bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvements in Automatic Irrigation of Peat-grown Greenhouse Tomatoes
Authors: Norrie J. , Graham M.E.D. , Dubé P.A. , Gosselin A.
Published: December 2018

An automatic irrigation system was designed for use on green-house tomatoes growing in peat-based substrates. This system uses electronic tensiometers to monitor continuously substrate matric potential (SMP) in peat-bags. The system also uses the Penman equation to evaluate potential evapotranspiration (PET) through the acquisition of many greenhouse environmental parameters. Through a series of linear equations, estimates of PET are used in a computer-controller system to vary the electrical conductivity (EC) of irrigated nutrient solutions, as well as SMP setpoints at which irrigations are started. Such modifications to current irrigation management systems may improve fruit quality and reduce the risk of water stress during periods of high PET by irrigating more frequently with less-concentrated nutrient solutions. Conversely, during periods of low PET, irrigation is less frequent with more-concentrated nutrient solutions. Although no differences were found in fruit number or overall yield using variable nutrient solution EC, plant fresh weight was higher in those treatments. It is concluded that an integrated tensiometer-PET system may give increased precision to irrigation management and the control of crop growth in the greenhouse.
Profiling Buyer Opinions in Industry Trade Exhibitions
Authors: Haydu John J. , Meerow Alan W.
Published: December 2018

A major objective of trade-show organizers and exhibitors is to increase the number of prospective buyers attending the shows. To better understand the attendee profile, to seek their opinions on the show, and to gain insight into ways of improving the exhibitions, a survey was mailed to the majority of registered attendees at the 1991 Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE) trade show in Florida. Results indicate that the primary reason people attended the show was not to make purchases, but to obtain information about new materials and to make business contacts. Of those who did purchase items at the show, sales were skewed towards large businesses. Representing only one-quarter of the sample, the very largest firms (>$1 million) constituted 48% of all sales at TPIE. When asked how the show could be improved, the most common response (38%) was that more educational programs were needed.
Assessing Master Gardeners' Priorities
Authors: Relf Diane , McDaniel Alan
Published: December 2018

A survey of Virginia Master Gardeners (N = 188) indicates that answering individual questions and providing educational programs designed to change individuals' behavior were equally important and ranked as number 1 priority for volunteer activity. In terms of training and management, local training programs had the highest importance ranking, with participation in local associations ranking second in importance. Social activities had the lowest importance. Annual training was viewed as primarily the agents' responsibility. However, daily man-agement, record keeping, and related activities were viewed as Master Gardener responsibilities in cooperation with agents.
Using Database Management Software to Enhance Learning in Plant Materials Courses
Authors: Boufford Robert W.
Published: December 2018

With the increasing use of computers in the horticulture industry, advisory committees are recommending computer literacy training. Database management software is a tool students can use to enhance the learning of plants and obtain handson experience with computers. Students in an herbaceous plant materials course develop a plant database and create a companion flash card set from printed database records and pictures. Benefits of the project are: Improved memorization of plant information, enhanced information research skills, and use of a tool in later design activities. Other horticulturally related courses, including woody plant materials and pest management, can use the activities to achieve similar benefits.
Wisconsin's IPM Program for Potato: The Developmental Process
Authors: Stevenson W.R. , Curwen D. , Kelling K.A. , Wyman J.A. , Binning L.K. , Connell T.R.
Published: December 2018

The Wisconsin potato crop is managed intensively through multiple inputs of pesticide, fertilizer, and irrigation. Beginning in 1979, a multidisciplinary team at the Univ. of Wisconsin developed an effective Integrated Pest Management Program to address key management decisions associated with this crop. The program fostered the development of several private IPM businesses and continues to help increase the acceptance of IPM technology by the potato industry. Results of component and integrative research, funded by industry, state, and federal sources, provided the essential ingredients for development of computer software now used for managing the potato crop on ≈ 70,000 acres (28,330 ha) of potatoes in a multistate area. The software helps growers determine the need for and timing of critical crop inputs. By reducing or eliminating unneeded pesticide and irrigation applications, the software helps to improve overall production efficiency. Industry adoption of this software is providing the impetus for development of more comprehensive software that includes additional aspects of potato production as well as the production of crops grown in rotation with potato.
Contemporary Approaches to Improving Citrus Cultivars
Authors: Gmitter Frederick G.
Published: December 2018

