Ibukunolu Udemba | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ibukunolu Udemba | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, Ibadan | Nigeria

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🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ibukunolu Oluwadamilola Udemba stands out as a highly suitable candidate for a Best Researcher Award, given her robust academic background, impactful research contributions, and extensive engagement in scientific development activities. With a Ph.D. in Agronomy from the University of Ibadan and a stellar academic record including a First-Class Honours undergraduate degree and a CGPA of 6.6/7 at the Master’s level, her trajectory reflects consistent excellence. Her academic achievements have been recognized through numerous awards and scholarships, such as the University of Ibadan Postgraduate College Scholarship and multiple departmental and national accolades.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Ibukunolu Oluwadamilola Udemba’s academic journey in agronomy is marked by excellence. She earned her Ph.D. in Agronomy from the University of Ibadan in 2023, following an M.Sc. in Horticulture with a CGPA of 6.6/7 in 2015. Her foundational B.Agric. degree, also from the University of Ibadan, was awarded with First Class Honours in 2011. Complementing her agricultural expertise, she obtained a Diploma in Computer Techniques and Application in 2011. Her early education includes attendance at Command Day Secondary School and Bodija International School.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Udemba’s professional career is distinguished by roles in research and education. Since 2023, she has been a Research Fellow at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training in Ibadan. Her previous roles include Teaching and Research Assistant at the University of Ibadan’s Department of Agronomy (2019-2023), Examiner for the West African Examination Council in 2015, and Consultant for the National Youth Service Corps in Borno State (2012-2013). She also served as a Research Assistant to Prof. M.O. Akoroda and held teaching positions in various educational institutions.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Udemba’s contributions have been recognized through numerous awards. In 2024, she received the Best Oral Presentation Award (3rd Place) at the Symposium on Agriculture and Environment Sustainability in West and Central Africa. Her academic excellence earned her the University of Ibadan Postgraduate College Scholarship Award (2019-2023) and multiple undergraduate honors in 2011, including the Pfizer Prize in Agronomy and the Dr. H.O. Ayeni Weeds Science Prize. She was also listed on the Dean’s Roll of Honour in 2007 and 2008.

🌍Research skills On Crop Science

Dr. Udemba’s research expertise encompasses crop yield optimization, postharvest quality assessment, and sustainable agricultural practices. Her Ph.D. research focused on the variability in storage root yield and gari quality of yellow root cassava varieties. She has conducted significant studies on the postharvest qualities of tomatoes under different storage conditions and explored the response of okra and amaranth to various urine-water dilutions. Her work contributes to improving food security and agricultural sustainability in Nigeria.

📖Publications

Variation among gari samples of some yellow cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties for change in color during storage

  • Authors: I.O. Udemba, B. Olasanmi, P. Iluebbey

  • Journal: Global Journal of Ecology

  • Year: 2022

 

RAJAPPA JOGA | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. RAJAPPA JOGA | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

ICAR- National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture (NIRCA) | India

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DR. RAJAPPA J.J.: A RENOWNED SCIENTIST IN ECONOMIC BOTANY & PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES 🌿

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Rajappa J.J. is a distinguished Senior Scientist in Economic Botany and Plant Genetic Resources at the ICAR-National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture (NIRCA), formerly ICAR-Central Tobacco Research Institute, India. With over 16 years of expertise spanning research, academia, and industry, he has made significant contributions to plant genetic resources, agroforestry, and biotechnology.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Rajappa J.J. completed his Ph.D. in Plant Genetic Resources from the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, in 2014. Prior to that, he earned his Master of Science in Biotechnology from Kuvempu University, Karnataka, in 2003, and his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Botany from Sahyadri Science College, Karnataka, in 2001. His strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his remarkable research career.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Rajappa has accumulated over a decade of experience in ICAR institutions and five years in the biotechnology industry. He has held pivotal positions, including:

  • Senior Scientist (Economic Botany & Plant Genetic Resources) (2022–Present) at ICAR-CTRI, Rajahmundry.
  • Scientist (Sr. Scale) (2017–2022) at ICAR-CTRI Research Station, Hunsur, Karnataka.
  • Scientist (Economic Botany & Plant Genetic Resources) (2013–2017) at ICAR Research Complex for Northeastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya.

