu/g and 1 × 108 cfu/g of L. plantarum applied after 42 d of ensilage reduced dry matter loss, which significantly lowered deoxynivalenol concentration in corn silage at the dough stage (P

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Livestock intensification improves production efficiency and enhances the demand for quality forage to feed ruminants. Novel combinations of forage plants, especially including Gramineae and Leguminous plants, benefit both ruminant animals and contribute to a sustainable environment. This study explored an oat-pea mixed seeding strategy as an approach to improving silage quality. Before ensialing, lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus brucelli) were added to forage from five different mixed seeding proportions of oats (O) and peas (P) (10:0, 8:2, 7:3, 5:5, and 0:10 oat to pea ratio) at two harvesting periods (the early flowering stage and the milk ripening stage for the oats). The results showed that mixed seeding changed the soil quality parameters. Moreover, the silage from the O5P5 (5:5 oat to pea ratio) group showed the lowest pH values (4.16) and highest LA contents (7.74% DM) after ensiling for 7d (p < 0.05) in early flowering stage. Also, the O5P5 group increased the number of tillers/branches and produced silage with the highest CP content (13.14–14.06) after ensiling for 7d in early flowering stage and both 7d and 30d in early flowering stage and milk ripening stage (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study found that the selection of oat-pea mixed seeding as O5P5 and harvesting at the milk ripening stage of oat is recommended as a desirable oat-pea mixed seeding strategy for producing high quality silage.

Copyright of Journal of Agriculture & Nature / Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tarım & Doğa Dergisi is the property of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam Universitesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Silage is achieved by anaerobic fermentation of lactic acid bacteria. However, harvest stage and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) content affect the changes of microbial community in silage, which play an important role in silage quality and mycotoxin levels. The current study evaluated the effects exerted by the application of L. plantarum on fermentation, mycotoxins and bacterial community of whole-crop corn silage at different harvest stages. The fresh whole plant corn from the same area was harvested during the milk stage and the dough stage, following which from each harvest stage was subjected to four L. plantarum treatments: 0 cfu/g; 1 × 106 cfu/g; 1 × 107 cfu/g; and 1 × 108 cfu/g in a 2 × 4 factorial experimental design. Samples were collected on days 0, 3, 7, 21 and 42. Subsequently, nutrition parameters, fermentation parameters, mycotoxin levels and bacterial community were determined. Results: Prolonging the harvest stage resulted in an increase in the levels of starch and dry matter as well as deoxynivalenol in corn silage. Addition of 1 × 107 cfu/g and 1 × 108 cfu/g of L. plantarum applied after 42 d of ensilage reduced dry matter loss, which significantly lowered deoxynivalenol concentration in corn silage at the dough stage (P < 0.01). The pH of corn silage decreased, whereas the lactic acid concentration increased after ensiling. The effects exerted by the interaction (harvest stage × dose of L. plantarum) on pH on day 21 as well as on fermentation and lactic acid on days 21 and 42 were significant (P < 0.05). Addition of 1 × 107 cfu/g of L. plantarum at the dough stage significantly increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes while decreasing that of Bacteroidetes, compared to when L. plantarum was not added (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Adding L. plantarum improved the fermentation quality and bacterial community of silage, which reduced part of mycotoxin content and relative abundance of harmful bacteria. In addition, adding L. plantarum in dough stage resulted in greater improvements to mycotoxin content and bacterial community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leafy vegetables play a crucial role in the human diet providing numerous nutrients and health benefiting compounds. Leafy vegetables like collard (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) and black nightshade (Solanum nigrum l.) are commonly consumed leafy vegetables in Kenya. However, their high perishability and short shelf life (usually 1-2 days at ambient temperature) limits their utilization resulting in significant high postharvest losses. This study assessed the effect of harvest stage and nitrogen fertilization on the postharvest shelf life of collard and black nightshade. Experiments were conducted at Kabete field station, University of Nairobi, using collard and black nightshade. Field experimental layout was a 4 x 3 factorial arrangement in randomized complete block design with three replicates. Factors were nitrogen levels and harvest stage. Four levels of nitrogen (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha) were applied on black nightshade and (0, 55.5, 111.1 and 166.6 kg N/ha) in collard where 0 kg N/ha was the control. Collard and black night shade were harvested at three harvest stages: 4 weeks, 6 weeks and 8 weeks after transplanting. The harvested vegetables were kept at ambient room condition (20 °C, 55% relative humidity). Data collection was performed daily for quality related parameters which included color change, wilting index and cumulative weight loss. Results show that there was a progressive deterioration in quality of the collard and black nightshade with storage time regardless of harvest stage and nitrogen level. Harvesting at 8 weeks after transplanting resulted in longer shelf life in collard (three days) and black nightshade (two days) when compared to harvesting at 4 weeks or 6 weeks after transplanting. Collard and black nightshade showed reduced hue angles over storage time at different harvest stages. Black nightshade subjected to 90 kg N/ha and harvested at 4 weeks after transplanting had the highest wilting index of 33%. The highest cumulative weight loss of 29% was recorded in collard that were harvested at 8 weeks after transplanting. Black nightshade subjected to 90 kg N/ha and harvested at 6 weeks after transplanting showed the best color at a hue angle of 145°. Overall, harvesting at 8 weeks after transplanting resulted in the longest shelf life of both black nightshade and collard. These results show that low application of nitrogen fertilizer in black nightshade (30 kg N/ha) and in collard (55.5 kg N/ha) had minimal effects on weight loss and wilting and resulted in good keeping quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine effect of harvest times on yield and yield components of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) varieties in Tekirdağ conditions without irrigation between 2016–2018. The study was carried out in randomized block design with three replications. Gözlü-1, Bilensoy 80, Prosementi Bologna, Plato and Verko varieties was used as material, plants were harvested in two different flowering stages (%10 and %50). In two years statistical results, the characters of the study has significant differences and first year has higher results more than second year. According to statistical analyses years has significant differences and years was examined separately. In two years results plant height varied between 74.99–46.98 cm. Highest fresh forage yield was determined from variety Gözlü-1 (4188.98 kg/da), lowest fresh forage yield was determined from variety Bilensoy-80 (3543.71 kg/da). Fresh forage yield varied belongs to harvest stage. Alfalfa varieties had higher fresh forage yield at 50% flowering period (4353.24 kg/da) compared to 10% flowering stage (3190.67 kg/da). According to forage quality analyses, protein content was determined between 21.80-21.36 % in first year and 22.73-20.98 % in second year at % 10 and %50 flowering harvest time. The ADF was determined 40.15-42.47 % in first year and 39.60-43.25 % in second year; the NDF was determined 40.96-43.00 % in first year and 39.95-47.22 % in second year; the RFV was determined 124.78-127.43 % in first year and 108.72-138.83 % in second year at same harvest times.