Traditional genetic manipulation methods have proven ineffective or irrelevant for many citrus breeding objectives. Alternative approaches to Citrus genetic improvement are now available as a result of technological developments in genetics and tissue culture. For example, mapping DNA marker polymorphisms should lead to identifying markers closely linked to important loci, thereby facilitating early selection and minimizing costs associated with plant size and juvenility. Genetic transformation methods allow trait-specific modification of commercial cultivars. By selecting beneficial variants from sectored fruit chimeras and the recovering plants via somatic embryogenesis, the problems of nucellar embryony and the hybrid nature of commercial cultivar groups can be avoided. Induced mutagenesis from mature vegetative buds may overcome these problems, as well as juvenility. Ploidy level manipulation in vitro can increase the number and diversity of tetraploid breeding parents, leading to the development of seedless Citrus triploids and mitigating sterility, incompatibility, and nucellar embryony.
Efficiency Ranges for Nitrate-Nitrogen and Potassium for Vegetable Petiole Sap Quick Tests
Authors: Hochmuth G.J.
Published: December 2018

Petiole sap N and K quick tests offer fast and accurate in-field analysis for N and K and have been calibrated for some vegetable crops in Florida. This paper summarizes 10 years of research conducted in Florida on petiole sap testing for N and K. Petiole sap nitrate-N and K concentrations correlated highly with whole-leaf N and K concentrations and decreased through the season for all vegetable crops tested. Optimum early season fresh sap nitrate-N and K concentrations were highest for pepper, and optimum late-season concentrations were lowest for tomato. Petiole sap nitrate-N and K concentrations were not affected by storing petioles on ice for up to 16 h or freezing them for 24 h.
Meristem-tip Culture and California's Clean Foundation Sweetpotato Program
Authors: Dangler James M. , Scheuerman Robert W. , Campbell Robert N. , Clark Christopher A.
Published: December 2018

For about 30 years, the Univ. of California has used advanced laboratory techniques in addition to traditional methods to produce pathogen-free and true-to-type sweetpotato seedstock. The effort continues with the varieties important in the marketplace today. This program serves as a model for the use of meristem culture by foundation sweetpotato programs in other states.
Mississippi Sweetpotato Foundation Seed Program
Authors: Sloan R. Crofton
Published: December 2018

The sweetpotato foundation seed program in Mississippi is committed to producing and supplying high-quality sweetpotato seed to the Mississippi sweetpotato industry. In 1991, a study was initiated to evaluate the effects of small heteroclinal chimeras in foundation seed roots on the root flesh quality in subsequent generations. The presence of small heteroclinal chimeras in parent seed roots did not increase the number or size of chimeras in three subsequent generations of storage roots.
Foundation Sweetpotato Seed Program in Virginia
Authors: Sterrett S.B. , Savage C.P.
Published: December 2018

A procedure is described for maintaining root quality in a foundation seed program that serves a primarily processing industry. Trueness-to-cultivar root type and color is maintained through hill selections within the prefoundation seed at harvest. Internal color is examined after sprout production, but prior to planting. Each root of the prefoundation seed is lifted and cut. If any sectorial chimeras are visible or the internal color is lighter than expected for that cultivar, all sprouts from that root are discarded. Otherwise, sprouts are planted to generate prefoundation seed. Prefoundation roots not selected by hill selection are given to designated growers for production of foundation seed. Contracts with growers for foundation seed and seed distribution are the responsibility of the Virginia Crop Improvement Assn. (P.O. Box 78, Mt. Holly, VA 22524). Hill selection of `Hayman', a white-skinned, white-fleshed cultivar, over the past 20 years has essentially eliminated strings and nonenlarged roots. Improved root shape and smoothness has resulted in increased regional consumer demand for this specialty crop.
Pilot Test for the Commercial Use of Postharvest Pressure Infiltration of Calcium into Apples to Maintain Fruit Quality in Storage
Authors: Conway William S. , Sams Carl E. , Brown George A. , Beavers William B. , Tobias Rowel B. , Kennedy Larry S.
Published: December 2018

A pilot test was conducted over a 3-year period to determine the feasibility of using postharvest pressure infiltration of calcium into apples to maintain and/or improve the quality of fruit under commercial storage conditions. Fruits obtained from three different orchards were treated each year. `Golden Delicious' fruits were treated the first year, while `Delicious' fruits were treated the 2nd and 3rd years. In all treatments and years, there was a significant increase in calcium concentration of apples from all calcium chloride (CaCl2) treatments. In general, calcium concentration of treated fruit varied significantly among the three orchards. Firmness also varied among orchards, and was related to fruit calcium concentration. `Golden Delicious' apples were more susceptible to skin injury caused by CaCl2 treatment than were `Delicious' fruits. There was also an increase in infection as a result of some of the treatments, possibly due to injury caused to lenticels by the pressure applied or as a result of calcium injury.
Root Distribution and Proliferation of Field-grown Acorn Squash as Influenced by Plastic Mulch and Water
Authors: Ells James E. , McSay Ann E. , Kruse E. Gordon , Larson Gregory
Published: December 2018

Squash (Cucurbita pepo L. var. pepo) plants were grown on black polyethylene mulch or on bare ground, with trickle or furrow irrigation, and received only natural rainfall, or natural rainfall plus half or all of the estimated supplemental irrigation water required as determined by an irrigation scheduling program. The squash roots predominate in the upper 6 inches of soil throughout the season, with no less than 60% of the root mass located in this layer. The proliferation of roots increased as they extended horizontally from the vertical center line of the plant from 0 to 24 inches. Neither the irrigation treatments nor black polyethylene mulch had any influence on the pattern of root development. Water stress, however, reduced the size of the root system and the crop yield. Yields were not influenced by either furrow or trickle irrigation on the short rows that were used in this study. However, black polyethylene mulch and full irrigation offered the best chance of maximizing squash yields under the conditions of this study.
Flowering and Seed Yield in Three Species of Prairie Plants
Authors: Bohnen Julia L. , Hanchek Anne M.
Published: December 2018

Production of native seeds and seedlings for landscaping and restoration is an expanding horticultural industry in Minnesota, but seed yields of many species from wild stands are often small and vary widely in quality. In this work, we document phenological development and seed yield in cultivated and prairie-grown plants for Tradescantia ohiensis Raf. (Ohio spiderwort), Dalea purpurea Vent. (purple prairie clover), and Spartina pectinata Link (prairie cordgrass) at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. For T. ohiensis, seed yield under cultivation was significantly greater than in the prairie both seasons, with 2.5 g of seed recovered per plant in 1993. Under cultivation, seed yield of established D. purpurea was triple that of the prairie, yielding 34 seeds per inflorescence. S. pectinata grown under cultivation from seedlings or rhizome divisions produced seed in the first and second seasons, respectively, while plants in the prairie remained vegetative. Two-year-old seedlings produced 38 seeds per spike. Field cultivation of these native plant species resulted in increased seed yield and improved growth, while allowing phenological monitoring and the use of species-specific harvest practices.
Influence of Harvest Date and Controlled Atmosphere Storage Delay on the Color and Quality of `Delicious' Apples Stored in a Purge-type Controlled-atmosphere Environment
Authors: Drake S.R. , Eisele T.A.
Published: December 2018

Red color of two strains of `Delicious' apples was increased (25%) by a 10-day delay beyond recommended harvest date for long-term controlled atmosphere (CA) storage. Soluble solids content (SSC) and size also increased, but, depending on strain, up to 12% of firmness was lost at harvest with a 10-day delay. In 2 of 3 years, firmness values in all strains were 73 N or greater, and these fruit lost little firmness during 9 months of CA storage. Soft fruit (<63 N) at harvest resulted in unacceptable firmness after storage, regardless of harvest time or strain of `Delicious'. Immediate (<24 h) establishment of CA conditions resulted in good-quality fruit after storage. Quality loss was evident after a 5-day delay in atmosphere establishment, with no further loss after a 10-day delay. `Oregon Spur' apples had the best red color regardless of harvest. Sensory panel profiles were unable to distinguish among strains, harvest dates, or delays in time of atmosphere establishment. Caution should be exercised when initiating new harvest or storage procedures because growing conditions can vary from one location to another.
A Brushing Apparatus for Height Control of Bedding Plants
Authors: Schnelle Michael A. , McCraw B. Dean , Schmoll Timothy J.
Published: December 2018

