Introduction

Cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) is a nutrient-rich vegetable exotic to Bangladesh, where only a limited number of varieties are currently available. The identification of high-yielding and stable genotypes is the key to increasing agricultural productivity and achieving food security in this country.

Methods

An investigation was carried out with ten exotic and two released cherry tomato genotypes to identify high-yielding, stable genotypes through multilocation trials. The study was conducted at three locations in Bangladesh, viz. Dinajpur, Rangpur, and Panchagarh, during the period from November 2023 to May 2024, in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications.

Results

A genotype–environment interaction (GEI) was observed in the mixed-effect model for all variables except fruit length. Based on the multi-trait genotype–ideotype distance index (MGIDI), genotypes L13 and L14 in Dinajpur and Rangpur and L13 and L09 in Panchagarh were found to be the most promising. To further evaluate yield stability across environments, GGE biplot analysis was performed, which revealed L13 as the most stable and high-yielding genotype, followed by L14 and L09, and Dinajpur was the most suitable environment for stable yield performance. Moreover, molecular characterization using seven simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers classified the genotypes into two distinct populations. Notably, the phenotypically stable genotypes L13, L14, and L09 were genetically distinct from the released varieties BU-2 and BU-5.

Conclusion

The high-yielding stable genotypes L13, L14, and L09 could be taken into consideration for registration as cherry tomato varieties in Bangladesh.

The cork oak (Quercus suber) supports Montado ecosystems in the Mediterranean region, a rich biodiversity hotspot. Its high‑value bark enables diverse production, fuelling the regional economy and global exports. Q. suber survival is threatened by climate change, desertification, and unsustainable practices. It is crucial to repopulate Montado ecosystems with genetically superior, longer-living cork oaks. Thus, clonal propagation of disease-free, more resistant cork oaks proves fundamental. Currently, new methods are being implemented by our research group based on a unique germplasm resource with high genetic potential from the F1 population of known pedigree. After traditional propagation methods failed, the main goal of this study was to implement an innovative method of somatic embryogenesis (SE) on the F1 population. Leaf explants with two different vegetative stages (0.5-1cm and 1-1.5cm) were selected on G31, G36 and J2 genotypes, using the protocol described by Hernandez et al. 2003. The results revealed that SE induction varied significantly by genotype (G31-70%, J2-40%, and G36-0%, with N>11), but not by leaf size. Somatic embryos matured spontaneously in free-hormone media, doubling their weight after 11 weeks, resulting in seven medium-sized (5-10mm) and 1.7 large-sized (>10mm) mature embryos per initial gram. Germination was attempted via a two-month cold-dark treatment, which promoted radicle and hypocotyl emergence in most embryos, but resulted in poor shoot formation. Subsequent photoperiod exposure did not improve shoot development, and posterior ex vitro acclimation failed. This result is consistent with those of other studies, which present germination as a bottleneck in SE. This emphasises the importance of optimising the final stages of SE. Additionally, maturation conditions are being optimised to increase embryo energetic reserves, thereby improving plantlet subsequent survival during the germination and acclimatisation phases. Overall, this work represents an important step towards developing efficient SE protocols for regenerating Montado with genetically uniform, resilient cork oaks.

This study was conducted at Barangay Villa Cruz, San Mateo, Isabela, from December 2019 to March 2020, to evaluate the growth, yield, and profitability of hybrid rice (SL-8H) under a Modified System of Rice Intensification (SRI) in a lowland irrigated ecosystem. The aim was to evaluate the effect of integrating vermicast with inorganic fertilizers on plant growth, yield, and profitability. A Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and five treatments was used. The treatments included T1—Conventional/Farmer’s Practice; T2—SRI Protocol (1 ton of vermicast per hectare); T3—Modified SRI1 (120-30-0 kg NPK per hectare); T4—Modified SRI2 (1 ton of vermicast per hectare + 120-30-0 kg NPK per hectare); and T5—Modified SRI3 (0.5 tons of vermicast per hectare + 60-15-0 kg NPK per hectare). The study revealed that Modified SRI1 (T3) produced the tallest plants (108.6 cm), the highest quantity of productive tillers (11.3 hill⁻¹), and the greatest number of full spikelets with (204.9 panicle⁻¹), while the maximum grain yield was achieved in Modified SRI2 (T4) at 10.0 t ha⁻¹, representing a 61% increase compared to that produced under Farmer’s Practice with (6.2 t ha⁻¹). The economic analysis showed that T3 gained the highest return on investment at 131.9%, in contrast to 40.3% for Farmer’s Practice, while no significant differences were noted in 1,000-grain weight and panicle length across the treatments. These results revealed that the integration of SRI principles with balanced organic and inorganic fertilizers notably enhances rice productivity and profitability, which highlights a viable and sustainable substitute for conventional rice farming, providing farmers with enhanced yields and reduced farming expenses.

