Submit to Horticulturae Review for Horticulturae Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Horticulturae (ISSN 2311-7524). This special issue belongs to the section "Fruit Production Systems".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2026) | Viewed by 20013

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Nicola Cinosi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno, 06121 Perugia, Italy
Interests: propagation methods; biological, physiological and biochemical factors influencing tree growth and production, including source-sink dynamics; evaluation and control of abiotic and biotic stresses; use of biostimulants and corroborants; sustainability of tree cultivation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Luca Regni

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno, 06121 Perugia, Italy
Interests: in vitro culture; micropropagation; tree crops; agricultural byproduct valorization; sustainable agriculture; C sequestration; salt stress
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Given the importance of fruit tree cultivation, in recent years, significant advancements have been made in understanding new propagation methods, as well as the biological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular factors influencing tree growth and production, including source–sink dynamics. This progress also covers areas like product quality, resilience to abiotic and biotic stresses (also by using biostimulants and corroborants), and the sustainability of cultivation practices. Such knowledge is essential for optimizing nursery tree production, designing new orchards, and refining cultural practices, including pest and disease management, in line with environmental conditions and production objectives. However, there is still much work to be done to expand this knowledge fully. This Special Issue aims at increasing our understanding of innovative propagation techniques, the impact of cultivars, and the influence of environmental and agronomic factors on tree growth, pest and disease tolerance, fruit quality, and overall resilience. Emphasis will be placed on the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying these processes, as well as the conditions created by climate change.

Dr. Nicola Cinosi
Dr. Luca Regni
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Horticulturae is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

abiotic and biotic stresses
biostimulants and corroborants
floral and fruiting biology
fruit metabolism
fruit quality
genotype/cultivar characterization
innovative and sustainable cultural practices
tree biology
tree physiology
tree biochemistry
molecular aspects of trees
environmental and agronomical factors
propagation techniques
source–sink relationships

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

10 pages, 1368 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Use of White Non-Woven Polyester Sheets (TNTs) to Control Photoinhibition, Berry Dehydration, and Extreme Heat in the Vineyard

by Lucia Giordano, Luca Pallotti, Vania Lanari, Oriana Silvestroni, Julian Garcia Berrios and Alberto Palliotti

Horticulturae 2026, 12(5), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12050523 - 24 Apr 2026

Viewed by 999

Abstract

The protection of leaves from photoinhibition and berries from dehydration and sunburn has become an increasingly important objective in response to the rising frequency and intensity of heat waves worldwide. This research investigated the effect of a white nonwoven geotextile sheet (TNT) installed in the fruiting zone in the white cultivar ‘Verdicchio’ (Vitis vinifera L.) during critical summer periods with the aim of protecting leaves and berries from extreme heat. The study was conducted over two seasons (2020–2021) in a rainfed vineyard in central Italy using a randomized block design. Physiological and yield parameters were recorded. Vines protected with TNT did not show any changes in net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and water use efficiency, compared to unshielded vines. However, TNT reduced leaf temperature and increased berry total acidity and malic acid concentration while reducing sugar content, leading to wines with higher freshness and reduced alcohol levels. The use of TNTs shows significant potential as a practical tool for viticulturists to mitigate the effects of excessive heat, allowing for better management of berry ripening and ultimately improving final wine characteristics. Additionally, TNT is economically feasible, especially if applied only to the afternoon-exposed side of the canopy, and its cost can be amortized, especially in vineyards affected by frequent heat waves and/or dedicated to the production of premium wines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2687 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Flowering Phenograms and Genetic Sterilities of Ten Olive Cultivars Grown in a Super-High-Density Orchard

by Francesco Maldera, Francesco Nicolì, Simone Pietro Garofalo, Francesco Laterza, Gaetano Alessandro Vivaldi and Salvatore Camposeo

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010110 - 19 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1106

