bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diallel analysis of resistance in maize to Fasarium graminearum infection via the silk
Authors: Reid L. M. , Mather D. E. , Hamilton R. I. , Bolton A. T.
Published: April 2011

Thirty-seven maize inbreds and a diallel cross of 12 inbreds selected from the 37 were evaluated at each of two locations for resistance to Fusarium graminearum ear rot infection via the silk and/or silk channel. Artificial inoculation was accomplished with a spore suspension injected into the silk channel of individual ears. Mean disease ratings, made on a scale of 1–7, revealed that most of the 37 inbreds were susceptible. Twelve of the inbreds, chosen to represent a range of susceptibility, were intercrossed in a complete diallel arrangement. Disease incidence and severity in the parents, crosses and reciprocals were evaluated in two environments. Genotype, general combining ability (GCA), and specific combining ability (SCA) effects were significant for both mean disease rating and disease incidence data. The GCA effects of the parents were correlated both to mean disease ratings and to disease incidence, with the most resistant parent, CO272, having the largest negative GCA. The performance of all hybrids could not be predicted simply on the basis of the performance or GCA of the parents. Reciprocal differences for mean disease ratings were significant in one environment. Four inbreds were identified as having significant GCA for resistance to F. graminearum infection via the silk.Key words: Maize, corn, diallel, resistance, Fusarium graminearum, silk
A comparison of methods for the prediction of Cantonese noodle colour
Authors: Kruger J. E. , Matsuo R. R. , Preston K.
Published: April 2011

The common laboratory method for preparing Cantonese raw noodle dough for colour evaluation requires 200–300 g flour, a Hobart mixer to mix the dough and an Ohtake laboratory noodle machine. Alternative methods requiring less flour or less costly apparatus were developed and compared. Although the brightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) were influenced by the method of noodle-dough preparation, variations between methods were consistent. Different formulations of Kansui had similar effects on noodle brightness and yellowness, with the exception of sodium hydroxide, which produced substantially increased yellowness. The rate of decrease in brightness with time was useful as a quality parameter in estimation of noodle colour and may be indicative, in some cases, of the presence of polyphenol oxidase enzymes. The ranges in brightness and yellowness of Cantonese noodle doughs are very similar for Canadian wheats, except for soft white wheat cultivars.Key words: Noodle, wheat, flour, colour, polyphenol oxidase
Effects of hybrids, population densities, fertilization and irrigation on grain corn (Zea mays L.) in Quebec
Authors: Liang B. C. , MacKenzie A. F. , Remillard M.
Published: April 2011

The increase in area for corn production in eastern Canada has stimulated the search for improvements in corn management practices to obtain higher yields. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids, plant population density, rates of fertilization and irrigation on grain yield. A field experiment was conducted on a Chicot sandy clay loam soil in Quebec from 1984 to 1986. Corn attained grain yields of 10.9–15.2 Mg ha−1. These yields were attained only when all management inputs were at optimum levels. No single hybrid was superior over the 3-yr-period. High plant population densities, if not accompanied by other inputs, decreased yields. In moist, cooler years, effects of management factors were reduced, and only high plant population densities seemed to increase production. High rates of fertilization increased yields only when other management levels were high.Key words: Population density, irrigation, fertilization, hybrid, Zea mays, grain
Comparative plowdown value of red clover strains
Authors: Christie B. R. , Clark E. Ann , Fulkerson R. S.
Published: April 2011

Cultivars and common seedlots of double- and single-cut red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) were direct seeded at the Elora Research Station in 1982 and 1983, fall plowed, and followed by 3 yr of corn (Zea mays L.) harvested for grain yield. The 1982 and 1983 sites differed in background soil N status. Common seedlots produced subsequent corn yields equal to those following certified cultivars, indicating no advantage to the use of certified seed for plowdown purposes. Although double-cut strains produced more aboveground biomass, both in midseason and at plowdown, single-cut strains produced more fall root biomass (1 yr only) and a higher percent root N, but in the end, corn yield did not differ between double- and single-cut strains. The ranges of performance of double- and single-cut strains did not overlap for aboveground biomass, but overlapped substantially for both root and percent shoot N and for root biomass. First-year corn yield varied significantly with red clover strain, in both the double- and single-cut groups, although no strain differences were apparent by the second and third years. Compared to continuous corn with no N fertilizer, red clover increased corn yield by 1.5–1.8 t ha−1 in Year 1, by 0.4–0.9 t ha−1 in Year 2, and by 0–0.7 t ha−1 in Year 3. First-year corn yield was not significantly correlated with red clover parameters measured the preceding year, including aboveground biomass and nitrogen content at plowdown. However, observed patterns of response were consistent with a nitrogen-based plowdown benefit. Breeding to improve plowdown value will depend on identification of those specific plant attributes which confer legume plowdown benefit.Key words: Plowdown, green manure, red clover, nitrogen, corn
AC Taber red spring wheat
Authors: Knox R. E. , Pauw R. M. De , McCaig T. N. , Clarke J. M. , McLeod J. G. , Morrison R. J.
Published: April 2011