[Objectives] This study aimed to investigate the effects of whole-crop maize silage harvested at different stages on growth and economic benefits of beef cattle. [Methods] A total of 30 Simmental crossbred cattle weighing about 378 kg were randomly divided into three groups, respectively fed for 70 days with wholecrop maize silage harvested at milk stage (Group I), dough stage (Group II) and physiological maturity stage (Group III). Moreover, the cattle in all groups were given the same concentrate diet. [Results] There were significant differences in dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber between whole-crop maize silages harvested at different stages (P<0.05). The dry matter in Group II and III was significantly higher than that in Group I (P <0. 05). The crude protein content peaked in Group II, up to 6.37%, which was significantly higher than that in Group I (by 12.74%, P <0.05) and Group III (by 9.26%, P <0.05). Starch content significantly increased with the postponing of maize harvest (P <0. 05). The content of neutral detergent fiber in Group I was significantly higher than that in Group II (P <0.05) and Group III (P <0. 05). The average daily weight gain in Group II was 8. 53% higher than that in Group I (P <0. 05) and 3.70% higher than that in Group III (P>0.05). The dry matter intake in Group II was significantly higher than that in Group I (P <0.05) and Group III (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in feed/gain ratio between the groups (P >0. 05). The economic benefit in Group II was the highest, up to 9.99 yuan/day per capita., followed by that in Group III, 9.79 yuan/day per capita, and that in Group I was the lowest, only 8. 03 yuan/day per capita. [Conclusions] The wholecrop maize silage harvested at dough stage has the best quality and produces the highest economic returns for beef cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background & Objective: Soil low fertility resulted from continuous chemical fertilizer application turned to be a challenge to sustainable agricultural production. Complementary application of chemical and organic fertilizers is a fertilizer management strategy and a practical solution for reducing the dependency to chemical fertilizer. Materials & Methods: Since little reports about eryngo reaction toward fertilization exist, a field experiment based on split-plot design with 3 replications with two treatments, fertilization as the main plot with 8 treatments and harvesting stage as sub-plot with three developmental phases was conducted in 2016 in Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Results: The results revealed that appropriate application of organic with inorganic fertilizers increased eryngo’s productivity and its phytochemical constituent. NPK fertilizer (200 Kg.ha-1) + CM (20 t.ha-1) in leaf number per plant (28), herb yield (498.77 Kg.ha-1), flavonoid (41.10 mg QE .g-1 dry sample), antioxidant (85.64%), essential oil percentage (0.17%W/W) and yield (0.85 Kg.ha-1) at last harvest resulted to the highest amounts. The minimum amounts were produced at control and first harvest. Mycorrhizae symbiosis and Manure treatments in the first harvest did not represent any difference with control but over time, the difference grew up into a considerable level. Result showed that the effects of conventional 100% NPK and 50% CM + 50% NPK fertilizers were almost similar. Application of these fertilizers increased yield and phytochemical traits. Conclusion: In view of the positive reaction of eryngo toward fertilization specially to integrated treatments, we can take advantage of these fertilizations to produce safe and healthy crop.

