bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(19) The Dry Piquin Chili as a Potential and Natural Industry in Sonora, Mexico
Authors: Zamora Everardo , Ayala Santiago , Guerrero Cosme , Martínez Damián , Rivas Francisco
Published: February 2019

The piquin chili (Capsicum annuum L.), a type of high-pungency small-ball chili fruit, is traditional among Sonoran people and is consumed as paprika and dry fruit in some regional dishes. Also, the high prices obtained in domestic and oversea markets every year, mainly through piquin dry fruit sales, have encouraged this small informal and seasonal industry. In some Sonoran Mountain ranges, where piquin chili plants grow wild, a latent, informal industry has been maintained by people who harvest piquin chilies as fresh and dry fruits for sale. Enough precipitation, good environment conservation, and other conditions maintain the natural preservation of this chili plant, so that the piquin chili industry is maintained without cultivation, and has become a natural and ecological chili industry. During harvest time (September through November), low-income people harvest by hand dry piquin chili fruits for sale in several cities in Sonora. After harvesting, fresh red piquin chili fruits must be dried over several days. The fruit is spread out over a fabric during sunny days and removed at nights, and the small piquin red fruits dry in just a few days. Usually dry piquin chili presentations are sold in liter (0.25-lb) or kilogram (2-lb) lots. Throughout the 2005 dry piquin chili harvesting season, sales reached prices close to $18 and $82 (U.S. dollars) per liter or kilogram, respectively. Although the dry piquin chili is exported to the United States, fresh fruit sales are still limited to the domestic Sonoran market. The piquin chili harvesting season offers temporary employment and represents, in part, an important source of family income.
(256) Investigation into the Poor Seedling Establishment Trait Associated with Compact Phenotype in PI308916 and Possible Relationship to Apical Hook Formation
Authors: Havenga Laura , Ando Kaori , Grumet Rebecca
Published: February 2019

Cucumber PI308916 has a compact growth habit (short internodes and main stem length) due to a single recessive gene cp. We also observed that this PI has lower incidence of Phytophthora fruit rot, likely due to its upright fruit bearing habit. Previous researchers reported that compact cucumber lines derived from PI308916 exhibited the potential for higher yields due to increased planting density. Despite these potentially beneficial traits, efforts to develop PI308916-derived lines were terminated due to poor seedling establishment. The objective of this research is to determine the relationship between the compact phenotype and poor seedling establishment. Short internodes can be caused by deficiency in gibberellins or brassinosteroids that can also impact germination or apical hook formation, a trait important for seedling emergence from the soil. Germination rate and apical hook angle was recorded for `Wautoma' (control inbred line that forms normal apical hook), PI308916, and their F1, F2, and BC progeny. Germinating `Wautoma' seeds showed consistent, large apical hook angles (mean 147), while hook angles of PI308916 were broadly distributed from 0 to 180 (mean 96). F1 progeny for the reciprocal crosses had a similar angle (mean 134 and 133) to `Wautoma'. Segregation ratios for apical hook angle in the F2 and BC populations were consistent with a single recessive gene. Evaluation of the relationship between the apical hook and compact phenotype, showed an absence of the recombinant class of long internodes and small apical hook angle in the F2 population, suggesting that the two traits may be conferred by a single gene or two tightly linked genes.
(27) Effect of Plant Stand Density and Pesticide Application Technology on Insect Pests and Diseases of Bell Peppers
Authors: Vitanza Salvador , Welty Celeste , Bennett Mark , Miller Sally , Derksen Richard
Published: February 2019

The impact of pesticide application technology and crop stand density on bell pepper production was evaluated in a series of field trials, during 2004 and 2005, at the North Central Agricultural Research Station, Fremont, Ohio. In 2004, one trial tested three sprayers, at a speed of 8 and 4 mph, using insecticides at half the recommended rate and one treatment at full rate. Sprayers evaluated included an air-assisted electrostatic sprayer, a Cagle sprayer equipped with AI-11005 or AI-110025 nozzles, and an air-blast sprayer with XR-1003-VS or XR-110015-VS nozzles. In 2005, one experiment tested the interaction of two application technologies, three planting distances within row, and single vs. twin rows. Another experiment compared the Cagle sprayer (with TJ60-11003 or AI-110025 nozzles) and the airblast sprayer (with XR-110015-VS nozzles), at a speed of 4 mph, and insecticides at half the recommended rate. In 2004, the Cagle sprayer with air-induction nozzle, half rate, at 8 mph obtained the highest fruit yield. There was not significant improvement in European corn borer control by applying insecticides at full rate with the Cagle sprayer and all treatments achieved significantly better bacterial soft rot control than the untreated control. In 2005, the trials were terminated early due to crop destruction by Phytophthora capsici. Red fruit weighed less at high than at medium or low plant stand densities. Clean yield of red fruit was significantly greater in single rows than in twin rows. Marketable yield of green fruit was greater using the TJ60-11003 than using the AI-110025 nozzles.
(155) Hybrids Versus Heirlooms: A Comparison Study in Garden Productivity and Marketability for Small-scale Commercial Growers
Authors: Grunzke Leah , Baumbauer David , Dougher Tracy
Published: February 2019