AC Taber, red-kernelled spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), resembles Biggar but has improved resistance to prevalent races of leaf rust (caused by Puccinia recondita Roberge ex Desmaz.) and common bunt [caused by Tilletia laevis Kuhn in Rabenh. and Tilletia caries (DC.) Tul. & C. Tul.]. AC Taber also has a higher protein content, better milling quality and more gluten strength than Biggar. AC Tabor is eligible for grades of the Canada Prairie Spring (red) wheat class.Key words: Triticum aestivum L., cultivar description, disease resistance, high yield
AC Harblack common bean
Authors: Park S. J.
Published: April 2011

AC Harblack is a medium-maturity, high-yielding black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivar. It’s main advantages are its erect plant type, high yield potential and earlier maturity than the commonly grown cv. T-39. Seed has acceptable appearance and firm texture when cooked. AC Harblack is resistant to beta, gamma and delta races of anthracnose and to races 1 and 15 of bean common mosaic virus.Key words: Phaseolus vulgaris L., dry edible bean, black bean, cultivar description, bean anthracnose, Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, bean common mosaic virus
The biology of Canadian weeds. 100. Lythrum salicaria
Authors: Mai Tarun R. , Lovett-Doust Jon , Lovett-Doust Lesley , Mulligan G. A.
Published: April 2011

Lythrum salicaria is a serious weed of wetlands in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebec. Indeed some assessments suggest that this exotic is now responsible for the conversion of more wetland habitat than is current human development pressure¡ Lythrum is a heterostylous species and clones by means of root buds. Despite its tristylous breeding system, Lythrum is a successful colonizer, and can produce prodigious numbers of seeds. It is likely that control can be achieved by hand-pulling in low-density populations, but once the species is established it generally becomes abundant and often approaches a monoculture. This species is particularly difficult to control because of its strong competitive ability, the extreme sensitivity of wetland habitats, and the likelihood of serious repercussions for wetland wildlife and fisheries if herbicides are used to control it. We see better possibilities for control through cultural techniques (e.g., manipulation of water levels to favour native species), enhancement of North American herbivores, and, possibly, the introduction of biological control agents from Europe and Asia.Key words: Purple loosestrife, Lythrum salicaria, wetlands, introduced weed
Weed surveys in different tillage systems in southwestern Ontario field crops
Authors: Frick B. , Thomas A. G.
Published: April 2011

A weed survey of 593 corn, soybean and winter wheat fields in southwestern Ontario was conducted during 1988 and 1989 to determine the abundance and distribution of weeds under a variety of tillage systems. The survey was conducted after all weed-control measures had been carried out. A total of 82 weed species and groups of species were recorded. Many weeds were found infrequently. The most abundant weeds were green foxtail (Setaria viridis (L.) Beauv.), lamb’s-quarters (Chenopodium album L.), quack grass (Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv.), redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus L.), common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale Weber). These weeds accounted for 54% of the total relative abundance. Weed communities in individual fields were highly variable. Most fields had fewer than 10 species, and nearly half of the fields had fewer than 6 weeds m−2. Six weeds, yellow foxtail (Setaria glauca (L.) Beauv.), quack grass, crab grass spp. (Digitaria spp.), lamb’s-quarters, green foxtail and chickweed (Stellaria media (L.) Vill.), occurred at densities greater than 100 plants or shoots m−2 in at least one field. Similar weed communities were found in fields that had different tillage histories. Annual weeds were found at higher densities and perennial weeds at lower densities in reduced tillage than in conventional tillage. Weeds were found at highest total densities in fields with no tillage. The six most abundant weeds in the current study were present in Ontario prior to the 1900s.Key words: Weed survey, reduced tillage, green foxtail, lamb’s-quarters, quack grass, redroot pigweed
Effect of planting pattern on intra-row competition between cabbage and shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)
Authors: Freyman S. , Brookes V. R. , Hall J. W.
Published: April 2011

Intra-row competition by shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medic.) grown either 10 or 25 cm apart was measured on cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata ’Tucana’) grown in single rows and spaced 20 or 50 cm apart within the rows. At 50-cm spacing, cabbage head weights were reduced by shepherd’s purse grown at either spacing. At 20-cm spacing, cabbage head weights were unaffected by shepherd’s purse grown 25 cm apart but were reduced in one of 2 yr when the weed was grown 10 cm apart. When cabbage was grown weed-free in three rows in either a 20-cm × 100-cm or a 50-cm × 40-cm spacing, no differences in yield were measured. The results indicate that cabbage can be grown in wide rows with close within-row spacing, with minimal intra-row weed competition.Key words: Cabbage, weeds, shepherd’s purse, spacing, competition
Variability for grain extract viscosity in inbred lines and an F2 population of rye (Secale cereale L.)
Authors: Scoles G. J. , Campbell G. L. , McLeod J. G.
Published: April 2011

Variability in grain viscosity attributed to pentosans was investigated in 28 inbred lines of spring rye and in an F2 population derived by crossing lines with high and low viscosity. Variability in viscosity was not related to the level of total soluble pentosans but was highly correlated (r2 = 0.83) with the level of high molecular weight (> 500 KDa) soluble pentosans. Variability in the level of high molecular weight pentosans did not appear to be related to seed characteristics such as colour, plumpness, or starch content. It appears that there is variability for viscosity within rye germplasm and thus it should be possible to breed ryes which produce grain with either high or low viscosity. Rye with low grain viscosity may be preferred for animal feed. Key words: Rye, Secale cereale, pentosans, feed value
Productivity, water use and nitrogen fixation of annual-legume green-manure crops in the Dark Brown soil zone of Saskatchewan
Authors: Townley-Smith L. , Slinkard A. E. , Bailey L. D. , Biederbeck V. O. , Rice W. A.
Published: April 2011

