Variations in the leaf metabolite profile between hydroponic and field grown Moringa oleifera Lam. genotypes

Enhancing tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) yield and nutrition quality through hydroponic cultivation with treated wastewater

Utilizing treated wastewater for crop cultivation is essential in regions with scarce freshwater resources for irrigation. This study evaluated the growth, fruit yield, nutritional and phytochemical quality of tomato fruits cultivated using a treated wastewater-based hydroponics system developed for the Trans Himalaya, India. Tomatoes grown with treated wastewater exhibited better growth, yield, nutritional content, phytochemical properties, and antioxidant activities than those grown in soil. Specifically, the lycopene and β carotene were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in tomato fruits cultivated in treated wastewater (0.05 ± 0.00 and 0.09 ± 0.00 mg/g) than soil (0.02 ± 0.00 and 0.01 ± 0.00 mg/g). Also, significantly (p < 0.05) higher carbohydrate and protein contents (55.91 ± 1.19 and 21.34 ± 0.31 mg/g, respectively) were obtained under-treated wastewater than soil (39.48 ± 0.07 and 18.52 ± 0.10 mg/g). Similar trends were also obtained in phytochemicals and mineral analysis. However, morphological, proximate, and phytochemical characteristics of tomatoes in nutrient and wastewater-based hydroponics were comparable. Treated wastewater offers eco-friendly benefits for quality crop production.

Research on Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) in Africa

While Moringa oleifera Lam. is gaining importance in Africa, especially sub-Saharan Africa, it is unclear whether research is following the quick pace of its development on the continent. Therefore, this article analyzes the landscape of research dealing with moringa in Africa. This systematic review draws upon 299 eligible articles identified through a search carried out on the Web of Science in April 2023. Research on M. oleifera is rather recent in Africa but interest is increasing among scholars. While the research field is multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral, the literature seems to focus on biological and environmental sciences. Moreover, research is performed mainly in South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ghana. The analysis suggests a significant potential contribution of moringa to food security and nutrition, climate change mitigation/adaptation, farming systems resilience, and livelihoods. Its versatility and diverse applications and uses make moringa particularly interesting for developing countries, such as African ones. However, this review also underscores some factors hindering its development. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen research on moringa to unlock its potential in Africa. Investments in research, innovation, and development can help address the many challenges that Africa faces and contribute to the transition towards sustainable and resilient food systems.

The possibility and prosperity of Moringa oleifera Lam. cultivation in Armenia under conditions of outdoor hydroponics and soil

Moringa is one of the most important plants in the fight against malnutrition. Its leaves are largely used in food. This subtropical plant is a non-traditional culture for Armenia. For the first time it was cultivated in outdoor hydroponic and soil conditions in Ararat Valley. The aim of the study was to reveal the plant’s cultivation possibility in the outdoor hydroponic conditions and the quantitative and qualitative efficiency of its plant raw material. The results are showing that hydroponic moringa exceeded soil variant 1.7 times in useful biomass of leaves in a count of per plant. Due to high productivity, the hydroponic moringa plants exceeded soil plants with the output of the extractive substances (1.5 times), flavonoids (1.4 times), phenolic acids (1.9 times), tannins (1.2 times), calcium (1.2 times), magnesium (2.9 times), proteins (1.5 times), and carbohydrates (1.3 times). The received results allowed assuming that the hydroponic culture is effective and perspective for moringa cultivation in Armenia.