This project investigated the apparent consumer trend in recent years toward increasing popularity of heirloom vegetable varieties, and its significance in regard to growers that market their produce on a local or regional scale. Growing heirloom and hybrid varieties of tomatoes, carrots, eggplants, and sweet corn side by side provided insight on different varieties from a small-scale producer's perspective, including information on garden performance, productivity, and ease of production (including germination, growth habit, yields, maturation, harvest timing, and longevity). Feedback from consumers was gathered while selling the produce at a local farmer's market. Finally, a local chef and deli manager provided professional insight into the potential uses and marketability of the products. From a grower's perspective, there was no distinct pattern of advantages or disadvantages to either hybrids or heirlooms, as the varieties varied widely in terms of field performance. Consumer acceptance of unusual or unique varieties (in terms of appearance and recognition) varied with each crop. The chef evaluation, with taste preferences evenly split between hybrid and heirloom varieties, tended to favor those with an unusual or nontraditional appearance.
(156) Improved Cover Crop Establishment and Growth Is Related to Planting Date in Organic Concord Grape Production
Authors: Bair Kyle E. , Stevens Robert G. , Davenport Joan R.
Published: February 2019

Concord grape (Vitis labrusca L.) accounts for a majority of juice grapes produced in Washington State. Because synthetic nutrients are not permissible in USDA organically-certified production systems, legume cover crops are used to supply nitrogen (N) to the crop. In order to supply a sufficient amount of N, the cover crop must successfully establish and produce large quantities of biomass. This study evaluates how the planting date influences emergence and biomass production of hairy vetch (Vicia villosa subsp. villosa L.) and yellow sweet clover [Melilotus officinalis (L.) Lam.] when used as legume green manures. The research was conducted on a commercial vineyard and a research vineyard from 2003–05. Treatments for the study consisted of yellow sweet clover and hairy vetch planted in both the spring and fall. Plots receiving soluble N sources were planted with wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) or rye (Secale cereale L.). Because of the large relative seed sizes of rye, wheat, and hairy vetch compared to yellow sweet clover, these treatments established faster with good stands in 2004. In 2005, clover plots had high emergence and biomass production because of water management modifications. Biomass data from the commercial vineyard in May 2005 indicates that fall-planted vetch produced more biomass than spring-planted vetch. Fall-planted hairy vetch and yellow sweet clover in the research vineyard showed higher biomass production than spring- and fall-planted hairy vetch and yellow sweet clover. When hairy vetch and yellow sweet clover are planted in the fall, they generally have better seedling emergence and biomass production due to the heightened aggressiveness exhibited by competing weed species during late spring and summer.
(170) Reduction of Natural Microbial Population with Antimicrobial Agents and Subsequent Washing Treatments of Fresh-cut Vegetables
Authors: Izumi Hidemi , Yamashita Takeshi , Inada Maki
Published: February 2019

Ferulic acid agent (2% of ferulic acid), fumaric acid agent (20% of fumaric acid), mustard extract agent (10% of allyl isothiocyanate), and calcined calcium agent (91% of calcium) were assessed for reduction of endogenous microbial population on fresh-cut lettuce, cabbage, and cucumber in the preliminary study. In seeking effective minimum concentration, a 0.5% ferulic acid agent or 1.0% fumaric acid agent applied on lettuce, 0.1% mustard extract agent on cabbage, and 0.05% calcined calcium agent on cucumber reduced mesophilic aerobic bacteria (MAB) and coliform group (coliforms) by about 0.5 to 1.5 logs relative to water-dipped control. The efficacy of these antimicrobial agents with subsequent washing treatments with electrolyzed water (13 ppm of available chlorine) or ozonated water (5 ppm of ozone) on endogenous microorganism were evaluated with fresh-cut vegetables stored in MA package for 4 days at 10 °C. With lettuce, the fumaric acid agent followed by electrolyzed water treatment was the most effective in reducing counts of MAB, coliforms, and psychrotrophic aerobic bacteria (PAB) for the first 2 days of storage. This treatment eliminated gram-positive bacteria such as the genus Curtobacterium and gram-negative bacteria such as the genus Stenotrophomonas. With cucumber, fumaric acid agent or calcined calcium agent with sequential washing with electrolyzed water reduced counts of MAB, coliforms, PAB and lactic acid bacteria during 4 days of storage, with the reduction being greater with fumaric acid agent than with calcined calcium agent. With cabbage, the combinations of the agents and washing treatments had no pronounced effect when compared with water treatment.
Genetic Relationships of Spathiphyllum Cultivars Analyzed by AFLP Markers
Authors: Chen Jianjun , Henny Richard J. , Devanand Pachanoor S. , Chao Chih-Cheng T.
Published: February 2019

