bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARISON OF MARKETING SURVEY RESPONSES BETWEEN GARDEN SHOW AND GARDEN CENTER SAMPLES
Authors: Stevens Alan , Khatamian Houchang
Published: February 2019

Correctly anticipating consumer preferences for goods and services can have a large impact on profitability. Surveying patrons at individual retail outlets does insure the sampling is taken from a customer base, but such surveys are time and labor intensive. A survey sample, taken from attendees at Flower, Lawn and Garden Shows, offers the possibility of large sample sizes, of potential purchasers of horticultural goods and services, with reduced time and labor requirements. A survey to measure the influence of plant size, packaging and price on consumer purchasing habits was conducted at garden shows and garden centers. On the criteria of price and quality of nursery plant materials responses from the two samples were similar. Plant size and packaging appeared to be more influential criteria to the garden show sample.
ABROBACTERIUM-MEDIATED INTRODUCTION OF CHALCONE SYNTHASE GENE INTO CHRYSANTHEMUM AND PERFORMANCE OF COLOR-MODIFIED TRANSGENIC PLANTS.
Authors: Firoozabady E. , Lemieux C. , Nicholas J. , Otten A. , Akerboom M. , Robinson K. , Courtney-Gutterson N.
Published: February 2019

We developed an Agrobacterium-mediated leaf disk transformation method for chrysanthemum. We introduced a chimeric chalcone synthase (CHS) gene isolated from chrysanthemum into cv. Moneymaker (pink type) to produce white-flowered plants. The CHS coding sequence was in antisense or sense orientation relative to the CaMV 35S promoter. 3.6% (3/83) antisense-transformed plants and 1.5% (2/133) sense-transformed plants produced completely white flowers. Pigment analysis revealed that this was due to a block at CHS. To study stability of color change of the white Moneymaker plants. Moneymaker, a Moneymaker regenerant, an antisense white (2706),and a sense white (31435) were compared. There was no difference between Moneymaker and the regenerant. Both 2706 and 31435 were vegetatively propagated with good stability; all plants produced white or very pale pink flowers. 2706 flowered 7 days late and 31435 10-12 days late. Flower number was similar for all four lines tested.
AN APPROACH FOR GENETICALLY DWARFING DENDRANTHEMA GRANDIFLORA USING GENETIC ENGINEERING.
Authors: McCown B.H. , Jordan E.T. , Chen C.H. , Ellis D.D. , Vierstra R.D.
Published: February 2019

Although the size of pot mums can be controlled with retardants, the use of such chemicals may become limited. Genetically dwarfing current cultivars may be an alternative. Using a construct including a chimeric oat phytochrome structural gene, tobacco phenotypes have been produced that strongly resemble retardant-treated plants. We wished to insert this construct in mum by using particle bombardment and determine the effects on plant size and flowering dynamics. A target system was developed using `Iridon' mum leaf sections regenerated on an IAA/BA medium. Shoots developed from surface cells principally at the cut edges. Regenerates were grown-on through flowering and no visual aberrations were apparent. Levels of 50 to 100 mg/l kanamycin were inhibitory to bud development. Sections were exposed to gene transfer and shoots recovered that appear resistant to kanamycin. Some appear chimeric while others appear to be escapes stimulated by a `feeder' effect from nearby transformed cells. Further analyses will determine whether some plants are stably transformed. (Supported by a Duffett Research Grant from Yoder Brothers, Inc.)
ESTIMATION OF GENETIC SIMILARITY AMONG CULTIVARS OF THEOBROMA CACAO USING MOLECULAR MARKERS
Authors: Figueira Antonio , Janick Jules , Goldsbrough Peter
Published: February 2019

RAPD markers were used to examine genetic similarity in cacao. DNA from 30 cacao cultivars amplified using 15 arbitrary oligonucleotide primers, produced a total of 112 fragments, of which 88% were polymorphic. A phenogram was developed which illustrates the genetic relationships among the cacao cultivars representing the four major geographic groups of cacao (Criollo, Trinitario, Forastero Lower Amazonian, and Forastero Upper Amazonian). The phenogram indicated a general separation of the four groups into three clusters. Criollos and Trinitarios (supposedly hybrids between Forastero and Criollos types) appeared in a single cluster. Lower Amazonian cultivars (mainly selections made in Bahia, Brazil) appeared in a separate cluster. The third cluster consisted of the Upper Amazonian cultivars, which were originally collected from the region believed to be the center of origin of this crop. This cluster displayed the furthest genetic distance from the others. Crosses between Upper Amazon germplasm and local selections have shown heterosis in clonal crosses, which has been exploited in all genetic improvement programs for cacao. We propose that genetic distances based on RAPD markers can be potentially used as a criterion to select parents capable of producing superior hybrids and populations. Genetic relationships can also be useful to define germplasm collections and conservation strategies. Studies are underway to compare phenograms derived from RAPD markers and ribosomal RNA gene polymorphisms.
EFFECT OF COVER CROP AND N RATE ON SOIL N AND YIELD OF NO-TILL SWEETCORN AND STRIP-TILL TOMATO
Authors: Hoyt Greg D.
Published: February 2019

