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Maria Gonnella

Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), CNR - ISPA - Institute of Sciences of Food Production, Resaearcher

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Kourosh Vahdati

University of Tehran

HortFlora Research Spectrum

CCS University, Meerut

Viacheslav Kuleshov

Stockholm University

TAFE NSW

Darwin H . Pangaribuan

The University Of Lampung

Azarian Journal of Agriculture (AJA)

University of margheh

Ege University

Dr Eliangiringa Kaale

Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS)

Justo Sanz-Calcedo

Universidad de Extremadura

Savitribai Phule Pune University

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Papers by Maria Gonnella

Changes in nitrate accumulation and growth of endive plants during light period as affected by nitrogen level and form 1

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Journal of Plant Nutrition, 1997

Endive plants (C;choriumendivia L. varocrispum Hegi) were bydroponicatly grown in a growth chambe... more Endive plants (C;choriumendivia L. varocrispum Hegi) were bydroponicatly grown in a growth chamber to asse55, 7 and 14 days after beginning of treatments (DAT), the variation ofleafnitrate (NO) accumulationand growth during the Iight period in relation to both nitrogen (N) availability (8 and 16 mM) and form percentage ratio [50:50 and O:100 ammonium (NH4):NO)]in the nutrient solution. 80th 7 and 14 DAT, fresh weight and leaf area linearly increased during the lig~t period without influence of N treatments. Dry matter (d.m.) percentage increased over the 12 hours of Iight. Leaf NO) concentration decreased during the Iight period more with 50:50 than with O:100 NH4:NO) ratio: 7 DAT NO) decreased by 25% with the former N treatment and only by 4% with the latter. After 7 days more, the difference between the two N form ratios was more evident: NO) decreased by 12% with the mixed N fonn, while increased by 10% with 100% NO)-N in the IThe work was carried out at tbe Institute ofVegetable Crops for Processing oftbe Italian National Research Council (CNR), Director Prof. Vito V. Bianco.

Comparison between nitrate and ammonium nutrition in fennel, celery, and Swiss chard

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Journal of Plant Nutrition, 1999

Substrate Re-Use Affects Yield and Quality of Seven Radish Cultivars Grown in a Closed Soilless System

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Acta Horticulturae, 2001

Effects of two levels of N and of two NH4+:NO3- ratios on endive (Cichorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi) . I. Growth, yield and water use

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Advances in Horticultural Science

Nitrogen Fertilization of New Cultivars of Lettuce

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Acta Horticulturae, 2006

The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuc... more The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuce in response to nitrogen doses applied to the soil. Two field trials were carried out during 1999-2000 and 2000-2001, the soil had received 30 and 64 kg·ha -1 of N, respectively, for the two trials as a pre-transplanting fertilization. Our main objective was to compare a control unfertilized treatment with two nitrogen doses (75 and 150 kg·ha -1 ) applied by fertigation to different cultivars of lettuce belonging to the following types: Lollo Bionda, Canasta, Lollo Rossa, and, in the second trial, Oakleaf. The Lollo Rossa cultivars produced 26 and 56% less than the Canasta type, respectively, in the first and the second year, probably due to the absence of a real head in the Lollo type. The application of nitrogen by fertigation increased yield compared with the unfertilized control, but with no difference between doses and rates of fertilization. On the other hand, nitrogen posttransplanting fertilization increased the nitrate content in leaves. The Lollo cultivars accumulated more nitrate than the other ones. The nitrate levels were greatly below the limit of 4.000 mg kg -1 fw imposed by EU Regulation No. 563/2002.

NH4:NO3 ratio changes, withdrawal of N before the harvest and reduction of nitrate leaf content in endive (Cichorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi)

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Ways of Reducing Rocket Salad Nitrate Content

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Acta Horticulturae, 2001

Grouped under the name of rocket salad a number of species of the Brassicaceae family belong to t... more Grouped under the name of rocket salad a number of species of the Brassicaceae family belong to the Eruca Miller and Diplotaxis DC genera. The popularity of rocket as a leafy vegetable is because of the spicy hot taste of its leaves which are used as garnish salads, snacks, and a large variety of meals. Rocket has a short production cycle and can accumulate large amounts of nitrate in leaves (up to 10 g/kg fresh weight), a compound believed to be potentially toxic to human health. This paper reports on a number of soilless trials carried out on rocket salad to evaluate the effect of species, light, temperature, N level (1, 4, and 8 mM), N form ratio (NH4+:NO3-= 100:0, 50:50, and 0:100), and withdrawal of N some days before harvest on nitrate accumulation and yield. In order to reduce NO3- in rocket without affecting yield the following conclusions are made: 1) remove part of leaf petioles; 2) remove part or all of the nitrate nitrogen from the nutrient solution a few days before harvesting; 3) use nutrient solutions with NO3-N and NH4-N rather than nitrate nitrogen only.

