Evolving Consumption Trends, Marketing Strategies, and Governance Settings in Ornamental Horticulture: A Grey Literature Review

Plant Biotechnology-An Indispensable Tool for Crop Improvement

Traditional plant breeding has helped to increase food production dramatically over the past five decades, and many countries have managed to produce enough food for the growing population, particularly in the developing world [...].

Trichoderma atroviride Enhances Impatiens walleriana Hook. f Growth and Flowering in Different Growing Media

Trichoderma spp. are widely reported to regulate plant growth by improving nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and abiotic stress tolerance. However, their possible application for bedding plants is little explored, especially when comparing different growing media. Considering that coconut coir dust is finding broader application in the ornamental plants sector as a peat substitute, this work was aimed to test the combination of Trichoderma atroviride AT10 and coconut coir dust on Impatiens walleriana plants. Four treatments were tested as a mix of: (i) two growing media (70:30), peat:perlite or coconut coir dust:perlite; and (ii) the absence or presence of a T. atroviride treatment. At the end of the production cycle, the biomass and ornamental parameters, leaf pigments, nutrient content of the plant tissues, and Trichoderma abundance were assessed. The results revealed that T. atroviride can readily colonize coir, and the same positive effects of inoculum were found in plants grown on both substrates. The biostimulant effect of T. atroviride was observed as an increase in the aboveground biomass, number and weight of flowers, pigments and nutrient concentration, thereby improving the commercial quality of I. walleriana. Thus, T. atroviride has shown its potential in making bedding plant cultivation more sustainable and improving the yield and aesthetic parameters of plants grown on peat and coconut coir dust substrates.

Considerations for developing and implementing a safe list for alien taxa

Many species have been intentionally introduced to new regions for their benefits. Some of these alien species cause damage, others do not (or at least have not yet). There are several approaches to address this problem: prohibit taxa that will cause damage, try to limit damages while preserving benefits, or promote taxa that are safe. In the present article, we unpack the safe list approach, which we define as "a list of taxa alien to the region of interest that are considered of sufficiently low risk of invasion and impact that the taxa can be widely used without concerns of negative impacts." We discuss the potential use of safe lists in the management of biological invasions; disentangle aspects related to the purpose, development, implementation, and impact of safe lists; and provide guidance for those considering to develop and implement such lists.

Development of a longevity prediction model for cut roses using hyperspectral imaging and a convolutional neural network

Introduction

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and deep learning techniques have been widely applied to predict postharvest quality and shelf life in multiple horticultural crops such as vegetables, mushrooms, and fruits; however, few studies show the application of these techniques to evaluate the quality issues of cut flowers. Therefore, in this study, we developed a non-contact and rapid detection technique for the emergence of gray mold disease (GMD) and the potential longevity of cut roses using deep learning techniques based on HSI data.

Methods

Cut flowers of two rose cultivars ('All For Love' and 'White Beauty') underwent either dry transport (thus impaired cut flower hydration), ethylene exposure, or Botrytis cinerea inoculation, in order to identify the characteristic light wavelengths that are closely correlated with plant physiological states based on HSI. The flower bud of cut roses was selected for HSI measurement and the development of a vase life prediction model utilizing YOLOv5.

Results and discussion

The HSI results revealed that spectral reflectance between 470 to 680 nm was strongly correlated with gray mold disease (GMD), whereas those between 700 to 900 nm were strongly correlated with flower wilting or vase life. To develop a YOLOv5 prediction model that can be used to anticipate flower longevity, the vase life of cut roses was classed into two categories as over 5 d (+5D) and under 5 d (-5D), based on scoring a grading standard on the flower quality. A total of 3000 images from HSI were forwarded to the YOLOv5 model for training and prediction of GMD and vase life of cut flowers. Validation of the prediction model using independent data confirmed its high predictive accuracy in evaluating the vase life of both 'All For Love' (r2 = 0.86) and 'White Beauty' (r2 = 0.83) cut flowers. The YOLOv5 model also accurately detected and classified GMD in the cut rose flowers based on the image data. Our results demonstrate that the combination of HSI and deep learning is a reliable method for detecting early GMD infection and evaluating the longevity of cut roses.

Designing of future ornamental crops: a biotechnological driven perspective

With a basis in human appreciation of beauty and aesthetic values, the new era of ornamental crops is based on implementing innovative technologies and transforming symbols into tangible assets. Recent advances in plant biotechnology have attracted considerable scientific and industrial interest, particularly in terms of modifying desired plant traits and developing future ornamental crops. By utilizing omics approaches, genomic data, genetic engineering, and gene editing tools, scientists have successively explored the underlying molecular mechanism and potential gene(s) behind trait regulation such as floral induction, plant architecture, stress resistance, plasticity, adaptation, and phytoremediation in ornamental crop species. These signs of progress lay a theoretical and practical foundation for designing and enhancing the efficiency of ornamental plants for a wide range of applications. In this review, we briefly summarized the existing literature and advances in biotechnological approaches for the improvement of vital traits in ornamental plants. The future ornamental plants, such as light-emitting plants, biotic/abiotic stress detectors, and pollution abatement, and the introduction of new ornamental varieties via domestication of wild species are also discussed.

