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Solar air drying for innovative Opuntia ficus-indica cladode dehydration

Providing a case study of general applicability in all world’s semi-arid regions where the plant is increasingly harvested, we describe the use and outcomes of solar air heating and ventilation coupled to a conventional kiln to dehydrate Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes. For the first time, the dried cladodes and the ground dehydrated ‘Nopal’ cladodes retain their natural green-yellow color. New applications to functionalize foodstuff and to formulate nutraceutical, personal care and cosmetic products of even higher efficacy and broader scope are anticipated.

Nitrogen: All Forms Are Not Equal

By understanding the different chemical forms of nitrogen, you can manage root zone pH and avoid toxic buildup of ammonium.

Protein Content of Seed: Increase Improves Growth and Yield

“The content of protein in the seed correlated with subsequent growth and yield, indicating that the amount of endogenous protein or of a proteinaceous moiety, which can be controlled, may be an important factor in subsequent yield of major agronomic crops.”

The brighter side of soils: quantum dots track organic nitrogen through fungi and plants

Plants can use protein as a nitrogen source without assistance from other organisms

Soil Fertility Management for Organic Crops

Growers need sound information to guide their management decisions on organic vegetable production practices in California, yet specific information is scarce. The Organic Vegetable Production in California Series consists of publications written by farm advisors and specialists from the University of California’s Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Each publication addresses a key aspect of organic production practices applicable to all vegetable crops.

A New Paradigm in Nitrogen

Bone Mineral Density, Mechanical, Microstructural Properties and Mineral Content of the Femur in Growing Rats Fed with Cactus Opuntia ficus indica (L.) Mill. (Cactaceae) Cladodes as Calcium Source in Diet