Diurnal variation of nitrate accumulation in broccoli raab leaves

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Agronomic, physiological and quality response of romaine and red oak-leaf lettuce to nitrogen input

by Francesco Di Gioia, Maria Gonnella, and Santamaria Pietro

Protecting the environment by improving the crop-system nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) while m... more Protecting the environment by improving the crop-system nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) while maximising yield and quality is a primary challenge for modern agriculture, and understanding the processes that govern N fluxes in the plant-soil system is essential to improve NUE. An on-farm study was conducted over two fall-winter seasons to evaluate the NUE, agronomical and physiological response of romaine (var. longifolia, cv Manavert) and red oak-leaf (var. crispa, cv Aruba) lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to different N-rates (0, 60, 120, 180 kg ha –1 of N). Nitrogen rate influenced all tested parameters, including plant fresh and dry weight, N accumulation, leaf NO3 – and dry matter content, NUE indices, N nutrition index (NNI), soil residual N and the estimated N losses at the end of the crop season. Fresh yield, dry weight and N-accumulation response to N rate were influenced by lettuce genotype. Manavert had higher N recovery, NUE, and lower leaf NO3 – concentration than Aruba. Analysing the NNI overtime, 120 kg ha –1 of N assured an optimal N status in both Manavert and Aruba, while N deficiency and excess were observed at lower and higher N-rates, respectively. An empirical relationship was observed between NNI and leaf NO3 – concentration , suggesting that leaf NO3 – concentration may be used to predict NNI and thus the crop N status. The relationship between NNI and leaf NO3 – concentration may be used to define optimal leaf NO3 – concentration ranges for the rapid and site-specific assessment of the crop N status, and the dynamic adjustment of N-fertil-isation, contributing to improve crop NUE, minimise N-losses, and optimise yield and quality of lettuce crops.

Calcium Cyanamide Effects on Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Yield, Nitrates, and Dry Matter Content of Lettuce

by Francesco Di Gioia, Maria Gonnella, and Santamaria Pietro

A 2-yr field study was conducted to evaluate the effects of calcium cyanamide as an alternative n... more A 2-yr field study was conducted to evaluate the effects of calcium cyanamide as an alternative nitrogen (N) fertilizer source on N use efficiency (NUE), yield, and quality of two types of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), romaine (var. longifolia, cv. Manavert) and red oak-leaf (var. crispa, cv. Aruba), grown on clay soil under a Mediterranean environment. Pretransplanting application of 120 kg ha–1 of N as calcium cyanamide (120CC) was compared with a traditional split application of 120 kg ha–1 of soluble N (120SN) consisting of 50% ammonium sulfate applied before transplanting and 50% as ammonium nitrate applied after transplanting. An unfertilized control (0-N) was included to calculate NUE indices. At harvest leaf area index, dry weight, fresh yield, dry matter concentration, and NUE indices were not affected by the N source. Leaf nitrate (NO3–) content was on average 55 and 41% higher in Aruba than in Manavert in the first (Exp-1) and second (Exp-2) season, respectively. Plants fertilized with 120CC had lower leaf NO3– content (41 and 18% in Aruba and 70 and 21% in Manavert in Exp-1 and Exp-2, respectively) compared with those fertilized with 120SN. These results suggest calcium cyanamide may be used as an effective tool to reduce leaf NO3– accumulation and to produce high-quality lettuce in compliance with European Regulation No. 1258/2011 while assuring competitive yields.

Simple and accurate allometric model for leaf area estimation in Vitis vinifera L. genotypes

Photosynthetica, 2015

The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the currently used allometric models for Vitis ... more The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the currently used allometric models for Vitis vinifera L., as well as to develop a simple and accurate model using linear measurements (leaf length, L, and leaf width, W), for estimating the individual leaf area (LA) of nine grapevine genotypes. For model construction, a total of 1630 leaves coming from eight genotypes in 2010, was sampled during different leaf developmental stages and encompassed the full spectrum of leaf sizes. The model with single measurement of L could be considered an interesting option because it requires measurement of only one variable, but at the expense of some loss of accuracy. To find a model to estimate individual LA accurately for grapevine plants of all genotypes, both measurements of L and W should be involved. The proposed linear model [LA = -0.465 + 0.914 (L×W)] was adopted for its accuracy: the highest coefficient of determination (> 0.98), the smallest mean square error, the smallest prediction sum of squares, and to the reasonably close prediction sum of squares value to error sum of squares. To validate the LW model, an independent data set of 200 leaves coming from another genotype in 2011 was used. Correlation coefficients showed that there was a highly reliable relationships between predicted leaf area and the observed leaf area, giving an overestimation of 0.8% in the prediction.

PRODUCTION AND NITRATE CONTENT IN LAMB’S LETTUCE GROWN IN FLOATING SYSTEM

by Maria Gonnella, Conversa Giulia, and Pietro Santamaria

Acta Horticulturae, 2004

ABSTRACT Small-size leafy vegetables can be profitably cultivated in floating system all year rou... more ABSTRACT Small-size leafy vegetables can be profitably cultivated in floating system all year round to obtain ready-to-use vegetables. In the present study two cultivars of lamb’s lettuce (Valerianella locusta L. Laterr.) were used: &#39;Baikal&#39; and &#39;Valerianella a seme grosso di Olanda&#39;, both characterised by long and pale green leaves and suitability for greenhouse growing. The growing set-up consisted of benches containing the nutrient solution and floating boards to support the plants. A density of 1200 plants m-3 was adopted. Approximately 50 days after sowing fresh leaf production was 1900 g m-2, with a dry matter content of 7.5 g 100 g fresh weight (fw)-1. Nitrate content was nearly 4000 mg kg fw-1. The replacement of the nutrient solution with rain water three days before harvesting resulted in nitrate reduction in leaves by one third. Moreover, the obtained product had no discarded parts, substrate or pesticide residues. In the management of the nutrient solution the usual pH increase due to NO3--N absorption was recorded and continuous correction with acids was needed. The permanence of the nutrient solution in the tanks or benches for a long time proved to diminish oxygen level in the nutrient solution. This aspect is crucial in the high growth phase when solution enrichment with oxygen is needed by recirculating the solution between the benches and the relevant tanks or by insufflating air in the nutrient solution. The daily water consumption increased with increasing growth. Total water consumption was 51 L/m3.

NITROGEN FERTILIZATION OF NEW CULTIVARS OF LETTUCE

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Acta Horticulturae, 2006

The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuc... more The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuce in response to nitrogen doses applied to the soil. Two field trials were carried out during 1999-2000 and 2000-2001, the soil had received 30 and 64 kg·ha -1 of N, respectively, for the two trials as a pre-transplanting fertilization. Our main objective was to compare a control unfertilized treatment with two nitrogen doses (75 and 150 kg·ha -1 ) applied by fertigation to different cultivars of lettuce belonging to the following types: Lollo Bionda, Canasta, Lollo Rossa, and, in the second trial, Oakleaf. The Lollo Rossa cultivars produced 26 and 56% less than the Canasta type, respectively, in the first and the second year, probably due to the absence of a real head in the Lollo type. The application of nitrogen by fertigation increased yield compared with the unfertilized control, but with no difference between doses and rates of fertilization. On the other hand, nitrogen posttransplanting fertilization increased the nitrate content in leaves. The Lollo cultivars accumulated more nitrate than the other ones. The nitrate levels were greatly below the limit of 4.000 mg kg -1 fw imposed by EU Regulation No. 563/2002.