Copyright of Acta Agronomica Sinica is the property of Crop Science Society of China and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Yuzuncu Yil Universitesi Journal of Agricultural Sciences (YYU J Agr Sci) is the property of Yuzuncu Yil University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective Apart from various climatic differences, corn harvest stage and varieties are two major factors that can influence the yield and quality of corn silage in the tropics. A study was conducted to determine the optimum harvest stage of four corn varieties for silage production in Malaysia. Methods Corn was harvested at four growth stages; silking, milk, dough, and dent stages from four varieties; Sweet Corn hybrid 926, Suwan, breeding test line (BTL) 1 and BTL 2. Using a split plot design, the treatments were then analysed based on the plant growth performance, yield, nutritive and feeding values followed by a financial feasibility study for potential commercialization. Results Significant differences and interactions were detected across the parameters suggesting varying responses among the varieties towards the harvest stages. Sweet Corn was best harvested early in the dough stage due to high dry matter (DM) yield, digestible nutrient, and energy content with low fibre portion. Suwan was recommended to be harvested at the dent stage when it gave the highest DM yield with optimum digestible nutrient and energy content with low acid detergent fibre. BTL 1 and BTL 2 varieties can either be harvested at dough or dent stages as the crude protein, crude fibre, DM yield, DM content, digestible nutrient and energy were not significantly different at either stage. Further financial analysis showed that only Sweet Corn production was not financially feasible while Suwan had the best financial appraisal values among the grain varieties. Conclusion In conclusion, only the grain varieties tested had the potential for silage making according to their optimum harvest stage but Suwan is highly recommended for commercialization as it was the most profitable.

The aim of study was to determine the effects of mixture ratio and harvest stage on forage yield performance of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) mixtures. The study was conducted in the GAP International Agricultural Research and Training Center Directorate in 2016- 2017 during winter season. GAP Pembesi pea and Altıkat barley varieties were used in the experiment. The study was carried out with 3 replications according to the experimental design of divided plots in random blocks. Harvest times were main plots and mixture ratios were sub-plots. Harvets were done in two different stage; spike emergence and milk period of seeds of barley. Mixture ratios were 100% peas; 75% peas + 25% barley, 50% peas + 50% barley, 25% peas + 75% barley and 100% barley. In the study, as the harvest stage was delayed, there was a important increase main stem length of forage peas, barley plant height and green herbage and dry matter yields. In terms of forage yield, it can be said that the milk stage of barley is superior to other treatments with 75% A + 25% YB mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Following the popularization of high-yielding rice in China, fast and efficient mechanized harvesting proved challenging. In addition, the physical characteristics of rice grains and stems are substantially affected during harvest by the field environment and harvest time. However, the combine harvester driver is focused on maximizing the outputs and does not consider the adverse effects of these factors during the rice harvest. Methods: We investigated the effects of the harvest time, spatial position, and temperature on the static friction coefficient of rice grains and stems of high-yielding rice using a field experiment. Results: The result difference in the static friction coefficient between the parallel and perpendicular placements of the rice stem on the steel plate was 9%, indicating that the contact configuration had a significant impact. The region, harvest time, and temperature significantly affected the static friction characteristics of the rice grains and stems. The most significant differences were observed in the X-direction. Conclusions: The optimum harvest time was 10:11 a.m.–3:30 p.m. and the optimum temperature was above 16.5 °C. A quantitative analysis of the effects of the harvest time and temperature on the static friction characteristics of rice provides reliable data for machine design optimization and standardization of harvests operations.

This study aimed at investigating the impact of early versus normal grain harvesting on the chemical composition and secondary metabolites of Amaranthus cruentus species grown in South Africa. Mature harvested grain had higher (p < 0.05) DM, CF, NDF and ADF content compared to prematurely harvested grain. There were no significant (p > 0.05) differences between CP, ADL and GE of premature and mature harvested grains. Mature harvesting resulted in higher grain Ca, P, Mg and K content. Essential amino acids spectrum and content remained similar regardless of maturity at harvest. The grains displayed an ample amount of unsaturated fatty acids; the highest percentage was linoleic acid: 38.75% and 39.74% in premature and mature grains, respectively. β-Tocotrienol was detected at 5.92 and 9.67 mg/kg in premature and mature grains, respectively. The lowest was δ-tocotrienol which was 0.01 and 0.54 mg/kg in premature and mature grains, respectively. Mature harvested grain had a higher secondary metabolite content compared to premature harvested grains. The results suggest that mature harvested Amaranthus cruentus grain contain more minerals and phytochemicals that have health benefits for human and livestock immunity and gut function, which ultimately improves performance. This study concludes that A. cruentus grown in South Africa is a potential alternative cereal to major conventional cereals.

