bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tolerance of lowbush blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.) to drought stress. I. Soil water and yield component analysis
Authors: Glass V. M. , Percival D. C. , Proctor J. T.A.
Published: April 2011

A 2-yr field study examining the effects of drought conditions on the vegetative and reproductive components of the lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.) was completed at the Nova Scotia Wild Blueberry Institute (NSWBI), Debert, NS, in 1998 and 1999. Drought and irrigation treatments were applied over 2 yr in either or both the vegetative and cropping years of production. In general, during the 2-yr study of the vegetative stage, soil moisture levels in the uppermost 0- to 15-cm depth were low (5 to 22%) due to lack of rainfall and increased plant demand. Although berry weight was not affected by drought treatments, berry number was > 50% higher in response to irrigation in both the vegetative and cropping years. From yield component analysis, it was concluded that node number increased at the expense of floral zone length in response to drought-stress. It appeared that the wild blueberry has adapted to partition its resources into vegetative growth under soil moisture limiting conditions, and into reproductive growth when moisture levels are sufficient. Key words: Yield, path analysis, irrigation, drought
Development of a new field inoculation technique to assess partial resistance in soybean to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Auclair J. , Boland G. J. , Cober E. , Graef G. L. , Steadman J. R. , Zilka J. , Rajcan I.
Published: April 2011

The use of appropriate techniques to assess disease resistance is crucial to understanding the genetic control of host resistance to pathogens to develop resistant plant varieties. The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a novel field-based inoculation technique for sclerotinia stem rot in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary. The barley kernel inoculation technique involves stem inoculation using an infected barley kernel inserted into a wound made in the soybean stem. The damage on soybean plants is measured by the length of the lesion on inoculated stem and expressed as inoculation severity index (ISI). Soybean varieties were evaluated for 2 yr at different sites using the barley kernel inoculation technique, and compared with other controlled environment and natural infection-based techniques. The ISIs obtained at Elora, ON, were significantly correlated (r = 0.21, P = 0.021) between the 2 test years (1998 and 1999), and in 1998 with natural infection [as measured by the disease severity index, DSI] at the same location (r = 0.31; P = 0.0005). Using a small set of lines that were specifically selected over several years to respond to DSI, the correlation between the DSI from some locations and years and the ISI in 1999 was negative. The significant positive correlations obtained using soybean lines that were not previously selected for DSI suggest the potential of this technique for pre-screening the breeding material for partial resistance to sclerotinia stem rot prior to confirmation with natural infection levels as measured by DSI. This may be of value to soybean breeders trying to develop soybean lines partially resistant to sclerotinia stem rot because of the difficulty in obtaining consistent and reliable DSI scores across locations and over years. Key words: Sclerotinia stem rot, white mould, inoculation, resistance, soybean
Transgenic tobacco expressing an Arisaema heterophyllum agglutinin gene displays enhanced resistance to aphids
Authors: Xiuyun Zhao Jianhong Yao, , Bingliang Wan Huaxiong Qi, , Xiaofen Sun Fei Chen, , Yu Shanqian , Tang Kexuan
Published: April 2011

Tobacco leaf discs were transformed with a plasmid, pBIAHA, containing the selectable marker neomycin phosphotransferase gene (nptII) and an Arisaema heterophyllum agglutinin gene (aha) via Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation. Thirty-two independent transgenic tobacco plants were regenerated. PCR and Southern blot analyses confirmed that multiple copies of the aha gene had integrated into the plant genome. Northern blot analysis revealed that the aha gene was expressed at various levels in the transgenic plants. Insect bioassay test showed that transgenic plants expressing multiple copies of the aha gene reduced the rate of population increase of the peach potato aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer). This is the first report that transgenic tobacco plants expressing the aha gene display enhanced resistance to aphids. Key words: Insect bioassay, Arisaema heterophyllum agglutinin, transformation, transgenic tobacco, peach potato aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer)
Impact of powdery mildew on the yield of soft white spring wheat cultivars
Authors: Conner R. L. , Kuzyk A. D. , Su H.
Published: April 2011

The effect of powdery mildew (Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici) on the grain yield and protein content of one susceptible, Springfield, and three moderately resistant cultivars, Fielder, AC Reed and AC Nanda, of soft white spring wheat (Triticum aestivum) was examined at two field locations near Lethbridge and Vauxhall, Alberta, in 1999 and 2000. At the start of heading, powdery mildew development was suppressed in half of the plots of each cultivar by a single spray application of the fungicide Tilt (propiconazole). Severe powdery mildew infection of the susceptible cultivar Springfield resulted in yield reductions ranging from 11.4 to 19.9%. The grain yield of the moderately resistant cultivar Fielder was significantly reduced at both sites in 1999 by 7.6–10.5% while AC Reed suffered a significant yield loss (7.6–9.1%) at Lethbridge in both years. The moderately resistant cultivar AC Nanda consistently had the lowest powdery mildew ratings and its yield was unaffected by the disease. A single fungicide application prevented disease buildup on the moderately resistant cultivars, but not on Springfield. The grain protein content of the moderately resistant cultivars was unaffected by powdery mildew, but it decreased in Springfield by 0.6–0.7%. Key words: Powdery mildew, Propiconazole, Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici, wheat, Triticum aestivum, resistance
Distribution of deoxynivalenol in Gibberella-infected food-grade corn kernels
Authors: Schaafsma A. W. , Frégeau-Reid J. , Phibbs T.
Published: April 2011

