Accumulation of mineral elements in the rhizosphere and shoots of Cyclopia and Aspalathus species under different settings of the Cape fynbos

Maseko, S.T.; Dakora, Felix D.

doi:10.1016/j.sajb.2016.09.007

Cited by 10 publications

(6 citation statements)

References 37 publications

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“…Several studies have indicated a decrease in the relative abundance of Acidobacteria in the rhizosphere compared to the bulk soil [36,37,66]. The fynbos rhizosphere is unique as the plant exudates decrease the soil pH surrounding the roots [39], which might be the attracting factor for Acidobacteria. Other studies have also indicated a higher relative abundance and metabolically active Acidobacteria in the rhizosphere [38,67,68].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…However, other studies have challenged these findings by revealing an increase in relative abundance in the rhizosphere soil where nutrient availability (soil organic carbon) is higher [35,38]. The fynbos rhizosphere soil has a low pH as a result of plant exudates [39], providing an attractive niche for the Acidobacteria and an interesting environment to study.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Seasonal and Agricultural Response of Acidobacteria Present in Two Fynbos Rhizosphere Soils

Conradie

Jacobs

2020

Diversity

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The Acidobacteria is one of the most abundant phyla in most soil types. Fynbos plants are endemic to South Africa, and these soils provide the ideal habitat for Acidobacteria, because of its low pH and oligotrophic properties. However, little is known about their distribution in the fynbos biome and the impact of cultivation of plants on Acidobacterial diversity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of seasonal changes and cultivation on the relative abundance and diversity of Acidobacteria associated with Aspalathus linearis (rooibos) and Cyclopia spp. (honeybush). This study was based on rhizosphere soil. A total of 32 and 31 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified for honeybush and rooibos, respectively. The majority of these were classified as representatives of subdivisions 1, 2, 3, and 10. Significant differences in community compositions were observed between seasons for both honeybush and rooibos, as well as between the cultivated and uncultivated honeybush. Acidobacteria had a significantly positive correlation with pH, C, Ca2+, and P. In this study, we have shown the effect of seasonal changes, in summer and winter, and cultivation farming on the relative abundance and diversity of Acidobacteria present in the soil of rooibos and honeybush.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Seasonal and Agricultural Response of Acidobacteria Present in Two Fynbos Rhizosphere Soils

Conradie

Jacobs

2020

Diversity

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“…Several studies have reported the acid and alkaline phosphatase activity in legumes [21][22][23][24]. However, few studies have reported the performance of these in relation to intercropping and inorganic fertilization [25,26].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Effects of Cowpea-Amaranth Intercropping and Fertiliser Application on Soil Phosphatase Activities, Available Soil Phosphorus, and Crop Growth Response

et al. 2020

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Low available soil phosphorus (P) is associated with its immobility, which renders it unavailable for plant uptake. In addition, farmers normally apply inorganic fertilisers to legumes to activate soil-bound phosphorus using root exudates. Sufficient soil mineral nutrition is key to sustainable crop production, and hence food and nutritional security. The aim of this study was to quantify the acid and alkaline phosphatase activity as an indicator of P supply and availability under varying levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) fertilization and different cropping systems. An intercropping (cowpea and amaranth) and fertiliser (control, 25%, 50%, and 100% of the recommended NPK levels) field trial was laid out in a 2 × 4 factorial treatment structure in a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications. There was higher acid and alkaline phosphatase activity in the rhizosphere of cowpea and amaranth grown as sole crops compared to those from intercropping. The cowpea and amaranth plants grown without fertiliser or 25% NPK had the highest rhizospheric phosphatase activity, while 100% NPK application exhibited the least. The markedly higher phosphatase activity from the low fertiliser application treatments indicates the possible stimulation of microbial activity to supplement P demands for the crops. The study revealed that the application of lower rates inorganic fertilisers in a legume intercrop stimulates the activity of the phosphatase enzymes, which can subsequently liberate soil-bound phosphorus. Plant tissue phosphorus concentration of cowpea and amaranth plants increased proportionately to the increase in fertiliser application up to 50% of the recommended NPK level. The land equivalent ratio (LER) was greater than 1, indicating that it is more beneficial to intercrop cowpea and amaranth as opposed to growing them as sole crops. Overall, the application of NPK fertilizer to amounts of up to 50%, based on the results of this study, appear to be better than 100% in terms of biomass accumulation and phosphate activity.

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“…The management of honeybush is performed on the premise that the crop is chemical free, with producers following recognized and prescribed organic farming principles with respect to pest and weed control (Joubert et al., 2011; Maseko & Dakora, 2017). Weed management before planting and during establishment is required to reduce competition for nutrients and water, to increase seedling size, and to promote a high root to shoot ratio, allowing seedlings to better compete for light, water, and nutrients (Close et al., 2005).…”

Section: Cultivation Aspects Of Honeybushmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…However, studies by Maseko and Dakora (2015, 2017) reported that several species of Cyclopia can be cultivated without supplemental mineral fertilization. Even though no N or P was applied to soil that is inherently low in N and P, a higher tea yield was observed due to the specialized mechanisms (N‐fixing nodules and root exudates) by which the plant was able to enhance the uptake of N and P (Maseko & Dakora, 2015).…”

Section: Cultivation Aspects Of Honeybushmentioning

confidence: 99%

Propagation and cultivation practices of honeybush (Cyclopia spp.) for the sustainable production of an export quality indigenous South African tea

et al. 2022

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Honeybush (Cyclopia) species are endemic to the Fynbos Biome of the Cape Floral Kingdom in South Africa. Traditionally, honeybush foliage is cut, fermented, and sun-dried to make an antioxidant-rich herbal tea. Approximately 80% of honeybush is unsustainably harvested from the wild. All commercial species are indicated on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. Cultivation is thus required to ensure sufficient volumes of tea are produced. A major limitation to cultivation is the poor rooting responses of the species that regenerate from shoots, C. genistoides and C. intermedia, the latter being the most harvested from the wild. The establishment of clonally propagated material is a challenge for all six of the commercially important Cyclopia species. Research on honeybush has mainly focused on the unique properties contributing to flavor, medicinal value, as well as processing. Much less is known about propagation, nutrient requirements, harvesting procedures, plant improvement, and pest and disease management. This review considers management strategies for the sustainable harvesting of wild honeybush and the potential risks of introducing improved plant material. Cultivation practices and management strategies that promote longevity and enhance yield are defined. The inherent rooting ability of cuttings is discussed. Cultivated stands are mostly established by seedlings which results in diversity of vigor and tea quality. A sustainable market based on high-quality indigenous tea requires the use of clonal material which allows the selection of desired traits and rapid multiplication. Its use would enable improved yield and profitability without compromising tea quality.

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Accumulation of mineral elements in the rhizosphere and shoots of Cyclopia and Aspalathus species under different settings of the Cape fynbos

Cited by 10 publications

References 37 publications

Seasonal and Agricultural Response of Acidobacteria Present in Two Fynbos Rhizosphere Soils

Seasonal and Agricultural Response of Acidobacteria Present in Two Fynbos Rhizosphere Soils

Effects of Cowpea-Amaranth Intercropping and Fertiliser Application on Soil Phosphatase Activities, Available Soil Phosphorus, and Crop Growth Response

Propagation and cultivation practices of honeybush (Cyclopia spp.) for the sustainable production of an export quality indigenous South African tea

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