His industrial experience includes roles as a Research Scientist in R&D (Biotechnology) at Jubilant Organosys Ltd., Noida, and Senior Executive Officer at Bangalore Genei Pvt. Ltd.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Biotechnology 

Dr. Rajappa’s research interests encompass plant genetic resources, plant biotechnology, genetics and plant breeding, agroforestry, agrobiodiversity, and natural resource management. He has led multiple projects on tobacco genetic resources, high-yielding crop varieties, and conservation of endangered medicinal plants.

  • Tobacco Genetic Resources Conservation (PI, 2021–Present)
  • Development of Disease-Resistant Tobacco Varieties (Co-PI, 2022–Present)
  • NER-Banana Program: Downstream Processing (Project Coordinator, 2018–2021)
  • Investigation of Medicinal Plants in NE India (PI, 2020–2021)

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Rajappa’s research has significantly influenced crop improvement, biodiversity conservation, and agricultural sustainability. His work has provided valuable insights into the genetic diversity of crops and improved agricultural practices through biotechnology applications.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Rajappa has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to several book chapters. His publications focus on plant genetic diversity, molecular characterization, and sustainable agricultural practices.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Scientist Award – ICAR Recognition
  • Outstanding Contribution Award – Agricultural Research Excellence
  • Research Innovation Award – Plant Biotechnology
  • Young Scientist Award – Contribution to Genetic Resources
  • ICAR Fellow Recognition – Leadership in Crop Improvement

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With an unwavering dedication to advancing agricultural research, Dr. Rajappa’s future endeavors will likely focus on developing resilient crop varieties, enhancing biodiversity conservation strategies, and leveraging biotechnology for sustainable agriculture. His work will continue to shape the future of crop improvement and environmental sustainability.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Rajappa J.J. continues to drive groundbreaking research in plant genetic resources and sustainable agriculture. His commitment to scientific excellence and innovation positions him as a leading figure in agro-biodiversity conservation and biotechnology applications.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Recent advances in experimental design of synthetic microbial communities for biocontrol application

Authors:  B. Karmakar, D. Thakuria, R.H. Begum, R.J. Joga
Journal:  BioControl
Year:  2025

Gianvito Ragone | Entomology | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Gianvito Ragone | Entomology | Young Scientist Award

University of Bari | Italy

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BIOGRAPHY OF GIANVITO RAGONE 🌱

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Gianvito Ragone, born on 14/11/1995, is an Italian academic and researcher who pursued his higher education at the University of Bari Aldo Moro, specializing in plant sciences and agricultural development. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences and Technologies in 2019, graduating with a score of 108/110, followed by a Master’s degree in Plant Medicine, with honors, in 2021 (110/110 and summa cum laude). Currently, he is working on his PhD in Biodiversity, Agriculture, and Environment at the same institution.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

After completing his studies, Gianvito began his professional career in the agricultural and environmental sectors. He serves as a Public Official in the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, working at the Puglia Region’s Phytosanitary Observatory since June 2022. His work focuses on sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management, especially in olive orchards affected by the Drosophila Suzukii pest. Gianvito is also engaged in the Extraordinary Olive Regeneration Plan in Puglia, collaborating with various agencies to support olive growers.

Previously, Gianvito held roles as an Agronomy Consultant at Tersan Puglia, where he worked on various agronomic projects. He also completed internships at Agriproject, contributing to the development of Decision Support Systems (DSS) for irrigation in table grape cultivation.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON ENTOMOLOGY

Gianvito’s research interests are centered on sustainable pest management, with a focus on integrated pest control in Mediterranean agroecosystems. His PhD research project explores sustainable pest control methods, particularly for key pests such as the Grapevine Phylloxera and Drosophila Suzukii. His Master’s thesis involved developing field traps and utilizing Beauveria bassiana for grapevine pest management. Additionally, his Bachelor’s research explored irrigation and fertigation systems for grape cultivation.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Gianvito has made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture through his research and professional work. His studies on pest management are helping to improve agricultural practices and mitigate the environmental impact of pests in Mediterranean ecosystems. He has also presented his findings at various conferences, including the IX Symposium of the European Association of Acarologists in 2022, and has collaborated on projects like Pollin-Actor, which focuses on pollinator biodiversity in Puglia’s cherry orchards.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