A no-till sweetcorn strip-till tomato rotation was established to determine whether a grass or legume winter cover crop would provide greater summer mulch and more soil inorganic nitrogen from residue decomposition. Sweetcorn yields improved as N rate increased in rye residue and bare soil, but only increased at the 50 kg N/ha rate in vetch residue. Strip-till tomato yields improved with all N rates for all covers. Total soil N and C were greater in both the vetch and rye residue treatments than the bare soil. Fertilizer N addition did not affect changes in total N or C percentages. Greater soil nitrate was measured beneath vetch residue at spring planting than in the rye residue or bare soil surface.
MINIMIZING CORKY ROOT DESTRUCTION OF LETTUCE ROOT SYSTEMS BY THE USE OF TRANSPLANTS
Authors: Coale Frank J. , Naqata Russell T. , Datnoff Lawrence E.
Published: February 2019

Corky root (CR) of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is caused by the bacterium Rhizomonas suberifaciens. Current management strategies involve the use of resistant cultivars and crop rotation. The use of transplants as a method to grow CR-susceptible cultivars in CR-infested fields was recently demonstrated. The objective of this study was to evaluate corky root destruction of root systems of direct-seeded and transplanted lettuce. Direct seeded, and three and five week old transplants of CR susceptible `Shawnee' and CR resistant `South Bay' crisphead lettuce were grown in a naturally CR-infested field. Root systems were evaluated at head harvest maturity. When direct seeded, South Bay developed 104% more total lateral root length than did Shawnee. When transplanted at three and five weeks, South Bay developed 50% and 61% more total lateral root length than Shawnee, respectively. Total lateral root length for Shawnee transplanted at five weeks was 100% greater than direct seeded Shawnee. Comparatively, total lateral root length for South Bay transplanted at five weeks was 58% greater than direct seeded South Bay. Tap root lengths and dry weights were not different among planting systems. Transplanting is a possible method for reducing the impact of CR on lettuce lateral root development.
GROWTH OF ORNAMENTAL CABBAGE AS EFFECTED BY UNICONIZOLE, PHOSPHORUS AND WATER STRESS
Authors: Shaw Sabrina L. , Hayslett William F. , Williams Eddie B.
Published: February 2019

Hybrid ornamental cabbage started from seed and grown in a greenhouse was studied. The plants were transplanted into 15 cm pots, and treated with foliar sprays of 30 and 60 ppm of uniconizole, and 7.4 and 14.8 cc of triple superphosphate. Combinations of 30 ppm of uniconizole and 7.4 cc of P, 30 ppm of uniconizole and 14.8 cc of P, 60 ppm of uniconizole and 7.4 cc of P, 60 ppm of uniconizole and 14.8 cc of P, and a control was also used. Half of the plants in each treatment were water stressed. Data taken was plant's height, fresh weight, stem caliper, and porometer readings. There were significant differences in the plants height. The tallest plants were treated with 14.8 cc P, while the shortest was treated with 60 ppm uniconizole and 14.8 cc of P. The addition of phosphorus seemed to increase the activity of uniconizole as noted in the height differences. Water stress did not effect the plants except for aesthetic appearance.
RESPONSE OF FIVE LETTUCE TYPES TO K FERTILIZERS ON HISTOSOLS
Authors: El-Hout N.M. , Sanchez C.A. , Swanson S.
Published: February 2019

Potassium is often considered the nutrient element most limiting to crop production on organic soils. On Histosols in southern Florida, K2SO4, rather than KCl, is often used for lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) production to minimize the risk of salt injury. However, recent soil-test calibration research suggests that current K fertilizer recommendations for lettuce may be too high. Four field studies were conducted from 1989 to 1991 to evaluate the response of five lettuce types to K rate and source. The five lettuce types evaluated were leaf, bibb, boston, romaine (cos), and crisphead. Two sources of fertilizer K (K2SO4 and KCl) were evaluated at rates ranging from 0 to 600 kg K ha-1. Lettuce showed a minimal or no response to K fertilization. Potassium chloride had detrimental effects on lettuce only when applied at rates in excess of those required for optimal production. These studies showed that K fertilizer recommendations for lettuce produced on Histosols in Florida can be reduced. Furthermore, KCl, a more economical source, is suitable when the K is applied at appropriate rates.
FOLIAR PREHARVEST CALCIUM TREATMENT INFLUENCE ON YIELD AND QUALITY ATTRIBUTES OF STRAWBERRY
Authors: Fiola Joseph A. , Schaffner Donald W.
Published: February 2019

The major limiting factors for commercial marketability of strawberries grown in the Northeast is firmness and shelf-life. The major objective of the research is to study basic and applied aspects of exogenous calcium treatments on yield and quality of New Jersey grown berries. In 1990, 8328-1 and 8237-1 (NJUS advanced selections), and `Earliglow' and `Raritan' standards, were treated with 4 foliar Ca sprays (Nutrical) at 10 day intervals from bloom through harvest. In 1991, sprays (3) were applied at bloom, bloom+15 days, and pre-harvest. An `Earliglow' plot was utilized to test timing: bloom, mid-spray, or pre-harvest. Leaf and fruit samples were taken from treated and untreated plots prior to each application. Instron texture tests were performed to quantify firmness; a taste panel evaluated quality (color, texture, flavor, and overall quality). With multiple sprays, there were no significant differences in yield, fruit size, and Brix%, between treatments; however there were significant differences between genotypes and a genotype-by-treatment interaction. The lone bloom spray treatment reduced fruit size. Ethylene was reduced with calcium treatment, respiration was unaffected. Differences in flavor attributes were genotype specific.
SHADING INCREASES TISSUE AMMONIUM, NITRATE, AND INFLORESCENCE NECROSIS IN 'PINOT NOIR' GRAPEVINES
Authors: Gu Sanliang , Lombard Porter B. , Price Steven F.
Published: February 2019