SUBSTRATE RE-USE AFFECTS YIELD AND QUALITY OF SEVEN RADISH CULTIVARS GROWN IN A CLOSED SOILLESS SYSTEM

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Acta Horticulturae, 2001

Seven radish cultivars were evaluated in March-April 1998 using a closed soilless system for the ... more Seven radish cultivars were evaluated in March-April 1998 using a closed soilless system for the purpose of determining yield in subirrigation with new and re-used substrate. Plants were transplanted in pots (576 cm 3 ) containing peat, vermiculite, and perlite in a ratio 1:2:2 (v:v:v). This substrate was either freshly prepared or already used in one or two previous cycles for the same species. Fresh and dry weight of leaves and fresh and dry weight, sponginess and colour of the hypocotyl were measured. Primary inorganic anion content was determined on hypocotyls grown on the substrate freshly prepared. At the end of the cycle, pH and EC of the water extract from the substrate were determined. As the substrate was used more than once and up to three times, dry weight and dry matter content of the hypocotyl decreased linearly (from 7.9 to 5.6 g and from 42 to 34 g/kg of fresh weight, respectively) together with leaf dry weight (from 4.2 to 3.4 g). This was probably due to the simultaneous increase of EC in the water extract of the substrate (from 359 to 502 µS/cm). At the same time, leaf dry matter increased from 69 to 74 g/kg of fresh weight, and the colour of the hypocotyl was less saturated with the red index being lower and less bright. The white round cultivar had a hypocotyl fresh weight lower than red cultivars (2.8 vs. 7.6 g). Among the red cultivars, 'Saxa 2' yielded more than 'Saxa', and 'Champion' more than 'Cherry belle'. The 'White round' hypocotyl cultivar was not spongy, different from cultivars with a red hypocotyl with white tip, which had higher sponginess ratings. Nitrate content was on average 1,305 mg/kg of fresh weight, which is a value rather low compared to those reported in the literature.

NH4:NO3 ratio changes, withdrawal of N before the harvest and reduction of nitrate leaf content in endive (Cichorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi)

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Diurnal variation of nitrate accumulation in broccoli raab leaves

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Growth, yield, and mineral content of butterhead lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) grown in NFT

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Acta horticulturae

To improve greenhouse lettuce yield and quality and avoid enviromental pollution it is necessary ... more To improve greenhouse lettuce yield and quality and avoid enviromental pollution it is necessary to optimize plant nutrition. Plants uptake nutrients at different ratios during the growing period. Therefore, total N, K + , Mg 2+ , and Ca 2+ accumulation and NO 3 -, NH 4 + K + , Mg 2+ , and Ca 2+ uptake were evaluated during greenhouse growth of two cultivars of butterhead lettuce ('Mindoro' and 'Tibet') in a discontinous closed loop NFT sstem. Growth rate and water consumption were also measured.

Effects of two levels of N and of two NH 4+:NO3- ratios on endive (Chicorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi) . II. Accumulation of major inorganic ions

Advances in Horticultural Science

IX Convegno Nazionale Biodiversità, Valenzano (BA) 5-7 settembre 2012

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

The Catalogna chicory (Cichorium intybus L., catalogna group), also referred as chicory "asp... more The Catalogna chicory (Cichorium intybus L., catalogna group), also referred as chicory "asparagus" or "puntarelle", is a traditional product in the Puglia region (Italy), both for cultivation and consumption as raw or cooked. There are similar populations in Lazio (Catalogna chicory “Frastagliata di Gaeta”) and in Veneto (Catalogna chicory “Gigante di Chioggia”). These chicory groups are very limited in diffusion, and are eaten above all as raw vegetables or in salads mixed with oil, garlic and anchovies (typical recipe of Lazio region). For the Puglia cultivation of chicory asparagus are primarily used both Molfetta and Galatina types. The crop grows during a winter cycle of nine months from seed or transplant (in November) to harvest (in April). This is allowed by scalar transplant and ripening (inside the same plot); Molfetta population (more resistant to cold) is cultivated before Galatina (more susceptible to cold). These populations were evaluated and desc...

Purslane: A Review of its Potential for Health and Agricultural Aspects

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a common weed that grows all over the world and is one of the... more Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a common weed that grows all over the world and is one of the most widespread weed species in summer crops. However, it has great potential to become a new crop since its identification as one of the best plant sources ofω-3 fatty acid, α-linolenic acid, as well as some antioxidants (α-tocopherol, β-carotene, ascorbic acid, and glutathione). Several other features distinguish this species: high content of crude protein, water-soluble polysaccharides useful as gums, and good tolerance to salinity. This review summarizes purslane’s origin, botanical, and physiological features while its nutritional and medical properties are reported in reference to several studies carried out on its chemical properties. Finally, its cultivation potential is discussed and future uses are proposed for this species, mainly as a component in ready-to-use vegetables (especially in mixed packaging) but also for other cultivation purposes.