Abstract

The introduction of Super-High-Density (SHD) olive orchards represents a crucial innovation in modern olive growing, enhancing sustainability. However, the long-term success of these planting systems depends strongly on cultivar selection, combining suitable vegetative and reproductive traits. This three-year field study investigated key floral biology parameters—flowering phenograms, gynosterility, and self-compatibility—of ten olive cultivars grown under irrigated conditions in southern Italy: ‘Arbequina’, ‘Arbosana’, ‘Cima di Bitonto’, ‘Coratina’, ‘Don Carlo’, ‘Frantoio’, ‘Favolosa’ (=‘Fs-17’), ‘I-77’, ‘Koroneiki’, and ‘Urano’ (=‘Tosca’). Flowering phenograms varied significantly across years and cultivars, showing temporal shifts related to chilling accumulation and yield of the previous year. Early blooming cultivars (‘Arbequina’, ‘Arbosana’, and ‘Coratina’) exhibited partial flowering overlap with mid-season ones, enhancing cross-pollination opportunities. Quantitative analysis of flowering overlap revealed that most cultivar combinations exceeded the 70% threshold required for effective pollination, although specific genotypes (‘Coratina’, ‘Fs-17’, and especially ‘I-77’) showed critical mismatches, while ‘Frantoio’ and ‘Arbequina’ emerged as the most reliable pollinizers. Gynosterility exhibited statistical differences among cultivars and canopy positions: ‘I-77’ showed the highest values (71.4%), while ‘Coratina’ and ‘Cima di Bitonto’ showed the lowest ones (7.3 and 8.4%, respectively). The median portions of the canopies generally displayed a greater number of sterile flowers (29.4%), reflecting the combined effect of genetic and environmental factors such as light exposure. In the inflorescence, the majority of gynosterile flowers were concentrated in the lower part, for all canopy portions (modal value). Self-compatibility tests were performed considering a fruit set of 1% as a threshold to discriminate. For open pollination, the fruit set was highly variable among cultivars, ranging from 0.5% in ‘I-77’ to 4.7% in ‘Arbosana’. Apart from ‘I77’, all varieties achieved a fruit set greater than 1%. Instead, for the self-pollination, only ‘Arbequina’, ‘Koroneiki’, ‘Frantoio’, and ‘Cima di Bitonto’ could be identified as pseudo-self-compatible, whereas ‘Coratina’, ‘Fs-17’, and the others were clearly self-incompatible and therefore unsuitable for monovarietal orchards in areas with limited availability of pollen. By integrating self-compatibility and gynosterility data, the cultivars were ranked according to reproductive aptitude, identifying ‘Cima di Bitonto’ and ‘Frantoio’ as the most fertile genotypes, whereas ‘Don Carlo’ and particularly ‘I-77’ showed severe genetic sterility constraints. The findings underline the critical role of floral biology in defining reproductive efficiency and varietal adaptability in SHD systems. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing cultivar selection, orchard design, and management practices, contributing to the development of sustainable, climate-resilient olive production models for Mediterranean environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 1214 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Influence of Physiologically Active Substances on the Mineral Composition of Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) Leaves

by Marko Zorica, Tihana Teklić, Marija Špoljarević, Šimun Kolega, Magdalena Zorica, Jelena Ravlić, Tomislav Kos and Miroslav Lisjak

Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080943 - 11 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1414

Abstract

The cultivation of sweet cherry takes place in various climatic zones, where the plant may be exposed to different types of environmental stress during the growing season, which can significantly affect yield and fruit quality. The role of various physiologically active compounds is crucial for plant resistance to stressful environmental conditions. The aim of this study is to determine how the foliar application of different physiologically active substances affects the mineral composition of sweet cherry leaves. Research was performed in 2022 and 2023 at two locations (Ninski Stanovi and Murvica) in Zadar County with the Regina variety. The trials included five foliar treatments (T0—water only, T1—Ca nutritional supplement, T2—biostimulant (Ascophyllum nodosum L.), T3—proline solution, T4—salicylic acid solution). Leaf samples were collected for the analysis of the following macro-elements: total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and phosphorus (P). On average, significantly higher TN content in leaves was found only in T2 (15% higher than T0). Ca, Mg, and K contents in leaf dry matter in all variants were higher by 20–29%, 13–20%, and 12–14%, respectively, compared to the control variant. The significant correlations were found between Ca and Mg, Ca and P, as well as Ca and K contents. This study shows a significant impact of the applied compounds on sweet cherry leaf mineral composition, and considering the year and locality effects, further testing of these treatments in different environments could be suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2341 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Continuous Proximal Monitoring of Diameter Variation from Root to Fruit

by Arash Khosravi, Enrico Maria Lodolini, Veronica Giorgi, Francesco Belluccini, Adriano Mancini and Davide Neri

Horticulturae 2025, 11(6), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060635 - 5 Jun 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1114

Abstract

Proximal plant-based monitoring provides high-resolution data about trees, leading to more precise orchard management and in-depth knowledge about tree physiology. The present work focuses on continuous real-time monitoring of olive cv. ‘Ascolana tenera’ over hourly intervals during the third stage of fruit growth (mesocarp cell expansion) under mild water stress conditions (ψStem above −2 MPa). This is achieved by mounting dendrometers on the root, trunk, branch, and fruit to assess and model the behavior of each organ. The diameter variation in each organ over different time intervals (daily, two-weeks, and throughout the entire experiment), as well as their hysteretic patterns relative to each other and vapor pressure deficit, are demonstrated. The results show different correlations between various organs, ranging from very weak to strongly positive. However, the trend of fruit versus root consistently shows a strong positive relationship throughout the entire experiment (R² = 0.83) and a good one across various two-week intervals (R² ranging from 0.54 to 0.93). Additionally, different time lags in dehydration and rehydration between organs were observed, suggesting that the branch is the most reactive organ, regulating dehydration and rehydration in the tree. Regarding the hysteretic pattern, different rotational patterns and characteristics (shape) were observed among the organs and in relation to vapor pressure deficit. This research provides valuable insight into flow dynamics within a tree, models plant water relations and time lags in terms of water storage and transport, and could be implemented for precise olive tree water status detection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2656 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fruit Quality and Antioxidant Content in Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) cv. ‘Monthong’ in Different Maturity Stages

by Naruemon Yongyut, Phormporn Baopa, Somyot Meetha, Supat Isarangkool Na Ayutthaya, Chun-I Chiu, Yuwatida Sripontan, Jetsada Posom and Supatchaya Nampila