One- and two-year-old `Pinot noir' grapevines were irrigated with Hoagland's nutrient solution and shaded with 60% shade cloth to investigate the effect of shading on inflorescence necrosis (IN), tissue ammonium, and nitrate status. Shading increased IN, tissue ammonium, and nitrate concentrations of laminas, petioles, and rachis in two-year-old vines. IN was positively correlated with tissue ammonium and nitrate levels. In one-year-old vines, tissue ammonium and nitrate concentrations were increased by shading in most tissues except for nitrate in tendrils and old roots. Tissue ammonium correlated with nitrate concentration in various tissues after anthesis in one-year-old vines and in laminas, petioles, fruit, and rachis of two-year-old vines. Elevated tissue ammonium in rachis has been suggested as a possible cause of IN.
ROOT DISTRIBUTION OF PECAN TREES
Authors: Nunez-Moreno Jesus , Uvalle-Bueno Jaime
Published: February 2019

This study was conducted to know the root distribution and the effect of soil properties on root number of adult pecan trees. Two pecan trees planted to 10×10 m were selected in four orchards. Different soil conditions were present among orchards. In each tree, five trenchs were dug to 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 m from the trunk. Root number were calculated at 30 cm increments down to 2.4 m soil depth, in each soil profile. A soil sample was taken to determine soil properties. Then the root number were correlated to the distance of the trunk, depth and soil properties. Fifty percent of roots were present in the upper layer of 90 cm. Under flood irrigation system the roots were dispersed in all space between rows and trees. The correlation coefficients (r) were significants to soil texture, organic matter (OM), pH, bulk density (BD) and micronutrient content (Cu, Fe and Mn). The r values calculated were: sand, -0.311; pH, -0.334; BD, -0.174; Clay, 0.343; silt, 0.174; OM, 0.174; Cu, 0.334; Fe, 0.114; and Mn, 0.176.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SWEET CHERRY FLOWER BUD DEVELOPMENT AND FRUIT QUALITY
Authors: Andrews Preston K. , Li Shulin , Collier Margaret L.
Published: February 2019

The development of sweet cherry (Prunus avium L., `Bing') flower buds from winter through anthesis was examined. Shoots were collected from the top and bottom of the canopy. The weight and size of flower buds and primordia produced on last-season's and 1-year-old wood were measured. As early as mid-December bud and primordia size and weight were greater on last-season's wood than on 1-year-old wood, with the largest and heaviest buds and primordia produced on last-season's wood in the bottom of the canopy. There was a significant negative correlation between the number of primordia per bud and primordium weight. The relationship between flower bud and primordia size during mid-December and ovary size at anthesis suggests a causal relationship, which may be a major source of variation influencing harvested fruit size and quality.
KIWIFRUIT POLLINATION: BEES AND WIND CONTRIBUTION
Authors: Costa G. , Testolin R. , Vizzotto G.
Published: February 2019

The aim of the experiment was to define the wind and the bees effect on kiwifrut pollination. Experiment was carried out for two years in an adult kiwifruit orchard, with a ratio between staminate (cv Matua) and pistillate (cv Hayward) vines of 1:7. Four different pollination treatments were tested on kiwifruit. Bees effectiveness was evaluated on both open pollination (OP-Bees) or net-isolated vines conditions (IV-Bees). The results obtained were compared with those achieved on net-isolated vines without bees in (IV-Wind) and on hand-pollinated vines (HP). Four rows (80 vines) were net-isolated and 14 uniform vines per treatment were choosen to collect productive data. In the IV-Wind treatment traps were used to capture insects present inside the nets. Wind speed was detected inside and outside the nets. Data showed that the net isolation system did not consistently modify wind speed and no insects were founds in the traps. As far as productive data best results were obtained on HP vines. Bee-pollinated vines always reached higher yield and average fruit weight than wind-pollinated vines. However no statistical differences were detected between fruit weight of OP-Bees and IV-Wind vines treatments. The results showed that in general bees represent a more efficient pollination agent than wind, even if the health of the bees and the position of the hives in the orchard have to be carefully considered to achieve best results.
PHOSPHORUS EFFECTS ON OLIVE LEAF ABSCISSION
Authors: Tiefengraber Tjasa B. , Weis Kitren G. , Martin George C. , Webster Barbara D.
Published: February 2019

Ethephon reduces olive fruit removal force but also results in leaf loss when used as a harvest fruit loosening agent and in reduction of flower production in the subsequent year. Phosphorus (P) has been implicated in the fruit loosening process. Nuclear magnetic resonance analyses indicate that P accumulates rapidly in olive leaf explant abscission zones. P also causes ethylene evolution prior to abscission; this effect appears to be direct. In combination with AOA an ethylene synthesis inhibitor, P accelerates `Manzanillo' leaf explants abscission, inducing significant abscission 3 days after treatment. These results will assist in development of a P use strategy that leads to fruit but not leaf abscission.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VEGETATIVE FLUSHING AND FLOWERING OF MACADAMIA
Authors: Nagao M.A. , Ho-a E.B. , Yoshimoto J.M.
Published: February 2019

To study the vegetative flushing pattern of M. integrifolia (cvs. Keaau, Kau and Kakea) trees in Hawaii and determine when these vegetative flushes flower, trees were monitored for an entire year (1988), and shoots from these flushes were monitored for flowering during the 1988-89, 1989-90 and 1990-91 flowering seasons. Flushing occurred year-round but was most frequent during the spring-summer and fall months which coincided with the end of the flowering season and the period of fruit maturation. For all cultivars, sporadic flowering occurred in 1988-89 on shoots that were less than one year-old but was not always associated with the oldest shoots. Flowering in 1989-90 and 1990-91 was observed on a larger proportion of the shoots and occurred on shoots that had emerged throughout 1988. Flowering was most abundant on two year-old shoots (1990-91) and could occur on shoots that had flowered in the previous season (1989-90).
A PRACTICAL HYDROPONIC SYSTEM FOR USE IN PLANT NUTRITION STUDIES
Authors: Kennedy Larry S. , Beavers William B. , Sams Carl E.
Published: February 2019