Both large-seeded annual legumes (pulse crops) and small-seeded annual or perennial legumes (forage crops) fix nitrogen (N) and can improve soil organic matter and fertility when used for green manuring. The role of pulses as green-manure crops has not been adequately evaluated in the Prairies, as they have been grown primarily as cash seed crops. An experiment was conducted in the Dark Brown soil zone at Saskatoon over four growing seasons on a moderately heavy-textured soil to determine the productivity, nitrogen fixation and soil moisture use of pea (Pisum sativum L. ’Trapper’), faba bean (Vicia faba L. ’Outlook’), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik. ’Eston’ and ’Indianhead’), Tangier flatpea (Lathyrus tingitanus L. ’Tinga’) and seedling alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. ’Moapa’) as green-manure substitutes for summerfallow. Dry-matter production (above ground) by full bloom averaged 6390, 4140, 3590, 2930 and 1260 kg ha−1 for pea, lentil, faba bean, Tangier flatpea and seedling alfalfa, respectively. Nitrogen yields were 166, 108, 119, 81 and 36 kg ha−1 and N fixation rates were 40, 15, 40, 24 and 4 kg ha−1 for pea, lentil, faba bean, Tangier flatpea and seedling alfalfa, respectively. Green-manure used similar amounts of water as wheat grown to maturity. Snow trapping by desiccating the standing green-manure crop was ineffective in increasing soil water in the spring. Low seeding rate and thus low cost of production made lentil the most reasonable choice as an annual-legume green-manure crop. However, improved methods of water conservation must be found to replace the water used to grow the green-manure crop. Key words: Pea, lentil, faba bean, Tangier flatpea, green manure, soil moisture
Root-rot resistance in common bean
Authors: Tu J. C. , Park S. J.
Published: April 2011

A bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) line, A - 300, resistant to Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum was introduced into Ontario from Colombia. The results of tests conducted in a root-rot nursery, in a greenhouse and in a growth room showed that this bean line is resistant to Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli and Pythium ultimum. Key words: Bean, Phaseolus vulgaris, root rot resistance
Estimated optimum seeding dates for winter wheat in Ontario
Authors: Bootsma A. , Andrews C. J. , Seaman W. L. , Hoekstra G. J. , Smid A. E.
Published: April 2011

Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) must be seeded during an optimum period in the fall to achieve maximum yields. Present recommendations for fall seeding based on corn heat unit zones for Ontario have not been satisfactory in all areas. Results from seeding-date trials at five locations across Ontario confirmed the concept of a 2-wk optimum seeding period (OSP) for winter wheat. A highly significant non-linear regression relationship (R2 = 0.997) was established between the average optimum seeding date (OSD) for six locations in Ontario (taken as the mid-point of the OSP) and the average daily mean air temperature for the period 1 Sept. – 31 Oct. This relationship estimated OSDs more accurately for Ontario than a previously developed relationship based on data from across Canada. Climatic normals (1951–1980) data for more than 350 locations were used to construct 13 OSD zones for Ontario. Estimated OSD ranged from as late as 15 Oct. for the Windsor area to before 21 Aug. in the north around Kapuskasing. Average losses in yield from seeding after the OSP ranged from 75 kg ha−1 day−1 in southwestern Ontario to 40–65 kg ha−1 day−1 in eastern Ontario. Key words: Triticum aestivum L., optimum seeding date zones, climatic normals
Effect of swathing and desiccation time on seed yield and quality of flax
Authors: Gubbels G. H. , Bonner D. M. , Kenaschuk E. O.
Published: April 2011

In field studies conducted between 1986 and 1990, flax (Linum usitotissimum L.) was swathed or desiccated with diquat, glufosinate-ammonium and glyphosate at various times between the 0 and 100% brown capsule stages to determine the optimum stage for treatment and extent of seed yield and quality losses from early treatment. Maturity stage, at the maximum value for yield and quality parameters, varied considerably from one test to another. Maximum yield occurred on average at 30% capsule moisture (75% brown capsules) for swathing, 29% for diquat, 26% for glufosinate-ammonium and 17% for glyphosate. Yield reductions for swathing or application of diquat or glufosinate-ammonium ranged up to 32% for earliest treatments, but only to 13% for glyphosate. Seed weight, volume weight and oil content were minimally reduced by early treatment, least by glyphosate, while iodine value was not markedly affected. Key words: Flax, Linum usitotissimum L., swathing, desiccation, yield, seed quality, diquat, glufosinate-ammonium, glyphosate
Cultivar-by-management interaction effects on timothy yield and quality evaluation
Authors: Surprenant J. , Drapeau R. , Fernet C.
Published: April 2011

Timothy (Phleum pratense L.) is the most important cultivated grass in eastern Canada. Cultivars from many parts of the world are evaluated and grown under different management regimes throughout the eastern region. This implies potentially large biased cultivar performance estimates due to potential cultivar-by-management interactions. A trial of 16 timothy cultivars was seeded at two locations in 1985 and submitted to two harvest management regimes to evaluate the magnitude of the cultivar-by-management interaction and cultivar stability. In this trial, dry matter production, acid detergent fibre, neutral detergent fibre and crude protein were evaluated during a 3-yr period. Results indicate large cultivar-by-management, cultivar-by-location, and cultivar-by-year interactions for most parameters. Cultivar by management was generally the largest interaction with very low correlations between contrasting managements at the first harvest. However, stability parameter analysis indicated that most cultivars were stable. The determination of the contribution of the different cultivars to the interaction effects using orthogonal contrasts appeared to be the most meaningful technique for stability analysis and should be favoured in the determination of cultivar performance constancy. This technique allows one to define precisely the magnitude of the effect of each cultivar for each interaction and appeared very powerful in identifying stable cultivars. Key words: Timothy, Phleum pratense, stability analysis, genotype by environment interaction
Previous legumes and N fertilizer effects on mineral concentration and uptake by forage corn
Authors: Paré Théophile , Chalifour François P. , Bourassa Josée , Antoun Hani
Published: April 2011

The beneficial effects of legumes grown in rotation with cereal crops can, in part, be attributed to soil N increments through the fixation of atmospheric N2 and conservation of soil N. Other rotation effects have been suspected, but have not all been characterized. The objectives of the present study were to determine the impact of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) and soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) on the mineral composition and uptake of a subsequent forage-corn (Zea mays L.) crop. Field experiments were conducted in 1987 and 1988 on a Rivière-du-Loup gravelly sandy loam (Ferro Humic Podzol) at St-Anselme and on a Chaloupe silty loam (Orthic Humic Gleysol) at Deschambault in eastern Quebec. In continuous cropping or following soybean Maple Amber or faba bean Outlook, N rates applied to corn Pioneer 3979 were 0, 50, 100 or 150 kg N ha−1. In 1987, generally, the corn mineral composition and uptake were not significantly affected by N treatments. Soil mineral concentrations were measured in spring 1988 at both sites, but only a few differences were observed among treatments. In 1988, at St-Anselme, the K concentration of stover and whole plants increased following legumes at all N levels applied, but decreased at Deschambault as the N level increased up to 100 kg N ha−1 for all previous crops. At St-Anselme, the Ca uptake of the corn stover following faba bean was higher than that following corn. At the same location, the K uptake by stover was higher following legumes than following corn. The Mg uptake by subsequent corn at St-Anselme was higher following faba bean than following corn and soybean, while at Deschambault, it generally increased with N application following all previous crops. At both sites, the stover and the whole-plant P uptake varied with N application that also affected Fe and Mn concentrations and uptake. Key words: Forage corn, faba bean, soybean, N fertilizer, mineral concentration and uptake
Forage-corn production and N-fertilizer replacement values following 1 or 2 years of legumes
Authors: Paré Théophile , Chalifour François P. , Bourassa Josée , Antoun Hani
Published: April 2011

The costs of N fertilizer and concern for sustainable agriculture have led to renewed interest in the use of legumes as a source of N for succeeding non-legume crops. In this regard, field experiments were conducted in 1987,1988 and 1989 on a Rivière-du-Loup sandy gravelly loam (Ferro-Humic Podzol) at St-Anselme and on a Chaloupe silty loam (Orthic Humic Gleysol) at Deschambault in eastern Quebec, Canada, to determine the effects of 1 or 2 years of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) Outlook and soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) Maple Amber on subsequent forage-corn (Zea mays L.) Pioneer 3979 dry matter yields (DMY) and N uptake, and the N-fertilizer replacement values (NFRV) of the different crop sequences. Corn in monoculture or following a legume was fertilized with 0, 50, 100 or 150 kg N ha−1, and legumes received 20 kg N ha−1 as NH4NO3. In 1989, at both locations, the DMY and N uptake of forage corn in monoculture or following 2 consecutive years of soybean, or subsequent to soybean and faba bean grown 2 years previously, increased linearly with N application. After 2 consecutive years of faba bean, the DMY were not affected by increasing fertilization, but the N uptake generally increased proportionally to N application. The estimated NFRV (on a DMY basis) after 2 consecutive years of faba bean varied from 60 to 125 kg N ha−1 at St-Anselme, and from 100 to 110 kg N ha−1 at Deschambault for the ears and stover, respectively. The NFRV estimated for the same cropping sequence varied from 122 to 129 kg N ha−1 at St-Anselme and from 104 to 131 kg N ha−1 at Deschambault, for the stover and ears, respectively, on the basis of N uptake. For 2 consecutive years of soybean, it averaged 14 kg N ha−1 at St-Anselme and 33 kg N ha−1 at Deschambault, on the basis of the DMY; when based on the N uptake, the NFRV of 2 consecutive years of soybean varied from 14 to 21 kg N ha−1 at St-Anselme and from 0 to 15 kg N ha−1 at Deschambault for the stover and ears, respectively. The average NFRV (based on the DMY) for faba bean grown 2 years previously were 17 kg N ha−1 at St-Anselme but NFRV varied from 0 to 16 kg N ha−1 at Deschambault for stover and ears, respectively; on the basis of N uptake, the NFRV for the same crop sequence averaged 24 kg N ha−1 at St-Anselme, but varied from 0 to 15 kg N ha−1 at Deschambault for the stover and ears, respectively. Key words: Corn, faba bean, soybean, crop sequence, N fertilization
Potentiel d’adaptation et de croissance d’arbres ornementaux sous les conditions climatiques du Québec et du nord-est ontarien
Authors: Richer-Leclerc C. , Rioux J. A. , Beaudoin M. F. , Lapointe D. , Guillemette L. , Drapeau R.
Published: April 2011

Thirty ornamental species and cultivars, grown at eight sites in Quebec and at one site in northeastern Ontario, were evaluated for hardiness and growth potential over a period of 5 yr. This article presents the results for four deciduous trees studied: Acer platanoides L., Acer saccharinum L., Malus baccata (L.) Borkh. and Quercus macrocarpa Michx. Overall, all species had a low level of mortality due to cold. Malus baccata and Q. macrocarpa showed a similar potential for acclimation, although their potential for growth differed between sites: M. baccata could be produced advantageously in any area, while the production potential of Q. macrocarpa was enhanced by the summer heat of the warmest region. The species with the greatest number of plants suffering winter damage was Acer saccharinum, which could not be grown without risk anywhere in the area studied. Acer platanoides was severely damaged in the coldest of the three biogeographic areas and should not be cultivated there. Key words: Hardiness, growth potential, acclimation, winter damage, production
Échanges gazeux de la tomate de serre cultivée sous éclairage d’appoint
Authors: Dorais Martine , Charbonneau Josée , Gosselin André
Published: April 2011

This study reports on in situ gas-exchange measurements in tomatoes grown under a sequential intercropping system with supplemental lighting provided by high-pressure sodium-vapour lamps. A supplemental photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) of 150 μmol m−2 s−1 significantly increased the amount of light energy penetrating the canopy of intercropped tomato seedlings. During the day, the supplemental 150 μmol m−2 s−1 light regime increased the photosynthetic rate of leaves 5 and 10 by 67%, while at night the increases were 93 and 12%, respectively. Regression analysis of the photosynthetic rate of leaves 5 and 10 as a function of PPF received accounts for 58 and 45% of the variation, respectively. Hierarchical analysis demonstrated a significant linear relationship between PPF received during the day and photosynthetic activity of leaves 5 and 10 accounting for 46 and 28%, respectively, of the variance in the model. Regression analysis of the photosynthetic activity as a function of PPF received at night accounts for 41 and 32%, respectively, of the variation in the photosynthetic rate of leaves 5 and 10. Using a high level of supplemental lighting during the day or at night had no significant effect on stomatic conductance or on the transpiration rate of leaves. Key words: Stomatal conductance, photosynthetic photo flux, Lycopersicon esculentum, photosynthesis, transpiration rate
Comparison of storage potential of five asparagus cultivars (Asparagus officinalis L.).
Authors: Dali Najeh , Desjardins Yves , Willemot Claude
Published: April 2011

The objective of this study was to establish simple variables for the selection of asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) cultivars with good storage potential. Five asparagus cultivars, 277E-22-8, Jersey Giant, Larac, Viking KB3 and 70-207 were stored at 1 °C for 0, 7, 14 and 21 d. At each sampling date chlorophyll content, rate of respiration and shear force were measured. Cladophyll expansion, presence of mold and blue hue of the stem were visually assessed. Jersey Giant and 277E-22-8 had the best storage potential and were still commercially acceptable after 3 wk of storage. They differed from Larac in visual assessment, particularly cladophyll expansion, and toughness of the spear. The chlorophyll content and respiration rate were not reliable indicators of storage potential. Key words: Asparagus officinalis, shelf-life, storage, toughness, respiration, chlorophyll
Root and shoot dry matter partitioning in near-isogenic wheat lines differing in height
Authors: McCaig T. N. , Morgan J. A.
Published: April 2011

Increased wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yields in most major cereal growing areas of the world have been associated with shorter cultivars which incorporate the Rht1 or Rht2 height-reducing alleles. Considerable uncertainty still exists, however, concerning the growth of vegetative tissues, especially roots, of these shorter genotypes. The objective of this study was to determine how dry matter (DM) partitioning, in vegetative shoot and root tissues, is related to plant height as determined by the number of Rht alleles present (tall (no Rht alleles), semidwarf (Rht1 or Rht2), dwarf (Rht1 and Rht2) within a common genetic background. Tall, semidwarf, and dwarf near-isogenic lines were studied within each of four diverse genetic backgrounds. Six controlled-environment experiments were carried out in which plants were grown in sand (nutrients applied hydroponically) and harvested following anthesis. Stem and shoot (total aboveground tissue) DM plant−1 increased with plant height. However, there was no relationship between plant height and root DM plant−1. Root/shoot ratios tended to be negatively correlated with plant height. Leaf blades and head DM plant−1 were not consistently related to plant height. In the absence of selection pressure, genotypes containing Rht alleles should have root DM comparable to their tall counterparts, and root/shoot ratios equal to, or greater than, their tall counterparts. The Rht alleles also decreased individual leaf blade areas, primarily through effects on leaf length, and increased stomatal frequencies of early leaves; effects on the flag and penultimate leaves were ambiguous, suggesting that the gibberellic acid (GA3) intensitive Rht alleles exert greater control during earlier growth stages. Key words: Height-reducing alleles, plant height, tall, semidwarf, dwarf
Improving grain yield and quality traits of oats in northern growing conditions
Authors: Peltonen-Sainio Pirjo , Peltonen Jari
Published: April 2011