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum Schott) is one of the most popular tropical ornamental foliage plants and is used worldwide for interiorscaping. However, little information is available on the genetic relationships of cultivars. Using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers with near-infrared fluorescence-labeled primers, this study analyzed genetic relatedness of 63 commercial cultivars and breeding lines. Forty-eight EcoRI + 2/MseI + 3 primer set combinations were initially screened, from which six primer sets were selected and used in this investigation. All cultivars were clearly differentiated by their AFLP fingerprints, and the relationships were analyzed using the unweighted pair-group method of arithmetic average cluster analysis (UPGMA). The 63 cultivars were divided into four clusters. All commercial cultivars or breeding lines resulted from crosses of some of the cultivars, a total of 45, were positioned in cluster I with Jaccard's similarity coefficients between 0.61 and 0.88. There was only one cultivar in cluster II. Cluster III contained 16 cultivars; they are either species or breeding lines generated from interspecific hybridization. Cluster IV had one unknown species. This study provides genetic evidence as to why cultivars from cluster I and III are not readily crossable because the Jaccard's similarity coefficient between the two clusters was only 0.35. Results also indicate that commercial cultivars are genetically close. Strategies for increasing genetic diversity of cultivated peace lily should be sought for future breeding efforts.
Revamping a Master Gardener Curriculum for Use in Prison Job Readiness Programs
Authors: O'Callaghan Angela M. , Robinson M.L.
Published: February 2019

University of Nevada Cooperative Extension (UNCE) faculty members have taught horticulture to inmates of correctional facilities for over 8 years. The training material used was the Master Gardener curriculum. Because inmates in Nevada have few opportunities to meet requirements for certification as Master Gardeners, this program was described simply as a horticulture class. Over the past 3 years, we have redirected it toward job readiness to assist inmates after release. The curriculum was first expanded to do intensive teaching on such topics as irrigation, landscape plant selection and maintenance, and problem solving. Even with these changes, horticulture jobs generally limited to low-paying, entry level ones. To improve employment opportunities, UNCE obtained the involvement of the Nevada Department of Agriculture. After inmates have passed the horticulture program, they may take the state pesticide applicator training and examination. This year, a mini course in “Developing a Business Model” will be added to the initial curriculum. To date, 36 inmates have received PAT certification. Conversations with potential employers indicate that this significantly enhances their likelihood of employment at a higher-than-entry level.
Crop Simulation and Crop Evapotranspiration for Irrigation Management of Spinach
Authors: Piccinni Giovanni , Gerik Thomas , Steglich Evelyn , Leskovar Daniel , Ko Jonghan , Marek Thomas , Howell Terry
Published: February 2019

Improving irrigation water management for crop production is becoming increasingly important in South Texas as the water supplies shrink and competition with urban centers in the region grows. Crop simulators and crop evapotranspiration (ET) are appealing methods for estimating crop water use and irrigation requirements because of the low investment in time and dollars required by on-site (in-field) measurement of soil and/or crop water status. We compared the effectiveness of the Crop.m.an/EPIC crop simulator and Crop-ET approaches estimating the crop water use for irrigation scheduling of spinach. In-ground weighing lysimeters were used to measure real-time spinach water use during the growing season. We related the water use of the spinach crop to a well-watered reference grass crop to determine crop coefficients (Kc) to assist in predicting accurate crop needs using available meteorological data. In addition, we ran several simulations of CropMan to evaluate the best management for growing spinach under limited water availability. Results show the possibility of saving about 61 to 74 million m3 of water per year in the 36,500 ha of irrigated farms of the Edwards aquifer region if proper irrigation management techniques are implemented in conjunction with the newly developed decision support systems. We discuss the implications of the use of these technologies for improving the effectiveness of irrigation and for reducing irrigation water requirements in South Texas.
Effect of Soil Solarization and Fumigation on Productivity and Fruit Quality of Strawberry
Authors: Ragab Mohamed
Published: February 2019

A study of solarization and fumigation with methyl bromide (MB) on productivity and fruit quality of strawberry were investigated during two successive seasons of 2002–03. There were nine treatments: fumigation with methyl bromide (MB), solarization, their combination, and Nemaless. Results demonstrate that plant height, number of leaves per plant, average leaf area, root length, and crown diameter were significantly increased by fumigation with MB as compared with solarization or using Nemaless in the two tested seasons. Significant increments were obtained also in early and total yield, as well as total soluble solids and ascorbic acid when soil was fumigated with MB compared with solarization or using Nemaless. The highest total yield found with treatments was MB at 70 g/m2, followed by MB at 50 g/m2, 2-month solarization plus MB at 30 g/m2, 1 month plus MB at 30 g/m2, MB at 30 g/m2, 2 months solarization, one month solarization, Nemaless, and control in the both tested seasons, respectively. Nemaless caused significant increments in early and total yield compared with the control in the two tested seasons. The results of this study provide evidence to suggest that a better understanding of different fumigation methods may aid us in the efforts to improve management of strawberry production.
Pre- and Post-course Assessment of Knowledge by Students in an Introductory Horticulture Course
Authors: McCrimmon James N.
Published: February 2019

The Introduction to Horticulture course in the Department of Agriculture at Southeast Missouri State Univ. provides an overview of the principles of various horticulture crops. It is a lower-level course comprised primarily of freshmen and sophomores. Although many of the students that take the course are majors in the horticulture option, there are some students taking the course that are not horticulture majors, since the course is a requirement for all majors in the department. The objective of this study was to have students assess their knowledge of various types of horticultural plants before and after the course. During the first day of class, a pre-course student profile and survey was given to each student in order to determine their background and to assess their knowledge of certain horticultural plants. They were asked their knowledge of these topics; and, they rated their knowledge as follows: excellent, good, average, fair, or poor. Throughout the semester, these topics and plants were discussed or demonstrated in either the lecture or the laboratory. At the end of the semester, students were given a post-course survey to assess their knowledge of the same topics and horticultural plants which they rated their knowledge of the first day of class. Comparisons between pre- and post-course student assessment of their knowledge of topics and plants will be discussed.
International Opportunities in Horticulture at Auburn University
Authors: Wright Amy N. , Sibley Jeff L. , Waters Luther , Williams Dave , Eakes Joe
Published: February 2019