Changes in nitrate accumulation and growth of endive plants during light period as affected by nitrogen level and form 1

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Journal of Plant Nutrition, 1997

Endive plants (C;choriumendivia L. varocrispum Hegi) were bydroponicatly grown in a growth chambe... more Endive plants (C;choriumendivia L. varocrispum Hegi) were bydroponicatly grown in a growth chamber to asse55, 7 and 14 days after beginning of treatments (DAT), the variation ofleafnitrate (NO) accumulationand growth during the Iight period in relation to both nitrogen (N) availability (8 and 16 mM) and form percentage ratio [50:50 and O:100 ammonium (NH4):NO)]in the nutrient solution. 80th 7 and 14 DAT, fresh weight and leaf area linearly increased during the lig~t period without influence of N treatments. Dry matter (d.m.) percentage increased over the 12 hours of Iight. Leaf NO) concentration decreased during the Iight period more with 50:50 than with O:100 NH4:NO) ratio: 7 DAT NO) decreased by 25% with the former N treatment and only by 4% with the latter. After 7 days more, the difference between the two N form ratios was more evident: NO) decreased by 12% with the mixed N fonn, while increased by 10% with 100% NO)-N in the IThe work was carried out at tbe Institute ofVegetable Crops for Processing oftbe Italian National Research Council (CNR), Director Prof. Vito V. Bianco.

Comparison between nitrate and ammonium nutrition in fennel, celery, and Swiss chard

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Journal of Plant Nutrition, 1999

Substrate Re-Use Affects Yield and Quality of Seven Radish Cultivars Grown in a Closed Soilless System

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Acta Horticulturae, 2001

Effects of two levels of N and of two NH4+:NO3- ratios on endive (Cichorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi) . I. Growth, yield and water use

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Advances in Horticultural Science

Nitrogen Fertilization of New Cultivars of Lettuce

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Acta Horticulturae, 2006

The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuc... more The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuce in response to nitrogen doses applied to the soil. Two field trials were carried out during 1999-2000 and 2000-2001, the soil had received 30 and 64 kg·ha -1 of N, respectively, for the two trials as a pre-transplanting fertilization. Our main objective was to compare a control unfertilized treatment with two nitrogen doses (75 and 150 kg·ha -1 ) applied by fertigation to different cultivars of lettuce belonging to the following types: Lollo Bionda, Canasta, Lollo Rossa, and, in the second trial, Oakleaf. The Lollo Rossa cultivars produced 26 and 56% less than the Canasta type, respectively, in the first and the second year, probably due to the absence of a real head in the Lollo type. The application of nitrogen by fertigation increased yield compared with the unfertilized control, but with no difference between doses and rates of fertilization. On the other hand, nitrogen posttransplanting fertilization increased the nitrate content in leaves. The Lollo cultivars accumulated more nitrate than the other ones. The nitrate levels were greatly below the limit of 4.000 mg kg -1 fw imposed by EU Regulation No. 563/2002.

NH4:NO3 ratio changes, withdrawal of N before the harvest and reduction of nitrate leaf content in endive (Cichorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi)

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Ways of Reducing Rocket Salad Nitrate Content

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Acta Horticulturae, 2001

Grouped under the name of rocket salad a number of species of the Brassicaceae family belong to t... more Grouped under the name of rocket salad a number of species of the Brassicaceae family belong to the Eruca Miller and Diplotaxis DC genera. The popularity of rocket as a leafy vegetable is because of the spicy hot taste of its leaves which are used as garnish salads, snacks, and a large variety of meals. Rocket has a short production cycle and can accumulate large amounts of nitrate in leaves (up to 10 g/kg fresh weight), a compound believed to be potentially toxic to human health. This paper reports on a number of soilless trials carried out on rocket salad to evaluate the effect of species, light, temperature, N level (1, 4, and 8 mM), N form ratio (NH4+:NO3-= 100:0, 50:50, and 0:100), and withdrawal of N some days before harvest on nitrate accumulation and yield. In order to reduce NO3- in rocket without affecting yield the following conclusions are made: 1) remove part of leaf petioles; 2) remove part or all of the nitrate nitrogen from the nutrient solution a few days before harvesting; 3) use nutrient solutions with NO3-N and NH4-N rather than nitrate nitrogen only.

Diurnal variation of nitrate accumulation in broccoli raab leaves

by Antonio Elia and Maria Gonnella

Agronomic, physiological and quality response of romaine and red oak-leaf lettuce to nitrogen input