This study on 29 oat cultivars and breeding lines (Avena sativa L.), evaluates the correlations of grain yield and 13 morpho-physiological traits — characteristics such as maturity class and architecture of the oat stand, with grain quality properties such as grain protein concentration, protein quality, crude fat concentration, fiber concentration, and husk content. Field experiments were conducted in two contrasting growing seasons, 1988 and 1989.Under northern growing conditions high yielding ability was not associated with lower quality traits, but grain yield correlated positively with fat concentration, and negatively with both fiber concentration and husk content. In addition, there was no association between grain yield and protein concentration. Closer examination indicated that earliness, one of the most important traits of oats in northern growing conditions, correlated negatively with fat and grain protein concentration and positively with fiber concentration, thereby limiting both grain yield and quality performance. On the basis of this study, selection for productive oat ideotype does not necessarily lead to cultivars with weakened quality properties. Key words: Avena sativa, ideotype, productivity, grain quality, northern growing conditons
Use of interracial hybridization in breeding the race Durango common bean
Authors: Singh Shree P. , Molina Albeiro , Urrea Carlos A. , Gutiérrez J. Ariel
Published: April 2011

Recently, interracial hybridization was used successfully in breeding common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), but its use has not been adequately documented. Approximately 125 lines with medium-sized seed were selected in the first cycle, mostly from race Durango × race Mesoamerica (both from the Middle American domestication center) single- and multiple-cross populations, for disease resistance and race Durango characteristics. Fifteen of these improved lines, three race Durango control cultivars, and one control cultivar each from races Jalisco and Mesoamerica were evaluated for 3 yr (1989–1991) at three locations in Colombia. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Lines were developed using visual mass selection for seed yield and/or resistance to diseases in F2 and F3, followed by single plant harvests in F4 or F5 and seed increases in F6 or F7. Lines resistant to bean common mosaic virus and possessing other desirable traits were yield-tested in F7 or F8. All but two lines outyielded Alteño and Flor de Mayo, the highest yielding control cultivars from races Durango and Jalisco, respectively. Two lines also outyielded Carioca, the race Mesoamerica control cultivar. Improved lines tended to possess higher yield per day. All lines were resistant to bean common mosaic virus and most lines also carried a high level of resistance to anthracnose. Plant, seed, and maturity characteristics of most improved lines were similar to those of race Durango control cultivars. These results support the use of interracial hybridization in improving race Durango common bean. Key words: Common bean, Phaseolus vulgaris, race Durango, interracial populations, seed yield, disease resistance
Effect of harvest date on the yield and quality of the essential oil of peppermint
Authors: Court William A. , Pocs Robert , Roy Robert C.
Published: April 2011

A field experiment was conducted from 1989 to 1991 on a Fox loamy sand soil to study the effects of harvest date on selected agronomic, physical and chemical characteristics of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.). Plant biomass and essential oil yields increased throughout the season to a maximum in very late August to early September. Menthol, neomenthol, and menthyl acetate concentrations increased in the essential oil with plant development. The amount of menthone and isomenthone was highest in immature plants. The concentrations of menthofuran and pulegone in the essential oil corresponded to the amount of flower bloom in the peppermint. Changes during the season in the concentrations of piperitone, terpinene-4-ol, α-terpineol, 1,8-cineole, limonene, γ-terpinene, terpinolene, α-terpinene, α-pinene, β-pinene, 3-octanol, β-myrcene, Linalool, sabinene, caryophyllene and Germacrene-D were typically quite small. In general, these preliminary results indicate that peppermint can be grown successfully on the coarse-textured soils of Ontario. Key words: Mentha piperita L., peppermint, essential oil, essential oil composition, harvesting date
AC Percy oat
Authors: Burrows V. D.
Published: April 2011

AC Percy oat (Avena sativa L.) is a spring-type, daylength-sensitive, strong-strawed, tall, late-maturing, naked-seeded cultivar suitable for the feed industry in eastern Canada, especially in the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. Its outstanding features include high grain yield, exceptionally large groat size and high hectolitre weight, and very low percentage of hull in threshed seed resulting from an almost complete expression of the hull-less genes under different environments. AC Percy is resistant to loose smut (Ustilago avenae Pers. Rostr.) and to race CR13 of crown rust (Puccinia coronata Cd. f. sp. avenae Eriks. and E. Henn.) but is susceptible to barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), septoria blotch (Septoria avenae Frank f. sp. avenae) and stem rust (Puccinia graminis Pers. f. sp. avenae Eriks. and E. Henn.). Key words: Avena sativa L., crown rust and smut resistant, large groats, cultivar description, naked oat
Irrigation and ground cover management effect on soil temperature in a mature peach orchard
Authors: Tan C. S. , Layne R. E. C.
Published: April 2011