  • “Use of a Microwave Pilot Plant for Almond Disinfestation: Study on the Thermal Uniformity of the Treatment and Effect on Volatile Composition” (2023)
  • “Climate and Landscape Composition Explain Agronomic Practices, Pesticide Use, and Grape Yield in Vineyards Across Italy” (2024)
  • “Using a Continuous Microwave System for Postharvest Almond Disinfestation” (2023)

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Certificate in Olive Oil Tasting (2019)
  • Award for Best Presentation at the IX Symposium of the European Association of Acarologists (2022)
  • Attended and presented at the HARISA Project in Novi Sad, Serbia (2022)
  • Attended the Pollin-Actor Project Results Presentation (2022)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Gianvito is poised to continue making an impact in sustainable agriculture and pest management. His ongoing work in the field, particularly in combating pest-related challenges in Mediterranean farming, will influence future agricultural practices and environmental conservation efforts. As he progresses with his doctoral research and professional roles, his expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the further development of agricultural sustainability.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Gianvito Ragone is a promising researcher in the field of plant science and agricultural technology. His dedication to sustainable agriculture, pest management, and environmental conservation positions him as a key figure in shaping the future of Mediterranean agroecosystems. He continues to engage in groundbreaking research while contributing significantly to his field.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Climate and landscape composition explain agronomic practices, pesticide use, and grape yield in vineyards across Italy
  • Authors: Geppert, C., da Cruz, M., Alma, A., Garzia, G.T., Marini, L.
  • Journal: Agricultural Systems
  • Year: 2024
An integrated strategy for pathogen surveillance unveiled Xylella fastidiosa ST1 outbreak in hidden agricultural compartments in the Apulia region (Southern Italy)
  • Authors: Cornara, D., Boscia, D., D’Attoma, G., Zaza, C., Saponari, M.
  • Journal: European Journal of Plant Pathology
  • Year: 2024
Using a continuous microwave system for postharvest almond disinfestation
  • Authors: Tamborrino, A., Berardi, A., de Lillo, E., Santino, A., Leone, A.
  • Journal: Postharvest Biology and Technology
  • Year: 2023
Use of a Microwave Pilot Plant for Almond Disinfestation: Study on the Thermal Uniformity of the Treatment and Effect on Volatile Composition
  • Authors: Tamborrino, A., Summo, C., Berardi, A., Ragone, G., Leone, A.
  • Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions
  • Year: 2023

 

Svitlana Plokhovska | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Svitlana Plokhovska | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

University San Pablo CEU | Spain

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🌟SVITLANA ARSLAN (NÉE PLOKHOVSKA): ACADEMIC PROFILE 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Svitlana Arslan, born on October 28, 1989, in Ukraine, embarked on her academic journey at Dragomanov Ukrainian State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in 2011 with Cum Laude honors. She then pursued her Master’s degree at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, graduating with Cum Laude honors in 2012. These early academic accomplishments laid the foundation for her future research endeavors.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Currently based at the University San Pablo CEU in Madrid, Spain, Svitlana’s work focuses on plant science, particularly the use of nanoparticles for plant growth promotion and stress adaptation. Her career has been marked by significant international recognition, including several prestigious fellowships and awards.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT PHYSIOLOGY

Svitlana‘s research is at the intersection of plant biology, nanotechnology, and environmental science. She explores the role of silver nanoparticles in plant growth, their ability to promote stress adaptation, and their potential pharmaceutical applications. Notably, her research on the impact of microgravity on Arabidopsis thaliana and the use of Pseudomonas shirazensis NVF3 in silver nanoparticles showcases her innovative approach to modern agricultural challenges.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Her contributions extend beyond academia, with research that has implications for both the pharmaceutical and agrifood industries. Svitlana’s work in plant development under stress conditions, particularly her studies on the interaction between melatonin and nitric oxide in plant stress response, has had a profound impact on sustainable agriculture and crop development strategies.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Svitlana is an established author with numerous publications in high-impact journals such as Sci Rep, npj Microgravity, and Chemosensors. Her h-index is notable, with 6 citations in Web of Science and 7 in Scopus. Some key publications include:

  • Silver nanoparticles coated with metabolites of Pseudomonas sp. N5.12 inhibit bacterial pathogens (2025)
  • Autophagy formation, microtubule disorientation, and alteration of ATG8 and tubulin gene expression under simulated microgravity in Arabidopsis thaliana (2024)
  • Crosstalk between melatonin and nitric oxide in plant development and UV-B stress response (2023)

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • 2023: European Commission MSCA4Ukraine Postdoctoral Fellowship
  • 2020: Stipend of the President of Ukraine for young scientists
  • 2019: FEBS Excellence Awards and Fellowships Committee Travel Grant
  • 2018: Prize of the President of Ukraine for young scientist These awards highlight her contributions to science and her promise as a young researcher.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With a strong foundation of groundbreaking research and academic excellence, Svitlana’s legacy will be defined by her contributions to sustainable agricultural practices and the intersection of nanotechnology and plant science. Her future endeavors promise to bring new insights into the use of nanoparticles in agriculture, biomedicine, and environmental science, paving the way for further advancements in these critical fields.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Svitlana Arslan’s career is a testament to the impact of innovative research in plant science and nanotechnology. Her dedication to addressing environmental and agricultural challenges through her research will continue to influence the fields of plant development and nanotechnology for years to come.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Autophagy formation, microtubule disorientation, and alteration of ATG8 and tubulin gene expression under simulated microgravity in Arabidopsis thaliana

Authors: Yemets, A., Shadrina, R., Blume, R., Plokhovska, S., Blume, Y.
Journal: npj Microgravity
Year: 2024

Elucidation of cellular mechanisms of autophagy involvement in plant adaptation to microgravity conditions

Authors: Yemets, A.I., Plokhovska, S.H., Shadrina, R.Yu., Kravets, O.A., Blume, Ya.B.
Journal: Space Science and Technology
Year: 2023

Quantum Dot-Antibody Conjugates for Immunofluorescence Studies of Biomolecules and Subcellular Structures

Authors: Yemets, A., Plokhovska, S., Pushkarova, N., Blume, Y.
Journal: Journal of Fluorescence
Year: 2022

Plasmonic colloidal Au nanoparticles in DMSO: a facile synthesis and characterisation

Authors: Dzhagan, V., Kapush, O., Plokhovska, S., Yemets, A., Zahn, D.R.T.
Journal: RSC Advances
Year: 2022

The Role of Nitric Oxide in the Arabidopsis thaliana Response to Simulated Microgravity and the Involvement of Autophagy in This Process

Authors: Plokhovska, S.H., Shadrina, R.Y., Kravets, O.A., Yemets, A.I., Blume, Y.B.
Journal: Cytology and Genetics
Year: 2022

Spectroscopic Study of Phytosynthesized Ag Nanoparticles and Their Activity as SERS Substrate

Authors: Dzhagan, V., Smirnov, O., Kovalenko, M., Yukhymchuk, V., Zahn, D.R.T.
Journal: Chemosensors
Year: 2022

 

Serdar TOPRAK | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Serdar TOPRAK | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry | Turkey

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🌱DR. SERDAR TOPRAK – ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL LEGEND IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Serdar Toprak’s journey in agricultural sciences began with his undergraduate studies at Aydın Adnan Menderes University, where he majored in Soil and Plant Nutrition from 2002 to 2005. His passion for soil science and plant nutrition propelled him to pursue a Master’s Degree in the same department, earning his M.Sc. between 2006 and 2009. Later, he completed his PhD at the same institution from 2017 to 2022, focusing on the impact of organomineral fertilization on soil and crop productivity.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Toprak has held various important roles within Turkey’s agricultural research institutions. His career spans several positions, beginning with the Kocatepe Agricultural Research Institute from 2000 to 2002, followed by work at the District Agriculture and Forestry Directorate and the Soil and Water Resources Research Institute. From 2011 to 2014, he led projects at the Geçit Kuşağı Agricultural Research Institute, before moving to the Agricultural Production Enterprise in Söke, where he contributed to agricultural dissemination and training. Since 2024, Dr. Toprak serves at the District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry in Kumluca, Antalya.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Soil Science 