A common problem of researchers concerned with micronutrient plant nutrition is the development of a reliable and affordable experimental system. If nutrient distribution is uneven or subject to outside contamination, then the time and resources dedicated to a project will have been wasted. We have devised a dependable and cost effective nutrient distribution system which has many practical applications. This design is relatively maintenance free, easily adaptable to existing greenhouse conditions and limits the possibility of outside contamination. Using perlite as the rooting medium, our system is constructed of easily obtainable hardware and mechanical components. The total material cost of our system, which included three nutrient treatments, was approximately $800. This resulted in a conservative estimate of $12.50 per plant in our particular study. However, the cost of a larger experiment would be reduced considerably since additional replications could be added at approximately $2.00 each. The experimental set-up is described along with the initial cost analysis.
COMPUTER SIMULATION PROGRAMS FOR TEACHING CROP MODELING
Authors: Kobayashi Kent D.
Published: February 2019

The simulation programs Stella® (High Performance Systems) and Extend™ (Imagine That!) were used on Apple® Macintosh® computers in a graduate course on crop modeling to develop crop simulation models. Students developed models as part of their homework and laboratory assignments and their semester project Stella offered the advantage of building models using a relational diagram displaying state, rate, driving, and auxiliary variables. Arrows connecting the variables showed the relationships among the variables as information or material flows. Stella automatically kept track of differential equations and integration. No complicated programming was required of the students. Extend used the idea of blocks representing the different parts of a system. Lines connected the inputs and outputs to and from the different blocks. Extend was more flexible than Stella by giving the students the opportunity to do their own programming in a language similar to C. Also, with its dialog boxes, Extend more easily allowed the students to run multiple simulations answering “What if” questions. Both programs quickly enabled students to develop crop simulation models without the hindrance of extensive learning of a programming language or delving deeply into the mathematics of modeling.
CMV-RESISTANT CULTIVAR SELECTION BY ENZYME-LIKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY AND PROTOPLAST ISOLATION METHOD IN CUCUMBER.
Authors: Park Kuen-Woo , Kim Min-Jea
Published: February 2019

This experiment was carried out to select resistant cultivar to CMV in cucumber using Elisa-test and protoplast isolation method. Twenty domestic cultivars or lines and 8 European cultivars were ested for resistance by Elisa test. Among the domestic cultivars, DADAKI group was found to be susceptible and CHEONGJANG group resistant. Among all the cultivars and lines tested, a European cultivar, DALIBOR and Janghyungheukjinju Korean line were found to be highly resistant. When comparing for the protoplast yield depending upon the positions of seedlings (cotyledon, young leaf and hypocotyl), the highest protoplast yield could be obtained from cotyledons in macerozyme 0.5% + cellulose 2.0%. Protoplast yields in susceptible cultivars were higher than those from resistant cultivars. Differences in cell wall thickness between susceptible and resistant cultivars were observed.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS ENRICHMENT USING HORTICULTURE
Authors: Sasseville David N. , Herring J. Leone
Published: February 2019

According to the Missouri Mastery Achievement Tests, elementary students in Missouri have a need for strengthening basic sciences and mathematics in their curriculum. Areas in the plant sciences such as seed germination and plant growth are among subjects needing particular emphasis. A pilot enrichment program was developed to address this need. Lesson plans were developed which paralleled topics in the Core Competencies and Key Skills for Missouri Schools and targeted for third grade students. The lesson plans were field tested in public and private schools for three years to evaluate lesson plans, equipment, handouts, and other instructional materials. The materials currently include three units: soil, water and plants. The materials are adaptable to all types of organized youth activities and are the primary materials used in Missouri for 4-H plant and soil science programs. Instructional materials have also been developed on how to implement the use of these tools by youth leaders and Extension personnel.
DEVELOPMENT OF A REGIONAL EXTENSION NURSERY PUBLICATION
Authors: Brand Mark H. , Woodward Leslie , Mulgrew Susan M.
Published: February 2019

Funding reductions have left many Extension field and specialist positions unfilled when they are vacated. In New England, severe economic downturns have made this situation acute and have forced Extension programs to find innovative and more efficient ways of delivering information to clientele groups. The nursery and landscape industries comprise a major agricultural sector in New England whose needs must be met to maintain agriculture in the region. Yankee Nursery Quarterly was developed as a regional effort to draw upon nursery and related expertise from the six New England states. Yankee Nursery Quarterly provides information in the areas of nursery and Christmas tree production, landscaping, arboriculture, garden center operation and turfgrass four times annually. The publication format deviates from the standard 8 ½″ by 11″ size and uses 2 color printing, a four-column layout and black and white photography to provide a recognizable, informative and visually appealing product.
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES FOR VEGETABLE PRODUCTION: A LISA PROJECT TO DEVELOP A SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR GROWERS IN THE SOUTHEASTERN U.S.
Authors: Peet Mary M.
Published: February 2019

