In the process of cultivar promotion, in addition to the fruit ripening period and yield level, fruit quality represents a key evaluation criterion. Biometric, physiological, and biochemical characteristics play a decisive role in the selection of parent genotypes and, consequently, in assessing their breeding value. The aim of the present study was to identify and characterize the valuable traits of several cherry cultivars after storage at 4°C for a period of 14 days. For this purpose, three cherry cultivars originating from Caraș - Severin County were analyzed: Van, Stella, and Rubin. Among these, the Van cultivar exhibited the largest fruit dimensions, followed by Rubin and Stella. Throughout the storage period, a progressive decrease in fruit firmness was observed, most pronounced in the Stella cultivar after 14 days, while Van showed a less significant reduction, indicating a superior capacity for quality preservation during storage. Determinations of the maturity stage, expressed through the Brix index, revealed that the Rubin cultivar had the highest soluble sugar content after 14 days of storage at 4°C, followed by Van and Stella. The results obtained after 7 and 14 days of storage at 4°C indicated an increase in soluble carbohydrate content due to the enzymatic conversion of starch into glucose. At the same time, a reduction in juice acidity, fruit firmness, and dry matter content was recorded. In conclusion, the analysis of the physical and biochemical characteristics of the studied cherry cultivars demonstrated that all genotypes can be considered valuable both for fresh consumption - due to their high pulp percentage (over 91%) - and as promising genetic material for breeding programs.

The paper “Studies on the Condition of the Forest Stands in Production Unit II Bâltane, Strehaia Forest District, Mehedinți Forestry Directorate” analyzes the current state of forest stands in southwestern Romania, considering the local pedological, climatic, and geomorphological conditions. The research employed parcel descriptions, site mapping, and pedological analyses (29 soil profiles), processed using the AS2007 software. Results indicate the predominance of typical and vertic luvisols (86%), characteristic of oak (Quercus) formations, as well as approximately 10% of low-productivity stands requiring ecological reconstruction. The study highlights the multifunctional role of forests, their contribution to biodiversity conservation (particularly within the ROSCI0405 Strehaia–Bâltanele Natura 2000 Site), and the importance of applying sustainable forest management principles to balance the productive and ecological functions of forest ecosystems.

Climate variability has necessitated adjustments in varietal selection and growing practices for many wine grape varieties. Simultaneously, rising temperatures and increased solar insolation have led to the accumulation of higher sugar levels in grapes, with important implications for the winemaking process. This study, conducted in a vineyard from Mini.-Maderat area, examined the influence of climate variability on the ripening time and berry sugars accumulation of several wine grape varieties. Climate data from recent years were compared to those from 2001, chosen as a benchmark year. Climate resources were analyzed based on the vine's requirements, with key climate indices calculated. Additionally, the evolution of grape ripening and the optimal harvest time were monitored, and differences were compared with the reference year. The results revealed that the majority of varieties ripened 20-30 days earlier, depending on the year and variety. A significant increase in must sugar content was also observed. These findings highlight the need for adaptive strategies in viticulture to address the challenges posed by climate variability.

The use of chemical fertilizers was one of the most common technological links for increasing feed production. The motivation for this measure was the need to increase the food requirement for the constantly growing population of humanity correlated with the consumption of animal products. One of the challenges of the last decade is to use chemical fertilizers in the smallest possible quantity, preserving the properties of the soil in order to obtain qualitative productions. One of the current trends of modern agriculture is to use mixtures (grasses and legumes) that are agro-economically efficient. In this sense, the purpose of this work is to test mixtures of annual grasses and legumes for fodder in order to evaluate their qualitative potential (CP%). Thus, mixtures of annual clover (T) and two oat varieties (O1, O2) were used. The proportions in which they were sown were: clover (T)/(O1, O2) 50%/50%, 33%/66%, 66%/33%. The mixtures were sown under the same conditions. From the statistically analyzed data, we can conclude that the best results in terms of CP% were T/O2 33%/66%, and fiber T/66%/33%.

Linum usitatissimum is a valuable crop with food and industrial significance, yet its production is often reduced by biotic and abiotic factors, particularly weed competition. This study focused on the chemical control of Convolvulus arvensis and Chenopodium album in flax crops, aiming to determine the optimal dose of MCPA 750%. Four doses (0.16, 0.21, 0.27, and 0.33 l/ha) were tested in Western Romania, with evaluations conducted 14, 28 and 42 days after application (DAT). The results of this study showed that the two species had similar responses to the action of the MCPA herbicide. The population reduction of the two species, from the flax agroecosystem, was influenced by the applied dose and the time interval. The MCPA herbicide had maximum efficacy at 28 DAT. Good effectiveness was registered in the variants treated with MCPA 0.27 l/ha and 0.33l/ha. As a result of the relatively small differences between the two doses, as well as the phytotoxicity observed in the plots treated with the 0.33 l/ha dose, it is recommended to use the 0.27 l/ha MCPA.

The current trends in agriculture in recent years are to considerably reduce the intake of chemical fertilizers, use of pesticides, and the costs of the energy consumption. Thus, the current focus is directed towards finding technological solutions to meet these requirements. One viable solution is mixes made from annual legumes and grasses. They constitute an important energy-protein source in the nutritional balance of the fodder ration. The purpose of this experiment was to identify the most efficient ratio (forage pea - oats) in terms of dry matter production (DM) and raw protein (CP). In the experimental device, two oat varieties (O) were sown in the spring and then used mixed with a pea variety (P). The proportions in which they were sown are P 33% + O 66%, P 50% + O 50%, P 66% + O 33%. For both varieties of oats, we used the same shares. According to the results obtained, the highest production of dry matter (DM) was obtained with P 50% + O 50% and the highest raw protein content was obtained with M 66% + O 33%.

The paper presents aspects related to the soil and climate conditions specific to Giarmata, Timis County, Romania, and their influence on the main qualitative indices of five cultivars of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus): Mari timpurii, Targu-Jiu 505, Oblacinska, Grecia 2, and Meteor. The research was carried out during 2021-2022 in a family-type plantation on a preluvosol soil type. The main indices studied were: tree vigour, fruit set degree, production, biometric elements, and fruit chemical composition. The results highlighted the following aspects: the diameter of the trunk was between 125.2-170.5 mm, the diameter of the crown was between 3.5-4.6 m per row and between 3.1-4.3 m between rows, the height of the trees was between 3.5-4.9 m, and the height of the crown was between 3.0-4.2 m. Fruit production ranged between 9.41 t/ha and 14.07 t/ha. Biometrics consisted of major diameter, minor diameter, tree height, tree size index and peduncle length. The chemical composition of the fruits was influenced by the soil and climate conditions, differing from one cultivar to another during the two study years.

This study aims to determine the concentration of some essential and toxic mineral elements from four plum varieties harvested from the orchard of the Lugoj area. The metallic elements were determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method in flame. Phosphorus was determined in the form of molybdenum blue by spectrophotometric method. The obtained results show that the analysed plum varieties ('Record', 'Vinete romanesti', 'Cacanska lepotica' and 'Stanley') contain important quantities of essential elements unevenly distributed: 898 - 1.897 mg/kg K, 165 - 429 mg/kg Ca, 119 - 315 mg/kg Mg, 216 - 497 mg/kg P, 3.353 - 4.233 mg/kg Fe, 0.306- 0.726 mg/kg Mn, 0.306 - 1.488 mg/kg Zn, 0.780 - 2.088 mg/kg Cu, 0.032 - 0.198 mg/kg Cr and very small amounts below the lead limits. No significant amounts of Ni and Cd were detected. The results obtained following evaluation of the mineral intake show that, in the present conditions, the degree of coverage of the daily mineral requirement varies in wide limits, depending on the variety of fruit, consumer and the nature of the mineral element.

Due to the fact that flax seeds contain the highest amount of essential fatty acids from plants, they are increasingly used as a functional food. Chia seeds are an important source of antioxidants that have beneficial effects on the human body. Hemp seeds are recommended for consumption because they are an excellent source of protein, vitamin E and minerals, and contain all the essential amino acids. The aim of this study is to assess the mineral profile of three types of seeds: flax, chia and hemp. The determination of minerals was made by X-Ray Fluorescence Analyzer. The seeds mineral fingerprints were obtained by using PAST and MVSP programs. The results of the analysis of 12 seeds assortments reveal that these are rich in phytonutrients and minerals (K, Ca, Fe, Mn and Zn). Chia seeds stand out for the highest content of calcium (32.26 g/kg dry weight), while hemp seeds have the greatest content of iron (0.88 g/kg dry weight).

The paper presents the results in determining essential element content in walnut kernel marketed in agri-food markets in Timisoara (Romania) and in estimating the supply of minerals of this food drug. Results of mineral elements analysis through flame atomic absorption spectrometry show that walnut kernel analyzed contains increased amounts (mg/100g) dry matter of K (338-457), Mg (163-270) and Ca (62.60-119) and significant amounts of Mn (2.56-10.40), Fe (l.19-5.58), Zn (1.23-3.58), Na (0.75-6.45), Cu (0.58-3.14), Cr (0.08-0.60), unevenly distributed according to the origin of the kernel and the nature of the analyzed element. The results obtained when evaluating the mineral intake, show that a consumption of 25 g of walnut kernel contributes differently to ensuring the daily mineral needs: is not of interest from the point of view of the contribution of Na, Ca and K, but can cover significant percentages of the required Zn, Fe and Mg and high Cr, Cu and Mn. Given the results of our experiment, we can say that the analyzed walnut kernel can be considered as a good additional source, especially of Cr, Mn, Cu, Mg and less as the source of Zn and Fe.

The research was carried out in an orchard from Cenad village, Timis County, throughout 2021, and compared five recently introduced varieties (Topend Plus (R), Topfive (R), TopHit , Toptaste (R), Amers) with a control variety (President). Some physical and chemical characteristics of the fruits (major diameter, minor diameter, length, weight, total soluble solids, carbohydrate content, pH, and vitamin C) as well as plum production were monitored and measured. The plum components and economic indicators differ significantly between the varieties evaluated. In the majority of the examined indicators, all five newly introduced varieties outperformed the control, indicating the necessity to change the plum varietal assortment not only to satisfy market demands, but also to meet the suitability for industrialization and obtaining jams, juices or compotes, an important criterion given the net downward trend in demand for alcoholic products derived from plums. Economic indicators must be considered for fruit breeding success, particularly in light of current market trends caused by increases in labor costs, fertilizers or pesticides.

For most soils, genetic inheritance is the determining factor of heavy metal abundance. The anthropogenic impact on the soil produced by fertilizers, pesticides, zootechnical residues, wastewater or particles brought to the soil by gaseous emissions, brings important quantities of heavy metals into the soil. Among these, the most toxic are Cd and Pb. The aim of the study was to establish the levels of Cd and Pb in soil and Beta vulgaris roots, sampled from eight locations from Tarnaveni area, an industrial center from Romania. Soil samples were taken from the depth of 0-20 cm as well as 20-40 cm. For determinations we used the flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Our results reveal that in all sites, the values of Cd and Pb in soil were higher than the normal values for Romania (1 ppm for Cd and 20 ppm for Pb). Corresponding to one location, the alert value established by legislation for Pb (50 ppm) was also exceeded. In four of the eight locations, the Cd content in the roots of Beta vulgaris exceeded the maximum admissible value for plants (0.1 ppm). In conclusion, following the results obtained, we recommend monitoring the content of these toxic metals in the soil and plants grown in this area.

The research was carried out between the 2020 and 2022 growing seasons, in six different wine-growing regions of Romania, including the west, central, south, and east. The grapevine growing technology and production process were investigated, which were carried out differently depending on the soil and environmental resources in each growing area. The climatic conditions were also analyzed, as well as the influence on the production and quality of two grape cultivars for superior red wines grown in the researched areas. Soil management systems, fertilization, disease and insect control were investigated. At the same time, less invasive, eco friendly experimental alternatives were tested as an option to conventional technological versions. Observations and determinations were performed for each experimental alternative regarding the combined influence of the local microclimate and the different management on grape production and concentration in sugars, acidity, and vitamins. Although the grape yield was lower compared to the control variants, the experimental, less invasive and eco-friendly variants proved to be viable alternatives to the conventional ones. These experimental alternatives resulted in lower carbon emissions, less pollution, healthier viticultural products, and higher profits.

The aim of this research was to establish the influence of physico-chemical (biometric) characteristics and climate changes in different cultivation areas on three sweet cherry varieties: Van, Stella and Rubin, on the perception of food (fruit) quality. Several parameters (size, weight, soluble solids content, sugars, pH, firmness, dry matter) were measured and statistically processed using analysis of variants[15]. The results showed that the Van cultivar produced heavier fruits and the large diameter was above the average of the other two cultivars. In turn, the Rubin variety showed a higher sugar concentration than the other two varieties, as well as a higher pH, dry matter and soluble solids, while the Stella cherries stood out for their higher firmness. The results suggested that quality does not always depend on and/or recognize these quality parameters related to the morphological-chemical properties of each variety, but can be influenced by climatic conditions.