by Francesco Di Gioia, Maria Gonnella, and Santamaria Pietro

Protecting the environment by improving the crop-system nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) while m... more Protecting the environment by improving the crop-system nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) while maximising yield and quality is a primary challenge for modern agriculture, and understanding the processes that govern N fluxes in the plant-soil system is essential to improve NUE. An on-farm study was conducted over two fall-winter seasons to evaluate the NUE, agronomical and physiological response of romaine (var. longifolia, cv Manavert) and red oak-leaf (var. crispa, cv Aruba) lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to different N-rates (0, 60, 120, 180 kg ha –1 of N). Nitrogen rate influenced all tested parameters, including plant fresh and dry weight, N accumulation, leaf NO3 – and dry matter content, NUE indices, N nutrition index (NNI), soil residual N and the estimated N losses at the end of the crop season. Fresh yield, dry weight and N-accumulation response to N rate were influenced by lettuce genotype. Manavert had higher N recovery, NUE, and lower leaf NO3 – concentration than Aruba. Analysing the NNI overtime, 120 kg ha –1 of N assured an optimal N status in both Manavert and Aruba, while N deficiency and excess were observed at lower and higher N-rates, respectively. An empirical relationship was observed between NNI and leaf NO3 – concentration , suggesting that leaf NO3 – concentration may be used to predict NNI and thus the crop N status. The relationship between NNI and leaf NO3 – concentration may be used to define optimal leaf NO3 – concentration ranges for the rapid and site-specific assessment of the crop N status, and the dynamic adjustment of N-fertil-isation, contributing to improve crop NUE, minimise N-losses, and optimise yield and quality of lettuce crops.

Calcium Cyanamide Effects on Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Yield, Nitrates, and Dry Matter Content of Lettuce

by Francesco Di Gioia, Maria Gonnella, and Santamaria Pietro

A 2-yr field study was conducted to evaluate the effects of calcium cyanamide as an alternative n... more A 2-yr field study was conducted to evaluate the effects of calcium cyanamide as an alternative nitrogen (N) fertilizer source on N use efficiency (NUE), yield, and quality of two types of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), romaine (var. longifolia, cv. Manavert) and red oak-leaf (var. crispa, cv. Aruba), grown on clay soil under a Mediterranean environment. Pretransplanting application of 120 kg ha–1 of N as calcium cyanamide (120CC) was compared with a traditional split application of 120 kg ha–1 of soluble N (120SN) consisting of 50% ammonium sulfate applied before transplanting and 50% as ammonium nitrate applied after transplanting. An unfertilized control (0-N) was included to calculate NUE indices. At harvest leaf area index, dry weight, fresh yield, dry matter concentration, and NUE indices were not affected by the N source. Leaf nitrate (NO3–) content was on average 55 and 41% higher in Aruba than in Manavert in the first (Exp-1) and second (Exp-2) season, respectively. Plants fertilized with 120CC had lower leaf NO3– content (41 and 18% in Aruba and 70 and 21% in Manavert in Exp-1 and Exp-2, respectively) compared with those fertilized with 120SN. These results suggest calcium cyanamide may be used as an effective tool to reduce leaf NO3– accumulation and to produce high-quality lettuce in compliance with European Regulation No. 1258/2011 while assuring competitive yields.

Simple and accurate allometric model for leaf area estimation in Vitis vinifera L. genotypes

Photosynthetica, 2015

The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the currently used allometric models for Vitis ... more The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the currently used allometric models for Vitis vinifera L., as well as to develop a simple and accurate model using linear measurements (leaf length, L, and leaf width, W), for estimating the individual leaf area (LA) of nine grapevine genotypes. For model construction, a total of 1630 leaves coming from eight genotypes in 2010, was sampled during different leaf developmental stages and encompassed the full spectrum of leaf sizes. The model with single measurement of L could be considered an interesting option because it requires measurement of only one variable, but at the expense of some loss of accuracy. To find a model to estimate individual LA accurately for grapevine plants of all genotypes, both measurements of L and W should be involved. The proposed linear model [LA = -0.465 + 0.914 (L×W)] was adopted for its accuracy: the highest coefficient of determination (> 0.98), the smallest mean square error, the smallest prediction sum of squares, and to the reasonably close prediction sum of squares value to error sum of squares. To validate the LW model, an independent data set of 200 leaves coming from another genotype in 2011 was used. Correlation coefficients showed that there was a highly reliable relationships between predicted leaf area and the observed leaf area, giving an overestimation of 0.8% in the prediction.