International undergraduate study programs give students an advantage in the job market, broaden their understanding of and experience with other cultures, and allow them to develop professional international contacts. Since 2003, faculty and administrators in the Department of Horticulture at Auburn University have been providing horticultural study tours for faculty and undergraduate and graduate students in horticulture. In 2003 and 2004, undergraduate students and faculty participated in an about 10-day non-credit study tour of gardens in London and southeastern England. In 2005, undergraduate students, a graduate student, and faculty participated in an 8-day non-credit study tour of gardens, horticultural production facilities, and natural ecosystems in Costa Rica. All of these tours in 2003 to 2005 occurred during the break between spring and summer semesters. In 2005, a 6-week study abroad program (1 June to 15 July) was offered at a college in northwestern England. Students received 13 hours of credit for four classes: Landscape Gardening, History of Garden Design, International Agriculture Seminar, and Herbaceous Plant Materials. In addition to class time, trips were arranged each week to regional gardens and retail and production facilities. Plans for 2006 include a week-long non-credit study tour of gardens and production areas in The Netherlands during the break between spring and summer semesters, a 2-week study tour of government, university, and agricultural production areas in Hungary in July (offered in conjunction with the College of Agriculture), and a repeat offering of the study abroad program in England.
Taxodium Growth Under Different Substrate Moisture Levels
Authors: Sammons Jon , Struve Daniel K.
Published: February 2019

Water is quickly becoming one of the world's most precious resources. Micro- and cyclical irrigation are two effective ways that reduce irrigation volume without reducing plant quality. Development of a control mechanism to deliver timely and appropriate irrigation volumes combined with the advantages of micro- and cyclical irrigation will allow maximum water conservation and plant quality. For container-grown nursery plants, the interaction of container geometry and media physical properties dictate the volume of water available for plant uptake. The maximum amount of water a container substrate can hold under gravity is container capacity (CC). We managed season-long irrigation volumes by maintaining CC at three levels; 100% CC; 80% CC; and 60% CC, and used a set irrigation as a commercial control. The results showed similar plant growth for the 100% and set irrigation control groups through the growing season. However, the scheduled regime applied 50% more water than the group maintained at 100% CC. Our system increased water use efficiency without decreasing plant quality.
Developmental Anatomy of Russet of `McIntosh' Apple Fruit Induced by the Fungus Aureobasidium pullulans
Authors: Goffinet Martin C. , Burr Thomas J. , Heidenreich Mary Catherine , Welser Mary Jean
Published: February 2019

The fungus Aureobasidium pullulans is ubiquitous and can cause russet of fruit in New York orchards. The details of russet induction by this fungus are not well known. We inoculated `McIntosh' apple fruits with a suspension of A. pullulans spores (10 million colony-forming units/mL) 1–2 weeks postbloom or later at about 30 days postbloom. We dropped inoculum into plastic “microwells” attached to the fruit surface. The cuticle of uninoculated fruit (wells filled with water only) had no russet by autumn. Skin susceptibility to russet diminished with fruit age. The cuticle of inoculated young fruit began to break down in a few days, likely through direct cuticular digestion. Further erosion and breaching of the protective cuticle caused underlying epidermal cells to die. Within 1–2 weeks, cuticle disruption and epidermal cell death were widespread. This stimulated the fruit to initiate a repair process that involved periderm formation (russet), where many rows of cells were produced in nearby tissue to seal off the injury. This type of repair is not stretchable, so as young fruit expanded, additional skin splits and checks developed. This breakdown–repair process repeated itself, which created a scurfy skin. Older fruit did not expand as much after inoculation as did young fruit, and so they developed few obvious leathery patches of periderm. Older cuticle also resisted digestion better than did the young fruit cuticle, but we do not know if resistance resulted from increased cuticle thickness in older fruit or a change in cuticular compounds during fruit growth. Regardless, A. pullulans applied to older fruit did not progress beyond the early phase of cuticle digestion, even after 3 weeks postinoculation.
Different Developmental Stages of Mother Plants Induct Different Morphogenesis Pathways in In Vitro Culture of Fritillaria imperialis and Fritillaria persica
Authors: Khalighi Ahmad , Dehcheshmeh Manijeh Mohammadi , Ebrahimie Esmaeil , Sardari Manoochehr , Naderi Rohangiz
Published: February 2019

Fritillaria imperialis and Fritillaria persica are important medicinal and ornamental plants that are native to Iran. Wild populations of Fritillaria are at risk of extinction. For the first time, capability of developmental stages in respect to induction of different morphogenesis pathways from petal tissue was studied in detail. The developmental stages were green unopened flowers, colored unopened flowers, and open flowers. Direct bulblet regeneration and direct somatic embryogenesis were observed from green unopened flowers in both F. imperialis and F. persica. More bulblet regeneration was produced in F. imperialis in contrast with F. persica in colored unopened flowers. Somatic embryogenesis via callus was established in green unopened flowers of F. persica with cold pretreatment. The effect of light on induction of different morphogenesis pathways was nonsignificant except for green unopened flowers of F. persica with cold treatment. Our results showed that the developmental stages of petal explants play a significant role in micropropagation of Fritillaria and induction of different morphogenesis pathways.
Molecular Marker Use in Tree Fruit and Woody Ornamental Plant Breeding
Authors: Byrne David
Published: February 2019