Herbaceous Peony has high ornamental value but short flowering period, which limits the development of the cut flower industrialization. We studied the effects of different harvest stages, pre-treatment solutions, storage methods, and preservation solutions, including different carbon sources on the ornamental of cut Paeonia lactiflora flowers. The results showed that the “Open-top type” peony had the highest flowering rate and longer vase life harvested at the soft-bud (SB) stage, and the “unfold-petal type” peony collected at the changing-color (CC) stage had the highest flowering rate and the best vase ornamental. In addition, the vase effect of cut peony pre-treated with 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) and nanosilver (NS) was better than that of the control, and the decline of related protective enzyme activity slowed down in the later stage of storage. The protective enzyme activity of cold storage and low oxygen (CS + LO) treated cut flowers was higher than that of cola storage (CS) treated cut flowers. Apparently, in the fresh-keeping solution containing glucose, sucrose, and trehalose, the flower diameter of cut flowers increased, and the vase life was prolonged, among which the increase of flower diameter treated with glucose was the most significant, and trehalose can delay flowering, increase flowering period, and delay aging.

The present study evaluated the agronomic productive and qualitative traits of black oat (Avena strigosa) forage harvested at different developmental stages for haylage production. This was a 2 x 3 factorial randomized complete block design consisting of six treatments, two stages of development of the crop (vegetative and full vegetative) associated with three harvest seasons, with four replications: T1 - vegetative stage, first cut, when light interception reached values between 90 and 95 %; T2 - vegetative stage with harvest seven days after the first cut; T3 - vegetative stage with harvest fourteen days after the first cut; T4 - full vegetative stage, second cut, when again the light interception reached values between 90 and 95 %; T5 - full vegetative stage with harvest seven days after the second cut; and T6 - full vegetative stage with harvest fourteen days after the second cut. The first cut at the vegetative stage of black oat generated a larger dry biomass production with 2.478 kg ha-1 and a greater participation of green leaves compared to the second cut at the full vegetative stage, as well as the in situ degradability of green leaves and the stem was higher in the first cut. The delay of 7 or 14 days from the ideal harvest time of the black oat forage reduced the nutritional quality. The first cut at the vegetative stage resulted in higher dry biomass production, greater participation of green leaves in the dry matter and better digestibility of green leaves and stem compared to the second cut at the full vegetative stage.

This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of variety, harvest stage and their interactions on nutritive profile, feed values and in vitro fermentation characteristics of whole crop wheat silage under Indian climate. Four wheat cultivars, sown in randomized block design with 3 replications, were harvested at the head and the milk stage and ensiled in low density polypropylene for 45 days. Results revealed significant effects of wheat cultivar, the harvest stage and its interaction on nutritive profile (CP, NDF, ADF, ADL), feed values (DM intake, Digestible DM, TDN, RFV, Flieg Score), in vitro potential (NGP, ME, OM digestibility) and fermentation characteristics (pH, lactic acid, ammonical nitrogen) while the variety affected acetic acid, harvest stage NDF digestibility and variety × harvest interaction effected butyric acid significantly. All wheat cultivars exhibited good ensiling characteristics at both phenological stages. However, the lowest ADF content and highest CP, digestible DM, RFV, NEl values and Flieg Score indicated the variety PBW 725 at head stage as most promising for silage production under Indian conditions.