PRODUCTION AND NITRATE CONTENT IN LAMB’S LETTUCE GROWN IN FLOATING SYSTEM

by Maria Gonnella, Conversa Giulia, and Pietro Santamaria

Acta Horticulturae, 2004

ABSTRACT Small-size leafy vegetables can be profitably cultivated in floating system all year rou... more ABSTRACT Small-size leafy vegetables can be profitably cultivated in floating system all year round to obtain ready-to-use vegetables. In the present study two cultivars of lamb’s lettuce (Valerianella locusta L. Laterr.) were used: &#39;Baikal&#39; and &#39;Valerianella a seme grosso di Olanda&#39;, both characterised by long and pale green leaves and suitability for greenhouse growing. The growing set-up consisted of benches containing the nutrient solution and floating boards to support the plants. A density of 1200 plants m-3 was adopted. Approximately 50 days after sowing fresh leaf production was 1900 g m-2, with a dry matter content of 7.5 g 100 g fresh weight (fw)-1. Nitrate content was nearly 4000 mg kg fw-1. The replacement of the nutrient solution with rain water three days before harvesting resulted in nitrate reduction in leaves by one third. Moreover, the obtained product had no discarded parts, substrate or pesticide residues. In the management of the nutrient solution the usual pH increase due to NO3--N absorption was recorded and continuous correction with acids was needed. The permanence of the nutrient solution in the tanks or benches for a long time proved to diminish oxygen level in the nutrient solution. This aspect is crucial in the high growth phase when solution enrichment with oxygen is needed by recirculating the solution between the benches and the relevant tanks or by insufflating air in the nutrient solution. The daily water consumption increased with increasing growth. Total water consumption was 51 L/m3.

NITROGEN FERTILIZATION OF NEW CULTIVARS OF LETTUCE

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Acta Horticulturae, 2006

The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuc... more The present work aimed to study production and accumulation of nitrate by new cultivars of lettuce in response to nitrogen doses applied to the soil. Two field trials were carried out during 1999-2000 and 2000-2001, the soil had received 30 and 64 kg·ha -1 of N, respectively, for the two trials as a pre-transplanting fertilization. Our main objective was to compare a control unfertilized treatment with two nitrogen doses (75 and 150 kg·ha -1 ) applied by fertigation to different cultivars of lettuce belonging to the following types: Lollo Bionda, Canasta, Lollo Rossa, and, in the second trial, Oakleaf. The Lollo Rossa cultivars produced 26 and 56% less than the Canasta type, respectively, in the first and the second year, probably due to the absence of a real head in the Lollo type. The application of nitrogen by fertigation increased yield compared with the unfertilized control, but with no difference between doses and rates of fertilization. On the other hand, nitrogen posttransplanting fertilization increased the nitrate content in leaves. The Lollo cultivars accumulated more nitrate than the other ones. The nitrate levels were greatly below the limit of 4.000 mg kg -1 fw imposed by EU Regulation No. 563/2002.

SUBSTRATE RE-USE AFFECTS YIELD AND QUALITY OF SEVEN RADISH CULTIVARS GROWN IN A CLOSED SOILLESS SYSTEM

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Acta Horticulturae, 2001

Seven radish cultivars were evaluated in March-April 1998 using a closed soilless system for the ... more Seven radish cultivars were evaluated in March-April 1998 using a closed soilless system for the purpose of determining yield in subirrigation with new and re-used substrate. Plants were transplanted in pots (576 cm 3 ) containing peat, vermiculite, and perlite in a ratio 1:2:2 (v:v:v). This substrate was either freshly prepared or already used in one or two previous cycles for the same species. Fresh and dry weight of leaves and fresh and dry weight, sponginess and colour of the hypocotyl were measured. Primary inorganic anion content was determined on hypocotyls grown on the substrate freshly prepared. At the end of the cycle, pH and EC of the water extract from the substrate were determined. As the substrate was used more than once and up to three times, dry weight and dry matter content of the hypocotyl decreased linearly (from 7.9 to 5.6 g and from 42 to 34 g/kg of fresh weight, respectively) together with leaf dry weight (from 4.2 to 3.4 g). This was probably due to the simultaneous increase of EC in the water extract of the substrate (from 359 to 502 µS/cm). At the same time, leaf dry matter increased from 69 to 74 g/kg of fresh weight, and the colour of the hypocotyl was less saturated with the red index being lower and less bright. The white round cultivar had a hypocotyl fresh weight lower than red cultivars (2.8 vs. 7.6 g). Among the red cultivars, 'Saxa 2' yielded more than 'Saxa', and 'Champion' more than 'Cherry belle'. The 'White round' hypocotyl cultivar was not spongy, different from cultivars with a red hypocotyl with white tip, which had higher sponginess ratings. Nitrate content was on average 1,305 mg/kg of fresh weight, which is a value rather low compared to those reported in the literature.