Fruit and ornamental breeders were surveyed about their use of molecular markers in either their breeding programs or in their related research programs. Responses were obtained from over 100 fruit and ornamental breeding programs from throughout the world. Of these, less than 50% used molecular markers in their programs. The two most common uses of these markers were for studies in plant identification and diversity. These were followed by the use of markers in developing molecular maps, in discovering molecular tags and/or trying to identify the genes for specific plant traits, for marker assisted selection, and finally, for the elucidation of plant taxonomy. In conclusion, although there is much research in this area, few programs are actually using markers in the context of an applied breeding program. The major reason for this situation is the lack of available markers and the cost of using these markers to screen large numbers of progeny. Those that use markers in their breeding tend to use them to verify the genotype of the parents or confirm the genotype of selected seedlings rather than screen unselected seedlings.
A New Dominantly Inherited Source of TSWV Resistance in Tomato Derived from L. chilense, which Resists Isolates that Overcome Sw-5
Authors: Stevens Mikel R. , Scott John W. , Cho John J. , Geary Bradley D. , Memmott Frederic D.
Published: February 2019

Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), a tospovirus, is a thrips-vectored disease infecting more than 1000 species of both monocots and dicots, including many species of agriculture importance. TSWV is the limiting factor for tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) production in several areas of the world. For a number of years, the Sw-5 gene (derived from L. peruvianum Mill.) has provided acceptable control of this disease. Recently, Sw-5 derived resistance has been overcome by virulent pathogen isolate(s) in tomato production areas such as Spain and Italy. In earlier studies, we identified a potential new source of resistance to TSWV derived from L. chilense Dun. accession LA 1938. In a set of recent field studies, it was demonstrated that this putative new source of resistance was highly resistant to TSWV in Hawaii, Florida/Georgia, and South Africa. Furthermore, greenhouse screening trials have clearly demonstrated that the L. chilense source of TSWV resistance is resistant to isolates that overcome tomatoes homozygous for Sw-5. In these same greenhouse and field studies, there is uniform evidence that this resistance is dominant. Subsequent greenhouse studies suggest that this resistance is controlled by a single gene. Studies have been initiated to verify the inheritance of the gene(s) and to develop linked molecular markers. Furthermore, studies are under way in Australia to test this resistance on non-TSWV tospoviruses. If the data demonstrate that this is a single dominant gene we suggest this gene be designated Sw-7.
Assessment of Cowpea Genotypes for Use as a Weed-suppressing Cover Crop
Authors: Harrison Howard F. , Thies Judy A. , Fery Richard L. , Smith J. Powell
Published: February 2019

A preliminary screening experiment was conducted to evaluate 47 cowpea [Vigna unguiculata, (L.) Walp.] genotypes for use as a weed-suppressing cover crop. Lines evaluated in this study included forage varieties, PI accessions, experimental breeding lines, and land races of unknown origin. Of these, 11 were selected for further testing on the basis of vigorous growth and weed-suppressing ability. In a field experiment repeated over 4 years, the selected genotypes were not different from the leading cover crop cultivar, `Iron Clay', in biomass production. Vigor ratings, vine growth ratings, and canopy widths of some genotypes exceeded those of `Iron Clay'. Vigor ratings and canopy measurements were efficient selection criteria that could be useful for breeding cover crop cowpea cultivars. All selections except an African cultivar, `Lalita', were highly resistant to southern root knot nematode [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood], and the genotypes varied in seed size, photoperiod, and response to diseases.
The Influence of Cold on the Greenhouse Forcing of Woody Shrubs
Authors: Armitage Allan M. , Hamill Natalia K. , Anderson Stephanie L.
Published: February 2019

As part of the New Floriculture Crop Program at the University of Georgia, a research project was initiated in Fall 2004 to determine the suitability of woody shrubs for forcing in the greenhouse. This paper will provide an overview of the research, indicating plants that were determined to be suitable for greenhouse forcing and sales in the retail area and those that were discarded from the program. About 15 taxa were initially selected for the program based on habit, foliar qualities, and flowering (if present). All plants were subjected to 1.7 °C to 4.4 °C for 0, 6, or 10 weeks in a controlled temperature cooler. Based on growth and visual characteristics, Leptodermis oblonga, Indigofera pseudotinctoria `Rose Carpet', Forsythia × intermedia `Golden Peep', and Philadelphus coronaria `Manteau d'Hermaine' were discarded. Caryopteris × clandonensis `Sunshine Blue', Leycesteria formosa `Golden Lanterns', Sambucus nigra `Black Lace', Philadelphus coronaria `Variegata', and Physocarpus oblongifolius `Summer Wine' were investigated further. Data presented for Physocarpus suggested that cooling was not necessary for growth; however, 10 weeks of cooling resulted in the least time to finish in the greenhouse. Zero, 6, and 10 weeks cold resulted in 17, 10, and 7 weeks finish time, respectively. Additional work on Kolkwitzia, Buddleia, and Wegelia conducted in 2005 and future research will be discussed.
American–Japanese Expedition to Hokkaido to Collect Berry Crops in 2004
Authors: Hummer Kim E. , Davis Tom , Iketani Hiroyuki , Imanishi Hiroyuki
Published: February 2019