It is often difficult to obtain information on producing vegetables using `sustainable' practices such as reduced inputs of pesticide and commercial fertilizers. Lack of such information is often cited by conventional farmers and extension agents as a reason for not adopting or assisting others in adopting sustainable techniques. As part of a Southern Region Low Input Sustainable Agricultural (LISA) Program, we are compiling a database which will include techniques for vegetable production acceptable to `organic' farmers as well as those acceptable to conventional farmers. This information source will include information on 17 specific vegetables and well as chapters on general topics such as cover crops and weed control. We hope to make this information available both as a production manual and by way of an electronic information retrieval system. Steps in the development of this project include initially soliciting input from farmers and extension workers on the preferred content and format and conducting an on-going evaluation by these groups as segments are developed. The database should be available within 2 years in both electronic and hardcopy versions.
IMPLEMENTATION OF A GREENHOUSE INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) PROGRAM
Authors: Schnelle Michael A. , von Broembsen Sharon L.
Published: February 2019

A pilot IPM program has been implemented for the commercial greenhouse industry in Oklahoma. Key growers and cooperative extension agents have formed working IPM teams across the state. After administering a pretest to establish an educational baseline, IPM workshops have been presented to growers and agents. By use of these specialist-mediated workshops key growers have received sufficient training to implement a multi-phase IPM program. Establishment of proper cultural and management practices has occurred within the first six months of training. As a result, advanced growers are now implementing basic IPM practices and are anticipating the use of biological controls within this year. Due to the success of the pilot program, workshops will be offered statewide next year. Extension IPM bulletins are being written to facilitate the comprehensive effort. This pilot program should serve as a model and impetus for extension specialists and greenhouse grower organizations in other states to incorporate IPM strategies in their production and management practices.
GERMINATION SALT TOLERANCE OF KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS (Poa pratensis) and BUFFALOGRASS (Buchloe datyloides) SEEDS
Authors: Reiten Joel G. , Lee Chiwon W. , Cheng Z.M. , Smith Ronald C.
Published: February 2019

Seeds of a Kentucky bluegrass cultivar (Poa pratensis 'SD Common') and two native buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides) strains, Texas (TX) selection and North Dakota (ND) selection, were tested for their germination tolerance to increasing levels of NaCl at 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, 2.0, 2.4, 2.8, 3.2% in solution. Both the TX and ND strains of buffalograss exhibited a high degree of salt tolerance with the upper limit of seed germination at 2.8% NaCl (2% to 7% germination after 6 days). At high NaCl concentrations, however, percent seed germination was much greater in the ND strain than the TX strain of buffalograss. For instance, seed germination at 0.8% NaCl was 90% in ND strain and 53% in TX strain as compared to the control. Kentucky bluegrass was least tolerant to NaCl with the upper limit of seed germination at 0.4% NaCl (14.7% germination in 6 days). Seed germination in Kentucky bluegrass was completely inhibited at 0.6% NaCl.
MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING OF GRAPES
Authors: Yahia Elhadi M.
Published: February 2019

Grapes (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Thompson Seedless) were packed in low density (LDPE) and high density (HDPE) polyethylene bags (Bag size: 25×25 cm containing 300 g of fruit). LDPE and HDPE films had a thickness of 38.7 and 28.2 μm, water permeability of 960 and 720 g/m2.hr.atm., and O2 permeability of 7030 and 3700 cc/m2.day.atm., respectively. Carbon dioxide gas (400 cc) was introduced to the bag immediately after sealing, after 2 weeks. and/or after 4 weeks. Fruits were evaluated after 3 months at 0°C. CO2 was about 30% immediately after introducing the gas but its concentration was reduced to less than 1% within 3 to 4 days. O2 was maintained very high (higher than 10%) in all packages. Water loss and shriveling were very low. However, decay incidence was high in all packages. In-package atmospheric conditions were not appropriate in all treatments to suppress decay activities. Further studies will be carried out with films less permeable to atmospheric gases, and fruits will be evaluated after shorter storage periods.
STUDIES ON PEACH AND NECTARINE SKIN DISORDER INCIDENCE: ANATOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Crisosto Carlos H. , Luza Juvenal G. , Garner David , Cheng Guiwen , Day Kevin
Published: February 2019

Peach and nectarine skin discoloration or inking (SD) has become a fruit industry problem in the last decade. Spots on the skin may be black, tan, purple or brown and vary in shape. SD was related with physical abuse of the fruit occurring during handling (harvest and transport operations) within the orchard.

An anatomical study comparing healthy and damaged (black and brown) tissue of different peach and nectarine varieties was done with the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Light Microscope (LM). This study indicated that only exocarp cell (epiderm and cuticle) damage was associated with SD. The internal compartmentation of the damaged cells was often disrupted with the contents of the cytoplasm and vacuole mixed and expelled. Mesocarp cells were always intact and turgid. The same anatomical and visible tissue injury symptoms were induced on fruit by abrasion treatments.
RESPONSE OF `HASS' AVOCADO TO METHYL BROMIDE FUMIGATION
Authors: Arpaia M. L , Houck L. G. , Hartsell P. , Ontai S. L. , Reints J. S.
Published: February 2019