Review of recent advances in post-harvest techniques for tropical cut flowers and future prospects: Heliconia as a case-study

Aesthetic attributes and easy-to-grow nature of tropical cut flowers (TCFs) have contributedto their potential for increased production. The dearth of information regarding agronomic practices and lack of planting materials are the key hindrances against their fast expansion. Unconventional high-temperature storage requirements and the anatomy of the peduncle contribute topoor vase life performance, while troublesome packaging and transport due to unusual size and structureprimarily cause post-harvest quality deterioration. Nonetheless, the exotic floral structuresconsequently increase market demand, particularly in temperate countries. This boosts studies aimed at overcoming post-harvest hindrances. While a few TCFs (Anthurium, Strelitzia, Alpinia, and a few orchids) are under the spotlight, many others remain behind the veil. Heliconia, an emerging specialty TCF (False Bird-of-Paradise, family Heliconiaceae), is one of them. The structural uniquenessand dazzling hues of Heliconia genotypes facilitate shifting its position from the back to the forefrontof the world floriculture trade. The unsatisfactory state-of-the-art of Heliconia research and the absence of any review exclusively on it are the key impetus for structuring this review. In addition to the aforementioned setbacks, impaired water uptake capacity after harvest, high chilling sensitivity, and the proneness of xylem ducts to microbial occlusion may be counted as a few additional factors that hinder its commercialization. This review demonstrates the state-of-the-art of post-harvest research while also conceptualizing the implementation of advanced biotechnological aid to alleviate the challenges, primarily focusing on Heliconia (the model crop here) along with some relevant literature on its other allied members. Standard harvesting indices, grading, and packaging are also part of the entire post-harvest operational chain, but since these phases are barely considered in Heliconia and the majority of tropical ornamentals except a few, a comprehensive account of these aspects has also been given. The hypothesized cues to nip chilling injury, resorting to different bio-chemical treatments, nano-based technology, and advanced packaging techniques, may help overcome preservation difficulties and propel its transition from niche to the commercial flower market. In a nutshell, readers will gain a comprehensive overview of how optimum post-harvest handling practices can rewardingly characterize this unique group of TCFs as the most remunerative component.

A Personalized and Smart Flowerpot Enabled by 3D Printing and Cloud Technology for Ornamental Horticulture

This paper presents a personalized and smart flowerpot for ornamental horticulture, integrating 3D printing and cloud technology to address existing design limitations and enable real-time monitoring of environmental parameters in plant cultivation. While 3D printing and cloud technology have seen widespread adoption across industries, their combined application in agriculture, particularly in ornamental horticulture, remains relatively unexplored. To bridge this gap, we developed a flowerpot that maximizes space utilization, simplicity, personalization, and aesthetic appeal. The shell was fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM) in 3D printing, and an Arduino-based control framework with sensors was implemented to monitor critical growth factors such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and light intensity. Real-time data are transmitted to the Bamfa Cloud through Wi-Fi, and a mobile application provides users with instant access to data and control over watering and lighting adjustments. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of the smart flowerpot in enabling automated monitoring of plant growth and environmental control. This innovation holds significant promise for advancing smart device development in ornamental horticulture and other related fields, enhancing efficiency, plant health, and overall user experience. Future research in this area has the potential to revolutionize horticultural practices and contribute to the advancement of smart agriculture.

The status and natural impact of floriculture production in Ethiopia: a systematic review

Ethiopia's floriculture industry is exceedingly emerging, and, currently, it ranks as the sixth largest exporter of roses worldwide and second largest in Africa. Currently, many flowers, such as rose, gypsophila, carnations, and chrysanthemum, are growing. However, floriculture farms are contributing a high level of health risks and environmental problems in Ethiopia. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to scrutinize the status and impacts of floriculture industries in Ethiopia. The floriculture division is an emerging sector in Ethiopia, and the number of farms, income, job opportunities, and diversity of flowers are increasing. However, the health risks and environmental fates of the sector are also increasing. Ethiopian floriculture farms lack waste disposal technologies and workers' protective equipment and safety, and the chemicals, plastics, and corrugated irons used in the farms are carelessly disposed everywhere. Pesticides, plastics, and fertilizers are also freely discharged into water bodies and terrestrial land, which is causing the development of health risks; aquatic life hazards; and soil, water, and air pollution. However, Ethiopia has no strong and functional system or structure to control the impacts of floriculture farms. The government and the farm owners are not thoughtful about the environmental issues, health concerns, and socioeconomic impacts of the wastes. The government lacks regular control and assessment of farms, and the farms are engaging for their profit. Nevertheless, developed countries are currently using both natural and modern technologies to manage floricultural wastes. Ethiopia should therefore suggest manageable possible approaches and sound management strategies based on the findings of the analyses.