Genetic resources of temperate berry crops were collected 7 to 27 July 2004 in Hokkaido, Japan, under a bilateral agreement between the United States and Japan. This expedition was a collaborative effort between the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), the University of New Hampshire, and Akita Prefectural College of Agriculture, Japan. Additional assistance was provided by the Hokkaido Governmental Plant Genetic Resources Center, several Forest Research Stations of the Hokkaido University, and private botanists. The expedition obtained 100 accessions encompassing eight genera and 29 species. In all, 84 seedlots, and 23 plants were obtained. The genera collected included: Actinidia, Fragaria, Lonicera, Morus, Ribes, Rubus, Sambucus, and Vaccinium. Plant and seed accessions from this trip are preserved and distributed from the USDA ARS National Clonal Germplasm Repository in Corvallis, Ore., and from MAFF. The target genus for this expedition was Fragaria, so the trip was planned for July. Multiple samples of the two Japanese diploid strawberry species, Fragaria iinumae Makino and F. nipponica Makino (synonym = F. yezoensis H. Hara) were obtained during their prime ripening time. Ribes, Rubus, and Vaccinium fruits ripened later in the summer, but were collected when fruit were observed. Unfortunately, seeds of some of these accessions proved to be immature or nonviable upon extraction. We suggest that expeditions to collect these genera should be planned for late August. Morphological and molecular evaluation of collected germplasm is underway at the USDA ARS Corvallis Repository and at the University of New Hampshire.
The Genes of Capsicum
Authors: Wang Deyuan , Bosland Paul W.
Published: February 2019

Pepper (Capsicum spp.) is one of the most cultivated vegetable and spice crops in the world. Capsicum genetics have been extensively studied, but the most recent Capsicum gene list was published more than a decade ago. Since then, new genes have been described. This updated gene list provides detailed descriptions of genes, including the genes' characteristics, the genetic background of the mutants/lines, action mechanisms of genes, gene interactions, molecular markers, and chromosome localization when available. This new list includes 292 genes for morphological traits; physiological traits; sterility; and resistance to diseases, nematodes, and herbicides, which includes the 92 genes that have not been previously described.
Fertilizer Application Method Affects Growth, Nutrient, and Water Use Efficiency of Container-Grown Shade Tree Whips
Authors: Stoven Alison A. , Mathers Hannah M. , Struve Daniel K.
Published: February 2019

The mineral nutrition requirements and fertilizer application methods for container-grown shade tree whips are not well understood. This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of fertility method (water soluble vs. controlled release) on growth, water, and N use efficiency of four taxa [(Acer ×freemanii `Jeffersred' (Autumn Blaze® maple), Cercis canadensis L. (Eastern redbud), Malus (Mill.), `Prairifire' (Prairifire crabapple), and Quercus rubra L. (red oak)] in two production environments [outdoor gravel pad vs. a retractable roof structure (RRS)]. No single fertilizer method consistently resulted in the greatest growth. In the RRS, maple and crabapple heights, and crabapple and redbud caliper were larger when whips were fertilized with controlled-release fertilizer (CRF); outdoors, CRF resulted in taller maples and larger caliper crabapples. However, in the RRS, maple whips fertilized with water-soluble fertilizer had higher production water use efficiency than those fertilized with CRF, whereas crabapple whips had higher N use efficiency when fertilized with CRF. Nitrogen use efficiency was higher for redbud and crabapple whips fertilized with CRF than with CRF. Outside, crabapple whips fertilized with CRF had higher production water use efficiency than those fertilized with water-soluble fertilizer. There were no differences in N use efficiency attributed to fertilizer method. When averaged over fertilizer application methods, height, caliper, water, and N use efficiency were greater when whips were grown in RRS than outdoors. There were two exceptions: Maple caliper and production water use efficiency were marginally higher when whips were grown outdoors. The greater growth for whips produced in the RRS was attributed to reduced ambient and substrate temperature stress.
Modification of Plant Arrangement Suppresses White Mold of Snap Beans
Authors: Peachey Ed , Ludy Robin L. , Powelson Mary L. , McGrath Daniel M.
Published: February 2019