Postharvest quarantine treatments of methyl bromide fumigation (MB) or a combination of MB and cold storage are allowed for the Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Ceratitis capitata) and other fruit flies. A study was undertaken to address the effect of MB on the fruit quality of `Hass' avocados. Fruit were obtained from two growers at a commercial packinghouse three times during the 1991 season. Fruit were fumigated at 21C or 30 C within 24 hours after harvest or after 1 week of storage. Fruit were evaluated after 0, 1, 2 or 4 weeks of storage at 5 C. Fruit quality was determined by flesh firmness, days to ripe, ease of peeling, weight loss, external discoloration, flesh or vascular discoloration and the presence/absence of decay. There was considerable variability between grower lots, however fruit that were fumigated had higher levels of weight loss, vascular or flesh discoloration and decay after 4 weeks of storage. The timing of fumigation had little effect on fruit quality. Generally, fruit which were fumigated at 30 C had less damage. These results suggest that `Hass' avocado could withstand MB as long as the fruit is marketed within 2 weeks of harvest.
THE EFFECT OF DELAYED COOLING ON THE POSTHAR-VEST LIFE OF AVOCADO (PERSEA AMERICANA CV. HASS)
Authors: Ontai S. L. , Arpaia M. L. , Reints J. S.
Published: February 2019

In southern California, avocados are often left in the field for up to 12 hours after harvest. Fruit in the bin may reach up to 40C during the summer months and may take up to 24 hours to cool to the recommended storage temperature. A study was conducted using `Hass' avocados over two growing season during the months of July and August to determine the effect of delayed cooling on fruit quality. Fruit were held at 20, 30 or 40 C for 0, 6, 12 or 24 hours before storage at 5C for 0, 2, 4, or 6 weeks. Fruit quality was determined by flesh firmness, time to ripe, vascular and flesh discoloration and the presence or absence of decay. The level of damage seen in storage varied with the harvest. Overall, after 4 or 6 weeks in storage, there was a considerable increase in either vascular or flesh discoloration and decay especially when fruit had been held at 30 or 40C prior to storage. The results indicate that harvested avocados should be kept as cool as possible in the field and that fruit should be processed within 12 hours for storage periods greater than 2 weeks.
SIMULATION OF THE EFFECT OF HEATING ON DISINFESTATION PROTOCOLS FOR PAPAYA
Authors: Seltenrich M. , Laidlaw W.G. , Chan Harvey T. , Hayes C.F.
Published: February 2019

The disinfestation protocol for fruit often requires a delicate balance between suppression of the pest and avoidance of fruit damage. In Hawaii both hot-water and hot-air treatments are used for papaya destined for export. A computer simulation of the heat flow can be used to obtain the temperature Tα(x,t) at every point x in the papaya and every time t for any given heating protocol α. The activity of the ethylene forming enzyme (EFE) has been used as a measure of fruit damage and the “kill” of fruit-fly larvae/eggs as a measure of pest control. The degradation of the EFE measured experimentally for a fixed temperature T and at several times t can be analyzed to yield a rate expression R1(T,t). Similarly the survival of fruit-fly larvae/eggs can be used to establish a rate expression R2(T,t).

The temperature space-time expression, Tα(x,t), for a chosen heating protocol α, and the rate laws R1(T,t) and R2(T,t) can be used to calculate the effect on EFE activity, EFEα(x,t), and pest control, PCα(x,t), at every point in the fruit and time of the protocol. For example the effect of different heating schedules, different heating fluids or even the role of “pre-conditioning” can be assessed.
POTENTIAL FOR CYCLIC REUSE OF SALINE DRAINAGE WATER FOR IRRIGATION OF TOMATOES.
Authors: Shennan Carol , Grattan Stephen R. , May Don , Hillhouse Carol J.
Published: February 2019

Reuse of saline drainage water for crop irrigation has been proposed as one strategy to reduce the drainage volume requiring disposal in California. A 6 y study to assess the feasibility of cyclic saline drainage reuse in a processing tomato/ cotton /cotton rotation was conducted. Treatments were: 1. fresh water applied throughout, 2. saline water applied after 1st flower to tomatoes, 3. saline water applied to tomato and the next cotton crop. Saline water generally improved tomato fruit quality, but did not reduce yields during the first 4 years. In year 6, yields were reduced 17% (n.s.) and 30% (p<0.05) in treatments 2 and 3 respectively, relative to the control. Monitoring of the root zone showed that boron has accumulated over time in saline treatments and may be limiting crop production more than soil salinity. Selenium was readily leached by periodic fresh water use and did not accumulate to levels of concern in tomato tissues. Other work has shown that salinity can enhance tomato susceptibility to root rot which may limit this practice in some areas. However, the data show that high value crops like tomato can be incorporated into saline reuse schemes if managed appropriately.
INDUCTION AND INACTIVATION OF PHENYLALANINE AMMONIA-LYASE IN LETTUCE IN RESPONSE TO TEMPERATURE AND PROTEIN SYNTHESIS INHIBITORS
Authors: Ritenour Mark , Saltveit Mikal E.
Published: February 2019

Activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) is critical in the induction of russet spotting (RS) in leaves of Iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). RS is a major postharvest disorder of lettuce caused by exposure to ppm levels of ethylene at = 5C. Both PAL and RS are decreased when lettuce tissue previously exposed to ethylene is stored at = 15C or is transferred from = 5C to = 15C. To study the induction and inactivation of PAL, we exposed lettuce leaves to air ± 10 ppm ethylene at 5C for four days to initially induce high PAL levels. After four days, leaves were treated with water ± 2 mg/L cycloheximide, and transferred to air at 5 or 15 C. In leaves previously exposed to ethylene, PAL activity decreased rapidly to baseline levels within two days in non-cycloheximide treated leaves transferred to 15C. PAL activity remain elevated in the same treatment held at 5C. In leaves treated with cycloheximide and transferred to 15C, PAL did not begin to decrease until after four days. Cycloheximide treated leaves held at 5C showed increased PAL activity both two and four days after treatment.
POLLEN VIABILITY AND VIGOR IN TOMATO PLANTS UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES
Authors: Levy José G. , St. Clair Dina A.
Published: February 2019

