Abstract

The paper presents a biostimulant (codified Bios) containing algae extract (Ascophyllum nodosum), hydrolysed proteins, as well as humic substances with effects on plant growth and mineral nutrition, thus reducing the negative effect of climate and technological stress. The application of the biostimulant indirectly stimulated the plants for the additional absorption of nutrients as well as the increase of the photosynthesis process. The foliar application of the Bios product (as a 0.5% solution) led to the increase of the yield of wheat and tomato crops compared to the unfertilized control. The production increases were 36.46% for wheat and 50.12% for tomatoes. The stimulation of the photosynthesis process for both crops tested is evidenced by the increases of the concentrations of chlorophyll a and b measured in the treated leaves as compared to the control. The same trend was found for the carotene content. The nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content of the leaves were also determined, and there were found significant increases compared to the unfertilized control.

Abstract

Currently there is a growing interest both in obtaining large agricultural yields in order to provide food for a growing population as well as in increasing the sustainability of production systems by improving the health of the soil. The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of organic versus chemical fertilization versus irrigation on runner bean crop and soil health. A bi-factorial field experiment was organized in a split plot design with three replicates during two years (2019 and 2020). The first factor, irrigation, had two graduations: irrigated with 3000 m(3).ha(-1) (Ir) and non-irrigated (Non-Ir). The second factor, fertilization, had four graduations: biosolids (1200 kg.ha(-1)) (B), chemical (360 kg.ha(-1)) (Ch), microorganism (80 kg.ha(-1)) (M) and unfertilized (Unfert). The results showed that, regarding the physiological state of the plants, both the photosynthesis and the chlorophyll content were higher at Ir x M (5.31 mu mol CO2 m(-)(2) s(-2) and 45.23 SPAD units, respectively). The yield of dried beans ranged between 1476-4811 kg.ha(-1) in 2019 and 1498-4727 kg.ha(-1) in 2020 and was highest for Ir x Ch. Soil health status estimated by determining the dehydrogenase activity in the soil, has been improved for irrigated (Ir) and fertilized (B, M, Ch) variants.

Abstract

Abstract

Soil morphological, physical and chemical properties are described at four locations along an elevational transect in the northeastern part of the Moldavian Plateau (Romania). These data contribute to the knowledge of the soils of this area and to their classification according to the USDA-Soil Taxonomy, FAO-WRB and the SRTS-Romanian System. The soils were classified as Inceptisols, Alfisols and Mollisols, according to the USDA-Soil Taxonomy; Gleysol, Chernozem and Luvisol, according to the FAO-WRB and Gleiosol, Cernoziom, Preluvosol, Luvosol, according to the SRTS-Romanian System. The selected soils have a range of properties that represent the soilscape of the Moldavian subcarpathian plateau, characterised by a natural forest with oak as the dominant species. The selected soil parameters decreased with increasing elevation; calcium carbonate and clay leaching and accumulation are the main soil formation processes. (C) 2018 International Research and Training Center on Erosion and Sedimentation and China Water and Power Press. Production and Hosting by Elsevier B.V.

Abstract

EU legislation restricted many chemicals for root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp., RKNs) control. Alternative ways of plant protection were hence investigated, based on the use of microbial formulations exploiting plant parasites antagonism. RKNs are severe and widespread pests causing extensive damage to crops in greenhouse and field. Several antagonistic microorganisms are suitable for biocontrol, including the nematophagous hyphomycete Pochonia chlamydosporia that parasitizes eggs to acquire additional nourishment and face competition with other soil microorganisms. A commercial product (POCHAR) was developed by Microspore based on P. chlamydosporia with other microbial inocula that can be applied through irrigation. The aim of this study was to test POCHAR's efficacy against RKNs on potato and its promotion effect on tomato in two field trials. Moreover, the research included trials to evaluate the best method for open-field application in crops not managed through drip irrigation, opening up the possibility to treat large areas without major technological needs. RKNs control with POCHAR represented a viable alternative to chemicals. In conclusion, the organic approach developed through the bioformulated product highlighted effective RKNs management, with a potential to sustain both plant nutrition and the related root protection needs.

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract