bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Producing and Marketing Strawberries for Direct Market Operations
Authors: Safley Charles D. , Poling E. Barclay , Wohlgenant Michael K. , Sydorovych Olga , Williams Ross F.
Published: December 2018

The costs associated with growing, harvesting and marketing strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) using the plasticulture production system were estimated to be $13,540/acre ($33,457/ha). Net revenue analysis showed that growers would have to charge at least $0.85 and $1.40/lb ($1.87 to $3.09/kg) for pick-your-own (PYO) and prepicked fruit, respectively, and sell 12,000 lb of berries per acre (13,449.9 kg·ha-1) to cover this expense. Break-even analysis indicated that growers would have to charge a PYO price of $0.65/lb ($1.43/kg) and $1.20/lb ($2.64/kg) for prepick berries and sell a minimum of 15,041 lb/acre (16,858.4 kg·ha-1) to cover the projected expenses. However, if a grower received $0.95 and $1.50/lb ($2.09 and $3.31/kg) for the PYO and prepicked fruit, respectively, he/she would only have to sell 10,622 lb of berries per acre (11,905.4 kg·ha-1) to break even. It was assumed that an average of 11.6 lb (5.26 kg) of fruit would be sold to PYO customers and an average of 7.1 lb (3.22 kg) would be sold to customers who visited the fruit stand. Under these assumptions, the breakeven yield of 14,724 lb/acre translates into a requirement to sell fruit to at least 1,539 customers per acre (3,802.8 customers/ha) at the lowest combination of prices while a yield of 10,398 lb/acre converts to a minimum of 1,087 customers per acre (2,685.9 customers/ha) at the higher prices. Customers were also surveyed at direct market operations in Spring 1999 to gain insight into consumer demographic characteristics, why customers select a specific PYO or prepick direct market strawberry outlet, average expenditures per customer, typical driving distances to direct market strawberry operations, and the effectiveness of advertising. Middle age, middle-income customers living within 10 miles (16.1 km) of the farm comprised the largest percentage of customers surveyed at the PYO operations, while middle age, high-income individuals who also live within 10 miles of the fruit stand were the largest group of respondents at the fruit stands. PYO customers spent an average of $10.30, and prepick consumers spent an average of $9.40 per visit. Less than 23% of all the respondents said that advertising influenced their shopping decision while >77% indicated that any type of advertisement did not influence their decision. Overall, convenient location was easily the major reason that customers decided to patronize a specific direct market outlet while personal referrals were second.
Preliminary Studies on Propagation of Osha
Authors: Panter Karen L. , Ashley Rebecca E. , Guernsey Karin M. , Johnson Caroline M.
Published: December 2018

Osha (Ligusticum porteri) is a perennial plant native to the Rocky Mountain region of the United States and has been used as a medicinal herb to alleviate certain ailments caused by viruses, yeasts, and other microbes. It is generally harvested in the wild and is believed to be in danger of overharvest. The objectives of this study were to determine if osha could be grown successfully from seeds, seeds still attached to umbels, root cuttings, and/or vegetative crown cuttings. Seeds were harvested from the wild in Fall 2000. Roots were collected in May 2001. Seeds, either detached or attached to umbels, were given one of four treatments: 1) no stratification; 2) 6 weeks at 4.4 °C (40 °F); 3) 4 weeks each alternating 4.4 °C, then 12 hour 20.0 °C (68 °F) and 12 hours 30.0 °C (86 °F); or 4) 12 weeks at 4.4 °C. Roots were divided into crown cuttings, each containing a vegetative node, and were placed on a 21.1 °C (70 °F) mist propagation bench until rooted. Twelve weeks of stratification, whether seed was detached or attached to umbels, were beneficial for germination of osha seeds, but only gave about 11% emergence. Propagation from root cuttings was not successful. Propagation via vegetative crown cuttings was most successful, with 90% of cuttings rooting. Vegetative propagation of osha appears to be the most promising method, preferable over seed propagation.
Influence of Watermelon Mosaic Virus on Slicing Cucumber Farmgate Revenues
Authors: Walters S. Alan
Published: December 2018

Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) is often the most limiting factor to cucumber (Cucumis sativus) production in the midwestern U.S. The influence of WMV on farm-gate revenues for nine slicing cucumber (or fresh market cucumber) cultivars was determined under high WMV disease incidence during 2000 and 2001. Over the two growing seasons, most cucumber cultivars produced excessive amounts of unmarketable WMV symptomatic fruit; however, no WMV symptoms were observed on any fruit produced by `Daytona' or `Indy'. `Thunder' produced some WMV symptomatic fruit but was significantly (P ≤ 0.05) less than that produced by all other cucumber cultivars, except for `Daytona' and `Indy.' Consistent high total farm gate-revenues over both years were produced by `Daytona' and `Indy' compared to other cucumber cultivars evaluated with the exception of `Thunder'. `Daytona,' `Indy,' and `Thunder' tended to produce greater early-season farm-gate revenues. However, late-season revenues of `Thunder' were reduced compared to `Daytona' and `Indy'. `Dasher II,' `General Lee,' `Greensleeves,' `Marketmore 76,' `Speedway,' and `Turbo' produced excessive amounts of unmarketable WMV symptomatic fruit which led to reduced farm-gate revenues. Cucumber cultivars without some level of resistance to WMV produced substantially less cumulative farm-gate revenues than those that had some level of resistance. `Daytona,' `Indy,' and `Thunder' were not the highest yielding cucumber cultivars evaluated in this study, but produced the highest farm-gate revenues due to higher levels of genetic resistance to WMV.
Potential Acaricides for Management of Blueberry Bud Mite in Michigan Blueberries
Authors: Isaacs Rufus , Morrone Vicki , Gajek Dariusz
Published: December 2018