The objective of this study was to determine the distribution of deoxynivalenol (DON) in whole corn and milled corn fractions to provide management guidelines for corn producers and corn processors. Naturally contaminated, food grade corn from six commercial producers was cleaned on a commercial gravity table cleaner. Whole grain from the densest fraction produced by the gravity table was separated into germ, pericarp and endosperm fractions using a barley pearler. The DON level in the densest fraction was about 40% of the total DON in the original uncleaned grain. When the kernels were pearled, over 80% of the kernel weight was endosperm. The endosperm fraction contained 20% of the original DON. Approximately 25% of the DON was found in the germ portion of the kernel and 55% was retained in the pericarp. The concentration of DON in the endosperm fraction was one-eighth that of the original cleaned kernels. Key words: Fusarium, corn, kernel-fractions, deoxynivalenol, density
Harvest management affects yield and persistence of birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.) in cool summer climates
Authors: McKenzie D. B. , Papadopoulos Y. A. , McRae K. B.
Published: April 2011

Two studies determined the effect of birdsfoot trefoil harvest managements on persistence, productivity, and species composition under cool summer growing conditions. Single and double cut managements were harvested at 10, 50, and 100% bloom; triple cuts and simulated grazing were also evaluated. Double cut harvest management produced considerably more dry matter yield (DMY) in the first production year, but its advantage over single cuts in the second year depended on bloom at harvest. Harvesting at 10% bloom for single (and perhaps double) cuts appears to be the best system based on DMY, trefoil content, and stand density. Key words: Lotus corniculatus L., growth stage, stand density, simulated grazing, cool climate
How well do early-generation quality tests predict flour performance?
Authors: Kaur K. , Lukow O. M. , Preston K. R. , Malcolmson L. J.
Published: April 2011

A wide range of flours varying in prote in content, strength and baking quality were used to investigate the relationship between early-generation screening tests at the Cereal Research Centre, advanced generation testing at the Grain Research Laboratory (GRL) and pilot-scale commercial testing at the Canadian International Grains Institute (CIGI) and Warburton Foods Ltd. Correlations among flour protein content, mixograph, farinograph and baking characteristics were performed. Strong correlations were found between protein content, mixograph peak height and mixograph total energy with baking water absorption at advanced, and pilot-scale commercial levels of baking, which gave a good indication of all baking quality parameters. Mixograph characteristics and protein content from early generation tests furnished information that correlated with baking data and with farinograph measurements. Key words: Protein content, mixograph, farinograph, early-generation test, pilot-scale commercial baking
Impacts of using polyethylene sleeves and wavelength selective mulch in vineyards. II. Effects on growth, leaf gas exchange, yield components and fruit quality of Vitis vinifera cv. Merlot
Authors: Bowen P. A. , Bogdanoff C. P. , Estergaard B.
Published: April 2011

Response of Merlot vines to wavelength-selective polyethylene mulch in the planted row and clear polyethylene enclosures (sleeves) around canes or cordons for 7 wk in the spring was studied in three Okanagan Valley vineyards. The mulch had no detectable effects on vine development, yield components and fruit quality. The sleeves advanced budbreak by 3 to 6 d, depending on the vineyard site, and increased the early growth rate of shoots. Time of budbreak and shoot growth rate were better predicted by cumulative daily mean temperature than by cumulative degree days (base 10°C). On the day sleeves were removed or opened at top, photosynthesis rates were higher in open-top sleeves than under ambient conditions due to higher mesophyll and stomatal conductances. Sleeves advanced the date of 50% bloom in all vineyards by approximately 10 d. Time of bloom, onset of veraison and the rate of fruit maturation were predictable from degree day accumulation. Sleeves advanced fruit maturation by 7 to 26 d, depending on the site, and reduced juice titratable acidity relative to °Brix at the coolest site. Sleeve effects on yield and yield components were inconsistent among sites. Sleeves reduced yield at one site due to lower cluster weights and apparently fewer berries per cluster. At another site, higher berry weights compensated for the apparent reduction in the number of berries per cluster in response to sleeves, and there was no effect on yield. At the third site, berry weights were lower in response to sleeves, likely in compensation for a higher number of berries per cluster. At one site where vines were shoot-thinned to retain primary shoots in the following year, the number of clusters per vine was unaffected by the treatments indicating that the treatments had no effect on bud fruitfulness. Key words: Wine grapes, photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, mesophyll conductance, plasticulture
Effect of seeding date on canola seed quality and seed vigour
Authors: Gusta L. V. , Johnson E. N. , Nesbitt N. T. , Kirkland K. J.
Published: April 2011

Seedling vigour is a key critical component to produce well-established canola (Brassica napus) seedlings under less than ideal conditions in western Canada. Our objective was to determine if seed lots from late October (fall) or early spring (April) seeding dates improve seed vigour relative to mid-May (May) seeding dates. We compared seed size, seed maturity, germination percentage, and seedling emergence under controlled-environment conditions from six seed lots obtained from fall-sown (1997, 1998), April-sown (1998, 1999) and May-sown canola (1998, 1999) cv. Quest. On average, 80% of fall-derived seed for both years was larger than 1.7 mm compared to only 32% for May-derived canola seed. April-derived seed was intermediate. Fall and April derived seed were considered 40% mature compared to 16% for May-derived seed. In germination tests at 8°C, May derived seed germinated and emerged slower with a lower total germination percentage compared to falland April-derived seed lots. Priming reduced differences in emergence between the seed lots. Field studies at Scott, SK, sown in the fall of 1999 and 2000, and in early May of 2000 demonstrated that seed derived from fall- and April-sown canola produced higher plant densities, higher biomass at bolting, and higher seed yield than seed derived from May-sown canola. Yield was 10 to 45% less from seed derived from May-sown canola than seed derived from fall- and April-sown canola. This study established the impact of seeding date on seed quality and vigour, which in turn affected emergence, seedling vigour and yield. Also, seed vigour slowly declined within 1 yr, primarily with seed derived from the May-sown canola. Key words: Canola, Brassica napus, vigour (seed), seeding (fall), emergence, yield (quality)
Management of powdery mildew in flowering dogwood in the field with biorational and conventional fungicides
Authors: Mmbaga M. T. , Sauvé R. J.
Published: April 2011

In a 2 yr study, control of powdery mildew on flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.) by four biorational and four conventional fungicides was assessed on seedlings and on 3 yr liners in the field. Biorational fungicides applied were three household soaps containing 0.2% triclosan (Irgasan® DP 300)—Ajax® liquid hand soap, Equate® liquid dish soap and Palmolive® liquid dish soap-and potassium bicarbonate salt. Conventional fungicides applied were propiconazole, thiophanate methyl, azoxystrobin and copper sulfate pentahydrate. All products controlled powdery mildew compared with water controls. Application of the biorational fungicides on a weekly basis was as effective as propiconazole and thiophanate methyl and more effective than azoxystrobin and copper sulfate pentahydrate. Application of some biorational products at semi-monthly intervals was slightly less effective. Of the biorational fungicides, Palmolive® was the most effective but was phytotoxic, whereas Ajax®, Equate® and potassium bicarbonate were not. When three applications of any biorational fungicide were rotated with one application of propiconazole, the incidence of powdery mildew was less than when a fungicide rotation was not included. Plant growth was enhanced with either biorational or conventional fungicides compared with water controls. Propiconazole treatments resulted in the highest growth rates, whereas biorational products were as effective in promoting growth as thiophanate methyl, azoxystrobin or copper sulfate pentahydrate. The incorporation of biorational fungicides in a powdery mildew disease management program may have economic and environmental benefits because they are less costly than conventional fungicides and presumed safer to the environment and the applicators. Key words: Cornus florida L., Erysiphe (sect. Microsphaera) pulchra, Microsphaera pulchra, Oidium spp, Phyllactinia guttata
Comparison of weed control strategies in glyphosateresistant soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Ivany J. A.
Published: April 2011

Glyphosate-resistant soybean cultivars with low corn heat unit requirements have only recently become available in the Atlantic region of Canada. In a field experiment near Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, in 1998 and 1999, we evaluated the effect of time of application of glyphosate and application of selected herbicides, flumetsulam, metolachlor, imazethapyr, metribuzin, and bentazon on weed control and tolerance and yield of three glyphosate-resistant soybean cultivars having different maturity ratings. Glyphosate was applied at 0.90 kg ai ha-1 at the first, second or third trifoliate leaf stage, and sequentially at the first and third or second and third trifoliate stages. The sequential treatments of glyphosate resulted in 89 to 100% weed control, and yields achieved with glyphosate applied at the second or third trifoliate stages did not usually differ from sequential treatments. The other selected herbicides did not injure the cultivars and within the group, all treatments resulted in comparable yields. Species that emerge in a single early-season flush were controlled at 6 wk after treatment with glyphosate applied as a single application, but not on a species such as wild radish that have later flushes or emerge throughout the season. Glyphosate applied as a single application at the late second to third trifoliate stage can provide optimum weed control and crop yield with lower herbicide cost than an alternative herbicide treatment. Key words: Herbicide timing, narrow-row soybean, soybean cultivars, 2601R, 2701R, S14-M7
CDC Striker field pea
Authors: Albert Vandenberg Tom Warkentin, , Banniza Sabine , Slinkard Al
Published: April 2011

CDC Striker, a green cotyledon field pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivar, was released in 2002 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan, for distribution to Select seed growers in Saskatchewan and Alberta through the Variety Release Committee of the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers. CDC Striker has a semileafless leaf type, good lodging resistance, medium-sized, round seeds, and good yield potential. CDC Striker is adapted to the field pea growing region of western Canada. Key words: Field pea, Pisum sativum L., cultivar description
Effect of fertilizer on seed yield of alfalfa under irrigation in Saskatchewan
Authors: Gossen B. D. , Ukrainetz H. , Soroka J. J.
Published: April 2011

The impact of fertilizers containing macro- and micro-nutrients on seed production of alfalfa under irrigation in Saskatchewan was assessed. Trials were conducted on a Sutherland clay loam at Saskatoon, SK, from 1986 to 1991, and in a commercial field on Asquith sandy loam near Outlook, SK, from 1990 to 1993. Nutrients (primarily combinations of P, K, S) were applied at establishment (in-row with seed, side-banded, or broadcast and incorporated prior to seeding), and/or broadcast on the soil surface each year. Seed yield at both sites was excellent for the region, and application of fertilizer had little or no impact on yield. At sites with adequate initial soil fertility, as indicated by soil testing, alfalfa may not require added fertilizer to maintain high levels of seed production. Key words: Medicago sativa, lucerne
Leaf and stem nutritive value of timothy genotypes under varying N fertilization
Authors: Bélanger G. , Brégard A. , Michaud R. , Tremblay G. F.
Published: April 2011

Populations and half-sib families of timothy (Phleum pratense L.), contrasting in forage N concentration, were studied in two experiments conducted in growth rooms with varying N applications. They differed in leaf and stem in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) of DM and in vitro cell wall digestibility (IVCWD), and in stem neutral detergent fiber (NDF) concentration; this confirms the presence of genetic variability for leaf and stem nutritive value in timothy under both limiting and non-limiting N conditions. Key words: Digestibility, grasses, Phleum pratense, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber
ARC Mountain View June grass
Authors: Woosaree J. , Acharya S. N. , Darroch B. A.
Published: April 2011

ARC Mountain View June grass, Koleria macrantha (Ledeb.) J.A. Schultes, also called Koeleria cristata L., Koeleria gracilis Pers. or Koeleria nitida Nutt. (Looman 1978), is a June grass cultivar developed for reclamation and revegetation of disturbed sites. This is the first June grass cultivar released for commercial production by the Alberta Research Council. This cultivar is adapted to the prairie grassland and foothills where it can establish and grow well and produce viable seed. Field observations indicate that ARC Mountain View June grass can tolerate drought and winter conditions of the Canadian prairies and the foothills of Alberta. Key words: June grass, Koleria macrantha, Koeleria cristata, reclamation, revegetation, cultivar description, native grasses
Soil and fertilizer phosphorus: Effects on plant P supply and mycorrhizal development
Authors: Grant Cynthia , Bittman Shabtai , Montreal Marcia , Plenchette Christian , Morel Christian
Published: April 2011

Plants require adequate P from the very early stages of growth for optimum crop production. Phosphorus supply to the crop is affected by soil P, P fertilizer management and by soil and environmental conditions influencing P phytoavailability and root growth. Phosphorus uptake in many crops is improved by associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Cropping system and long-term input of P through fertilizers and manures can influence the amount and phytoavailability of P in the system and the development of mycorrhizal associations. Optimum yield potential requires an adequate P supply to the crop from the soil or from P additions. Where early-season P supply is low, P fertilization may improve P nutrition and crop yield potential. Alternately, under low-P conditions, encouragement of arbuscular mycorrhizal associations may enhance P uptake by crops early in the growing season, improving crop yield potential and replacing starter fertilizer P applications. Soil P supply that exceeds P requirements of the crop may preclude mycorrhizal development. To encourage arbuscular mycorrhizal association, threshold levels of soil solution P that restrict mycorrhizal development must not be exceeded. Sustainable P management practices must be applied both in conventional and in alternative biologically based agricultural systems. Key words: Microbiology, fertility, colonization
The biology of Canadian weeds. 131. Polygonum aviculare L.
Authors: Costea Mihai , Tardif François J.
Published: April 2011

A review and assessment of biological information as well as personal data are provided for Polygonum aviculare in Canada. The species has been revised taxonomically and the six subspecies that occur in Canada are presented. Three of the subspecies, P. aviculare subsp. aviculare, P. aviculare subsp. neglectum and P. aviculare subsp. depressum are weeds introduced to Canada from Europe. A fourth subspecies, P. aviculare subsp. buxiforme is apparently native to North America. The geographical distribution of the latter four subspecies is very wide. Plants exhibit a high phenotypic plasticity and genetic variability, and they easily adapt to a multitude of agrestal and ruderal habitats. The seeds have a variable dormancy and polymorphic germination as a result of heterocarpy, genetic and environmental factors. In other areas (Europe), the species has developed resistance to triazines. Plants are hosts to nematodes, viruses, and fungi that also affect cultivated plants. Key words: POLAV, ecology, distribution, taxonomy
Long-term marketable yields of horticultural crops in southern Ontario in relation to seasonal climate
Authors: McKeown Alan , Warland Jon , McDonald Mary Ruth
Published: April 2011

In Ontario, Canada, marketable yields of certain annual horticultural crops increased steadily from 1940 to the mid-1980s, then dramatically decreased and became highly variable. This was not seen in field crops such as soybean and corn. Standard climatological variables showed little correlation with yields of vegetable crops such as tomatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, onions and rutabagas. The number of hot days (defined as days with maximum temperature greater than 30°C) and number of days with precipitation were better correlated with cool-season vegetable crop yield. With these climate measures we identified a period of milder growing season climate, from 1961 to 1986, and there was a greater frequency of hot days before and after this period. This analysis shows that horticultural crops are more sensitive to specific synoptic events, such as periods of hot days, than to overall growing season climate, and their yields may provide an indicator of a changing climate. Key words: Horticultural yields, historical climate, weather
Construction and characterization of chromosome 1B specific DNA library of wheat
Authors: Zhang Fa-Yun , Yin Wei-Bo , Shi Rui , Hu Ying-Kao , Yan Yue-Ming , Chen Yu-Hong , Zhou Yi-Hua , Hu Jun , Wang Richard R.-C. , Hu Zan-Min
Published: April 2011

Chromosome 1B was microdissected and collected from chromosome spreads of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ‘Jing 411’), using a glass needle. DNA of the isolated chromosome was amplified in vitro by Sau3A linker adaptor-mediated polymerase chain reaction (LA-PCR). The second-round PCR products were verified by Southern hybridization using DIG-labeled genomic DNA of wheat. The results initially showed the DNA was from wheat genome. A pair of SSR primers specific to chromosome 1B was used to verify the origin of the PCR products from the isolated chromosome. The results confirmed that the PCR products originated from chromosome 1B. The second round of PCR products from chromosome 1B were cloned into plasmid pUCm-T vectors to create a chromosome-specific library, which included approximately 248 000 recombinant clones. Characterization of 100 randomly selected clones of the library showed that the insert size ranged between 0.5 and 2.0 kb, with an average of 1 kb. Randomly selected 288 clones were characterized with dot blot hybridization, of which 57.2% were medium/high copy clones and 42.8% low/single copy clones. The application of this technique to establish high-density molecular maps for chromosome 1B is discussed. Key words: Wheat, chromosome microdissection, chromosome-specific library
Infection of faba beans by Sclerotinia trifoliorum
Authors: Lithourgidis A. S.
Published: April 2011

The mode of penetration and the incubation time of Sclerotinia trifoliorum Eriks. were studied in one susceptible (Polycarpe) and one resistant (A-90) cultivar of faba beans (Vicia faba L.), and in one resistant population (A-207) of Vicia narbonensis L., after artificial inoculation in a growth chamber. The fungus penetrated almost all infected plants through the stomata (>96%). In the susceptible cultivar, symptoms of fungus infection appeared 10 h after artificial inoculation, whereas in the resistant cultivar and in the resistant population symptoms appeared after 22 and 16 h, respectively. Key words: Incubation, pathogenesis, penetration, Vicia faba L., Vicia narbonensis L.
Camptothecin production in Camptotheca acuminata cultured hydroponically and with nitrogen enrichments
Authors: Li Zhanhai , Liu Zhijun
Published: April 2011

Camptothecin (CPT), produced by Camptotheca acuminata Decaisne (Nyssaceae), is becoming a therapeutically important compound, and the demand for CPT is increasing dramatically. Feasibility of CPT production from C. acuminata in hydroponic culture was studied. As nitrogen (N) is required for the biosynthesis of the alkaloid CPT, CPT production in C. acuminata was studied in response to enrichments of 7.5, 15.0, 22.5, or 30.0 mM N in the culture medium. High concentrations of CPT were found in leaves of plants in hydroponic culture, but the N concentration in the culture medium did not affect tissue CPT concentration, plant weight, plant height, leaf number, lamina dry weight per area, total stem weight, total leaf weight, or total leaf CPT yield (the product of leaf CPT concentration and total leaf dry weight per plant). However, increasing the N concentration in the culture medium reduced leaf length and total root weight. We conclude that C. acuminata CPT production in hydroponic culture is feasible in terms of efficiency for CPT production, and is a potential alternative to culture in the field or in pots, or cell or callus culture, and that a standard low N rate in the culture medium is recommended. Key words: Anti-cancer compound, HPLC, medicinal plant
The effect of N and P fertilization on growth, seed yield and quality of industrial hemp in the Parkland region of Saskatchewan
Authors: Vera C. L. , Malhi S. S. , Raney J. P. , Wang Z. H.
Published: April 2011

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has sparked renewed interest in western Canada in recent years, and there is very little research information available on its fertilizer requirements. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of surface-broadcast ammonium nitrate and seedrow placed monoammonium phosphate fertilizers on the production and seed quality attributes of industrial hemp (cv. Fasamo and Finola). Field experiments were conducted on a Black Chernozem silty loam soil at Melfort, Saskatchewan, Canada, in 2000, 2001 and 2002. Increasing N rates significantly increased plant height, biomass, seed yield and seed protein content of hemp in all years. Seed-applied P fertilizer increased plant height in all years, and biomass in 2000, but reduced plant density, biomass and seed yield in 2001 and 2002. Finola consistently had lower plant height, earlier maturity, heavier seeds, and higher seed yield, seed protein content and seed oil content than Fasamo. The average amount of nitrate-N in the 0–60 cm soil was 40 kg N ha-1. Seed yield kg-1 of N was 9.4, 5.9, 4.5 and 3.7 kg ha-1 for Fasamo, and 10.6, 7.7, 6.0 and 4.5 kg ha-1 for Finola, respectively, at 40, 80, 120 and 160 kg ha-1 of soil plus fertilizer N. Key words: Fertilizer, hemp, nitrogen, phosphorus, rainfall, soil extractable P, soil nitrate-N, cultivars
Nitrogen and phosphorus fertility management for desi and kabuli chickpea
Authors: Walley Fran L. , Kyei-Boahen Steve , Hnatowich Garry , Stevenson Craig
Published: April 2011

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a relatively new crop in Saskatchewan and acreage has undergone a rapid expansion during the past decade. However, uncertainty remains regarding growth and yield responses of this grain legume to N and P fertilization under the semiarid environment of Saskatchewan. Field experiments were conducted at various locations in Saskatchewan to investigate chick pea response to starter N (0, 15, 30, and 45 kg N ha-1) and P (0, 20 and 40 kg P2O5 ha-1) using desi cv. Myles and kabuli cv. Sanford. Starter N was side banded (2.5 cm to the side and 4 cm below the seed) and the P was placed in the seed row or side banded. Starter N promoted early vegetative growth of both desi and kabuli chickpea, but kabuli seed yield was unaffected by N application. Application of 30 or 45 kg N ha-1 enhanced desi yield by as much as 221 kg ha-1. Starter N reduced N2 fixation by kabuli chickpea whereas N2 fixation by desi apparently was not as sensitive to inorganic N. Phosphorus (40 kg P2O5 ha-1) enhanced chickpea vegetative growth, although only desi seed yield was significantly enhanced (121 kg ha-1). Shoot N and P accumulation in both chickpea types generally increased with P application, but N2 fixation was unaffected. The results suggest that although N and P application had no effect on kabuli seed yield, desi yields may be optimized by the application of low rates of starter N (i.e., 30 kg N ha-1) and P (20 kg P2O5 ha-1). Key words: Chickpea, nitrogen, phosphorus, N2 fixation
2126 low linolenic flax
Authors: Dribnenki J. C.P. , McEachern S. F. , Chen Y. , Green A. G. , Rashid K. Y.
Published: April 2011

2126 was developed by Agricore United and combines very high oil content with high yield. In all soil zones of western Canada, the yield of 2126 was similar to the check cultivar, 1084. The 1000 seed weight, oil content and meal protein content of 2126 are significantly higher than 1084. 2126 has higher levels of linoleic fatty acid and lower levels of saturated fatty acids. It is immune to North American races of rust, is moderately resistant to Fusarium wilt and is moderately resistant to powdery mildew. 2126, 2090, 2047 and 1084 are yellow seedcoat, solin cultivars. Key words: Flax, low linolenic acid, cultivar description, solin
Bio-regulators improve fruit size and c olour and reduce crop-load and annual bearing of Honeycrisp™ apples
Authors: Embree C. G. , Nichols D. S.
Published: April 2011

Honeycrisp™ [Malus × domestica (L.) Borkh.] can be a very profitable cultivar if fruit quality is high. Some crop-load bio-regulators were evaluated for improving fruit quality and annual flowering. Ammonium thiosulphate applied at full bloom reduced crop-load, increased fruit weight, fruit colour and return bloom. Fruitone N® combined with Sevin XLR® reduced the percent of fruit in the 40–60% colour category and also crop-load. Fruitone N® alone reduced crop-load. Key words: Honeycrisp™, fruit thinning, crop-load, return bloom
Agronomic and seed quality evaluation of Camelina sativa in western Canada
Authors: Gugel R. K. , Falk K. C.
Published: April 2011

Renewed interest in Camelina sativa is primarily due to the unique fatty acid profile of the seed oil and its potential value in industry, cosmetics and human nutrition. To exploit C. sativa in western Canada, more information is needed on the performance of this crop in this region. Following a preliminary evaluation in 2001, replicated agronomic trials were conducted in 2002 and 2005 with 19 C. sativa and three oilseed Brassica accessions at Saskatoon and Scott, Saskatchewan and Beaverlodge, Alberta. The C. sativa accessions matured relatively early and were more tolerant of drought and flea beetle infestations than the Brassica oilseeds. Some C. sativa accessions had seed yields competitive with those of the Brassica oilseeds, but seed size was significantly smaller. Seed yields and oil contents of all crop species tested were highest at Beaverlodge, the most northern location. The Brassica oilseeds generally had higher oil contents than C. sativa; the highest oil contents of each crop species tested were associated with the lowest protein contents. In general, average oil and protein contents for C. sativa ranged from 38 to 43% and from 27 to 32%, respectively; for the Brassica checks, oil and protein contents ranged from 38 to 53% and from 21 to 33%, respectively, across all species. Variation in fatty acid composition was higher among the C. sativa accessions than among locations, but overall the ranges of individual fatty acids were relatively narrow. The most abundant fatty acids were oleic (12.8–14.7%), linoleic (16.3–17.2%), linolenic (36.2–39.4%) and eicosenoic (14.0–15.5%). The prospects of developing improved C. sativa germplasm for particular western Canadian environments are good; of primary importance are increased seed size and oil content. Additionally, stand establishment, fertility requirements and broadleaf weed control options need to be investigated. Acceptance of this species as a new oilseed crop for western Canada will also require developing sustainable markets for the oil and meal. Key words: Camelina sativa, seed quality, agronomic trait, oil and protein content, fatty acid
Response of lentil to microbial inoculation and low rates of fertilization in the semiarid Canadian prairies
Authors: Gan Y. , Hanson K. G. , Zentner R. P. , Selles F. , McDonald C. L.
Published: April 2011

The use of microbial inoculation may increase nodulation and seed yield of annual legumes. A study was conducted to determine the effect of formulations (seedapplied powder vs. soil-applied granular inoculants), placement of granular inoculants in soils (applied in the seed-row vs. sidebanded), and low rates of fertilizers in comparison to P-solubilizing microbes Penicillium bilaii on plant establishment, maturity, and seed yield of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) in the semiarid Canadian prairies. Green lentil was grown on a silt loam and a heavy clay soil in southwestern Saskatchewan from 1999 to 2002. Inoculated lentil with Rhizobium increased seed yield by 45% averaged across all 6 site-years. Granular soil inoculants increased lentil seed yield by 19% over seed-applied inoculants. Placement of soil inoculants in the seed row or side-bands produced similar results. On the silt loam soil, the use of rhizobial inoculants increased lentil seed yield by 15%, while the yield increase was 70% on the heavy clay. Starter N applied at a rate of 15 kg ha-1 increased seed yield by 13% for lentil grown on the heavy clay, but there was no effect on the silt loam. Phosphorus fertilizer applied at a rate 15 kg P ha-1 did not influence lentil establishment, growth or seed yield. Similarly, the P-solubilizing microbes P. bilaii did not influence plant growth or development, nor did it affect the seed yield of lentil. Soil granular rhizobial inoculants are preferred over seed-applied inoculants, fertilizers, or P-solubilizing microbes in lentil because of their strong and consistently positive impact on plant growth and seed yield in the semiarid Canadian prairies. Key words: Lens culinaris, nodulation, seed yield, Penicillium bilaii, P-solubilizing microbes
Strongfield durum wheat
Authors: Clarke J. M. , McCaig T. N. , DePauw R. M. , Knox R. E. , Clarke F. R. , Fernandez M. R. , Ames N. P.
Published: April 2011

Strongfield durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var durum) is adapted to the durum production area of the southern Canadian prairies. It combines high yield, high grain protein concentration, and low grain cadmium concentration. Strongfield has shorter, stronger straw than Kyle, and has similar maturity and disease resistance to other currently registered durum cultivars. Key words: Triticum turgidum L. var durum, durum wheat, cultivar description, yield, protein, disease resistance
RCAT Corbett soybean
Authors: Fischer J. D. , Stirling B. T. , Zhao G. , Ablett G. R.
Published: April 2011

RCAT Corbett is a 2850 crop heat unit (CHU) soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] cultivar with excellent yield potential, moderate lodging resistance and above-average seed protein levels. It was developed by the Ridgetown College, University of Guelph, and is adapted to the 2800-3000 CHU areas of Ontario. Key words: Soybean, cultivar description
Agronomical and chemical variability of Colchicum autumnale accessions
Authors: Poutaraud and P. Girardin A.
Published: April 2011

Meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale) is an undomesticated plant from whose seeds the alkaloids colchicine and colchicoside are extracted and used pharmaceutically. Research was conducted towards domesticating meadow saffron in which inter- and intra-genetic variability of accessions was studied. Colchicine, 3-demethylcolchicine and colchicoside were assayed in plants of six accessions collected from natural sites in eastern France. These were cultivated at two sites and studied during 1 or 2 yr. Plants from 70 initial transplanted corms of one accession were studied individually for 4 yr to determined intra-accession variability and, as spontaneous vegetative multiplication of corms occurred, comparisons among plants from one initial transplanted corm were also made. For the main characteristics, seed dry weight (SDW) per plant, alkaloid content and colchicine:colchicoside ratio, the inter-accession variability was lower than the intra-accession variability. The results suggest that vegetative propagation of selected genotypes could improve alkaloid content by about 80% and improve SDW per plant by about 300%. Key words: Colchicine, colchicoside, Colchicum autumnale, medicinal plant, genetic variability
Effect of previous crop and herbicides on weed growth and wheat yield
Authors: Moyer J. R. , Blackshaw R. E. , Doram R. C. , Huang H. C. , Entz T.
Published: April 2011

Field experiments were established in 1998, 1999 and 2000 at the Lethbridge Research Centre to examine the effect of preceding annual crops and accompanying recommended herbicides on weed infestations in following winter and spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Seven crops and fallow were established in year 1 with and without herbicides for weed control. In year 2, spring and winter wheat were grown without herbicides and with minimal fertilizer inputs to measure the effect of the previous crop and herbicides on weed and crop growth, available N and P, and available soil moisture. Lentil (Lens culinaris Medic) as a previous crop provided an environment that promoted wheat growth but not weed growth. In contrast, mustard (Brassica juncea L.) as a previous crop inhibited spring and winter wheat growth, but did not inhibit total weed biomass production in year 2. The beneficial effects of lentil and the detrimental effects of mustard were partially explained by available soil moisture and soil N for the second crop but additional factors, such as allelopathic chemicals or changes in soil biology, must be involved to cause the large differences in weed and wheat growth that were observed in year 2. The lack of herbicides with some crops led to dense weed populations in year 2. In addition, N, P, moisture utilization, and possible additional changes in soil biology or chemistry caused by uncontrolled weeds affected wheat yield after lentil and fallow. Key words: Available soil moisture, available soil nitrogen, crop rotation, lentil, mustard, weed density
CDC Cabri desi chickpea
Authors: Warkentin Tom , Banniza Sabine , Vandenberg Albert
Published: April 2011

CDC Cabri, a desi chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivar, was released in 2003 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan for distribution to Select seed growers in western Canada through the Variety Release Program of the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers. CDC Cabri has a pinnate leaf type, fair ascochyta blight [Ascochyta rabiei (Pass.) Labr.] resistance, medium maturity, large, plump seeds with tan coloured seed coat and good yielding ability in the Brown and Dark Brown soil zones of the Canadian prairies. Key words: Chickpea, Cicer arietinum L., cultivar description, ascochyta blight
Cultivar-specific management for seed production of creeping red fescue
Authors: Fairey N. A.
Published: April 2011

