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Horticulturae
Special Issues
Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management
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Fruit Tree Physiology, Sustainability and Management

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 October 2025 | Viewed by 6256

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Nicola Cinosi

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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
Dr. Luca Regni

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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 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 1214 KB  
Article
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 532
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 [...] Read more.
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)
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17 pages, 2341 KB  
Article
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
Viewed by 495
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 [...] Read more.
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)
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17 pages, 2656 KB  
Article
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
Viewed by 2885
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, [...] Read more.
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)
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Review

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22 pages, 2221 KB  
Review
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
Viewed by 582
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 [...] Read more.
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)
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22 pages, 913 KB  
Review
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
Viewed by 1113
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, [...] Read more.
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)
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