The goal of this study was to evaluate potential alternatives to endosulfan for control of the blueberry bud mite (Acalitus vaccinii), because the availability of this acaricide may be restricted in the future. Laboratory evaluations of potential acaricides showed that endosulfan and a combination of abamectin plus oil provided 97% and 100% control, respectively. Pyridaben and fenpropathrin were less effective, reducing mite survival by 49% and 57%, respectively. Further laboratory evaluation of the abamectin plus oil treatment showed that each component applied alone provided a high level of control of blueberry bud mite. Field trials in Michigan on a mature highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) planting were conducted to compare control of this pest by postharvest applications of endosulfan, delayed-dormant application of oil, or a combination of both treatments. The oil provided a 40% reduction in mite scores, while endosulfan was more effective (48%) and similar to the combination of endosulfan and oil (52%). A separate field trial using a multifan/nozzle sprayer that applied the pesticide in 233.8 L·ha-1 (25 gal/acre) of water suggested that the level of control from one application of endosulfan was not as effective as two applications. Results are discussed in relation to developing future bud mite control programs in blueberry and the need to address gaps in our understanding of the biology of blueberry bud mite. Endosulfan (Thiodan 50 WP), Endosulfan (Thiodan 3 EC), Abamectin (AgriMek 0.15 EC), Fenpropathrin (Danitol 2.4 EC), Pyridaben (Pyramite 60 WP).
Growth of Barberry Liners in Media Amended with Noncomposted Recycled Waste
Authors: Kahtz Anthony W. , Gawel Nick J.
Published: December 2018

One-year-old `Royal Burgundy' barberry (Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea) liners were potted in 1-gal (3.8-L) containers. Container media consisted of noncomposted recycled waste mixed at rates of 0% (control), 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% by volume with a (by volume) 3 pine bark: 2 peat: 1 sand media. Treatments were replicated eight times. Three grams (0.1 oz) of Osmocote 13-10-13 (13N-4.37P-10.8K) with micronutrients were topdressed on all containers. Media electrical conductivity (EC) and pH readings were recorded every fifteen days over the course of 5 months. Dry shoot, root, and total weights were recorded at the end of the project and a foliar analysis was performed for nutrient and metal content. Results indicate a general trend of higher EC with greater volumes of recycled waste. EC levels for the control and 25% treatment were within recommendations for the optimal plant growth of plants for the duration of the study. All treatments had an acceptable pH level for plant growth. Nitrogen levels were below the recommended foliar analysis sufficiency range. Levels of phosphorus and potassium were above or within the recommended foliar analysis sufficiency range. Metals were below or within recommended ranges for all treatments. Total dry weights revealed no statistical difference between the control, 25%, 50%, and 75% treatments. This study indicates that 25% noncomposted recycled waste could be used in container media for production of `Royal Burgundy' barberry.
Producing Woody Floral Products in an Alleycropping System in Nebraska
Authors: Josiah Scott J. , Brott Heidi , Brandle James R.
Published: December 2018

Producers in the central United States are showing considerable interest in growing alternative crops such as specialty forest products for food, herbal medicinal, decorative floral and craft markets. Crops showing particular promise are shrubs and trees that produce decorative woody stems such as curly willow (Salix matsudana), scarlet curls willow (S. matsudana `Scarlet Curls'), french `Scarlet Curls'), french pussy willow (S. caprea), red twig dogwood (Cornus sericea), and branches of flowering trees and shrubs, including apple (Malus spp.), cherry (spp.), cherry (Prunus spp.), and forsythia (Forsythia spp.). spp.). The objectives of this study were to 1) determine yields and performance of 10 woody plant cultivars used in the floral industry, and planted in an alley-cropping configuration, and 2) quantify wholesale prices, establishment and maintenance costs, management and harvest labor inputs, and financial returns by cultivar. Production and performance data are derived from a 40-acre (16.2-ha) alleycropping trial in Nebraska containing 10 species or cultivars of shrubs that produce woody florals. Results are based on two harvests that commenced two and three growing seasons after establishment. Harvested woody stem size and quality were measured and determined, and sold to wholesale florists to determine prices and identify buyer requirements. Annual gross financial returns ranged from a high of $24.94/plant for scarlet curls willow to a low of $0.63/plant for bloodtwig dogwood (C. sanguinea var. atrosanguinea), while net returns per plant for these species ranged from a positive $17.46 to a loss of $1.30. Financial returns varied among species and cultivars due to the combined effects of annual marketable stem production, harvesting and processing labor requirements, and price/stem. Stem production increased over time due to subsequent coppicing of harvested plants. Overall findings indicate that commercial production of selected cultivars of woody florals in an alleycropping arrangement can be a profitable alternative to using conventional woody species.
Nitrogen and Cotton Gin Waste Enhance Effectiveness of Pine Bark Soil Amendment
Authors: Sloan R. Crofton , Harkess Richard L. , Kingery William L.
Published: December 2018

Urban soils are often not ideal planting sites due to removal of native topsoil or the mixing of topsoil and subsoil at the site. Adding pine bark based soil amendments to a clay soil altered soil bulk density and soil compaction which resulted in improved plant growth. Addition of nitrogen (N) or cotton gin waste to pine bark resulted in improved plant growth compared to pine bark alone. Growth of pansies (Viola × wittrockiana) during the 1999-2000 winter growing season was enhanced by the addition of pine bark plus nitrogen at 3- and 6-inch (7.6- and 15.2-cm) application rates (PBN3 and PBN6) and pine bark plus cotton gin waste at the 6 inch rate (CGW6). Plant size and flower production of vinca (Catharanthus roseus) were reduced by pine bark amendments applied at 3- or 6-inch rates (PB3 or PB6). Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) grown in plots amended with 3 or 6 inches of pine bark plus cotton gin waste (CGW3 or CGW6) and pine bark plus nitrogen at 3- or 6-inch rates (PBN3 or PBN6) produced greater shoot growth than other amendment treatments. In some instances PB3 treatments suppressed growth. High levels of N and soluble salts derived from CGW and PBN soil amendments incorporated into the soil probably contributed to the improved plant growth observed in this experiment.
Tolerance of Greenhouse-grown Strawberries to Terbacil as Influenced by Cultivar, Plant Growth Stage, Application Rate, Application Site and Simulated Postapplication Irrigation
Authors: Polter Steven B. , Doohan Douglas , Scheerens Joseph C.
Published: December 2018

Terbacil at 0, 0.8, 1.6, 3.2, and 6.4 oz/acre (0, 0.06, 0.11, 0.22, and 0.45 kg·ha-1) a.i. was applied immediately after planting, at the thee-leaf stage and at the six-leaf stage to greenhouse grown strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cultivars Jewel, Mira, and Allstar. Strawberry was most tolerant of terbacil when the herbicide was applied before leaf emergence. `Mira' was more tolerant of terbacil than was `Jewel'. `Jewel' and `Allstar' exhibited similar levels of tolerance. In a second experiment terbacil at 4.8 oz/acre (0.34 kg·ha-1) was applied to the soil, to the foliage, and to the foliage followed by a water rinse. Injury was greatest when terbacil was applied directly to the strawberry foliage rather than to the soil, but was minimal when foliage was rinsed after application. In a final experiment terbacil at 4.8 oz/acre was applied to greenhouse-grown `Jewel' strawberries at the thee-leaf stage followed by a water rinse 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 hours after application. Rinsing the foliage of strawberry plants after application significantly reduced leaf injury. Delaying the rinse up to 4 hours did not lead to increased injury. Over all, the results from our study indicate the potential for using terbacil as an effective herbicide on newly established strawberries, especially if the compound is rinsed from leaves (if present) after treatment.
Greenhouse Cucumber Cultivars Differ in Susceptibility to Fusarium Root and Stem Rot
Authors: Rose Steve , Punja Zamir K.
Published: December 2018

Eighteen cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cultivars (long English type) were screened for their susceptibility to fusarium root and stem rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum Schlechtend.: Fr. f.sp. radicis-cucumerinum D.J. Vakalounakis using seedlings at the third true-leaf stage. Roots were trimmed and dipped into a spore suspension (105 spores/mL) of the pathogen and the plants were re-potted. A disease severity index (DSI) was used to assess disease responses 4 or 8 weeks later based on plant mortality and the height of surviving plants compared to the noninoculated controls. `Sienna', `Amazing' and `Dominica' were most susceptible to infection and the resulting DSI values were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher compared to noninoculated control plants. The cultivars `Korinda', `Euphoria' and `Aviance' displayed significantly lower DSI values which were not significantly different from noninoculated control plants. The remaining 12 cultivars displayed DSI values which were intermediate between the above two classes of responses. The results from this study indicate there is the potential to identify and develop cultivars and breeding lines of greenhouse cucumbers with enhanced resistance to fusarium root and stem rot.
Evaluation of Conservation Tillage and Cover Crop Systems for Organic Processing Tomato Production
Authors: Madden N.M. , Mitchell J.P. , Lanini W.T. , Cahn M.D. , Herrero E.V. , Park S. , Temple S.R. , Van Horn M.
Published: December 2018

Field experiments were conducted in 2000 and 2001 in Meridian, Calif. to evaluate the effects of cover crop mixtures and reduced tillage on yield, soil nitrogen (N), weed growth, and soil moisture content in organic processing tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) production. The trial was set up as a randomized complete-block design with eight treatments consisting of a 2 × 3 (cover crop × tillage) factorial design, a fallow control (F) and a single strip-till (ST) treatment. Cover crop mixtures were either legumes (L), common vetch (Vicia sativa), field pea (Pisum sativum) and bell bean (Vicia faba), or those legumes with grasses (GL), annual ryegrass/triticale (Lolium multiflorum/xTriticosecale) in 2000; cereal rye (Secale cereale)/triticale in 2001. Tillage treatments included an incorporation of the cover crop at planting (IP), a delayed incorporation (DI) (17 to 19 days after planting), and no-till (NT). Due to regrowth of the annual ryegrass in 2000, tomato fruit yields in 2000 were reduced by 50% to 97% within all GL treatments. However, regrowth of the cover crop was not a problem in 2001 and yields were not different among treatments. Total percent weed cover was 1.6 to 12.5 times higher in NT than IP treatments in 2000 and 2.4 to 7.4 times higher in 2001 as weed pressure was mainly affected by tillage practices and less by cover crop type. In 2000, available soil N was 1.7 to 9.4 times higher in L than GL treatments and was significantly influenced by tillage, but there were no treatment effects in 2001 due to a 60% reduction in weed pressure and minimal or no cover crop regrowth. Soil moisture content did not differ between treatments in either year. These results demonstrate the importance of appropriate selection and termination of cover crops for their successful adoption in organic conservation tillage systems.
Successful Beit Alpha Cucumber Production in the Greenhouse Using Pine Bark as an Alternative Soilless Media
Authors: Shaw Nicole L. , Cantliffe Daniel J. , Funes Julio , Shine Cecil
Published: December 2018

Beit Alpha cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is an exciting new greenhouse crop for production in the southeastern U.S. and Florida. Beit Alpha cucumbers are short, seedless fruit with dark-green skin and an excellent sweet flavor. Beit Alpha-types are the leading cucumber types in the Middle Eastern market and have gained recent popularity in Europe. Beit Alpha cucumbers grown hydroponically under a protected structure have prolific fruit set, yielding more than 60 high-quality fruit per plant during one season. U.S. hydroponic vegetable production is generally associated with structure and irrigation investments which are costly as well as other inputs, such as the media, which must be replaced annually or with each crop. Beit Alpha cucumber `Alexander' was grown in Spring 2001 and 2002 in a passive-ventilated high-roof greenhouse in Gainesville, Fla. Three media types, coarse-grade perlite, medium-grade perlite, and pine bark, were compared for efficiency of growing cucumbers (production and potential costs). During both seasons, fruit yield was the same among media treatments [average of 6 kg (13.2 lb) per plant]. Irrigation requirements were the same for each type of media; however, leachate volume was sometimes greater from pots with pine bark compared to either grade of perlite suggesting a reduced need for irrigation volume when using pine bark. Pine bark is five times less expensive than perlite and was a suitable replacement for perlite in a hydroponic Beit Alpha cucumber production system.
Grower Perspectives in Community Supported Agriculture
Authors: Worden Eva C.
Published: December 2018

Community supported agriculture (CSA) is an alternative model of farming in which consumers become “members” of a farm, by contract, to receive a share of the harvest. Case study interviews were used to ascertain CSA grower perspectives, as indicated by sources of information and motivations. Like most organic growers, but unlike most conventional growers, few CSA growers have family background in agriculture. Common sources of information and strong informal communication were observed among CSA growers. Primary information sources include other growers, printed material, and conferences. Conventional sources of information used in agriculture, i.e., the cooperative extension system and formal agricultural education, appear to be underutilized and are ranked lowest in importance by CSA growers. CSA growers are motivated in their agricultural endeavors by multiple goals: marketing, education, community, and environment. Marketing was the most frequently cited primary goal, followed by education of consumers. For many CSA growers, the marketing motive is not solely monetary, but also philosophical, as a vehicle for achieving right livelihood and building an associative economy that redefines society's relationships to food and land.
Monitoring and Trapping Insects on Poinsettia with Yellow Sticky Card Traps Equipped with Light-emitting Diodes
Authors: Chen Tian-Ye , Chu Chang-chi , Henneberry Thomas J. , Umeda Kai
Published: December 2018

Insects in a commercial poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) greenhouse were monitored with yellow sticky card (YC) traps and YC equipped with 530-nm lime green light-emitting diodes (LED-YC) traps from 3 June to 25 Nov. 2002. Pest insects were: dark-winged fungus gnat (Bradysia coprophila), sweet potato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) biotype B (= B. argentifolii), western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and leafhopper (Empoasca sp.). Natural enemies were: minute pirate bug (Orius tristicolor), parasitic wasps (Hymenoptera), and rove beetles (Staphylinidae). Over the 24 weeks of the experiment, LED-YC traps captured more dark-winged fungus gnats, sweet potato whiteflies, leafhoppers, and rove beetles compared with YC traps. Capture of western flower thrips, minute pirate bugs, and parasitic wasps were not significantly increased on the YC traps equipped with LEDs. The results indicate that the LED-YC traps attract three major pest insects in poinsettia greenhouses and do not catch more beneficial, minute pirate bugs and parasitic wasps, but may catch significant number of rove beetles. The results suggest that LED-YC traps may be useful to monitor and reduce pest populations in greenhouses.
Use of Vermicomposted Waste Materials as a Turfgrass Fertilizer
Authors: Gardner D.S.
Published: December 2018

Vermicomposting is the process of fragmenting organic wastes with certain species of earthworms. A variety of vermicomposts are being marketed as fertilizer materials for turfgrass management, particularly in the golf course industry. In 2002 and 2003, field trials were conducted on established kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) in Columbus, Ohio, to evaluate the use of vermicomposted animal, food, paper, and turfgrass clipping waste materials as a turfgrass fertilizer under home lawn maintenance conditions. Visual quality of the plots was significantly higher for 2 weeks after application of paper vermicompost, regardless of application rate. Few other differences in either turfgrass visual quality of clipping yields were observed during a 6-week period after application, regardless of application rate or source of vermicompost. Based on the results of these studies, the use of vermicompost as a fertilizer material on established turfgrass is not warranted.
Cluster Analyses on Quality Attributes Identify Broccoli Cultivars Suitable for Early and Mainseason Harvests on the Eastern Shore of Virginia
Authors: Sterrett S.B. , Haynes K.G. , Savage C.P.
Published: December 2018

Sixteen broccoli (Brassica oleareacea var. italica) cultivars were evaluated for yield, head maturity, and quality attributes in the fall of 1997. `Liberty', `Sabre', `Barbados', and `XPH12211' were dropped after 1997 because of poor yield, coarse stems with severely shortened internodes, or lack of seed availability. Thus, three new cultivars, `Nomad', `Sussex', and `XPH12212', were included in the 1998 trial. Head yield was generally higher in 1998 than in the cooler and drier 1997. In each year, cultivars were ranked into early and main season based on yield over sequential harvest dates. Only `Windsor' was rated as a main-season cultivar in 1997, but an early-season cultivar in 1998. Cluster analyses were then used to group cultivars within year and season by head quality attributes. Based upon these analyses, `Captain' is recommended for early production because of favorable head quality and moderately high yield potential. After 2 years of tests, none of the main-season cultivars could be recommended. `Arcadia', `Decathlon', and `Windsor' were either too late or inconsistent in maturity. Yield was low for `Excelsior' and `Arcadia'. Head quality of `Laguna' and `XPH12212' was poor or inconsistent. In the 1998 trial, `Nomad' and `Sussex' warranted additional evaluation because of improved yield, head and stem diameter and head quality.
Does Amendment of Soak Solution with Sucrose and Urea Increase Production of Shiitake Mushrooms on Sawdust Blocks?
Authors: Sabota Cathy , Beyl Caula , Ghale Gokul
Published: December 2018

This study evaluated whether adding either sucrose or urea to the soak water could enhance production of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) on sawdust blocks. For both sucrose and urea experiments, sawdust blocks inoculated with “QR” and “26” strains of L. edodes were placed in the soak water amended with either sucrose or urea at the first soaking only, at the second soaking only, or at all six soakings. Control blocks were soaked in tap water. In Experiment I, blocks were soaked in water containing 0, 20,000, or 40,000 ppm (mg·L–1) sucrose. Strain 26 produced significantly more mushrooms and greater mushroom weight than QR. Addition of sucrose to the soak water resulted in fewer mushrooms harvested and lower yields than controls. There was a significant interaction between the sucrose rate and strain for both mushroom number and biological efficiency (BE). Both strains produced fewer mushrooms and less BE as the concentration of sucrose in the soak water increased; however, QR was less affected by the increasing concentration of sucrose. In Experiment II, sawdust blocks inoculated with QR and 26 strains of shiitake were soaked in water containing 0, 2400, or 3600 ppm (mg·L–1) urea. Strain 26 produced significantly more mushrooms and greater BE than QR. The addition of 2400 ppm of urea to the soak water resulted in more mushrooms per block harvested and a 12% increase in BE over the control. The 2400 ppm rate added at each soak produced more mushrooms and mushroom weight than the control and also produced more mushrooms than any of the blocks in the higher rate of urea (3600 ppm) treatments. Adding 16.9 oz (480 g) of urea per tank to obtain 2400 ppm urea in the soak water results in the minimal increase in cost of about $0.20 per soak (52 sawdust blocks), but potentially increases the value of the mushrooms harvested from each block by $0.75. In an average-sized shiitake mushroom block production facility containing 500 blocks, continuous addition of 2400 ppm urea to the soak water would provide an increased return of about $375 over the entire season.
Selection of Willows for Floral and Stem Quality and Continuous Production Sequence in Temperate North America
Authors: Kuzovkina Yulia , Quigley Martin F.
Published: December 2018

The study addresses the problem of diversification and quality of willow (Salix) cut stems. Very few ornamental willow species are currently in production for the cut-stem trade in temperate North America, and they have a relatively short annual harvest period. This study selected 20 taxa of willow with the potential for cut-stem industry based on observations of more than 150 taxa in central Ohio for 4 years. Growth and ornamental qualities of branches and inflorescences of those species, hybrids, or cultivars were measured and evaluated. The species range in hardiness from USDA zones 2 through 7, but the majority are best suited to zone 4 and 5 conditions. Specific descriptions of each species are provided, focusing on those details important for the floral industry including stem length, bark and bud colors, catkin color and quality, optimal harvest time, and the sequence of bloom among species. Stems for catkin display can be harvested and marketed from January through April. Branches used for bark and bud color displays and for stem shape have an even longer harvest period. New selections provide a greater range of stem size, catkin characteristics, bark and bud color, and prolonged harvest period, than commonly used pussy-willows.
Broccoli Production in Cowpea, Soybean, and Velvetbean Cover Crop Mulches
Authors: Harrison Howard F. , Jackson D. Michael , Keinath Anthony P. , Marino Paul C. , Pullaro Thomas
Published: December 2018

Fall transplanted `Commander' broccoli (Brassica oleracea Botrytis group) yield in mulches formed from the residues of killed cowpea (Vigna unquiculata), soybean (Glycine max), and velvetbean (Mucuna pruriens) cover crops was compared to yield in conventional production on bare soil. Average aboveground biomass production was 6.9, 7.7, and 5.9 t·ha-1 (3.08, 3.43, and 2.63 tons/acre) and total nitrogen content of the aboveground tissues was 2.9%, 2.8%, and 2.7% of the dry weight for cowpea, soybean, and velvetbean, respectively. Within each cover crop mulch main plot, subplots received different nitrogen rates, [0, 84.1, or 168.1 kg·ha-1 (0, 75, or 150 lb/acre)]. For several nitrogen level × year comparisons, broccoli grown in mulched plots yielded higher than broccoli grown on bare soil plots. Cowpea and soybean mulches promoted broccoli growth more than velvetbean mulch. The mulches of all three species persisted through the growing season and suppressed annual weeds.
Maturity and Storage Quality of `Honeycrisp' Apples
Authors: Wargo James M. , Watkins Chris B.
Published: December 2018

`Honeycrisp' apples (Malus × domestica) were harvested over 3-week periods in 2001 and 2002. Maturity and quality indices were determined at harvest. Fruit quality was evaluated after air storage [0.0 to 2.2 °C (32 to 36 °F), 95% relative humidity] for 10-13 weeks and 15-18 weeks for the 2001 and 2002 harvests, respectively. Internal ethylene concentrations (IEC), starch indices (1-8 scale), firmness and soluble solids content (SSC) did not show consistent patterns of change over time. Starch hydrolysis was advanced on all harvest dates, but it is suggested that a starch index of 7 is a useful guide for timing harvest of fruit in western New York. After storage, firmness closely followed that observed immediately after harvest, and softening during storage was slow. No change in SSC was observed during storage in either year. Incidence of bitter pit and soft scald was generally low and was not affected consistently by harvest date. The incidence of stem punctures averaged 18.5% over both years, but was not affected by harvest date. Development of stem end cracking in both years, and rot development in one year, increased with later harvest dates. A panel of storage operators, packers, growers, and fruit extension specialists evaluated the samples for appearance and eating quality after storage, and results suggested that a 2-week harvest window is optimal for `Honeycrisp' apples that are spot picked to select the most mature fruit at each harvest.
Inclusion of Ethylene Precursor into Priming Solution Improves Germination and Emergence of Narrow-leafed Purple Coneflower Seeds
Authors: Korkmaz Ahmet , Nas Mehmet Nuri , Ozbay Nusret , Tiryaki Iskender
Published: December 2018

The effects of stratification and priming on germination and emergence performance of narrowleafed purple coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia) seeds were investigated. Seeds were pre-chilled for 3 weeks at 4 ± 0.5 °C (39.2 ± 0.9 °F) in light or primed for 3 days at 20 ± 0.5 °C (68.0 ± 0.9 °F) in darkness in Nas and Read medium (NRM) or in 2% potassium nitrate (KNO3) supplemented with 3 or 5 μm 1-aminocyclopropane carboxylic acid (ACC) or 500 mg·L-1 (ppm) or 1000 mg·L-1 gibberellic acid (GA3). Following stratification and priming, seeds were subjected to germination and emergence tests at 25 ± 0.5 °C (77.0 ± 0.9 °F). Priming the seeds in NRM or KNO3 containing 3 μm ACC gave the highest germination percentages with 78% and 80%, respectively. Stratification alone increased germination to 69% compared to nontreated seeds, which had the lowest germination percentage of 57%. Emergence was enhanced by priming seeds in the presence of 3 μm ACC (75%) compared to stratified seeds (62%), while nontreated seeds had the lowest emergence percentage of 26%. These results indicate that priming in the presence of ACC might be an alternative to lengthy stratification treatments to break the dormancy and improve the germination and emergence of narrow-leafed purple coneflower seeds.
Controlling Growth of Tabletop Christmas Trees with Plant Growth Retardants
Authors: Duck M.W. , Cregg B.M. , Fernandez R.T. , Heins R.D. , Cardoso F.F.
Published: December 2018

Tabletop Christmas tree growers whose greenhouse-grown conifers have undesirable shoot growth may alleviate this problem by applying plant growth retardants (PGRs). Some of the most common PGRs in the horticulture industry were evaluated to determine their effectiveness in controlling plant height: ancymidol at 100 μL·L-1 (ppm), daminozide at 5000 μL·L-1, paclobutrazol at 60 μL·L-1, chlormequat at 1500 μL·L-1, uniconazole at 15 μL·L-1, and ethephon at 500 μL·L-1 compared to a nontreated control. The following conifer species were used: colorado blue spruce (Picea pungens), black hills spruce (P. glauca var. densata), serbian spruce (P. omorika), noble fir (Abies procera), grand fir (A. grandis), fraser fir (A. fraseri), concolor fir (A. concolor), arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), port orford cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana), and douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Chlormequat was the only PGR that caused phytotoxicity and damage to the foliage was minimal. Noble fir, douglas-fir, colorado blue spruce, and arborvitae were unaffected by any PGR treatment. Daminozide reduced growth of port orford cedar and concolor fir; uniconazole reduced growth of black hills spruce and serbian spruce; paclobutrazol reduced growth of fraser fir; and ethephon reduced growth of grand fir.
Radio Frequency Treatments for Postharvest Codling Moth Control in Fresh Apples
Authors: Hansen J.D. , Heidt M.L. , Watkins M.A. , Drake S.R. , Tang J. , Wang S.
Published: December 2018

