bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compositional and Sensory Analyses of Sweetpotatoes after X-ray Irradiation Quarantine Treatment
Authors: Wall Marisa M.
Published: February 2019

Sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] roots of two Hawaii-grown clones were treated with 100 to 600 Gy X-ray irradiation and evaluated for quality before and after cooking. Root moisture content, surface color, and glucose and fructose concentrations were not affected by irradiation treatment for either the red-skin, yellow-flesh (RY) or the white-skin, purple-flesh (WP) clones. Firmness decreased at higher doses for RY roots, but not for WP roots. The alcohol insoluble solids and the starch concentrations of raw roots decreased linearly in response to increasing dose for both clones. Maltose decreased at higher doses in cooked RY roots only. Irradiation had the greatest effect on sucrose concentrations, which increased linearly in response to dose as starch concentrations decreased. A sensory panel perceived sweetpotato roots treated with 600 Gy irradiation as sweeter than control roots. Panelists found the overall acceptability to be the same for control and 600 Gy treated roots for both clones.
Rate of Ammonium Uptake by Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) Vines in the Field is Affected by Temperature
Authors: Roper T.R. , Krueger A.R. , DeMoranville C.J. , Vorsa N. , Hart J. , Poole A.P.
Published: February 2019

Nitrogen fertilizer application is a universal practice among cranberry growers. Cranberries only use ammonium nitrogen sources. This study was undertaken to discover how quickly cranberries in the field would take up fertilizer-derived ammonium nitrogen. Ammonium sulfate labeled with 15N was applied in field locations in Oregon, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Wisconsin. Samples of current season growth were collected daily for 7 days beginning 24 hours after fertilizer application. In all cases 15N was detectable in the plants from treated plots by 24 hours following application. Additional nitrogen was taken up for the next 3 to 5 days depending on the location. With the exception of Oregon, the maximum concentration of 15N was found by day 7. Oregon was the coolest of the sites in this research. To determine a temperature response curve for N uptake in cranberry, cranberry roots were exposed to various temperatures in aeroponics chambers while vines were at ambient greenhouse temperatures. The optimum temperature for N uptake by cranberry vines was 18 to 24 °C. This research suggests that ammonium fertilizers applied by growers and irrigated into the soil (solubilized) are taken up by the plant within 1 day following application. Soil and root temperature is involved in the rate of N uptake.
Irrigation Control and Physiological Responses of Nursery-grown Black Spruce Seedlings (1+0) Cultivated in Air-slit Containers
Authors: Bergeron Onil , Lamhamedi Mohammed S. , Margolis Hank A. , Bernier Pierre Y. , Stowe Debra C.
Published: February 2019

Air-slit containerized (IPL 25-350A) black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill) BSP; 1+0] seedlings, were subjected to four irrigation regimes (IR-15%, IR-30%, IR-45%, and IR-60%, by volume, cm3 water/cm3 substrate) under tunnel conditions in a forest nursery. Irrigation regimes were controlled by time-domain reflectometry during the first growing season. With exception of midday water potential, water relation and gas exchange variables were unaffected by substrate water content. There were no significant differences in height, diameter or number of needle primordia of the seedlings grown under IR-15%, IR-30%, and IR-45%. Seedlings grown in a substrate with a high water content (IR-60%) had lower oven-dry biomass and higher cuticular transpiration rates than seedlings grown under the three other irrigation regimes. Root hydraulic conductivity was not affected by irrigation regime, but showed a general decrease towards the end of the growing season. Variation in root hydraulic conductivity was most likely related to root growth and degree of lignification. Seedlings that had been exposed to IR-60% during the first growing season remained smaller than the other seedlings throughout the second growing season. Results of this study indicate that nursery managers can reduce the quantity of irrigation water used without significantly affecting the growth or physiology of air-slit containerized black spruce seedlings (1+0) grown under tunnel conditions.
Soil Amendments and Fertilizer Source Effects on Creeping Bentgrass Establishment, Soil Microbial Activity, Thatch, and Disease
Authors: Kaminski John E. , Dernoeden Peter H. , Bigelow Cale A.
Published: February 2019

Natural organic fertilizers require microbial degradation for nitrogen (N) release, but their ability to promote rapid turfgrass establishment has not been well documented in newly constructed sand-based rootzones. This 2-year field study evaluated the influence of two general fertilizer and soil amendment programs for their effect on establishment and quality of three creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) cultivars—`Crenshaw', `Penn G-2', and `Providence'. Turf was grown on a 4 sand: 1 sphagnum peat (by volume) rootzone mixture. Four treatments consisting of surface-applied synthetic fertilizer (SF; mostly water-soluble N in 1999 and methylene urea thereafter); surface-applied hydrolyzed poultry meal (PM); preplant-incorporated granular humate (GH) with surface-applied SF; and preplant-incorporated PM with surface-applied PM. Turf cover data collected 42 days after seeding (DAS) showed that the rate of establishment was SF+GH incorporated = SF surface-applied >PM surface-applied + PM incorporated >PM surface-applied. Turf cover was ≥96% among all treatments 90 DAS. Rootmass density was greater (18% to 29%) at 103 DAS in GH incorporated plots combined with SF, when compared to all other treatments, but no rootmass differences subsequently were observed. Soil microbial activity generally was highest in PM-treated plots during the first 14 months following seeding, but not thereafter. Turf treated with SF had less microdochium patch (Microdochium nivale (Fr.) Samuels and I.C. Hallett) and more bentgrass dead spot (Ophiosphaerella agrostis Dernoeden, M.P.S. Camara, N.R. O'Neill, van Berkum et M.E. Palm), when compared to PM-treated plots. Slightly less thatch developed in PM-treated turf when compared to plots receiving SF alone by the end of the second year. Penn G-2 and SF generally provided the best overall turf quality. This study demonstrated the beneficial effects of readily available N from SF for rapid establishment and that preplant incorporation of GH initially aided root development.
TexPrince, a Midseason, Medium-chill Peach
Authors: Byrne David H. , Bacon Terry A.
Published: February 2019