New Insight into Ornamental Applications of Cannabis: Perspectives and Challenges

The characteristic growth habit, abundant green foliage, and aromatic inflorescences of cannabis provide the plant with an ideal profile as an ornamental plant. However, due to legal barriers, the horticulture industry has yet to consider the ornamental relevance of cannabis. To evaluate its suitability for introduction as a new ornamental species, multifaceted commercial criteria were analyzed. Results indicate that ornamental cannabis would be of high value as a potted-plant or in landscaping. However, the readiness timescale for ornamental cannabis completely depends on its legal status. Then, the potential of cannabis chemotype Ⅴ, which is nearly devoid of phytocannabinoids and psychoactive properties, as the foundation for breeding ornamental traits through mutagenesis, somaclonal variation, and genome editing approaches has been highlighted. Ultimately, legalization and breeding for ornamental utility offers boundless opportunities related to economics and executive business branding.

Protein Hydrolysates from Animal or Vegetal Sources Affect Morpho-Physiological Traits, Ornamental Quality, Mineral Composition, and Shelf-Life of Chrysanthemum in a Distinctive Manner

Protein hydrolysates (PHs) are a prominent category of plant biostimulants, mainly constituted of amino acids, oligopeptides and polypeptides, obtained by partial hydrolysis of animal or plant protein sources. Despite scientific evidence supporting the biostimulant action of PHs on vegetables, the morphological, physiological, and shelf-life performances underlying the PH action on cut flowers are still poorly explored. Accordingly, the aim of this research is to assess the effects of three commercial biostimulants, one animal PH (PH A, Hicure®) and two plant PHs (PH V1, Trainer® and PH V2, Vegamin©), on two chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) cultivars (Pinacolada and Radost). In both cultivars, only the plant-derived PH (V1 and V2) treatments recorded significantly higher fresh plant biomass than the control (on average +18%, in both cultivars). The foliar application of the vegetal-derived PHs but not the animal one, particularly in Pinacolada, improved the status of plants, stimulating stem elongation and the apical flower diameter. In Pinacolada, applications with PH V1 resulted in a significant increase in nitrate and P concentration in leaves and Ca content in flowers compared with the control (+43%, +27%, and +28% for nitrate, P, and Ca, respectively). In Radost, PH A and PH V2 applications caused a significant reduction in nitrate concentration in both leaves and flowers compared with the control. One week after harvest, in both cultivars, PH A applications caused flower stems to wilt faster than the control. In contrast, plants treated with PH V1 revealed significantly slower flower stem senescence compared to the control. Flower wilting during vase life was correlated to a decrease in the K-to-Na ratio in flowers due to an inability to transport K to the flowers from the leaves rather than an increase in Na in the flowers themselves.

Cryopreservation of Endangered Ornamental Plants and Fruit Crops from Tropical and Subtropical Regions

Horticultural crops comprise various economic species extending from fruits, nuts, vegetables, spices and condiments, ornamentals, aromatic, and medicinal plants. Ornamental and fruit plants are produced mainly for their nutritional and aesthetic values, respectively. Unfortunately, many tropical and subtropical species are in danger of extinction because of climate change and (a)biotic stresses. It is imperative to preserve the germplasms of these species for the present and future genetic improvement programs. Cryopreservation, i.e., maintenance of tissues at the ultralow temperature of liquid nitrogen, is a promising long-term preservation technique, alternative to seed or in vitro banks, which can be applied for both vegetatively and generatively (through seeds) propagated crops, including those with recalcitrant seeds. It is a technology of choice not only for the preservation of plant biodiversity but also for virus elimination in the proficient administration of large-scale micropropagation. The main advantages of cryopreservation are the lowering of in vitro culture expenditures, needed space, contamination risk, and operator errors. However, tropical species are temperature delicate and one of the foremost challenging issues is preconditioning treatments that stimulate physiological reactions to sufficiently enhance tolerance to dehydration and cryogenic procedures. In recent years, several cryopreservation methods based on encapsulation-vitrification, droplet-vitrification, the use of aluminum cryo-plates, and cryo-mesh have been established. Combined cryo-techniques, gene/DNA conservation, as well as studies on perceiving bio-molecular events and exploring the multistage process from the beginning to end of cryopreservation are receiving more emphasis. The development of cryobiomics delivers a conceptual framework to assess the significance of cell signaling mechanisms on cellular functions, the influence of cryoinjury factors on sample viability, and the implications for genetic stability following cryo-storage. The aim of this mini-review article is to provide a succinct synthesis of the developed cryogenic procedures and their use for the storage and exchange of genetic resources of tropical and subtropical horticultural crops, particularly fruit crops and ornamental plants under the threat of extinction.

Trends in Ornamental Plant Production

Growing ornamental plants is a dynamically developing and profitable sector of plant production [...]