A study was conducted in the Peace River region of north-western Canada with three cultivars (Boreal, Jasper, Jasper E) of creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra L. var. rubra) to identify cultivar-specific management practices for seed production. Experimental treatments included four methods of establishment [Broadcast; 30-cm rows; 15-cm rows; 15-cm rows with sulfur (56 kg ha-1 SulFer 0-0-0-95)], 10 nitrogen (N as 34-0-0) fertilizer treatments, and three methods of post-harvest management prior to winter (flail mowing and residue removal; disc mowing and residue removal; short-duration, intensive grazing with sheep) plus crop residue removal at seed harvest. Total seed yield over 2 consecutive production years was greatest with 30-cm rows although a higher first-year yield was realized with 15-cm rows. In the first production year, establishment in rows produced higher seed yield than broadcasting but, in the second, the converse was true. Within-row supplementation with sulfur decreased the total seed yield over 2 yr by 7%. In the first, second and combined production years, Boreal produced 655, 372 and 1027 kg ha-1, respectively; for the corresponding production years, Jasper produced 56, 65 and 60% of Boreal, while Jasper E produced 58, 76 and 65% of Boreal. The endophyte (Neotyphodium spp. Glenn, Bacon, Price & Hanlin and Epichloe festucae Leuchtm., Schardl, & Siegel) infection of Jasper E had no consistent beneficial or detrimental effects on seed yield. For the year subsequent to the application of the post-harvest treatments, the effects of flail and disc mowing were similar (360 versus 347 kg ha-1 seed, respectively), whereas grazing reduced seed yield to 188 kg ha-1. Splitting the application of N in fall and spring resulted in similar seed yields to fall-only N. The response to N fertilizer differed for consecutive years of production; in the first production year, seed yield increased linearly over the range 38–114 kg ha-1 N, whereas in the second production year, rates in excess of 76 kg ha-1 N markedly suppressed seed yield. A fall application of 55–80 kg ha-1 N in the establishment year, and again after the seed harvest of the first production year, was sufficient to maximize the total seed yield over 2 consecutive production years. Cultivar-specific responses in seed yield to treatment interactions were too small for agronomic exploitation. Key words: Creeping red fescue, Festuca rubra, grass seed production, cultivar-specific management, establishment method, nitrogen fertility, post-harvest management
Non-destructive estimation of potato leaf chlorophyll and protein contents from hyperspectral measurements using the PROSPECT radiative transfer model
Authors: Botha E. J. , Zebarth B. J. , Leblon B.
Published: April 2011

Optimizing nitrogen (N) fertilization in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production by in-season measurements of potato N status may improve fertilizer N-use efficiency. Hyperspectral leaf reflectance and transmittance measurements can be used to assess potato N status by estimating leaf chlorophyll or N contents. This study evaluated the ability of the inverted PROSPECT radiative transfer model to predict leaf chlorophyll and N (as protein) contents. Trials were conducted with Russet Burbank and Shepody potato cultivars under different N fertility rates (0 to 300 kg N ha-1) in 2001 and 2002. Leaf reflectance and transmittance, leaf chlorophyll content, and leaf protein content were measured. Leaf chlorophyll and protein content correlated significantly (r = 0.16*, n = 584), but the relationship was strongly dependent on sampling date (r = 0.55* to 0.92*). Chlorophyll content was predicted with reasonable accuracy by the model, particularly in 2002. The low estimation accuracy in 2001 was probably related to sample variability induced by prolonged drought conditions. Protein content could not be predicted with any degree of accuracy by the model. The relative success of the PROSPECT model to predict chlorophyll content, and the good correlation between leaf chlorophyll and leaf N, suggests that it might be used as a component of a more complex leaf-canopy reflectance model to estimate chlorophyll content from reflectance spectra at the canopy level. Key words: Leaf reflectance, PROSPECT radiative transfer model, Solanum tuberosum
Impact of seeding rate and depth on mycosphaerella blight and seed yield of field pea
Authors: Hwang S. F. , Conner R. L. , Chang K. F. , Gossen B. D. , Su H. , Howard R. J. , Turnbull G. D.
Published: April 2011

Mycosphaerella blight (Mycosphaerella pinodes) occurs throughout western Canada and can severely reduce field pea (Pisum sativum) seed yield. Field trials were conducted at two sites (Edmonton, AB, and Morden, MB) from 2001 to 2003 to assess the impact of seeding rate and seeding depth on blight severity. Mycosphaerella blight severity in the canopy was greater at higher seeding rates; treatments seeded at 30 plants m-2 had lower levels of disease than those seeded at more than 100 seeds m-2. However, yield potential was reduced at low seeding densities. Depth of seeding did not affect seedling density, disease severity, yield or final seed weight. In addition, field trials were conducted at Edmonton to quantify yield losses associated with mycosphaerella blight in Alberta. In trials inoculated with M. pinodes, application of a foliar fungicide (chlorothalonil) increased yield by about 20% over the unprotected control. Key words: Pisum, Mycosphaerella, fungicide, crop management, yield loss