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The study focused on the effects of ecology (plant communities and topographical data) on composition of essential oils (EOs) of some officinal wild plant species (Lamiales): Clinopodium suaveolens, Salvia fruticosa subsp. thomasii, Satureja montana subsp. montana, and Thymbra capitata, in different environments of Apulia (Italy). C. suaveolens and S. fruticosa subsp. thomasii are rare species of conservation interest, while S. montana subsp. montana and T. capitata, have a wide distribution and are used in traditional medicine or as spices. Results showed that the ecological context (phytosociological and ecological features) may influence the composition of EOs of the studied species. High differences in the compound composition have been found in S. montana subsp. montana, whereas minor effects were observed in C. suaveolens, S. fruticosa subsp. thomasii, and T. capitata accessions. The understanding of such aspects is necessary for providing optimal conditions to produce EOs rich in compounds known for their biological activities. The results are of great interest also for EOs producers and at the same time to improve our knowledge and valorize wild officinal plants.

Background and Aims:In some years, the table grape cultivar Crimson Seedless does not reach the commercially acceptable level of red colour in Mediterranean climates, with negative consequences for the grower. Application of abscisic acid (S-ABA) and sucrose could be a tool for overcoming this problem. Methods and Results: A commercial formulation of S-ABA (400 mg/L) and sucrose (10%) was applied to Crimson Seedless at the beginning of veraison and 5 days later in order to verify the effect on harvestable bunches, skin colour, chemical characteristics, anthocyanin content, antioxidant activity and S-ABA concentration either in the skin or the pulp of the berry. The application of S-ABA and sucrose improved the colour of the berries and increased the amount of harvestable bunches at the first pick (80-95%) compared with that of the control treatment (43%). Ripening attributes (total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity) were not affected by the application of either S-ABA or sucrose. The S-ABA concentration in skin and pulp increased significantly after the treatments and at first harvest. Abscisic acid increased the concentration of anthocyanins and showed a positive effect on the antioxidant activity. Conclusion: Abscisic acid and sucrose improved the colour of the berry skin, with improved results obtained when S-ABA was applied alone and at the beginning of veraison. Sucrose, although to a less extent, was also effective in improving skin colour and increasing the number of harvestable bunches at the first pick. Significance of the Study: This study provides new information about the positive effect of either S-ABA or sucrose on colour, anthocyanin concentration and antioxidant activity of the berry. Moreover, bunches could be harvested in fewer picks with important economic consequences for the grower and with an S-ABA concentration in the berry within the physiological values.

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