NH4:NO3 ratio changes, withdrawal of N before the harvest and reduction of nitrate leaf content in endive (Cichorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi)

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Diurnal variation of nitrate accumulation in broccoli raab leaves

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Growth, yield, and mineral content of butterhead lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) grown in NFT

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Acta horticulturae

To improve greenhouse lettuce yield and quality and avoid enviromental pollution it is necessary ... more To improve greenhouse lettuce yield and quality and avoid enviromental pollution it is necessary to optimize plant nutrition. Plants uptake nutrients at different ratios during the growing period. Therefore, total N, K + , Mg 2+ , and Ca 2+ accumulation and NO 3 -, NH 4 + K + , Mg 2+ , and Ca 2+ uptake were evaluated during greenhouse growth of two cultivars of butterhead lettuce ('Mindoro' and 'Tibet') in a discontinous closed loop NFT sstem. Growth rate and water consumption were also measured.

Effects of two levels of N and of two NH 4+:NO3- ratios on endive (Chicorium endivia L. var. crispum Hegi) . II. Accumulation of major inorganic ions

Advances in Horticultural Science

IX Convegno Nazionale Biodiversità, Valenzano (BA) 5-7 settembre 2012

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

The Catalogna chicory (Cichorium intybus L., catalogna group), also referred as chicory "asp... more The Catalogna chicory (Cichorium intybus L., catalogna group), also referred as chicory "asparagus" or "puntarelle", is a traditional product in the Puglia region (Italy), both for cultivation and consumption as raw or cooked. There are similar populations in Lazio (Catalogna chicory “Frastagliata di Gaeta”) and in Veneto (Catalogna chicory “Gigante di Chioggia”). These chicory groups are very limited in diffusion, and are eaten above all as raw vegetables or in salads mixed with oil, garlic and anchovies (typical recipe of Lazio region). For the Puglia cultivation of chicory asparagus are primarily used both Molfetta and Galatina types. The crop grows during a winter cycle of nine months from seed or transplant (in November) to harvest (in April). This is allowed by scalar transplant and ripening (inside the same plot); Molfetta population (more resistant to cold) is cultivated before Galatina (more susceptible to cold). These populations were evaluated and desc...

Purslane: A Review of its Potential for Health and Agricultural Aspects

by Maria Gonnella and Pietro Santamaria

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a common weed that grows all over the world and is one of the... more Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a common weed that grows all over the world and is one of the most widespread weed species in summer crops. However, it has great potential to become a new crop since its identification as one of the best plant sources ofω-3 fatty acid, α-linolenic acid, as well as some antioxidants (α-tocopherol, β-carotene, ascorbic acid, and glutathione). Several other features distinguish this species: high content of crude protein, water-soluble polysaccharides useful as gums, and good tolerance to salinity. This review summarizes purslane’s origin, botanical, and physiological features while its nutritional and medical properties are reported in reference to several studies carried out on its chemical properties. Finally, its cultivation potential is discussed and future uses are proposed for this species, mainly as a component in ready-to-use vegetables (especially in mixed packaging) but also for other cultivation purposes.

Contribution of Leafy Vegetables to Dietary Nitrate Intake and Regulations

by Francesco Di Gioia, Maria Gonnella, and Pietro Santamaria

Nitrate in Leafy Vegetables: Toxicity and Safety Measures, Aug 2013

Vegetables constitute a major dietary source of nitrate, contributing to the daily dietary intake... more Vegetables constitute a major dietary source of nitrate, contributing to the daily dietary intake for a percentage ranging from 30 to 94%. Although nitrate itself is relatively non-toxic, or even beneficial, the possible harmful effects of nitrate derived compounds on human health arouse public concern and have led to the development of government regulations and monitoring programs aimed at protecting the public health. In this perspective, have been set an acceptable daily intake for nitrates and maximum levels of nitrate content for several vegetables, paying particular attention to some leafy vegetables, characterized by a high capacity to accumulate nitrates. This chapter focuses on the main factors concerning nitrate accumulation in vegetables and their contribution to nitrate intake in the human diet, taking into account the recent EU Regulation No. 1258/2011 and the Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Contaminants in the Food chain (CONTAM) of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

by Francesco Di Gioia, Maria Gonnella, Stefania De Pascale, Vanni Tisselli, Maria Gonnella, Pasquale Delli Paoli, and Pietro Santamaria

La concimazione azotata degli ortaggi (a cura di Incrocci L., Dimauro B., Santamaria P., Pardossi A.), 121-140. , Sep 20, 2013

in attuazione del Decreto del Ministero delle Politiche Agricole e Forestali 23.12.2003 n. 25279 ... more