`TexPrince' is being released by Texas A&M University to provide a medium chilling, commercially acceptable peach that ripens after `Texstar' and with or a few days after `Juneprince' and `TexRoyal'. This large, freestone, attractive, yellow-flesh peach ripens early June in the medium chill zones of the United States. `TexPrince' is a replacement for `Juneprince' where `Juneprince' fruit inconsistently due to problems with insufficient chilling.
Phytotoxicity and Weed Control Efficacy of Three Non-labeled Herbicides for Field-grown Hemerocallis spp.
Authors: Knight* Patricia R. , Coker Christine E. , Posadas Benedict , Anderson John M.
Published: February 2019

The IR-4 program works to identify potential minor-use horticultural chemicals and evaluate them for phytotoxicity and efficacy. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate phytotoxicity and weed control of three unlabeled herbicides on field production of Hemerocallis spp. `Ming Toy'. Ten-cm pots of `Ming Toy' were planted into the field 16 July 2001. Each plot consisted of 3 plants per treatment with 6 replications in a completely random design. Each herbicide was analyzed as a separate experiment. Herbicide treatments consisted of clopyralid (0.14, 0.28, 0.56, or 1.1 kg·ha-1 a.i.), clethodim (125, 250, or 500 mL·L-1 a.i.), or bentazon (1.1, 2.2, or 4.4 kg·ha-1 a.i.). Data collected included weed number, percentage of weed coverage (% weed coverage), and phytotoxicity and foliar color ratings for `Ming Toy'. Clopyralid reduced total weed number 90 DAT although % weed coverage was similar or worse compared to the control treatment. Phytotoxicity 90 DAT was not significant for plants treated with clopyralid, but foliar color ratings were reduced. Application of clethodim to `Ming Toy' plots, regardless of rate, resulted in similar weed numbers compared to the control 49 DAT. Clethodim application, regardless of rate, reduced % weed coverage compared to the control treatment. Phytotoxicity 90 DAT was not significant, regardless of herbicide treatment, but foliar color ratings were lower for herbicide treated plants compared to the control. Bentazon, regardless of rate, reduced weed number and % weed coverage 49 DAT compared to the control. Phytotoxicity was similar to the control for plants treated with 1.1 kg·ha-1 a.i.
Preemergence Weed Control in Container-grown Herbaceous Perennials
Authors: Klett* James , Staats Dave , Rogoyski Matt
Published: February 2019

During the 2003 season, preemergence herbicide was applied to twelve container grown herbaceous perennials and woody plants and evaluated for weed control, phytotoxicity, and effect on plant growth. The herbicide and rates were: Flumioxazin (Broadstar) 113.5 g (label rate), 227 g and 454 g a.i./A. Herbicides were applied to Buxus microphylla `Winter Gem', Cytisus purgans `Spanish Gold', Festuca ovina glauca `Elijah Blue', Hakonechloa macra `Aureola', Lonicera tatarica `Arnold Red', Pachysandra terminalis `Green Sheen', Hydrangea arborescens `Annabelle', Mahonia aquifolium, Phalaris arundinacea `Picta', Carex buchananii, Cerastium tomentosum, and Achillea millefolium `Red Beauty'. Weed control was excellent at all rates and controlled at least 99% of all weeds. No phytotoxicity symptoms were apparent on Mahonia, Buxus, Cytisus, Festuca, Hakonechloa, Pachysandra or Phlaris. Phytotoxicity resulted on some of the other plants. Carex had smaller plants (dry weights) at all rates. Cerastium had severe phytotoxicty at the 227 g and 454 g rates and moderate stunting at the recommended label rate, 113.5 g. Hydrangea became chlorotic and stunted at the 113.5 g rate and some fatal toxicity ocurred at the 227 g and 454 g rates. Phytotoxicity resulted on Lonicera at all rates and ranged from mild chlorosis in leaf veins (113.5 g rate) to plant death (454 g rate). Achillea at the 113.5 g rate only resulted in stunted plant growth while the 227 g and 454 g rates resulted in severe phytotoxcity and plant death.
Investigating the Use of Living Mulches in Edamame (Glycine max) Field Production for Weed Management
Authors: Bernthal* Dru , Sánchez Elsa , Kelley Kathleen
Published: February 2019