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of two irrigation (trickle vs. no irrigation) and two ground cover treatments (temporary cover vs. permanent sod) on soil temperature in a mature peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] orchard on Fox sand. The soil temperatures at the surface, 5, 10 and 20 cm depths were monitored continuously all-year during 1987 and 1988. Irrigation reduced the fluctuations in soil temperature during summer and winter. The average daily soil temperature in nonirrigated plots during the summer was as high as 34 °C at the soil surface and 28 °C at the 20-cm depth, while corresponding temperatures in irrigated plots were 28 and 26 °C, respectively. The average daily soil temperature in nonirrigated plots without snow cover during the winter was −12 °C at the soil surface and −5 °C at the 20-cm depth, while corresponding temperatures in irrigated plots were −6 and −1 °C, respectively. The effect of irrigation on soil temperature was greatly diminished by snow cover. The soil temperatures at all depths remained around 0 to −2 °C for both nonirrigated and irrigated plots under snow cover, even when the minimum air temperature dropped to −15 °C. The permanent sod cover provided some protection against cold although this effect was masked by snow cover. In the summer, the permanent sod cover reduced average daily soil temperature by 1.5 and 1 °C at the 10 and 20 cm depths. Key words: Prunus persica, snow cover, Fox sand
Effects of ethephon and ancymidol on plant height and flower abortion of Easter lily
Authors: Wees David
Published: April 2011

Ethephon and ancymidol were applied as substrate drenches to Nellie White Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum Thunb.) at rates of 12.5, 25, 50 or 75 mg a.i. per pot (ethephon) or 0.1 or 0.2 mg a.i. per pot (ancymidol). In 1990, the lowest dose of ethephon resulted in the same reduction in plant height as the highest dose of ancymidol (83% of height of control). In 1991, plants treated with the lowest dose of ethephon were one-third shorter than those treated with the highest dose of ancymidol. In both years higher rates of ethephon application resulted in greater height reduction and an increased number of aborted flowers. Ethephon drenches caused greater height reduction and more flower abortion in 1991 than in 1990. Key words: Ancymidol, ethephon, Easter lily, flower abortion, Lilium longiflorum
Glucosinolate composition of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) grown under various boron treatments at three Ontario sites
Authors: Shelp B. J. , Liu L. , McLellan D.
Published: April 2011

The relative glucosinolate composition of the florets from field-grown broccoli, determined using high-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, varied slightly with growing site and B fertilization, but was cultivar-dependent. Differences among growing sites, in total glucosinolate concentration, were greater than differences between the two cultivars used in the study. Key words: Brassica, broccoli, glucosinolate, nutrition
Effect of trifluralin on fusarium wilt in flax
Authors: Rashid K. Y. , Kenaschuk E. O.
Published: April 2011

The effects of the herbicide trifluralin on the incidence of flax wilt and agronomic traits were investigated in several flax cultivars in established fields with high, and low infestation of F. oxysporum f.sp. lini. Trifluralin was applied in the fall and seeding carried out the following spring. Trifluralin negatively interacted with fusarium wilt, reducing plant emergence by 42–68%, and the final plant population by 36–60% in several cultivars. Trifluralin reduced the incidence of post-emergence wilt and late-wilt. The reduced post-emergence disease incidence was perhaps due to poor emergence and low plant population which left fewer plants to be infected. The interaction of trifluralin with this fungus reduced yield (17–60%) in most cultivars in highly infested fusarium soil. In low-infested soil, trifluralin significantly increased yield in most cultivars (8–44%). The significant trifluralin and wilt interaction also resulted in increased plant height. Key words: Linum usitatissimum, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lini., trifluralin, flax wilt
Genotype × environment interactions for two-row barley grain yield and implications for selection of genotypes
Authors: May K. W. , Kozub G. C.
Published: April 2011

The response of barley grain yield to Canadian prairie environments was studied to evaluate genotype × environment interactions with respect to barley genotype selection. Information from nine test sites and 11 entries over two 3-yr spans was used. Genotype × location × year interactions from analysis of variance were significant for grain yield in both data sets. The nature of these interactions was studied by considering the genotype mean performance, superiority and stability measures for each location, and joint regression and cluster analyses within each year. No single genotype was superior over all locations, and the groupings of genotypes for similarity of response at locations were not consistent for year. This indicated that genotypes selected on the basis of main effect means may not be those selected from a detailed consideration of the GE interaction structure. In the presence of sufficient genetic variability, examination of mean yield in conjunction with between-year variance at each location provides vital information on adaptation at specific locations, and is an appropriate selection tool for genotype registration and recommendation. Consideration of GE interaction, using joint regression and clustering, may indicate genotypes equivalent or marginally superior to the check. Key words: Barley, Hordeum vulgare L., genotype-environment interaction, grain yield
Characterization of some non-fixing mutants of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Buttery B. R. , Park S. J.
Published: April 2011

With 18 strains of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. phaseoli the bean mutants R99 and NOD125 remained essentially non-nodulating, while the mutant R69 produced a variable number of small white ineffective nodules, and the wild-type parent-line OAC Rico formed a variable number of pink effective nodules. Both R69 and R99 grew less vigorously than OAC Rico, but possessed similar levels of nitrate reductase in both roots and leaves, and responded in a normal way to increased supply of combined nitrogen. Reciprocal grafts between the non-nodulating R99 and NOD125, the ineffective R69, the wild-type parent line OAC Rico, and the supernodulating R32BS, demonstrated that the non-nodulating and ineffective characters were controlled by the root, and confirmed that the supernodulation character was controlled by the shoot. Key words: Common bean, nitrate reductase, non-fixing mutants, Phaseolus vulgaris, Rhizobium strains, supernodulation
Evaluation of locations for testing dry bean cultivars in western Canada using statistical procedures, biological interpretation and multiple traits
Authors: Saindon G. , Schaalje G. B.
Published: April 2011