The paper presents the main limiting factors of the soils in the town of Biled, Timi? county, factors that affect the production potential of the soil cover in the area. The studied territory is located in the central part of Timi? county. The following limiting factors were reported: compactness of the soil, by 8.77%; excess phreatic moisture manifested by 12.74%, soil alkalinity manifested by 1.65%; soil acidity manifested on 0.24% and the low level of humus content signaled on 0.57% of the surface. As a result of these restrictions, to restore soil fertility, the following measures must be taken: compliance with agrotechnical and pedoameliorative requirements in order to achieve and maintain an optimal aerohydric regime in the soil; measures to improve the physical condition of soils affected by degradation processes in the first 20 cm; scarification works, water drainage; organic fertilization etc. The knowledge of these limiting factors and the intervention by applying some measures to restore the fertility of the soils in this area will contribute in the future to a better distribution of crops, obtaining higher and good quality productions and therefore a superior qualitative restoration of these lands.

Even if the Romanian market has been overrun in recent years by non-indigenous hybrids, the high degree of adaptability of the Romanian varieties helps them to persist in the struggle for survival. The demands of organic consumption have determined a segment of the country's population to refocus on the consumption of indigenous apples or originating from other areas, but grown for a very long time in our country.The interest for these varieties with tasty fruits and special flavors led us to make a microbiological and molecular assessment. Molecular variability was investigated using ISSR (Inter Single Sequence Repeats) and SCoT (Start Codon Targeted) markers. The microbiological methodology is based on techniques for the isolation and determination of mesophilic bacteria, molds, yeasts, the presence of faecal bacteria and Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Shigella species. Escherichia coli was observed in some samples and enterococci were highlighted in only one sample. The results indicate a variation of the microbial groups in the varieties analyzed and the absence of species that can disturb serious the digestive tract (for example Salmonella and Shigella).

The paper addresses the influence that man has on the physical properties of the soil. Thus, a series of physical properties of soils in greenhouses and solaria are compared, namely: texture, structure, density, apparent density, total porosity, and aeration porosity following the application of organic and mineral fertilisers. The studies and research were carried out in greenhouses and solaria located in the western part of Romania (Timi. and Arad counties), in two localities, Giarmata and Secusigiu, cultivated with tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), peppers (Capsicum annuum) and eggplant (Solanum menongena) over a period of 9 years. The physical properties of soils were compared in 2016, 2019, and 2022, and the results showed that, in the solaria in which organic fertilisers (manure) were applied in doses of 4060 t/ha, density values decreased from 1.12 g/m3 to 1.08 g/m(3), apparent density from 1.65 g/m(3) to 1.54 g/m(3), while total porosity values increased from 62% to 67% and aeration porosity from 36% to 41%, thus falling within normal values of vegetable cultivation.

Grapevine growing technologies require continuous adjustments to both climate instabilities and, in particular, current viticulture issues such as a sharp increase in prices for the vast majority of inputs and an increasing difficulty in finding labour at reasonable prices. The research focuses on a varietal assortment of five cultivars, as well as the main technological sequences of grapevine growing that require a significant amount of manual labour or inputs, such as soil management and summer pruning and activities. The influence of the experimental variants both on grape production and especially on the economic indicators was monitored. For each technological sequence, several experimental variants with different complexity were tried, adaptable to each vineyard with various technological and financial possibilities. In these circumstances, Romanian vineyards must align their organization, management, and growing technologies in order to compete with products from other countries for quality and price. To achieve this goal, in addition to ongoing organization and documentation, it is necessary to select technological options that allow for high-tech mechanization which is critical for lowering costs while still maintaining grape quality and lowering carbon emissions.

The present paper presents a comparative study of the threshers that equip different types of self-propelled combines for cereal harvesting. Particular attention is paid to the problems related to the exploitation of the threshers, focusing on some more important aspects, including those regarding the technological adjustments, the organization and management of the harvesting chain, the execution of the harvesting works and their quality control. We measured the constructive and functional parameters of each threshing device and determined the hourly productivity of each combine and the consumption of diesel per ton of harvested wheat. This shows that worldwide harvesting combines tend to use double-flow threshers with tangential flow due to the following advantages: both threshing and separation of the grains from the straw are done, both length of the thresher and vibrations are reduced because there is no shaking for separation, the percentage of non-threshed ears is reduced by the fact that the material is trained in rotary motion inside the threshing device.