A field trial investigating the use of living mulches for weed management in edamame (Glycine max), also known as vegetable soybean, was conducted in 2003 at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center, Rock Springs, Pa. Edamame was direct seeded on 24-25 June 2003. Seven weeks later, the living mulch treatments were broadcast seeded. The living mulch species were white clover (Trifolium repens), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) and a control with no living mulch (bare ground). Each living mulch plot was divided into a weeded and non-weeded subplot. Weed pressure was evaluated every 2 weeks from the time living mulches were sown. Data collected included the total number of weeds present, number of different species present, number of broadleaf and grass species and number of annual and perennial species. The total number of weeds in weeded and non-weeded subplots was lowest in the buckwheat and highest in the clover. Species diversity in weeded subplots was lowest for the control and highest in clover while species diversity in non-weeded subplots was lowest in buckwheat and highest in the control. Overall, most weeds present were broadleaf annuals including pigweeds (Amaranthus spp.), shepard's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris), common lambsquarters (Cheno-podium album) and common purslane (Portulaca oleracea). Based on this 1-year study, which will be repeated in 2004, the buckwheat treatment is likely the most effective in managing weeds in edamame field production for consideration by Pennsylvania growers.
Seasonal Influence on Infection Rates of Malus sylvestris var. domestica Roots by Phymatotrichopsis omnivora
Authors: Watson* Wesley T. , Appel David N. , Arnold Michael A. , Kenerley Charles M. , Starr James L.
Published: February 2019

Phymatotrichopsis omnivora (Duggar) Hennebert (syn. Phymatotrichum omnivorum Duggar) is a recalcitrant soilborne pathogen that causes serious root rot problems on numerous plant species in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Apple trees [Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill. var. domestica (Borkh.) Mansf. (syn. M. domestica Borkh. non Poir.)] are highly susceptible to P. omnivora with most tree death occurring in the summer months. Studies were conducted from 1996 to 1999 to examine when and at what rate infection and colonization of roots of apple trees by P. omnivora actually occurs. In three-year-old trees growing in orchard soils in 45-gallon containers (171,457 cm3) and inoculated with sclerotia in August 1997, infection occurred in the nursery after 12 weeks. For trees inoculated with sclerotia in February 1998, infection occurred within 15 weeks. After 18 weeks, 100% of trees were infected after inoculation in August and 80% of trees were infected after the February inoculation. This information is vital to understanding the epidemiology of Phymatotrichum root rot in apple orchards.
A Survey of Sweetpotato Growers—Practices and Conditions Associated with Good Root Appearance
Authors: Reyes* Luz , Blankenship* Sylvia M. , Schultheis* Jonathan R. , Boyette Michael D.
Published: February 2019

Sweetpotato roots, especially the cultivar Beauregard, tend to experience epidermal loss during harvest and postharvest handling which results in a less attractive product in the market. A survey study was conducted among North Carolina (N.C.) sweetpotato growers in Fall 2001 and 2002. The purpose of the survey was to gather information and try to correlate cultural practices, growing conditions and site characteristics with the occurrence of attractive roots and to define new scientific approaches to reducing epidermal loss. Samples were obtained from 42 N.C. farms. Survey field information and laboratory results were correlated to identify possible factors affecting the appearance of the roots. 1300 roots were used to measure skin adhesion, peeling susceptibility, skin moisture, skin anthocyanin and lignin content. From survey questions, 50 characteristics were defined for each sample, according to field characteristics, cultivar information, cultural practices and harvest and postharvest practices. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the relationship between the skin characteristics analyzed at the laboratory, and the survey descriptors information. Analysis of variance was used for laboratory data analysis. Person correlations were made between survey variables and laboratory characteristics. Several possible relationships between root appearance and other characteristics/practices were identified. Root skin adhesion may improve in later generations from elite propagation material. Early application of phosphate and potash fertilizers were correlated to improved root skin adhesion. There appeared to be a relationship between soil moisture at harvest time, increased lignin content in the skin and peeling susceptibility. Future areas of study were identified.
Comparison of Cover Crops Alone or in Mixture with Inorganic Nitrogen for Above Ground Biomass Production and Fruit Yields in Bell Pepper
Authors: Whitehead* Wayne F. , Singh Bharat P.
Published: February 2019

The goal of this study was to compare the effect of leguminous and non-leguminous cover crops alone or in mixture with fertilizer nitrogen rates on above ground biomass, fruit number, and bell pepper yield. The following fall-spring fertility treatments were applied using randomized complete-block design with three replications: 1) fall-0 N, fallow, spring-0 N; 2) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye, spring-0 N; 3) fall-0 N, hairy vetch, spring-0 N; 4) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye+hairy vetch, spring-0 N; 5) fall-0 N, fallow, spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 6) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye; spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 7) fall-0 N, hairy vetch, spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 8) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye+hairy vetch; spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 9) fall-0 N, fallow, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N; 10) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N; 11) fall-0 N, hairy vetch, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N; and 12) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye+hairy vetch, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N. In Spring 2003, `Camelott' bell pepper were transplanted. Total yield and fruit number were compiled over 8 weeks, while total vegetative dry matter was measured at final harvest. Highest above ground biomass (48.0 g/plant), total yield (36.7 Mg·ha-1) and fruit number (11/plant) were produced by fall-0 N, hairy vetch; spring-0 N. Lowest above ground biomass (19.0 g/plant), total yield (11.5 Mg·ha-1) and fruit number (4/plant) were produced by fall-0 N, abruzzi rye; spring-0 N. Hairy vetch without any additional N produced plant biomass, fruit number and yield better than all other treatments. Results indicate the legume cover crop can be an effective N source in supporting plant biomass, fruit number and yield of bell pepper.
Cover Crops their Mixture and Inorganic Nitrogen Effect on Bell Pepper Gas Exchange at Three Stages of Fruiting
Authors: Whitehead* Wayne F. , Singh Bharat P.
Published: February 2019

A study was conducted in 2002-2003 to determine effect of leguminous and nonleguminous cover crops alone or in mixture with fertilizer N rates on gas exchange (GE) at different fruiting stages of bell pepper. Transpiration (E), photosynthesis (Pn) and internal leaf CO2 concentration (Ci) are reported. Fall-spring fertility treatments were applied with 3 replications in a randomized complete-block design: 1) fall-0 N, fallow, spring-0 N; 2) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye, spring-0 N; 3) fall-0 N, hairy vetch, spring-0 N; 4) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye+hairy vetch, spring-0 N; 5) fall-0 N, fallow, spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 6) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye, spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 7) fall-0 N, hairy vetch; spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 8) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye+hairy vetch, spring-84 kg·ha-1 N; 9) fall-0 N, fallow, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N; 10) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N; 11) fall-0 N, hairy vetch, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N; and 12) fall-0 N, abruzzi rye+hairy vetch, spring-168 kg·ha-1 N. In Spring 2003, `Camelott' bell pepper were transplanted in all plots. Maximum E (15.1 mmol·m-2·s-1) and Pn (16.2 μmol·m-2·s-1 CO2 occurred at mid-fruiting, and maximum Ci (445.5 μL·L-1) occurred at final-fruiting. Fall-0 N, hairy vetch; spring-168 kg·ha-1 N influenced E and Pn the most while Ci was affected the most by fall-0 N, abruzzi rye; spring-168 kg·ha-1 N. Results indicate that organic N from this legume can enhance GE of bell pepper similar to the inorganic N rates.
Strip Tillage Pumpkin Production Using Rye, and Rye/Hairy Vetch Cover Crop
Authors: Ogutu* Maurice
Published: February 2019

Pumpkin is usually grown on bare ground. Weeds are controlled by pre-emergence herbicides and cultivation early in the season before pumpkin vines cover the ground. The pumpkin fruit lie on bare ground and covered with soil. In pick-your-own pumpkin operation it is impossible to walk on muddy fields to pick pumpkin fruits. Experiment was carried out using three treatments (Control-bare ground, Rye only mulch, and rye/hairy vetch mulch) replicated four times in complete randomized block design with plot sizes of 30 ft (9 m) by 30 ft (9 m). In each plot, two pumpkin rows were planted 8 ft (2.4 m) a part and 2 ft (0.6 m) a part within rows. In rye only, and rye/hairy vetch plots, two 2-ft wide strips 8-ft a part were mowed and rototilled in each plot. Cover crop in between the rows were rolled using a multi-culchler roller, and emergence of eastern black night shade (Solanum phytanthum Dun.), red root pig weed (Amaranthus retroflexus L.), and common lambsquarters (Chenopodium album L.) on cover crop plots between the rows were evaluated 4-10 weeks after transplanting. The effect of cover mulches on pumpkin fruit number, yield, fruit size, and fruit rots were assessed as well. Emergence of red root pigweed, black nightshade, and common lambsquarters was less than 2, 1, and 1/2 seedlings per 12-ft-2 (1-m-2) area respectively. There was no significant difference in marketable fruit number between control and strip tilled plots. Control plots had higher pumpkin fruit weight than rye/hairy vetch plots, and no significant difference between rye only and rye/hairy vetch plots. Control plots had significantly larger fruits and higher fruit rot incidence than strip tilled plots.
The Central Great Plains High Tunnel Horticulture Project
Authors: Jett* Lewis , Carey Edward , Hodges Laurie
Published: February 2019

There is great interest by horticulture producers in the Central Great Plains in methods to extend the traditional growing season, increase value of crops and provide more locally grown produce. High tunnels are low-cost, unheated greenhouses that can accomplish these goals. In 2002, the Central Great Plains High Tunnel Project was initiated through funding support by the Initiative for Future Agriculture and Food Systems (IFAFS). The Univ. of Missouri, Kansas State Univ., and the Univ. of Nebraska have constructed 24 high tunnels to conduct research on vegetables, small fruits and cut flowers. Each year, a multi-state workshop is conducted along with several on-farm and research center tours. Growers are collaborating with extension personnel on projects ranging from high tunnel temperature management to pest management. A web site for high tunnel information has been constructed (www.hightunnels.org). Production guides on specific high tunnel crops have been printed. From 2002-03, a significant number of high tunnels have been constructed in the Central Great Plains.
Production of Environmentally Safe and Sustainable Compost-based Fertilizer Products from Horticultural and Farm Wastes
Authors: Rao* Juluri , Moore John , Stewart Andrew
Published: February 2019

The EU Regional Draft Waste Management Plan (1999-2004) identified pig slurry (501,590 tonnes), poultry manure (217,110 tonnes) and spent mushroom compost (221,665 tonnes) as the main contributors to the 3.5 million tonnes of waste generated annually in Ireland. Current legislative restrictions prevent pig wastes from intensive pig units and horticultural wastes mainly spent compost produced in mushroom farms being disposed via landspreading due to pollution threat from nutrient run-off and the health hazards due to animal and human risk pathogen contents in wastes. Composting is a world-wide popular option for environmentally sustainable means of recycling farm wastes. In Ireland, profitable conversion of farm wastes such as pig slurry solids and spent mushroom compost has not yet been fully explored for their economic viability as `green' fertilizers. In this study, we produced pelleted formulations of the composted pig waste solids, (20%) blended with spent mushroom compost (26%), turkey litter (26%) cocoa husks (18%) and shredded paper (10%) to an environmentally safe, organic-based fertiliser resulting in N:P:K = 3:5:10, ideally suitable for use on amenity grassland such as golf course fairways and greens in Ireland, wherein spring and summer fertilizers with slow release of nutrients would aid an even growth of grass. We describe the composting methods used, processing technology developed and additional amendments such as dried blood or feather meal that were used during the pelletisation operation yielding specific N:P:K target ratios from the pig manure and spent compost wastes. We also report on the rigorous microbiological tests carried out throughout the composting phase and ascertained the pathogen-free status of the final pelletised fertilser products.
Land Application of Saline Industrial Wastewater on a Chihuahuan Desert Upland
Authors: Ruiz* A. , Rodriguez D.S. , Picchioni G.A. , Mexal J.G. , Sammis T.W.
Published: February 2019

Low-cost, sustainable wastewater treatment systems are needed for rapidly-growing communities of the southwestern United States. The objective of this study is to develop a practical management plan for land application of industrial wastewater on native Chihuahuan Desert vegetation. To assess environmental impact and create the management plan, wastewater effluent characteristics, soil physicochemical changes, and mineral uptake of the vegetation were monitored. The effluent was saline, ranging from 2500 to 6000 mg·L-1 of TDS and dominated by Na and Cl. Total N ranged from 10 to 40 mg·L-1. Soils sampled in Dec. 2002 (after 11 months and 64 cm of effluent irrigation) increased in salinity in the top 60 cm from 1.85 to 3.5 dS·m-1, and SAR in the top 30 cm was close to 15, but diminished with depth. Branch samples of the co-dominant perennial shrub vegetation members (Larrea tridentata and Prosopis glandulosa) harvested in July 2002 had elevated Na and Cl concentrations (0.4% to 2.1% of dry weight, respectively). By Oct. 2002, L. tridentata leaves contained comparable Na and Cl concentrations as those of P. glandulosa, yet removed 2 to three times more Na, Cl, and total N per branch, while maintaining their dry mass per branch. This raises the possibility of interspecific variation among the shrub species in salinity stress tolerance and capacity to remove wastewater contaminants. These data will aid in determining total vegetation removal of effluent components, preventing adverse environmental impact to the site, and developing a practical management plan suitable for small communities seeking cost-effective wastewater handling protocols.
Cryopreservation of Apple: Results with Non-desiccated Winter Scions
Authors: Towill* Leigh E.
Published: February 2019

Apple cryopreservation at USDA-ARS NCGRP uses a winter vegetative bud method that incorporates desiccation prior to cooling. Although this method is valuable, desiccation is time consuming, requiring cutting nodal sections to exact lengths, moisture content estimates, and 1-4 weeks of desiccation. Processing sections without desiccation is being examined to improve the efficiency of handling Malus accessions. Vi-ability was estimated using an oxidative browning assay or a sprouting test. Sections from mid-winter collected scions were cooled at different rates to -30°C or -35 °C and transferred to the vapor phase over liquid nitrogen. Sections were warmed at + 4 °C and held for 24 h before testing viability. Some lines were processed after several months of storage at -3.5 °C. Although viability after cryopreservation occurred with a cooling rate of 1 °C/h, slower cooling (5 °C/day) was beneficial for many accessions. In tests with a limited number of lines, cooling rates ≥10 °C/h to -30 °C caused injury to buds and cambium. Scions stored for up to 8 months could survive cryoexposure. Scions from three lines tested survived three cycles of cooling from + 4 °C to LN. Extent of acclimation affected results. With non-desiccated sections cryogenic survival of `Golden Delicious' differed over years, but this has also occurred with the procedure that uses a desiccation step. It is not expected that this method is generally applicable to more tender species of Malus or other fruit genera, but the method has been successful with many lines of M. × domestica, a fairly cold hardy taxa, and with some other cold hardy Malus species. Grafting tests are needed to confirm the usefulness of the method
Effects of Genotype, Benzylaminopurine and Sucrose Concentration on Microtuberization of Layered Shoots of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) through Meristem Culture
Authors: Farhadi* Leila , Abdmishani Cyrus , Ahmadian Shahram , Foolad Majid
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the suitable hormonal balance on potato microtuberization from the plantlets which had been in heat therapy condition before culturing the meristem. The effects of different levels of BAP and sucrose concentration were studied 16 weeks after the last culture in two genotypes. Explants from meristem were propagated in vitro in several stages and then subcultured with MS medium containing the combination of BAP (three levels) and sucrose (three levels). Then they were transferred to a completely dark incubation room at 22 °C. In vitro tuber formation was analyzed 16 weeks later. Traits which studied were: length, diameter, fresh weight and number of micro tubers. There was no significant difference among the genotypes for all the traits. The micro tuber number was significantly different among the levels of BAP concentration and the BAP and sucrose interaction was significant for the diameter. The micro tuber fresh weight and diameter were highly significant for the sucrose levels. The sucrose and genotype interaction for micro tuber length; sucrose and BAP interaction for micro tuber length and diameter were significant. Also the genotype, BAP and sucrose interaction was significant for the micro tuber fresh weight.
Genotypic Variation in Flower Bud Development in Hydrangea macrophylla
Authors: Orozco-Obando* Warner , Wetzstein Hazel Y.
Published: February 2019

The general doctrine of flowering in Hydrangea is that floral induction occurs during the previous season on last year's growth and usually at the stem's terminal bud. However, Hydrangea cultivars widely differ in their relative abundance and duration of flower production. The objective of this study was to determine how developmental flowering patterns compare among different genotypes. Flowering was characterized in 18 H. macrophylla cultivars by assessing the extent of flower initiation and development in terminal and lateral buds of dormant shoots (i.e., after they have received floral inductive conditions.) Plants were managed under outdoor conditions. Dormant, 1-year-old stems were collected and characterized for caliper and length. All buds >2 mm were dissected and the vegetative or floral bud stage of development was categorized for each bud microscopically. Flower development occurred in 100% of the terminal buds for all the cultivars with the exception of `Ayesha' (33%). In contrast, lateral buds showed a wide variation in flower development. For example: `All Summer Beauty', `David Ramsey', `Kardinal', `Masja', and `Nightingale' showed high levels of floral induction (>92 % of lateral buds induced.) In contrast, `Ayesha', `Blushing Pink', `Freudenstein', and `Nigra' had 10% or fewer lateral buds with floral initials. Thus, the degree of floral induction in lateral buds varied tremendously among different cultivars. In addition, flower initiation and development were not related to the size (length and caliper) of individual buds. Thus, bud size does not appear to be a good indicator of flowering potential.
Effect of Rootstock on Shoot Preformation and Neoformation in Pistachio cv. Kerman
Authors: Spann* Timothy M. , Beede Robert H. , Weinbaum Steven A. , DeJong Theodore M.
Published: February 2019

Rootstock significantly alters the pattern of shoot growth of pistachio (Pistacia vera) cv. Kerman. Trees on P. atlantica typically produce a single flush of spring growth whereas trees on P. integerrima selection PGI and P. atlantica × P. integerrima selection UCB-1 can produce multiple flushes during the season. Terminal buds of shoots on all three rootstocks were dissected during the dormant season to determine the number of preformed nodes. Data indicate that there are 8-9 nodes preformed in the dormant terminal bud of shoots from Kerman trees and that this number is independent of rootstock, canopy location, crop load, and shoot carbohydrate concentration, suggesting genetic control. This number corresponds with the number of nodes typically found on a shoot at the end of the spring growth flush. Unlike the spring flush which is preformed in the dormant bud, later flushes are neoformed, that is, nodes are initiated and extended during the same season. Neoformed growth depends on current season photosynthates and may compete with fruit growth for available resources. Neoformed growth is sensitive to water stress and trees on all three rootstocks grown under two levels of regulated deficit irrigation showed a reduction in both the number and length of neoformed shoots. Preformed shoot growth did not appear to be reduced under water stress conditions, supporting the hypothesis that preformed shoots are more dependent on environmental conditions during the season they are initiated than during the season they are extended. Additionally, preformed shoots on well irrigated trees were similar in length for all rootstocks, further supporting the idea that preformed shoots are under genetic control and are not easily manipulated.
Plant Population Modulate Occurrence of Green Shoulders (GS) and Internal Greening (IG) in Carrots (Daucus carota var. sativus)
Authors: Palanisamy* Ravishankar , Lada Rajasekaran , Kyei-Boahen Steve , Stiles Asture , Caldwell Claude , Asiedu Sam
Published: February 2019

Green shoulder (GS) and Internal Greening (IG) are the physiological disorders in carrots due to chlorophyll accumulates either at the crown or internal tissues or both. GS and IG affect root quality and makes carrot roots unfit for consumption and cause a great lose to the processing industry. One of the hypothesis in our study was that plant population modulate GS and IG due to its variation in light interception. The objectives of this study were to identify the effect of plant population on the occurrence of GS and IG and establish a relationship between them. Dicer (Red core chantenay) and Slicer (Caro choice) varieties were seeded at various seeding rates. The experiment used a Randomized Block design. Each treatment was replicated four times. GS and IG were measured using a Chlorophyll meter and the output was read as Chlorophyll Index (CI). Leaf area index (LAI) was determined using a LAI-2000 Plant canopy analyzer. Carrot roots were also collected per meter for each plot. Plant population showed a significant negative correlation with GS. Correlation also existed between GS and LAI. However, plant population and LAI had poor correlation with IG in both the Dicer as well as in the Slicer varieties. It is possible that the IG may perhaps be induced prior to canopy development. Also, a poor correlation existed between IG and GS in both the Slicers and Dicers implying that one does not control other event.
Source-Sink Relationships in Cranberry: Effects on Carbohydrate Production and Partitioning
Authors: Heuvel* Justine E. Vanden
Published: February 2019