Horticulturae 2025, 11(4), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040432 - 18 Apr 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 8318

Abstract

Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) is a major economic crop in Thailand, with the ‘Monthong’ cultivar being particularly valued for its commercial significance and extensive cultivation in northern Thailand. However, the thick, hard shell of durian complicates ripeness assessment based on external appearance, often leading to premature harvesting and unripe fruit sales. Variations in consumer preferences for different ripeness stages present challenges in meeting market demands. Due to the absence of a definitive harvest index for ‘Monthong’ durian, this study aims to (1) evaluate the potential of fruit shell color composition as an indicator of maturation stage and (2) assess the impact of harvest maturity on fruit quality and antioxidant content. A completely randomized design (CRD) was employed in the experiment. Fruits were collected at intervals of 15 days from 15 to 135 days after full bloom (DAFB). The results showed that fruit circumference and length increased progressively with age, with maximum fruit size observed at 90–135 DAFB. Fruit weight, firmness, dry matter, total phenolics, flavonoids, β-carotene, lycopene, and antioxidant activity peaked at 120 DAFB. The values recorded at this stage were: fruit weight (3652.30 g), firmness (42.08 N/cm²), dry matter (37.13%), total phenolics (43.98 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW)), flavonoids (8.33 mg catechin/100 g FW), β-carotene (1.35 mg/100 g FW), lycopene (53.98 mg/100 g FW), and antioxidant activity (6.32 mg TE/100 g FW). The highest total soluble solids (TSS) content was observed at 135 DAFB, with a value of 25 °Brix. These findings indicate that: (1) maturation stages can be effectively differentiated using shell color; (2) ‘Monthong’ durians reach their maximum size at 90 DAFB; (3) fruits harvested at 90–105 DAFB exhibit high firmness and low sweetness, making them suitable for markets prioritizing texture; (4) fruits harvested at 105–120 DAFB exhibit lower firmness and higher sweetness, making them preferable for direct consumption; and (5) total soluble solids, acidity, phenolics, flavonoids, β-carotene, lycopene, and antioxidant activity increase with maturation. These insights provide a valuable reference for optimizing harvest timing to meet specific market and consumer preferences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

22 pages, 2221 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Revised Viticulture for Low-Alcohol Wine Production: Strategies and Limitations

by Stefano Poni and Tommaso Frioni

Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080932 - 7 Aug 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2869

Abstract

Interest in the wine sector focusing on no- or low-alcohol wines is growing. De-alcoholation, typically a post-fermentation process, faces restrictions in some countries and is often quite costly. Using raw materials like low-sugar grapes suitable for this purpose seems logical, yet the literature currently lacks contributions in this area. In this review paper, we outline an ideal ripening process where the goal of producing “low-sugar grapes” can be achieved through various methodologies applied at (i) the whole-canopy level (minimal pruning, hedge mechanical pruning with or without hand finishing, cane pruning combined with high bud load and no cluster thinning, applications of exogenous hormones, late irrigation, and double cropping); (ii) the canopy microclimate level, involving changes in the leaf area-to-fruit ratios (netting, apical or basal leaf removal, late shoot trimming, use of antitranspirants); and (iii) through new technologies (high-yield plots from vigor maps and the adoption of agrivoltaics). However, the efforts in this survey extend beyond merely achieving the production of low-sugar grapes in the vineyard, which is indeed primary but not exhaustive. Therefore, we also explore solutions for obtaining low-sugar grapes while simultaneously enhancing features such as lower acidity, increased phenolics, and aroma potential, which might boost consumer appreciation. The review emphasizes that (i) grapes intended for low-alcohol wine production should not be viewed as a low-quality sector but rather as an alternative endeavour, where the concept of grape quality remains firmly intact and (ii) viticulture for low sugar concentration is a primary strategy, rather than merely a support to dealcoholization techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 913 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Over Half a Century of Research on Blackberry Micropropagation: A Comprehensive Review

by Luca Regni and Arianna Cesarini

Horticulturae 2025, 11(5), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11050556 - 21 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2964

Abstract

Micropropagation of blackberry (Rubus spp.) has emerged as a key technique for large-scale production of genetically uniform, disease-free plants. This review summarizes more than half a century of in vitro blackberry culture research, covering fundamental aspects such as establishment, proliferation, rooting, acclimation, genetic stability and conservation. Optimization of culture media, plant growth regulators and environmental conditions has significantly improved the efficiency of micropropagation. Recent advances, including bioreactors, cryopreservation and biostimulants, have further improved plant growth and stress tolerance. In addition, studies on bioactive compounds in micropropagated blackberries highlight their potential nutritional and pharmaceutical applications. Despite progress, challenges such as microbial contamination, somaclonal variation, and response variability among cultivars remain critical areas for future research. The integration of nanotechnology, alternative culture systems (i.e., bioreactors), synthetic seed technology should represent the future research trend of blackberry micropropagation, ensuring sustainable production and conservation of genetic resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI