Emerging Roles of Plant Hormones in Horticultural Crop Development and Resilience

Plant hormone research in horticulture represents a dynamic field at the crossroads of physiology, molecular biology, and applied crop science. These signaling molecules guide plant growth, developmental transitions, reproductive success, and responses to a spectrum of environmental stresses. In recent years, the expansion of genomic and biotechnological tools has unveiled new layers of hormonal regulation, yet the intricate networks coordinating hormones with nutrient status, stress signals, and environmental cues remain only partially understood. Ongoing debates focus on the complexity of signal integration and the translational potential of laboratory advances for real-world crop improvement. While significant progress has been made, especially with multi-omics analyses and gene editing, persistent gaps exist regarding the mechanistic basis of hormone crosstalk and its practical deployment to address climate-driven challenges and sustainability in horticulture.This Research Topic aims to stimulate discussion and showcase recent progress in understanding hormonal regulation of horticultural crops, from basic mechanisms to translational applications. We seek original research, reviews, and perspectives that highlight novel insights into hormone signaling, crosstalk, and downstream physiological effects influencing crop productivity, quality, and stress resilience. Special emphasis is placed on integrating fundamental research with technological tools—such as multi-omics, CRISPR/Cas, and systems biology—that can drive meaningful advances in breeding, crop management, and ecological adaptation. By bridging molecular insights and horticultural practice, this topic endeavors to inspire innovative strategies for crop improvement in the face of global change.The scope of this Research Topic encompasses fundamental, methodological, and applied studies addressing hormone-mediated processes in horticultural species. Contributions should extend beyond descriptive omics data to include mechanistic or functional analyses. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Systems and multi-omics approaches to hormone-regulated networks• Crosstalk among phytohormones and its impact on development and adaptation• Redox biology and ROS homeostasis in hormonal signaling• Genome editing for targeted modulation of hormone pathways• Epigenetic and post-translational controls in the hormonal regulation of horticultural traits• Hormonal influences on fruit quality, flower induction, grafting, and tissue regeneration• Hormone-based enhancement of abiotic and biotic stress tolerance• Biotechnological and ecological applications of hormonal manipulation for sustainable horticultureWe welcome submissions of the following article types: Brief Research Report, Correction, Editorial, FAIR² DATA Direct Submission, FAIR² Data, Hypothesis and Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Perspective, Review, Systematic Review. Descriptive omics data (e.g. transcriptome, proteome, metabolome) should be accompanied by functional or mechanistic analyses to be considered for publication. Topic editors: Anket Sharma, Muthusamy Ramakrishnan, Renu Bhardwaj, Rongling Wu, Bingsong Zheng Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78746/emerging-roles-of-plant-hormones-in-horticultural-crop-development-and-resilience