High temperatures during flowering have been implicated in reducing seed set and fruit set in tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum). Pollen viability and vigor were studied by measuring in vitro germination and pollen tube development in pollinated pistils of four processing tomato cultivars under normal (25° C day/15° C night) and high (32° C day/23° C night) temperatures. Preliminary studies were carried out to determine the length of pollen tubes in styles collected in times ranging from 3 to 48 hours after pollination. Under normal temperatures the pollen tubes reach the end of the style between 12 and 18 hours. At high temperatures there are fewer pollen tubes moving through the style and the time to reach the end of the style is longer. In pollen vigor studies, crosses were made between pollen and pistils of plants grown under different temperature treatments, then pollinated pistils were collected at 4, 8 and 12 hours after pollination. There were differences in in vitro pollen germination percentage and pollen tube length in the pollinated pistils, suggesting that high temperatures act to slow down pollen activity.
BIOCHEMICAL ANALYSES OF SEED EXUDATES DURING EARLY IMBIBITION
Authors: Roos Eric E. , Sowa Sharon , Pedas Kristin
Published: February 2019

Short term soaking of seeds does not appear to be detrimental to seed viability and may provide a means of testing seed viability non-destructively. Seeds of corn (Zea mays L.) and rice (Oryza sativa L.), differing in viability, were soaked for 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 hr in distilled water at room temperature. Analyses of pH, protein/polypeptides (BCA assay and absorbance at 280 nm), and potassium (and other metals), were done on individual seed leachates. After each time period seeds were germinated for 7 d to determine viability. For both corn and rice, pH remained constant between 0.5 and 4 hr of soaking. Protein concentration gradually increased during the 4 hr soak in both corn and rice, but varied with seed lot. Potassium was the most common metal excreted and increased 3 to 4 fold between 0.5 and 4 hr of soaking. Although seed to seed variability in any given lot was high, in general, low viability seeds lost more cellular constituents than high viability seeds.
IN VITRO HARDENING AND BUD FORMATION IN AMELANCHIER ALNIFOLIA NUTT. (SASKATOON BERRY `SMOKY').
Authors: Baldwin Brian , Tanino Karen K.
Published: February 2019

In vitro shoot cultures of saskatoon berry were subjected to a 6 week acclimating treatment (4°C/8h day). Acclimated cultures survived freezing to -27°C. Control cultures (24°C/16h day) killed at -6°C. Addition of ABA (5.0 × 10-5M) to growing medium did not increase hardiness of plants under acclimating conditions, but increased hardiness of control plants from -6°C to -10°C.

With standard BA concentration (1.1 × 10-5M) decreased by half, addition of ABA (5.0 × 10-5M) to growing medium resulted in formation of swollen axillary buds with red bud scales. Plantlets on similar medium to which ABA was not added did not show arrested growth or swollen red buds. Following defoliation, removal of shoot apex and transfer to hormone-free medium, buds on ABA-treated plantlets did not resume growth within 30 days. When ABA-treated plantlets were transferred to media supplemented with BA, dormant-looking buds resumed normal growth. Dormant buds collected from field-grown plants and placed in culture broke dormancy on BA medium and maintained the dormant state on hormone-free and ABA medias.
“NEAR-LETHAL” STRESS EFFECTS ON ENDO DORMANCY, COLD ACCLIMATION, AND RECOVERY OF RED-OSIER DOGWOOD PLANTS.
Authors: Shirazi A. M. , Fuchigami L. H.
Published: February 2019

“Near-lethal” (NL) stresses from varied sources, e. g. NL-heat (47°C-lhr), NL-freeze (-7°C -lhr), and NL-hydrogen cyanamide (0.5-1 M), overcame endo-dormancy in red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea L.) plants. Near-lethal heat stress applied at early rest (Oct.) had a slight effect on cold acclimation, whereas at late rest (Dec.), NL-stress resulted in the rapid loss of hardiness at warm or natural environment conditions. Recovery of plants from NL-stresses was dependent on the stage of development and temperature. Less dieback occurred with later stage of endo-dormancy, and at warmer temperatures. Dormant plants in October exposed to other NL-stresses, e. g., freezing temperature and hydrogen cyanamide, also caused plant dieback at 0°C and recovered at 23°C post-environment treatment. Conditions that favored recovery also favored production of glutathione.
GROWTH OF BEDDING PLANTS IN MINERAL WOOL AND MINERAL WOOL/PEAT MIXES
Authors: Contrisciano Thomas M. , Holcomb E. Jay
Published: February 2019

The objective of this research was to develop a mineral wool based growing medium for the horticultural industry. Two types of hydrophilic mineral wool, clean wool (CW) and unclean wool (UC) were used unamended, as well as both types in combinations with 25, 50, and 75 percent peat moss (PM). A control of 100 percent (PM) was also used. Unamended CW had a low bulk density, excellent water holding capacity, good aeration, but high pH. Once PM was added to CW, bulk density still remained low, water holding capacity and aeration remained good, and the pH dropped to a more suitable level. Unamended UW had a high bulk density, good water holding capacity, poor aeration, and high pH. Once PM was added to UW, bulk density decreased, water holding capacity remained good, aeration increased, and pH decreased to a more optimal level. Impatiens `Violet' and Begonia `Whiskey' were grown in the nine treatments for six and nine weeks respectively. At harvest, plant growth was evaluated by height, diameter, fresh weight, dry weight, and tissue analysis. Plant growth response showed plants grown in unamended CW, UW, and PM were smaller in size and lighter in fresh and dry weights than those in 50 percent wool/50 percent PM. The plants grown in 25 and 75 percent PM were similar to the 50 percent wool/50 percent PM in size and weight.
ROOT INOCULATION WITH A P-SOLUBILIZING FUNGUS ALTERS GROWTH AND P UPTAKE OF SEVERAL GREENHOUSE CROPS.
Authors: Tulloch Hamish , Waterer Doug , Polonenko Dan
Published: February 2019