Canopy cover (CC) is a critical parameter for characterizing crop growth and calibrating crop models. While the relationship between CC and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) has been established through linear and quadratic models, a robust empirical approach for deriving CC from NDVI observations remains elusive. This study aims to develop an adequate equation relating NDVI to CC for quinoa crops that can be applied across different irrigation and fertilization stress conditions. A field trial was conducted from March to June 2023 in Chichaoua, a water-scarce region in central Morocco. Both NDVI and CC were determined through field measurements, with NDVI obtained using a handheld NDVI sensor and CC determined through hemispherical photography analysis. The NDVI and CC were evaluated for four treatment combinations: T1 (100% irrigation, 100% fertilization), T2 (80%, 100%), T3 (60%, 25%), and T4 (40%, 25%). Percentages were relative to optimal levels. Strong correlations between NDVI and canopy cover were observed across all treatments, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.77 to 0.98. Multiple linear and quadratic models were derived for each of the four plots (T1-T4). Each plot-specific equation was then cross-validated by applying it to predict canopy cover in the remaining three plots. The linear model derived from the T3 treatment data emerged as the most representative equation: CC (%) = 141.75 × (NDVI) - 30.913. When applied to predict CC values across all plots, this model demonstrated good performance between predicted and observed CC values with R² (RMSE) values of 0.83 (14.99%), 0.96 (9.63%), 0.60 (8.70%), and 0.69 (8.89%) for T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The developed linear model provides a practical tool for estimating quinoa canopy cover from NDVI measurements under varying irrigation and fertilization conditions, contributing to the improvement of crop monitoring and model calibration in water-scarce environments.

The Philippines, being highly prone to natural hazards, is frequently struck by typhoons. In Region VIII, Eastern Visayas, the major islands of Samar and Leyte lie within the infamous typhoon belt. These areas are repeatedly battered by strong winds, storm surges, and heavy rains, often resulting in floods that damage a significant portion of productive land. Flooding caused by intense rainfall poses a serious threat to the fresh market production of sweet potato in the region. In response, this study aimed to evaluate the morphological responses of Ipomoea batatas L. var. NSIC SP 30 (Sweet Potato) to foliar applications of paclobutrazol (PBZ) under waterlogged conditions. The experiment was conducted at the BL2 Greenhouse of the Philippine Root Crops Research and Training Center (PRRTC), Visayas State University, Baybay City, Leyte, from March 14, 2025, to May 17, 2025. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was employed with five treatments: 0 ppm (control), 25 ppm, 50 ppm, 75 ppm, and 100 ppm PBZ, each replicated three times. Plants were subjected to continuous waterlogging, submerged in a basin with water, and observed for four weeks.

Vine diameter, petiole length, and lateral branches exhibited no significant differences. PBZ treatments significantly affected vine length, internode length, number of leaves, and leaf length and width. The control group produced the most vigorous vegetative growth; however, the 75 ppm PBZ treatment maintained comparable shoot and root biomass, with a fresh root weight of 18.71 g, fresh shoot weight of 92.86 g, oven-dried root weight of 1.81 g, and oven-dried shoot weight of 24.89 g, despite its reduced shoot elongation. Higher PBZ levels, especially at 100 ppm, caused excessive growth suppression, leading to reduced biomass and poor root development. Economically, cost and return analysis indicated that PBZ-treated plants achieved higher net income per hectare compared to the untreated control. Foliar application of 75 ppm PBZ was found to be the most effective and economical treatment, promoting stress resilience while maintaining productive growth, making it a viable option for agricultural areas prone to waterlogging.