Harvest stage and moisture content are most important factors that affect the quality of seeds. Thus, the objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of different moisture content on vigor and viability with different harvest stages relate to lipid peroxidation as determined by MDA and antioxidant enzymes activities. This experiment was conducted at Collage of Agriculture, University Putra Malaysia. The experiment was factorial and arranged in a complete randomized design (CRD) with three replicates. Harvest stages were R6 as a full seed stage, R7 as a physiological maturity stage, and R8 as a fully maturity stage.Moisture contentwere MC1 (12%), MC2 (6%), MC3 (5%) and MC4 (4%). The study revealed thatseed harvested at R7 stage gave the highest seed viability, vigor, SOD activity and CAT activity. Seed harvested at R8 stage was less seed vigor and high MDA content. The optimal moisture content was MC4 (4%) due to record high seed vigor, SOD activity and CAT activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranth leaves are edible vegetables with high nutritional value that depends on the harvest stage. This study evaluated the nutritional and chemical profile of amaranth leaves harvested at days 65 and 120. Samples were collected, air-dried, and milled to pass through a 1-mm sieve before analysis. Higher (p < 0.05) crude protein (CP) and gross energy (GE) were observed in early harvested leaves than late harvested leaves. In addition, late harvested leaves had higher (p < 0.05) calcium, magnesium, and sodium contents than early harvested leaves; early harvested leaves had higher (p < 0.05) threonine, lysine, and leucine contents than late harvested leaves. Furthermore, early harvested leaves showed higher (p < 0.05) rutin, hyperoside, tryptophan, quercetin, and kaempferol rutinoside contents than late harvested leaves. A strong positive correlation was observed between nutrition composition and phenolic compounds. It can be concluded that both early and late harvested amaranth leaves are a promising source of nutrients and phenolic compounds that can help in providing new opportunities for their use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Rising life expectancy and the demanding modern lifestyle drive the growing appeal of healthy and balanced diets centered on vegetable and fruit consumption. Functional, phytonutrient-packed and principally raw food is in high demand. Microgreens constitute such a novel functional food that combines a high sensory and bioactive value, which invites comparison to their mature-leaf counterparts. For this purpose, a controlled environment chamber experiment was carried out to compare the mineral, phytochemical and antioxidant capacity attributes of two-pigmented Lactuca sativa L. var. capitata cultivars (green and red Salanova®) harvested at the microgreens and the mature-leaf stage. Macronutrients were assessed through ion chromatography, while carotenoids and polyphenols were assessed and quantified through HPLC-DAD and UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, respectively. Calcium and magnesium were higher in microgreens irrespective of the cultivar; conversely, phosphorous, potassium and nitrate where higher in mature leaves. All pigments including chlorophyll, lutein and β-carotene augmented at advanced maturity stage and were more concentrated in the red pigmented cultivar at both stages. Total polyphenols accumulated more densely in red Salanova, particularly in the microgreens stage; whereas, in green Salanova, the accumulation was significant but less pronounced in the mcirogreens stage. Chlorogenic acid, quercetin malonyl glucoside, rutin and coumaroyl quinic acid were the most concentrated phenolic acids in microgreens, while feruloyl tartaric acid was predominant in mature leaves. Finally, when a high carotenoids content is sought, mature lettuce leaves should be the prime culinary choice, whereas high polyphenolic content is dictated by both the cultivar and the harvest stage, with red Salanova microgreens being the most nutrient-packed choice.

Objective: Apart from various climatic differences, corn harvest stage and varieties are two major factors that can influence the yield and quality of corn silage in the tropics. A study was conducted to determine the optimum harvest stage of four corn varieties for silage production in Malaysia. Methods: Corn was harvested at four growth stages; silking, milk, dough, and dent stages from four varieties; Sweet Corn hybrid 926, Suwan, breeding test line (BTL) 1 and BTL 2. Using a split plot design, the treatments were then analysed based on the plant growth performance, yield, nutritive and feeding values followed by a financial feasibility study for potential commercialization. Results: Significant differences and interactions were detected across the parameters suggesting varying responses among the varieties towards the harvest stages. Sweet Corn was best harvested early in the dough stage due to high dry matter (DM) yield, digestible nutrient, and energy content with low fibre portion. Suwan was recommended to be harvested at the dent stage when it gave the highest DM yield with optimum digestible nutrient and energy content with low acid detergent fibre. BTL 1 and BTL 2 varieties can either be harvested at dough or dent stages as the crude protein, crude fibre, DM yield, DM content, digestible nutrient and energy were not significantly different at either stage. Further financial analysis showed that only Sweet Corn production was not financially feasible while Suwan had the best financial appraisal values among the grain varieties. Conclusion: In conclusion, only the grain varieties tested had the potential for silage making according to their optimum harvest stage but Suwan is highly recommended for commercialization as it was the most profitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypericum perforatum is a perennial herb that produces anti-depression metabolite hypericin (Hyp) as well as flavonoids and polyphenols. In order to find the optimization of harvest stage to increase bioactive compounds production, the levels of Hyp, flavonoids and polyphenols as well as antioxidant capacity were evaluated by the assays of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), NaNO2-AlCl3-NaOH and Folin-Ciocalteu as well as 1, 1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), respectively. The results showed that there was no difference in antioxidant capacity of extracts from aerial parts between floral budding stage (FBS) and blooming stage (BS), while significant decrease was observed at fruit set stage (FSS) compared to BS (P<0.05). On a per plant basis, biomass and the levels of Hyp, flavonoids and polyphenols in aerial parts decreased during harvest stages, even if bioactive compounds contents in flower reached the highest at BS on a dry weight basis. These findings indicated that the optimization of harvest stage of H. perforatum should be at FBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiment was conducted during winter seasons of 2011-12 and 2012-13 years in order to determine the effects of seed mixture ratio and harvest time of intercropped berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum) with triticale (Triticosecale) on dry matter yield and silage quality under East Mediterranean (Cukurova) conditions. Berseem clover (BC) cv. Derya and triticale (T) cv. Tacettinbey were used as plant materials. The seed mixture ratios were sole crops BC and T, BC (80%) +T (20%), BC (60%) + T (% 40), BC (40%) + T (%60) and BC (20%) + T (80%). Forage harvest stages were beginning of flowering (H1), 50% flowering (H2) and full flowering (H3) stages of berseem clover. The experiment was established in a split plot design with four replications under lowland conditions. The mixture-ratios and harvest-stages were allocated as main plots and sub-plots, respectively. In addition to dry matter yield (DMY) and botanical composition, silage samples were evaluated for crude protein (CP), pH, acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) concentrations and digestible dry matter (DDM), relative feed value (RFV) and dry matter intake (DMI). The results of the study showed that the seed mixture of 60 % berseem clover + 40 % triticale and harvest at the 100% flowering stage of berseem clover were superior in terms of yield and selected quality parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harvest stage of Physalis angulata L. aiming human consumption is set in literature. However, there are no criteria for harvesting fruits for seed propagation. This study aimed to determine the harvest stage of P. angulata L. seeds according to the fruit calyx color, as well as evaluating their storage viability. For that, fruits were harvested from matrix plants, considering three maturity stages, according to the calyx color (green, yellow and yellow-brownish). A completely randomized design was used, in a factorial arrangement comprising two kinds of package (paper bag and glass container) and four evaluation periods (after harvesting and at 45, 90 and 135 days after storage - DAS), being isolated the factor storage environment. It was concluded that P. angulata seeds should be collected from fruits with a green calyx and used soon after being harvested, since seed germination sharply decreases after 45 DAS, both in the storage chamber and in the refrigerated environment, regardless of whether glass or paper is used.