Root zone inoculation with P-solubilizing Penicillium bilaji (PB) has increased P uptake and yields of several field crops. We examined the influence of applying 0 - 5 × 105 C.F.U./plant of PB to geranium and petunia grown in the greenhouse in a low P soil amended with rock P. All rates of inoculation increased growth and enhanced flowering of both crops. A second study examined the interaction between PB and rock P amendments in poinsettia. Inoculation with PB accelerated growth through to pinching as did addition of rock P to the media. The combined PB + rock P treatment enhanced bract development resulting in better red color at market time. These results suggest that PB inoculation can enhance growth and/or improve P use efficiency in greenhouse crops.
YIELD AND QUALITY OF THE RED GLOBE GRAPE VARIETY AS INFLUENCED BY GRAFTING ON DIFFERENT ROOTSTOCKS
Authors: Badr Sayed A.
Published: February 2019

Grafted and non-grafted vines of the Red Globe cultivar were planted in May, 1985 in a randomized block design to determine the effects of grafting on different rootstock on vine growth, yield, and fruit quality. The rootstocks used in this trial were Harmony, Freedom, Couderc 1613, and Thompson Seedless; non-grafted vines included rooted cuttings and one-year-old rootings. Vines grafted on Freedom were more vigorous than any other vines. The levels of nitrogen and potassium were significantly higher in vines grafted on Freedom than non-grafted vines or those grafted on other rootstocks. Yield was significantly influenced by the different rootstocks. Vines grafted on Freedom produced significantly lower yield than other vines. Vines grafted on Harmony and Couderc 1613 were not significantly different from each other or non-grafted vines that were established from a rooted cutting.
EFFECTS OF FALL APPLICATIONS OF ETHEPHON AND GA3 ON PEACH TREES
Authors: Deyton D.E. , Lockwood D.W. , Ventataraman S.
Published: February 2019

A factorial arrangement of four replications of ethephon (0, 25, 50, 100, or 150 mg·liter-1) and GA3 (0, 25, or 50 mg·liter-1) treatments in a Randomized Complete Block Design were applied to `Redhaven' peach trees in mid-September. Each tree received the same treatment in 1987-1990. Development of flower buds (after endodormancy completion) was significantly delayed by GA3 and ethephon. The date of 50% bloom was significantly delayed by GA3 (approximately 1 day) and by ethephon (4.7 days with 150 mg·liter-1 treatment). Increasing the concentration of each chemical resulted in more delay of bloom. There was no interaction of the effects of the two chemicals on bloom date. Application of 50 mg·liter-1 GA3 plus 150 mg·liter-1 ethephon caused the greatest bloom delay (6.5 days compared to untreated trees). Gummosis on scaffolds was evident in the fall and following spring on trees treated with the 2 highest rates of ethephon. During the summer and following fall, little gummosis was evident. By September 1991, evidence of gummosis was insignificant and no tree mortality occurred.
SURVIVAL AND ROOTING OF NECTARINE CUTTINGS UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS
Authors: Vadhwa O. P. , Matta Frank B.
Published: February 2019

Quiescent nectarine cuttings of `Karla Rosa', `Carolina Red' and `Early King' were taken in the fall of 1988. The cuttings were inserted in Jiffy 7 pellets, Jiffy pots filled with Jiffy mix and pots filled with sand and vermiculite (1:1 by volume). The pellets and pots containing the cuttings were placed in rows in field propagation beds. A control (cuttings placed directly in field propagation beds) was used for comparison. In addition, cuttings of `Karla Rosa' under mulch treatments were propagated in 1990. Percentage cutting survival and percentage of cuttings of `Karla Rosa' and `Carolina Red' was greatest when cuttings were propagated directly in the field and when inserted in vermiculite and sand mixture. Percentage cutting survival for `Early King' was not significant, regardless of treatment. When propagated in pots filled with vermiculite and sand mixture, rooting for `Early King' was 41 percent. In 1990, sawdust and hay mulches enhanced rooting and survival of `Karla Rosa' cuttings when compared to the control (no mulch).
PROPAGATION OF CARICA PAPAYA `HONEY GOLD' CUTTINGS
Authors: Allan Peter , Hazelhurst Bridgette
Published: February 2019

Many small, pen-sized papaya side shoots were formed after injecting a BA/GA, solution into the bases of stems of one-year old plants of the 30-year old clone `Honey Gold', followed by topping the stems a day later. Standing small leafy cuttings in various fungicidal solutions for 10 or 30 minutes resulted in phytotoxic basal burn, whereas a short immersion gave good results. Benlate® and Folicur® were best, especially with the addition of paclobutrazol. There is a distinct seasonal variation in the rooting of cuttings, with those that have been exposed to cold winter conditions giving poorest results. For best results (95% rooting in 4 weeks in perlite with intermittent mist), stock plants are maintained in a protected environment, especially in cool weather. Uniform side shoots, are harvested regularly, leaving stubs to produce new shoots, while maintaining enough leaf canopy.