Efficacy of using radio frequency (RF) at 27.12 MHz was evaluated as a postharvest quarantine treatment against fifth instars of the codling moth [Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)], in apples (Malus sylvestris). Tests under the given conditions demonstrated that the energy fields between the RF unit's electrodes were neither predictable nor uniform. Moving fruit submerged in water during RF exposure may improve uniformity, but pulp temperatures varied considerably among fruit, among sites on the same fruit, and at different depths within the same site. As a result of these inconsistencies, quarantine efficacy was not obtained either using a range of final average temperatures from 40 to 68 °C (104.0 to 154.4 °F) or at holding times up to 20 minutes. We concluded it would be difficult to obtain the appropriate parameters for treatment efficacy and fruit quality maintenance using this technology under these conditions.
Short Term Fumigation with Nitric Oxide Gas in Air to Extend the Postharvest Life of Broccoli, Green Bean, and Bok Choy
Authors: Soegiarto L. , Wills R.B.H.
Published: December 2018

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea), green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), and bok choy (Brassica chinensis) were fumigated with nitric oxide (NO) gas in air or in nitrogen for 2 hours at 20

°C (68.0 °F), then stored at 20 °C in humidified air containing 0.1 μL.L-1 (ppm) ethylene. The postharvest life of all vegetables was extended by NO although the concentration of NO required and the magnitude of the extension varied between produce ranging from 14% for green bean to more than 50% for broccoli. NO uptake by produce from air was not significantly different than from nitrogen at the lower effective NO concentrations, but NO uptake was less from air at the highest concentration used for broccoli. Application of NO in an air atmosphere is considered a feasible, more convenient treatment regime for horticultural produce than use of a nitrogen atmosphere.
A Precision Planter for Large Seeds in Small Plots
Authors: Birmingham Andrew M. , Buzby Eric A. , Davis Donte L. , Benson Eric R. , Glancey James L. , Pill Wallace G. , Evans Thomas A. , Mulrooney Robert P. , Olszewski Michael W.
Published: December 2018

A mechanical planter was developed to sow seed of baby lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus) in small plots. The mechanical seeder allowed small plots to be quickly and consistently seeded at a fixed spacing. Seeds were manually spread along a 10-ft (3.0 m) base plate containing 50 holes of slightly larger diameter than the seed length and at the desired seed spacing [2.4 inches (6 cm)]. Once all the holes were filled, a slider plate below the base plate containing holes of the same diameter and spacing, but which were slightly offset, was slid horizontally so that the holes of the base and slider plates aligned and the seeds dropped to the bottom of the furrow. Compared to manual planting, the mechanical planter increased the precision of seed placement and reduced the time needed to plant 50 seeds. The planter was easy to use and transport, and was inexpensive.
Golf Course Superintendents' Attitudes and Perceptions Toward Using Reuse Water for Irrigation in the Southwestern United States
Authors: Devitt D.A. , Morris R.L. , Kopec D. , Henry M.
Published: December 2018

Golf course superintendents in the southwestern United States (Tucson, Ariz.; Phoenix, Ariz.; Las Vegas, Nev.; Orange County, Calif.) were surveyed to assess attitudes toward using reuse water for irrigation. Eighty-nine golf course personnel returned the survey, with 28% indicating that they irrigate with municipal water, 36% with well water, and 27% with reuse water. The reason for switching to reuse water varied by state, with 40% of respondents switching in Arizona because of mandates, 47% switching in Nevada because of cost incentives, and 47% switching in California because it was considered a more reliable source of water. Less than 20% of the respondents rated the use of reuse water on golf courses and parks to have a negative impact on cost, the environment and health. However, respondents indicated that using reuse water does have a negative impact on the operations of the golf course, with pond maintenance and irrigation maintenance having the highest negative impact (∼80%). Multiple regression analysis revealed that among those who indicated that using reuse water would have a negative impact on golf course management, a higher percentage were individuals who had a greater number of years of experience irrigating with reuse water (P = 0.01) and individuals who have taken classes on how to use reuse water (P = 0.05). Respondents who currently irrigate with reuse water indicated they had changed a wide range of landscape and turfgrass management practices as a result of using reuse water. Based on the results of this survey, it was concluded that golf course personnel in the southwestern U.S. do not oppose the transition to reuse water for irrigation. However, it was also clear they recognize using such water negatively impacts their golf courses' operations.
Evaluation of Winegrapes in British Columbia: `Chardonnay' and `Pinot noir' Clones
Authors: Reynolds Andrew G. , Cliff Margaret , Wardle Douglas A. , King Marjorie
Published: December 2018

Eighty-five cultivars, selections and clones from European winegrape (Vitis spp.) breeding and selection programs were evaluated between 1993 and 1995 in a randomized complete-block experiment. These included Vitis vinifera clones from France as well as Freiburg, Geisenheim, and Weinsberg, Germany. Small yield and fruit composition differences were found amongst the 'Chardonnay' clones. The standard Prosser clone produced wines with highest earthy aroma and acidity and with lowest perfumy aroma, body and finish; Dijon clones 76 and 96 were most perfumy and least vegetal. `Pinot noir' clones also differed somewhat in terms of yield and fruit composition; `Samtröt', `Gamay Beaujolais', and clone Q1342-01 were amongst the most highly colored clones. These clones also tended to have the most intense berry and currant aromas as well as berry, cherry, and currant flavors. These aforementioned clones appear to be highly adaptable to viticultural regions where low heat units during fruit maturation presently limit industry growth.
Evaluation of 14 Butterfly Bush Taxa Grown in Western and Southern Florida: I. Visual Quality, Growth, and Development
Authors: Wilson Sandra B. , Mecca Laurie K. , Thetford Mack , Raymer Josiah S.
Published: December 2018