The main objective of the present work was to determine the nutritional value and the strategies of using green banana meal (BM) in growing pigs. Two trials involving a total of 96 growing pigs were designed to study the effect of the harvest stage on the nutritional and energy values of BM (trial 1) and to evaluate the consequence of feeding gradual levels of BM on growth performance and feeding behavior in growing pigs (trial 2). In trial 1, the digestive utilization of three diets including 40% BM were compared with a control (C) soybean meal-corn diet in two batches of 12 pigs. BM was obtained from fruits harvested at 750 degrees-days (DD; early harvesting stage), 900 DD (normal harvesting stage) and 1150 DD (late harvesting stage). In trial 2, 72 Large White pigs were grouped in pens of nine animals and were given ad libitum access to one of the four dietary treatments (two pens/diet) differing from the rate of inclusion of 900 DD BM (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%). The estimated energy apparent digestibility coefficients of BM increased with the harvest stage (75.5%, 80.7% and 83.2% for BM at 750, 900 and 1150 DD, respectively). Digestible energy and metabolizable energy values were higher for BM at 1150 DD (13.56 and 13.05 MJ/kg DM, respectively) than at 900 DD (13.11 and 12.75 MJ/kg DM, respectively) or at 750 DD (12.00 and 11.75 MJ/kg DM, respectively). In trial 2, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were not affected (P>0.05) by the rate of BM inclusion (822 g/day and 2.75 kg/kg on average, respectively). Feed intake and feeding behavior parameters were not significantly influenced by the dietary treatments except for the rate of feed ingestion with a lower value for the diet with 40% of BM (27.4 v. 32.2 g/min on average; P