Globally, approximately 242 million tons of Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) were produced in 2022. This figure corresponds to the global cultivation of approximately 48 million tons of mushrooms, with SMS typically being generated at a rate of 5 kilograms per kilogram of mushrooms. The mushroom production industry is facing a growing challenge in managing the increasing volume of SMS. Finding environmentally and economically viable solutions for this organic waste is, therefore, of utmost importance. This research work was conducted to investigate the potential of SMS from oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) production as a potting medium for the vegetative growth of garden balsam (Impatiens balsamina). Five treatments were applied: T1 (25% SMS + 75% GS), T2 (50% SMS + 50% GS), T3 (75% SMS + 25% GS), and T4 (100% SMS). A substrate of 100% garden soil was used as the control. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Prior to the conduct of the study, a chemical analysis of the SMS was determined. The data collected included the following: plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, stem diameter, shoot length, root length, shoot-to-root ratio, lateral shoots, and total biomass. The results showed that 100% garden soil (GS) exhibited significant results across all parameters, being mineral-rich and more stable in nutrient composition. Meanwhile, 25% SMS + 75% GS and 50% SMS + 50% GS consistently produced significantly higher or comparable growth parameters at 1 WAT, including plant height (7.37 cm and 7.35 cm), number of leaves (3.20 and 4.20), leaf length (3.05 cm and 3.29 cm), and stem diameter (1.35 mm and 1.44 mm), compared with the control. However, in later stages, 100% GS outperformed all treatments, indicating that pure garden soil remains the most effective substrate for sustained plant growth. The 100% pure SMS consistently showed the lowest values across all parameters, indicating its unsuitability as a sole growth medium due to nutrient imbalances and potential salinity issues. SMS when mixed with moderate levels of garden soil (25–50%) can enhance early seedling growth and promote sustainable agricultural waste use. Pre-treatment to reduce salinity and nutrient deficiencies is recommended for optimal use.

Improving seedling quality is a key objective in commercial horticulture, as it directly influences crop establishment, productivity, and performance in the field. Mycopriming, the application of bioactive fungal compounds to seeds, represents a sustainable strategy to enhance early plant development. In this study, we investigated the effects of seed priming with extracts derived from the mycelium and culture filtrates of endophytic fungi in Solanum lycopersicum seedlings under nursery conditions. Greenhouse trials were conducted to assess germination dynamics, root and shoot development, and physiological traits, including chlorophyll content, the flavonol index, and the anthocyanin index. Although germination percentage and shoot-related traits did not show significant variation compared to the control, both types of fungal extracts consistently enhanced root development across experiments. The culture filtrate extract increased root length by 33% (p < 0.05) and root dry weight by 32% (p < 0.05) compared to the control, while the mycelial extract increased root length by 25% (p < 0.05) and root dry weight by 22% (p < 0.05) compared to the control. This stimulation of root growth is particularly relevant for improving water and nutrient uptake capacity, which are critical for early seedling vigor and transplant success. These results demonstrate the potential of fungal metabolite-based seed treatments as a practical and efficient tool to improve the physiological quality of nursery-grown tomato seedlings. The use of naturally derived fungal extracts provides an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic growth regulators, aligning with the principles of sustainable agriculture. Overall, mycopriming with fungal endophyte extracts emerges as a promising technique to support early-stage development and seedling vigor in tomato production, especially in nursery systems focused on delivering high-quality transplants.