Dr. Toprak has made significant contributions to agricultural science, particularly in soil fertility, plant nutrition, and fertilizer applications. His research emphasizes the relationship between phosphorus-enriched organomineral fertilizers and crop yield, particularly in wheat, chestnuts, and pomegranates. His work on sustainable agriculture includes studies on green fertilization, nutrient management, and soil pollution. He has also explored the use of reduced tillage systems and irrigation techniques in enhancing agricultural productivity.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Toprak’s work has had a profound impact on agricultural practices in Turkey, helping optimize soil health and crop yield in various agricultural regions. His research is frequently cited in leading international agricultural journals, advancing the knowledge base in soil science and plant nutrition. Dr. Toprak’s efforts in training agricultural professionals and sharing knowledge through symposiums have contributed to the modernization of agriculture in Turkey.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS 

Dr. Toprak has authored numerous highly cited publications in renowned journals such as Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis and the International Journal of Environmental Health Research. His work on phosphorus-enriched fertilization and nutrient management has provided valuable insights into the efficient use of fertilizers for crop production and environmental sustainability.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Researcher Award, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, 2018
  • Outstanding Contribution to Agricultural Science, Turkish Soil Science Society, 2021
  • Excellence in Research Award, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Turkey, 2022

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Toprak’s research continues to shape the future of agriculture in Turkey and beyond. His work on sustainable farming systems, soil health, and plant nutrition promises to influence future agricultural practices. His legacy will likely inspire generations of researchers dedicated to improving agricultural sustainability and addressing global challenges related to food security and environmental preservation.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Serdar Toprak’s work in agricultural sciences demonstrates a commitment to improving soil health, optimizing crop yields, and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. His dedication to research and teaching has solidified his position as a leading expert in the field of soil and plant nutrition.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“The seasonal changes of nutritional elements of chestnut (Castanea sativa) plant and determination of leaf sampling times”

  • Authors: S. Toprak, S. Seferoğlu
  • Journal: American Journal of Research Communication
  • Year: 2013

“Elma’nın beslenmesi üzerine demir zengin organomineral gübrelerin etkisi”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: Uluslararası Anadolu Ziraat Mühendisliği Bilimleri Dergisi
  • Year: 2019

“Effect of Different Nitrogen Levels on Nut Yield and Some Quality Properties of Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.)”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2019

“Ecological and contamination assessment of soil in the region of coal-fired thermal power plant”

  • Authors: Ö. Ateş, K. Taşpınar, G. Yalçın, F. Kızılaslan, M.Ö. Pınar, S. Toprak, et al.
  • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Health Research
  • Year: 2023

“Balanced basic fertilization in sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.): vertical distribution of plant nutrients in different soil textures”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Year: 2021

“The macro and micro nutrition status of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) in Inegol (Bursa-Turkey)”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: Eurasian Journal of Forest Science
  • Year: 2019

“Soil contamination, pollution indices, and ecological risk in agricultural areas of important mining region of Türkiye”

  • Authors: K. Taşpınar, Ö. Ateş, G. Yalçın, F. Kızılaslan, M.Ö. Pınar, S. Toprak, et al.
  • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry
  • Year: 2023

“The effect of potassium applications on fruit yield and some quality characteristics of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.)”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: International Journal of Agriculture Forestry and Life Sciences
  • Year: 2019

“Phosphorus-Enriched Organomineral Fertilizers Affect the Cation Exchange Algorithm of the Soil: A Comparative Evaluation”

  • Authors: S. Toprak, S. Seferoğlu
  • Journal: Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2023

“Changes in Qualitative and Quantitative Traits of Anatolian Chestnuts (Castanea sativa Mill.) Fruit Due to Balanced Macro Fertilization”

  • Authors: S. Toprak, Ö. Ateş, G. Yalçın, K. Taşpınar
  • Journal: Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2021