Fruiting and vegetative greenhouse-grown cranberry uprights (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) were subjected to four defoliation levels (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%) on one of three dates during the growing season. Seven days following defoliation, vines were destructively harvested and carbohydrate concentration was quantified using HPLC. Prior to new growth, defoliation did not affect the concentration of total non-structural carbohydrates (TNSC) in the uprights, or the partitioning of water-soluble (i.e., sucrose, glucose, fructose) to ethanol-insoluble (i.e., starch) carbohydrates, even though uprights with lower leaf areas had higher net CO2 assimilation rates (A). At 2 weeks post-bloom, TNSC concentration was reduced in defoliated vines, although A was not affected by defoliation. Prior to harvest, TNSC concentration was reduced in vines subjected to defoliation while A was unaffected, although the positive relationship between soluble carbohydrate concentration and leaf area per upright reached an asymptote, while the direct relationship between starch concentration and leaf area remained linear. Carbohydrate production and partitioning of an upright was unaffected by the presence of a single fruit throughout the experiment. These results suggest that carbohydrate production in cranberry uprights may be sink-limited prior to fruiting, and then becomes source-limited as the growing season progresses.
Stone Cells in Fruit of Pears Influenced by Water Stress and Calcium
Authors: Kim* Wol-Soo , Choi Jin-Ho
Published: February 2019

To find out the formation time of stone cell, drought stress, isolated from water by plastic house, was inflicted on pear trees at 30 days before full bloom, full bloom stage, 30 days after full bloom and 60 days after full bloom during 30 days, respectively. Adhesiveness, gumminess, cohesiveness and chewiness increased suddenly in fruits contained stone cell more then 28.0mg/g in flesh and hardness was higher in pear fruit with higher stone cells, but the changes of the springiness as contents of the stone cells showed no difference. By optical microscope, stone cell observed first from 14 days after full bloom. The adjacent cells to stone cell was first showed spherical type on initial forming stage but showed radial form at 90 days after full bloom. The shape of stone cell inspected by SEM was like a cluster and its size was various. By using TEM, components of stone cell, such as nucleus and vacuole, and secondary cell wall thickening were observed, so it could consider that the stone cell is living thing. The largest amount of stone cell clusters existed beneath fruit skin. The stone cell in flesh enlarged by drought stress compared to control, and then stone cell per areas was the largest at 30 days after full bloom. Therefore, it seems that the drought stress became a cause of inducing stone cell. The stone cell was decreased by the application of calcium chloride 0.5 %, on 30 days after full bloom. Also, fruit firmness was increased compared to control on harvest time. Calcium chloride application showed a possibility for the inhibition of stone cell formation
Pollen Germination Potential Influences by Carbohydrates and Proteins in Pollen Grains of Asian Pear
Authors: Kim* Wol-Soo , Lee Sang-Hyun
Published: February 2019

In order to investigate the cause of differences of mature pollen in Asian pear (Pyrus phyfolia) that are collected from various sources for the artificial pollination, various factors were measured as below: the composition of nonstructural carbohydrate in bud at 30 days after full bloom, the contents of crude protein in skin, cytosol and membrane, and the affinity for lectin (CON-A: Concanavalin, type III A) of glycoprotein in cytosol of pollen were measured. Contents of sucrose and glucose in buds influenced pollen germination rate and pollen tube growth, respectively. Therefore, soluble types of carbohydrates stored in bud were regarded as influencing on pollen germination rate and pollen tube growth. Pollen, which showed low activity, had low affinity on CON-A, lectin of glycoprotein, because it had fragile membrane, proteins in cells were denatured to pollen surface and certain enzymes concerned in pollen germination lost stability and activity. Pollens that showed high activity contained 92 kDa protein while others not. This was assumed as influencing on control of pollen viability.
Two New Moisture Sensors for Soilless Growing Media
Authors: Nemali* Krishna , van Iersel Marc
Published: February 2019

Monitoring moisture status of the growing medium is essential as growth and quality of greenhouse crops largely depend on the amount of available water. Recently, two new types of moisture sensors have been developed (ECH2 O, Decagon devices, Inc., Pullman, Wash.; Theta probe ML2X, Delta -T devices Ltd., Burwell, Cambridge, U.K.). We studied the performance of these sensors for measuring the volumetric water content (VWC) of a soilless growing medium. We also tested the sensitivity of these sensors to temperature and electrical conductivity (EC) of the growing medium. Our results indicate that these sensors can be calibrated and used effectively for measuring a wide range of moisture contents in the growing medium; however media specific calibration may be required. Regression analysis indicated that the output of ECH2 O probes was affected by changes in the EC and temperature of the growing medium. Effects of EC were too small to be of practical significance, while the measured VWC increased by 0.003 m3/m3 for each °C increase in temperature. The output from the Theta Probe was not affected by changes in the EC or temperature of the growing medium. In a comparison study, both probes were found to give similar estimates of the VWC of the growing medium within the common range seen under greenhouse production.
Growth and Flower Quality of Single-node Cutting Rose `Versillia' Under Irrigation Control by Integrated Solar Radiation in Aeroponics
Authors: Lee* Joo Hyun , Lee Yong-Beom , Kwon Kang Pal
Published: February 2019

This study was conducted to determine the growth and flower quality of single-node cutting rose `Versillia' under two different irrigation control methods (time clock and integrated solar radiation). The frequency of irrigation was controlled by time clock and integrated solar radiation of 1.25 and 2.09 and 3.35 MJ·m-2 in aeroponics. Photosynthesis was the highest in the integrated solar radiation of 2.09 MJ·m-2 and 1.25 MJ·m-2 the lowest in the integrated solar radiation of 3.35 MJ·m-2. The growth of single-node cutting rose `Versillia' at 1.25 MJ·m-2 and 2.09 MJ·m-2 was better than 3.35 MJ·m-2 for stem length and fresh weight. Root activities of single-node cutting rose were significantly higher at 2.09 MJ·m-2 and 1.25 MJ·m-2 than those at 3.35 MJ·m-2. The irrigation control method using integrated solar radiation of 1.25-2.09 MJ·m-2 showed a improvement of plant growth and flower quality.
Investigating Professional Chefs' Demand for Edamame (Glycine max)
Authors: Bernthal* Dru , Kelley Kathleen , Sánchez Elsa
Published: February 2019