‘Rio Light Orange’ and ‘Cappa Round Red’ ornamental peppers ( Capsicum annuum L.) are attractive cultivars used as cut stems, but postharvest handling protocols need to be optimized. ‘Rio Light Orange’ stems harvested when most of the fruits were pale orange had the longest vase life, while harvest stage had no effect on vase life of ‘Cappa Round Red’. Stems of both cultivars showed less incidence of wilted foliage during postharvest when stored in water. Cold storage was tolerated for up to 1 week for ‘Rio Light Orange’ and for up to 2 weeks for ‘Cappa Round Red’ for stems kept in water. These cultivars do not appear to be sensitive to ethylene and anti-ethylene agents had a minimal effect on postharvest characteristics of cut stems. Of nine Capsicum cultivars tested, the use of a holding solution had a positive effect on the vase life of ‘Black Pearl’, ‘Rooster’ and ‘Stromboli’ ornamental peppers and increased the number of days foliage remained acceptable for eight of the cultivars. However, use of a commercial hydrator either reduced (one cultivars) or had no effect (eight cultivars) on vase life. Vase life and quality of ‘Rio Light Orange’ and ‘Cappa Round Red’ ornamental peppers stems can be extended by following appropriate postharvest handling procedures and the use of a holding solution can have a beneficial effect on vase life and foliage quality of many additional cultivars of peppers tested in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avaliou-se o comportamento pós-colheita de pêssegos da cv. Aurora-1 armazenados sob refrigeração. Os frutos foram colhidos em dois estádios de maturação, verde maduro (de vez) e maduro. Os lotes foram armazenados em três temperaturas (2°C; 6°C e 12°C), por 35 dias, e avaliados a cada sete dias: quanto à coloração da casca, perda acumulada de massa fresca (PMF), firmeza (FIR), aparência, teores de acidez titulável (AT), sólidos solúveis (SS), açúcares solúveis (AS) e redutores (AR), pectina solúvel (PS) e total (PT), além da porcentagem de solubilização de pectinas (SOL). A menor temperatura de armazenamento elevou o tempo de prateleira dos pêssegos, e os frutos "de vez" apresentaram melhor aparência. A PMF demonstrou um gradiente em função do aumento da temperatura, e os frutos "de vez" apresentaram menor perda ao final do armazenamento sob todas as temperaturas, quando comparados aos maduros. A coloração da casca dos frutos "de vez", a 2°C, teve pouca alteração, conferindo-lhes mudança de coloração de verde-amarelada para amarelo-clara; enquanto nas temperaturas de 6°C e 12°C esse gradiente foi mais intenso. O mesmo efeito foi verificado nos pêssegos maduros. A FIR sofreu efeito da temperatura, pois temperaturas menores sofreram redução mais lenta e AT dos pêssegos maduros foi superior aos "de vez". Não houve influência dos tratamentos nos teores de SS, AS e AR. Os pêssegos 'Aurora-1' não demonstraram sensibilidade ao frio, e os "de vez", armazenados a 2°C, tiveram vida útil de 35 dias.This work aimed to evaluate the postharvest of peaches cv. Aurora-1 stored under refrigeration. The fruit were harvested in two stages ("mature green" and ripe). The lots were stored at three temperatures (2°C, 6°C, and 12°C), for 35 days and evaluated every seven days for skin color, loss of fresh mass (PMF), firmness (FIR), appearance, titratable acidity (TA), soluble solids (SS), soluble (AS) and reducing (AR) sugars, soluble (SP) and total (PT) pectin, and the percentage of pectins solubilization (SOL). The lower storage temperature gave the greatest shelf life and that the fruit at mature green stage had better maintenance of appearance. The PMF showed a gradient of weight loss due to the increase of temperature and the mature green fruit had smaller loss at the end of storage for all temperatures, compared to mature. The skin color of the fruit "mature green", stored at 2°C, had little change, from green-yellow to light yellow, while on temperatures at 6°C and 12°C this gradient was more intense. The same effect was found in ripe peaches. The FIR was affected by temperature, and the lowest temperature changed slowly. The AT for ripe peaches was higher for the mature green. There was no influence of treatments on the contents of SS, AS and AR. Peaches 'Aurora-1' showed no chilling injury symptoms and the ones harvested at mature green stage, when stored at 2°C had 35 days of shelf life.

As características dos frutos coletados e o sistema de colheita utilizado dependem da espécie que se está estudando. Esses parâmetros devem ser bem estabelecidos para permitir a obtenção de sementes com máxima germinação e vigor. Com o objetivo de determinar as características dos frutos e o sistema de colheita mais favorável à qualidade fisiológica de sementes de Jacaranda cuspidifolia Mart., por dois anos consecutivos foram colhidos frutos na árvore (verdes fechados, marrons fechados e marrons abertos) e frutos marrons no chão. As sementes foram extraídas, limpas e avaliadas quanto ao teor de água, germinação e vigor (primeira contagem do teste de germinação, comprimento da parte aérea e da radícula das plântulas e porcentagem de emergência). Para a obtenção de sementes de jacarandá com melhor qualidade fisiológica, os frutos devem ser colhidos na árvore marrons, abertos ou fechados e com teor de água inferior a 24,4%.The characteristics of the collected fruits and its harvest system depend on the studied specie. These parameters must be well established to obtaining seeds with maximum germination and vigor. The objective of this study was to determinate the fruit characteristics and harvest system more favorable to physiological quality of Jacaranda cuspidifolia Mart. seeds, collecting during two years fruits from trees (green closed, brown closed and brown opened), and brown fruits on floor. Seeds were extracted, cleaned, and had evaluated the moisture content, germination and vigor (first counting of the germination test, seedling shoot and root growth and percentage of seedling emergence). Best physiological quality of jacarandá seeds was obtained with the harvest of brown fruits, opened or closed, on the trees with moisture content lower than 24.4%.