Field studies were conducted in 1999 and 2001 in western Oregon to determine the effect of between-row spacing on severity of white mold (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) in snap beans. Planting density was held constant at 445,000 plants ha–1 and between-row spacing ranged from 19 to 150 cm. Disease severity and pod rot were greatest in both years of study at the 19-cm between-row spacing and declined linearly as between-row widths increased. Severity of disease in 1999 was 24%, 41%, and 88% lower at the 38-, 75-, and 150-cm between-row spacings, respectively, than at the 19-cm row spacing. In 2001, disease severity was 11%, 25%, 34%, and 51% less at the between-row widths of 38, 75, 114, and 150 cm, respectively, than at the 19-cm row spacing. Incidence of pod rot declined by 0.24% and 0.64% for each 10-cm increase in between-row width in 1999 and 2001, respectively. The fungicide vinclozolin effectively suppressed pod rot in both years at all between-row spacings. Pod yield was not influenced by between-row spacings of 19 to 114 cm, but yield was significantly lower at the between-row spacings of 150 cm. Increasing the between-row width of snap bean rows may be an effective disease management tactic to suppress white mold when fungicides are not applied or if efficacious fungicides are not available.
Seasonal Nitrogen Partitioning and Nitrogen Uptake of Carrots as Affected by Nitrogen Application in a Mineral and an Organic Soil
Authors: Westerveld Sean M. , McKeown Alan W. , McDonald Mary Ruth
Published: February 2019

An understanding of nitrogen (N) uptake and the partitioning of N during the season by the carrot crop (Daucus carota subsp. sativus [Hoffm.] Arkang.) is required to develop more efficient N fertilization practices. Experiments were conducted on both organic and mineral soils to track the accumulation of dry matter (DM) and N over the growing season and to develop an N budget of the crop. Treatments included two carrot cultivars (`Idaho' and `Fontana') and 5 N rates ranging from 0% to 200% of the provincial recommendations in Ontario. Foliage and root samples were collected biweekly from selected treatments during the growing season and assessed for total N concentration. Harvest samples were used to calculate N uptake, N in debris, and net N removal values. Accumulation of DM and N in the roots was low until 50 to 60 days after seeding (DAS) and then increased linearly until harvest for all 3 years regardless of the soil type, cultivar, and N rate. Foliage dry weight and N accumulation were more significant by 50 to 60 DAS, increased linearly between 50 and 100 DAS, and reached a maximum or declined slightly beyond 100 DAS in most cases. The N application rates required to maximize yield on mineral soil resulted in a net loss of N from the system, except when sufficient N was available from the soil to produce optimal yield. On organic soil, a net removal of N occurred at all N application rates in all years. Carrots could be used as an N catch crop to reduce N losses in a vegetable rotation in conditions of high soil residual N, thereby improving the N use efficiency (NUE) of the crop rotation.
Response of Zonal and Ivy Geraniums to Root Medium pH
Authors: Andrews Pauline H. , Hammer P. Allen
Published: February 2019

Three cultivars each of zonal geranium (Pelargonium ×hortorum `Candy Lavender', `Fireball', and `Patriot Red') and ivy geraniums (Pelargonium pelatum `Global Deep Lilac', `Global Salmon Rose', and `Global Soft Pink') were grown in root media with pHs varying from 4.3 to 7.8. In Expt. 1, a mixture of sphagnum peat, fine perlite, and fine pine bark was modified with limestone and hydrated lime at the following rates: 0, 1.2, 3.0, 4.7, and 11.9 kg·m–3 limestone; 11.9 limestone plus 5.9 hydrated lime; 11.9 limestone plus 8.3 hydrated lime; and 11.9 kg·m–3 limestone plus 10.7 kg·m–3 hydrated lime to give the various root medium pH treatments. Plants were grown for 11 weeks in glass greenhouses. In Expt. 2, plants were grown in two commercial soilless mixes with one being modified with the addition of 0 kg·m–3 limestone, 6.0 kg·m–3 limestone plus 0.6 kg·m–3 hydrated lime, and 6.0 kg·m–3 limestone plus 2.4 kg·m–3 hydrated lime. In both experiments, greatest dry weight was recorded in zonal and ivy geraniums plants grown at root medium pHs above 6.4. This study showed a root medium pH of 6.4 to 6.5 should be recommended for the greenhouse production of both zonal and ivy geraniums.
Tomato Fruit Quality and Content Depend on Stage of Maturity
Authors: Helyes Lajos , Pék Zoltán , Lugasi Andrea
Published: February 2019

Soluble solids (Brixo), carbohydrate, organic acid, lycopene, polyphenols and HMF content of indeterminate round type tomato Lemance F1 fruits were measured in six ripeness stages from mature green to deep red stage. Color of fruits was determined by CIELab system. The L*, a*, b* values were received directly and used to calculate from which the a*/b* ratio was calculated. The Brixo, carbohydrate, lycopene and HMF content were the highest in the deep red stage. Carbohydrate contents constitute nearly 50% of the Brixo. The mature green stage had the lowest acid content but in subsequent stages it was fundamentally unchanged. Polyphenol content changed little during fruit ripening. Lycopene content changed significantly during maturation and accumulated mainly in the deep red stage. Analyses showed that a*/b* was closely correlated with lycopene and can be used to characterize stages of maturity in fresh tomatoes.
Hazelnut Accessions Provide New Sources of Resistance to Eastern Filbert Blight
Authors: Chen Honglin , Mehlenbacher Shawn A. , Smith David C.
Published: February 2019