A consumer-research study was conducted in Fall 2003 to determine professional chefs' preferences for edamame or vegetable soybean (Glycine max) cultivars, their estimated demand for edamame and their interest in acquiring edamame from local Pennsylvania growers. Twenty chefs in the Metro-Philadelphia area were provided with shelled (beans removed from the pod) and unshelled edamame of three cultivars, `Early Hakucho,' `Green Legend', and `Kenko,' and asked to create a recipe using edamame as an ingredient. Chefs were also asked to rate the edamame cultivars based on overall appeal and firmness and complete a follow-up survey on their preferences for the edamame provided, prior use and interest in locally grown edamame. Chefs preferred shelled `Green Legend' edamame, but many indicated that all cultivars were acceptable. The majority of chefs also noted that they were “very likely” to use edamame as an ingredient in a recipe again and 70% noted that they were interested in obtaining contact information for small-acreage growers in Pennsylvania who produce edamame. Results indicate that there is likely a demand for edamame amongst chefs in the Metro-Philadelphia area. Results from this study will be used to develop a marketing strategy for small-acreage growers.
Poinsettia Consumer Survey Reveals Preferred Cultivars
Authors: Catanzaro* Christopher , Kamake Haval , Bhatti Sarabjit
Published: February 2019

A poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima Willd. ex Klotzsch) open house was held at the TSU main campus farm in Dec. 2003, during which a high quality finished plant of each of 21 cultivars was on display (supplied by Dummen USA and Ecke in August as rooted cuttings). The cultivars varied in inflorescence color and pattern, plant size and plant growth habit. Members of the campus community, the Tennessee Flower Growers Association, extension personnel, and the general public attended. Most attendees completed a written survey (n = 173), in which they rated how strongly they liked or disliked each cultivar. Cultivars were rated on a Likert-type scale (1 = strongly dislike, 7 = strongly like). Highly rated cultivars (mean >6) included `Premium Red', `Infinity Red', `Spotlight Dark Red', `Coco 2000 Red', `Merlot', `Prestige', `Freedom', and `Premium Hot Pink'. Less preferred (mean <4.4) were `Premium Marble', `Mirage', and `Limelight'. Although no cultivars were strongly disliked, the large, traditional red cultivars were preferred. Attendees also provided information on demographics and plant purchases. The typical attendee was a 40- to 59-year-old female with a college education and 2 to 3 people in the household with a total income of $25,000-50,000. Eighty percent bought poinsettias in 2002, with an average of 3.7 plants purchased. Eighty percent of plants purchased were red, and color was the most important selection feature. Results suggest that although most consumers prefer traditional red cultivars, a niche market exists for plants with novel inflorescence colors and unique bract and leaf coloration patterns and shapes.
Economic Assessment of Marketing U.S. Sweetpotatoes in the United Kingdom
Authors: Picha* David , Hinson Roger
Published: February 2019

Opportunities for marketing United States (U.S.) sweetpotatoes in the United Kingdom (U.K.) are expanding, particularly within the retail sector. The U.K. import volume has steadily increased in recent years. Trade statistics indicate the U.K. imported nearly 12 thousand metric tons of sweetpotatoes in 2002, with the U.S. providing slightly over half of the total import volume. Considerable competition exists among suppliers and countries of origin in their attempts to penetrate the U.K. market. Currently, over a dozen countries supply sweetpotatoes to the U.K., and additional countries are planning on sending product in the near future. An economic assessment of production and transport costs was made among the principal supplying nations to estimate their comparative market advantages. Price histories for sweetpotatoes in various U.K. market destinations were compiled to determine seasonality patterns. Comparisons of net profit (or loss) between U.S. and U.K. market destinations were made to determine appropriate marketing strategies for U.S. sweetpotato growers/shippers. Results indicated the U.K. to be a profitable and increasingly important potential market for U.S. sweetpotatoes.
Root-knot Nematode Resistance in Capsicum chinense: Development of Resistant Habanero-type Cultivars
Authors: Fery* Richard L. , Thies Judy A.
Published: February 2019

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are major pests of pepper (Capsicum spp.) in the United States, and parasitism of susceptible plants can result in severe yield losses. Although cultivars belonging to the species C. annuum account for most of the peppers grown in the United States. Habanero-type cultivars belonging to the species C. chinense are becoming increasingly popular. Unfortunately, all commercial Habanero-type cultivars are susceptible to root-knot nematodes. In 1997, the USDA released three C. chinense germplasm lines that exhibit high levels of resistance to root-knot nematodes. The resistance in these lines is conditioned by a single dominant gene, and this gene conditions resistance to the southern root-knot nematode (M. incognita), the peanut root-knot nematode (M. arenaria race 1), and the tropical root-knot nematode (M. javanica). A recurrent backcross breeding procedure has been used to transfer the C. chinense root-knot nematode resistance gene in Habanero-type germplasm. Several root-knot nematode resistant, Habanero-type candidate cultivars have been developed. Each of these Habanero-type candidate cultivars has a compact plant habit and produces a high yield of orange-colored, lantern-shaped fruit.