Genotype × environment (GE) effects in regional registration trials for dry beans in western Canada were studied to determine whether geographic distribution of sites could be rationalized. The structure of the GE effects on the maturity, seed weight and seed yield of seven dry bean check cultivars grown at eight locations during 4 yr was investigated using GE mean squares decomposition, cluster analysis and the additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) method. The analyses revealed a high level of redundancy in the locations which suggested that most GE effects can be captured with fewer testing sites. The partition of the GE mean squares demonstrated the possibility of reproducing the GE structure of the entire data sets with as few as three sites; however, more locations may be needed to compensate for unpredictable environmental effects. Based on biological interpretation of groupings and visual assessment of the AMMI displays, a five-location set fully represented the GE effects on maturity, seed weight and seed yield and accounted for the inconsistent clustering of the Brooks site for the three traits. Also, the set should allow for site losses due to unpredictable environmental events. The dry bean industry in western Canada is expanding to non-traditional growing areas and the establishment of trials in these areas should be considered as they may create GE effects not considered to date. Key words: Phaseolus vulgaris L., genotype × environment interactions, cluster analysis, AMMI analysis
Response of oilseed Brassica cultivars to ozone
Authors: Hucl P. , Beversdorf W. D.
Published: April 2011

Cultivars of four oilseed Brassica species were exposed to acute levels of ozone (0.31 or 0.47 μL L−1) at the seedling stage. Brassica hitra ’BHL-926’ was the most sensitive to ozone followed by B. juncea ’Newton’ and B. rapa ’Torch.’ Brassica napus seedlings exhibited very little foliar injury (0 – 4%) after 24 h exposure to 0.31 μL L−1 ozone. Key words: Ozone, foliar injury, rapeseed, mustard
Paclobutrazol sprays reduce vegetative growth and increase fruit production in young McIntosh apple trees
Authors: Estabrooks E. N.
Published: April 2011

Three years of study were conducted to examine the effect of paclobutrazol sprays applied in one growing season on young, non-flowering McIntosh/MM106 apple trees. PBZ treatments were able to reduce or stop terminal growth. By the end of the first growing season, terminal growth of the PBZ treated trees was from 35 to 80% of the control. PBZ treatments at rates of 200 and 50 mg L−1 produced the least terminal growth in year of application and this effect was carried over into the following year. PBZ treatment rates of 50 and 12.5 mg L−1 stimulated terminal growth in the second year to 125% of control. Highest rates of PBZ (200 and 50 mg L−1) also increased flower cluster and fruit numbers in the second and third years following application. Tree trunk diameter growth in PBZ treatments 200 and 50 mg L−1 was reduced to 72% compared to the control in the year of treatment. This growth at a reduced rate continued during the next 2 yr resulting in some treatments producing trunk growth as low as 65% of the control. The surfactant Tween 20 had little long-term effect upon the effectiveness of the PBZ treatments and was not effective in reducing the rate of PBZ required. Accurately timed foliar sprays of PBZ were found to be an effective management tool to reduce tree growth and induce fruit production in young, non-bearing McIntosh apple trees on vigorous rootstock. Key words: Apple, Malas × domestica, paclobutrazol
Potentiel d’adaptation et de croissance d’arbustes ornementaux à fleurs évalués sous les conditions climatiques du Québec et du nord-est ontarien
Authors: Richer-Leclerc C. , Côté J. , Rioux J. A. , Beaudoin M. F. , Lapointe D. , Auger M. , Péron C.
Published: April 2011

Seven flowering cultivars of deciduous shrubs were evaluated for their winter hardiness and their growth potential to provide adequate recommendations regarding their adaptation to different climatic conditions. Plants were grown at eight sites in Québec and one in northeastern Ontario in order to cover three broad biogeographic regions. Hydrangea paniculata ’Grandiflora’, Kerria japonica (L.) DC., Potentilla fruticosa ’Goldfinger’, Prunus × cistena N.E. Hansen, Prunus tomentosa Thunb., Viburnum opulus ’Compactum’ and Weigela hybrida ’Brystol Ruby’ were used. Potentilla and Viburnum were not affected by winter conditions at any of the sites, whereas Hydrangea, Kerria and Weigela did not survive at Kapuskasing. Our results indicated that Weigela was adapted to zone 5b only, whereas Kerria should not be recommended in any zone tested. Although the other species were adapted throughout Quebec, their production was superior in the Montreal region. Annual pruning of Kerria and Weigela was related exclusively to winter damage. For the other species, pruning is related to winter, rodent and mechanical damage. Key words: Winter hardiness, growth potential, winter damage
Preparation of rabbit polyclonal antibodies against lupin storage proteins
Authors: Bush Roy S. , Tai Helen
Published: April 2011

Agarose gel electrophoresis was used to separate three globular storage proteins from crude extracts of Lupinus albus seeds. Conglutin α, β, and γ purified by this technique were used as antigens to stimulate the production of antibodies in rabbits. The specificity of polyclonal antibodies produced was analysed by Western blot. Each antibody reacted with the specific antigen used to stimulate production of that antibody. In addition the anti-conglutin α preparation also showed binding to a region of the gel that comigrates with conglutin β. Key words: Lupin, conglutin, polyclonal antibody