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An investigation was carried out to study the effect of post harvest treatments and harvesting stage on vase life and flower quality of cut Oriental lily cv. Avocado. The results showed that highest vase life (15.83 days) and vase solution uptake (49.17 ml) was recorded with sucrose (2%) + 5-SSA (200ppm), whereas maximum flower diameter (15.17 cm) was recorded in vase solution containing sucrose (2%) + 5-SSA (100ppm). Earliest opening of florets (4.42 days) reported under sucrose (2%) + 5-SSA (200ppm). Effect of treatments was found non-significant in respect to opening of florets. Harvesting at green bud stage exhibited extended vase life (14.33 days) and higher vase solution uptake (40.43 ml), whereas maximum flower diameter (14.25 cm) recorded at 75% colour development stage. Based on the results it is concluded that 5-SSA could be an inexpensive and potential chemical for delaying senescence and for extending the keeping quality of cut liliums commercially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We performed mass spectrometry-based metabolites profiling in Lonicera caerulea fruits according to seven ripening stages. During ripening, fruit color significantly changed from green to red, with sugars, organic acids, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids significantly altered. In particular, the contents of cyanidin-3-glucoside, peonidin-glucoside, peonidin-3-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside, which are closely associated with color, were elevated from stages four to seven. The changes of antioxidant activity during ripening were similar to those of total phenolic and flavonoid contents. L. caerulea fruits at stage six (pale-purple) had higher antioxidant activity and total phenolic and flavonoid contents with higher cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside contents than those at stage seven (fully purple). From this study, we revealed the changes in the contents of primary and secondary metabolites with antioxidant properties during ripening, and these results could be helpful to determine the optimal harvest stage of L. caerulea fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main determinants of 'Hass' avocado quality and consumer acceptance are mesocarp firmness and skin color. Relevant producing and exporting countries have evidenced during the last seasons color desynchronization with softening at edible ripeness. The mechanisms driving this desynchronization are still unknown. Thus, this study aimed to provide a first deep insight into this problem by combining targeted pigment, hormone and gene expression analysis in avocado exocarp samples from different harvests and storage conditions. Results showed that color desynchronization was more pronounced in regular air (RA) condition and early harvest for all orchards. Prolonged controlled atmosphere (CA) storage synchronized color development in all orchards analyzed. Chlorophylls and carotenoids did not decrease in content as the fruit reached the ready to eat stage but remained stable while total anthocyanins increased in all evaluated orchards. Total anthocyanins and abscisic acid were strongly and positively correlated with the "black color" phenotype. The other evaluated hormones (JA, IAA, SA, t Z, DHZ, iP) revealed negative correlations with the "black color" phenotype. Gene expression related to the ethylene biosynthesis pathway (PamACS , PamETR avocado gene orthologues) showed an up-regulation in fruit phenotyped as ready to eat (RTE) Green. In addition, the expression of the genes orthologues PamPAL , PamF3H and PamCHS was also positively correlated with anthocyanin content in the skin. Our results revealed that color desynchronization with softening of 'Hass' avocado is quite complex in terms of hormonal interplay and the role of storage conditions (RA vs CA). Thus, further studies need broader approaches such as the incorporation of omics studies to elucidate the physiological and molecular mechanisms driving color desynchronization. • Incidence of color desynchronization was not correlated to agroclimatic area. • Controlled atmosphere storage helped to synchronize color development. • Black fruit positively correlated to ABA, ACS, CHS, PAL, F3H and ETR. • Black fruit negatively correlated to hormones GA 1 , GA 4 , JA, iP, SA, t Z. • Pam PAL, Pam F3H and Pam CHS positively correlated to anthocyanin skin content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eremurus, commonly known as Foxtail lily, is a novel, commercially important specialty cut flower, but postharvest handling procedures need to be optimized for longest vase life. Cut inflorescences of ‘Line Dance’ and ‘Tap Dance’ eremurus were evaluated for optimal harvest stage, harvest procedures, effects of anti-ethylene agents, and storage methods and duration. Also, the effects of commercial hydrators, hydrators along with holding preservatives, or continuous use of floral foam saturated with or without commercial preservatives were investigated. Inflorescences of both cultivars harvested with 0 florets open had longer vase life than stems harvested with 3–5 rows of florets opened. Handling of ‘Line Dance’ stems in water after harvest extended the vase life, but reduced the vase life of ‘Tap Dance’ compared to inflorescences handled dry. Application of anti-ethylene agents had no significant effect on eremurus longevity. Inflorescences of both cultivars stored for 1 week had similar vase life as of unstored stems irrespective of dry or wet storage. Storage longer than 1 week greatly reduced the vase life of both cultivars. Use of either or both hydrator and holding preservatives did not result in significant differences in vase life for both cultivars, while pulsing with 10% sucrose supplemented with an antimicrobial agent, isothiazolinone at 0.007 mL L −1 , for 24 h extended vase life by 2.2 or 1.9 d for ‘Line Dance’ and ‘Tap Dance’ inflorescences, respectively, compared with tap water. Inflorescences of ‘Line Dance’ kept continuously in commercial preservatives had longest vase life compared with tap water and use of floral foam reduced vase life. However, inflorescences of ‘Tap Dance’ kept continuously in floral foam saturated with tap water, or just Floralife Clear Professional Flower food had longest vase life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]