Efficient water management is very crucial for increasing wheat production, particularly in climate-sensitive regions like Bangladesh. The present study was performed in Mymensingh, a typical wheat-cultivating area in Bangladesh, to assess the impact of stage-specific irrigation scheduling on the growth dynamics, phenological development, and yield performance of bread wheat. In a field experiment, seven wheat varieties (Protiva, BARI Gom-19, -20, -22, -25, -30, and -32) were selected based on their popularity and widespread adoption among farmers and used as treatments. A two-factor split-plot experiment with three replications was employed, comprising four irrigation treatments: rainfed control = I₀; single irrigation at crown root initiation (CRI) = I₁; dual irrigation at CRI and booting = I₂; and triple irrigation at CRI, booting, and grain filling = I₃. The results showed significant variation among the varieties (treatments) for most of the measured traits; in particular, BARI Gom-32 produced the highest grain yield (4.66 tha^-1) along with its attributing traits, including the highest plant height (95.11 cm), length of spike (13.25 cm), thousand-grain weight (51.39 g), and harvest index (54.38%). Meanwhile, irrigation treatments provided significant variation for all studied traits; notably, the triple irrigation (irrigating at CRI, booting, and grain filling stages) system produced the highest value for morphological, phenological, and yield-related traits compared to other irrigation regimes. The combined effect of varying irrigation levels and varieties significantly impacted all traits related to growth and yield performance, resulting in the highest spike length (14.87 cm), number of grains spike^-1 (49.76), thousand-grain weight (52.55 g), harvest index (56.83%), and grain yield (4.82 tha^-1) in BARI Gom-32, with three irrigations applied in the CRI, booting, and grain filling stages. Grain yield had a very significant positive correlation with effective tiller number, spike length, and thousand-grain weight, particularly under I₃ irrigation. Both PCA and heatmap clustering also confirmed the high genotype × irrigation regime interaction effects, which were optimally expressed by BARI Gom-32 and BARI Gom-25 under I₃ irrigation. The findings highlight the importance of adaptive water management frameworks to optimize wheat productivity in water-scarce environments, offering a climate-resilient and agronomically effective approach to boost its domestic production in Bangladesh.

Bambara groundnut is a drought-tolerant legume with high potential for food security, yet nutrient management strategies remain under-researched. A field trial was conducted during the 2024 rainy season at the Dryland Teaching and Research Farm, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, to evaluate the effect of Sokoto phosphate rock on the growth and yield of Bambara groundnut. The experiment consisted of five levels of Sokoto phosphate rock (0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 kg ha⁻¹). The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design, replicated three times. Data were collected on the growth and yield parameters of the crop. The results obtained revealed a significant (P<0.05) effect of Sokoto phosphate rock on leaf area and leaf area index, with maximum values of 665 and 0.665, respectively, observed at the application rate of 20 kg ha⁻¹. Other parameters (plant height, number of leaves per plant, day to 50% flowering, day to 50% maturity, number of pods per plant, total dry weight, pod yield (g), grain weight, shell weight, shelling percentage, haulm weight, stover weight, harvest index (%), 100-grain weight ) measured were not significantly influenced by the application of Sokoto phosphate rock on the crop. Based on the results, the application of 20 kg ha⁻¹ Sokoto phosphate rock is recommended to improve vegetative growth (leaf area and leaf area index) of Bambara groundnut under dryland conditions.

Coffea liberica is one of many local African coffee species, and is found in Indonesia, including the West Java area. The yield and phytochemical compositions show the quality of Liberica coffee. Those components are affected by many factors, such as the fruit harvesting time and post-harvest processing. The coffee beans' various yield components and phytochemical compositions will be impacted by the maturity stage of the coffee fruits at harvest time and post-harvest treatment. This study aimed to examine the yield and phytochemical contents of Liberica coffee beans at different stages of harvest and soaking times. A completely randomized design was used for the experiment (CRD). Eight treatments were examined, including soaking times (S0 = 0, S1 = 12, S2 = 24, and S3 = 36 h) and harvesting times (H1 = only red fruit/ripe stage, H2 = green, yellow, red fruits/strip-picking stage), with four replications. The main observations were the yield components (size, weight, moisture content, bean yield, bean colour) and the phytochemical compositions (TPC = total phenolic content, AA = antioxidant activity, and CC = caffeine content) of the coffee bean before and after the drying process. The general yield characteristics show no significant differences except for weight, water content (before and after drying), bean yield, and colour. The highest weight before drying was shown by H1S0, and after drying by H2S0 and H2S1. H1S2 has the highest water content before drying, while H0S1 has the greatest water content after drying. In addition, H1S2 and H1S3 produced the highest bean yield. The a* and b* values before and after drying reflect the color component that has the most effect. However, the phytochemical contents exhibited the highest TPC and AA values, with H1S0. On the other hand, H1S1, or selective harvesting, had the highest CC value after 12 hours of soaking. Liberica coffee beans will be of better quantity and quality if optimal methods of harvesting and soaking times are applied.