Plant growth, visual quality and flowering were assessed for 14 butterfly bush (Buddleja) taxa planted in western Florida (Milton) and central southern Florida (Fort Pierce). In both locations, `Violet Eyes' butterfly bush (B. weyeriana × B. lindleyana), `Honeycomb' butterfly bush (B. × weyeriana), `Moonlight' butterfly bush (B. × weyeriana), and `Sungold' butterfly bush (B. × weyeriana) generally had the greatest growth index and shoot dry weight of all cultivars. In Fort Pierce and Milton, flower dry weights of `White Profusion' butterfly bush (B. davidii), `Nanho Alba' butterfly bush (B. davidii var. nanhoensis), and `Dartmoor' butterfly bush (B. davidii × B. davidii var. nanhoensis) were among the highest as compared to other cultivars at each site, although in Milton, `Gloster' butterfly bush (B. lindleyana), japanese butterfly bush (B. japonica) and `Honeycomb' butterfly bush also had high flower dry weights. Peak plant performance varied by month, cultivar and location. At 12 weeks, plant form and color were above average for each cultivar with the exception of `Black Knight' butterfly bush (B. davidii), lindley's butterfly bush (B. lindleyana), and `Gloster' butterfly bush in the Fort Pierce location only. After 24 weeks at each location, visual quality was above average for `Black Knight', `Dartmoor', `Gloster', `Honeycomb', `Violet Eyes', and japanese butterfly bush. Peak flowering times varied with cultivar and location. At 24 weeks, flowering of `White Profusion', `Nanho Alba', `Nanho Blue', and `Nanho Purple' butterfly bush grown in Fort Pierce was 25% to 40% less than that of the same cultivars grown in Milton. At 24 weeks, `Dartmoor' had the most flowers in both locations, covering 75% of the plant canopy.
Modeling Irrigation Requirements for Landscape Ornamentals
Authors: Beeson Richard C.
Published: December 2018

In many sectors of agriculture, precision irrigation, applying only what water is needed for a given small area, has become a familiar term. Irrigation in most woody ornamental nurseries, though, has changed little since the 1960s. In many areas of the U.S., irrigation volumes required for nursery production have come under scrutiny due to projected, or real, competition for water with urban populations, or concerns over nursery runoff. Modeling of woody ornamental water use, and subsequent irrigation requirements, has been limited and focused mostly on trees. Previous research for modeling of non-tree water use is reviewed as an introduction to current efforts to develop models for precision irrigation of woody ornamentals. Pitfalls and limitations in current modeling efforts, along with suggestions for standardizing future research is emphasized. The latest model derived from recent research is presented.
Historical Development of Composting Technology during the 20th Century
Authors: Fitzpatrick George E. , Worden Eva C. , Vendrame Wagner A.
Published: December 2018

Although composting has been practiced for thousands of years, it was not until the 20th century that controlled scientific studies were published illustrating the benefits of compost use in crop production. These studies helped to spur increased interest in composting and compost use, and gave way to the development of commercial composting facilities that supply finished compost products to horticultural producers. Increasing composting activity and compost use encouraged the formation in the late 20th century of trade organizations, such as the U.S. Composting Council and similar organizations in other countries, that support research and applications work to determine ways to improve quality control of commercial compost products.
Production of High-quality Composts for Horticultural Purposes: A Mini-review
Authors: Raviv Michael
Published: December 2018

Compost is organic matter that has undergone partial thermophilic, aerobic decomposition. This environmentally safe process is called composting. The combination of raw materials and the chosen composting method yields a wide range of characteristics, such as organic matter (OM) content, nutrient content, potential for disease suppressiveness and other physical, chemical, and biological properties. The objectives of this review are describing the horticultural outlets for composts, defining compost characteristics important for the above uses, and describing composting procedures and raw materials leading to these characteristics. The two main horticultural uses of composts are as soil amendment and as an ingredient in container media. Soil-applied composts improve soil fertility mainly by increasing soil organic matter (SOM) that activates soil biota. Compost's nutrient content, and especially that of nitrogen (N), should be high (>1.8%). Composts having these characteristics are produced of raw materials rich in both OM and N, while minimizing their loss during composting. Typical raw materials for this purpose include animal manures, offal, abattoir residues, sewage sludge, and grass clippings. Various composting methods can yield the required results, including turned windrows, aerated static piles, and in-vessel composting. Composts are also used for substrates as low-cost peat substitute, potentially suppressive against various soilborne diseases. These composts must be stable and non-phytotoxic. Physical properties of compost used as substrate are important. Hydraulic conductivity, air porosity, and available water should be high. Reconciling the physical and biological demands may be difficult. Materials such as softwood bark, wood shavings, various types of shells or hulls, and coconut coir are characterized by good physical properties after composting. However, being relatively resistant to decomposition, these materials should be subjected to long and well-controlled composting, which may be shortened using N and N-rich organic matter such as animal manures. High temperatures [>65 °C (149.0 °F)] may cause ashing, which leads to reduced porosity. In addition to ligneous materials, composts serving as growing media may be produced from numerous organic wastes, such as manures, food industry wastes, etc. These materials are better composted in aerated static piles, which tend to minimize physical breakdown. Animal excreta are of special value for co-composting as they contain large, diverse populations of microorganisms, which accelerate the process.