A diverse collection of 58 hazelnut accessions, including Corylus avellana L. and interspecific hybrids, were evaluated for their response to the eastern filbert blight pathogen Anisogramma anomala (Peck) E. Müller after greenhouse inoculation. Evaluations were made using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and visual inspection. Forty-five of these became infected, 12 remained free of infection, and one gave inconclusive results. The 12 accessions showing complete resistance were European hazelnuts ‘Culpla’ from Spain and CCOR 187 from Finland; C. americana × C. avellana hybrids ‘G081S’, CCOR 506, and Weschcke selections TP1, TP2 and TP3; C. colurna × C. avellana hybrids Chinese Trazels Gellatly #6 and #11; Turkish Trazel Gellatly #3 and backcross hybrid ‘Lisa’; and C. heterophylla var. sutchuensis × C. avellana hybrid ‘Estrella #1’. In a second test, exposure of potted trees under structures topped with diseased wood confirmed the complete resistance of ‘Santiam’, four pollinizers, and ‘Ratoli’. However, a few small cankers were observed on ‘Closca Molla’ from Spain and OSU 729.012, with resistance from C. californica (A.DC.) Rose, in contrast to the results of earlier greenhouse inoculations.
Molecular Identification of Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) Cultivars Using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism
Authors: Côté Marie-José , Leduc Lisa
Published: February 2019

Plants of the genus Berberis have been forbidden entry in Canada because common barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is an alternate host for black stem rust of wheat. Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii), an ornamental shrub appreciated for its hardiness and attractiveness, is generally considered immune to rust. Therefore, the Canadian government has established a program allowing importation of 11 approved Japanese barberry cultivars. The success of the program relies on the proper identification of the approved varieties, which may not always be possible when the plant is dormant or missing some essential morphologic criteria. Therefore, a cultivar verification method has been established using the amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) genotyping technique. The method was validated using DNA extracted from 41 plants sampled across the country and representing 23 Japanese barberry cultivars and representative of the 11 approved cultivars. The method successfully differentiated and confirmed the identity of all approved cultivars. Furthermore, the method was able to detect and identify two of six samples submitted for cultivar verification as mislabeled by the exporter because the AFLP patterns generated did not correspond to their reference cultivar patterns.
Effect of Degree and Duration of Shade on Quality of Greenhouse Tomato
Authors: Gent Martin P.N.
Published: February 2019

Some amount of shade may be optimal to produce high-quality tomatoes in a greenhouse during summer months in the northeast United States. Simultaneous comparisons were made among greenhouse sections that were either not shaded or covered with reflective aluminized shadecloth that attenuated 15%, 30%, or 50% of direct sunlight. The shadecloth was applied at the start of warm weather in June. The houses were shaded for the rest of the summer, and fruit was picked until late August. Total yield decreased linearly with increasing shade, but there was no significant difference among shade treatments in marketable yield. The fraction of fruit that was marketable was greatest for plants grown under 50% shade. This fraction was 9% greater than in a greenhouse with no shade in 2003 and 7% greater in 2004 and 2005. Cracked skin was the defect most affected by shade. Among sensitive cultivars, up to 35% of the fruit produced in greenhouses with no shade had cracked skin, whereas in greenhouses covered with 50% shade, only 24% to 26% of the tomatoes had cracked skin. There was no consistent trend for shade density in the fraction of fruit with green shoulder, blossom end rot, or irregular shape. The effect of shade increased with duration of shading. There was no effect of 50% shade compared with no shade on total yield within 20 days, but yield decreased by 20% in the interval from 25 to 45 days after shading and by 30% after 50 or more days of shading in 2005. Marketable yield only decreased after more than 45 days of shading for cultivars that were not sensitive to cracked skin or uneven ripening. Shade decreased fruit size over the entire season only in 2003. In general, shading increased the fraction of marketable tomato fruit without affecting fruit size.
Prohexadione-Ca Reduces Russet and Does Not Negate the Efficacy of GA4+7 Sprays for Russet Control on ‘Golden Delicious’ Apples
Authors: McArtney Steven , Obermiller J.D. , Green A.
Published: February 2019

A series of four experiments were undertaken to evaluate the effects of individual and combined applications of prohexadione-Ca (P-Ca) and GA4+7 primarily on fruit russet, but also on fruit set, fruit weight, early season shoot growth, and fruit maturity of ‘Golden Delicious’ apples (Malus × domestica Borkh.). A single application of P-Ca (138 to 167 mg·L−1) at petal fall (PF) reduced the severity of russet in three of the four experiments; however, multiple applications of 20 ppm GA4+7 at 10-day intervals beginning at PF generally reduced russet more effectively than P-Ca. P-Ca did not reduce the efficacy of GA4+7 sprays for russet reduction. However, GA4+7 sprays reduced the inhibitory effects of P-Ca on shoot growth measured 30 days after PF. A single application of P-Ca at PF had no effect on mean fruit weight at harvest. Fruit size was lowest for the combined P-Ca and GA4+7 treatment in every experiment, although there was a significant interaction between P-Ca and GA4+7 sprays on mean fruit weight in only one experiment. There were no consistent effects of P-Ca and GA4+7 sprays, alone or in combination, on fruit maturity parameters at harvest. These data show that a single application of P-Ca at PF reduced russet severity, and the effects of P-Ca and GA4+7 sprays on russet can be additive. The economic benefits resulting from a reduction in russet severity after combined P-Ca and GA4+7 sprays will need to be balanced against their occasional negative effect on fruit size. Chemical names used: prohexadione-calcium [3-oxido-4-propionyl-5-oxo-3 cyclohexenecarboxylate formulated as Apogee (27.5% a.i.)].