Height control for vegetable transplants has become challenging with the loss of the industry standard growth regulator, daminozide (Alar). One alternative to growth regulators—brushing—was conducted on two cultivars of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Five weeks of brushing twice daily resulted in height suppression for both tomato cultivars. Brushing treatments were performed successfully by use of a grower-designed apparatus constructed from readily available materials.
Evaluation of an Energy Storage Module as the Primary Heat Source for Greenhouse Production of Bedding Plants
Authors: Merritt Richard H. , Ting K.C.
Published: December 2018

A phase change material (PCM) energy storage unit operating in a greenhouse from 29 Oct. through 21 Dec. 1992 cooled it on the average 1.7C in the day and warmed it 2.2C at night due to both sensible and latent heat absorbed, released, and circulated. Tagetes patula `Mighty Marietta' and `Early Queen Sophia' marigolds and Viola × Wittrockiana `Yellow Blotch' and `Blue Blotch' pansies were grown in a PCM and a control (no PCM) greenhouse. Temperatures went below 0C 10 days in the control greenhouse and 4 days in the PCM greenhouse. The lowest temperature of -7.8C killed the marigolds in the control greenhouse. Neither marigolds nor pansies were killed in the PCM greenhouse, which attained a low temperature of -3.3C. On 4 Dec., plants were destructively harvested. Morphologically the marigolds were taller, and had more leaf area and dry matter when grown in the PCM greenhouse as compared to the control, but pansies were taller, and had more leaf area and dry matter when grown in the control greenhouse, as compared to the PCM greenhouse.
In the Eye of the Beholder: The Case of the Minnetonka Lawn Ordinance
Authors: Hanchek Anne M.
Published: December 2018

In 1991, a suburban city in Minnesota found its lawn and nuisance weed ordinance the center of controversy as a citizen sought to develop a naturalized landscape that contrasted greatly with her neighbors' mowed lawns. This decision case study presents that situation as faced by the city policymakers and, when presented in a class setting, provides an opportunity to explore real options in a real issue of today. The case objectives are to prepare policymakers to deal with similar issues, and to broaden the outlook of students based in plant and environmental sciences to include the social factors of people-plant interactions. Group problem-solving skills also can be enhanced by this exercise. The abridged teaching note provides guidance for classroom and extension use.
A Laboratory Exercise to Demonstrate Direct and Indirect Shoot Organogenesis using Internodes of Myriophyllum aquaticum
Authors: Kane Michael E. , Philman Nancy L. , Jenks Matthew A.
Published: December 2018

Only a few plants are suitable for reliably demonstrating rapid direct and indirect shoot organogenesis in vitro. A laboratory exercise has been developed using internodes of Myriophyllum aquaticum, an amphibious water garden plant. Stock shoot cultures are established and maintained in vitro from nodal explants cultured on agar-solidified medium consisting of half-strength Murashige & Skoog salts (MS) and 30 g·liter-1 sucrose. Students use these cultures as the source of internode explants. Explants are cultured on agar-solidified full-strength MS with 30 g·liter-1 sucrose, 100 mg·liter-1 myo-inositol, and 0.4 mg·liter-1 thiamine·HCL and factorial combinations of 0 to 10 μM 2iP and 0 to 1.0 μM NAA. Adventitious shoot development occurs directly from the explant epidermis within 4 days and is promoted in media supplemented with 2iP alone. Cytokinin-supplemented media amended with NAA induce organogenetic callus formation, but reduce 2iP promotion of direct shoot organogenesis. After 4 weeks, shoot organogenesis on the various media is quantified and can be analyzed statistically. Chemical names used: N-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)-1H-purin-6-amine (2iP); α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA).
Classroom Exercises in the Study of Orchardgrass Somatic Embryogenesis
Authors: Gray D.J. , Trigiano R.N. , Conger B.V.
Published: December 2018

Orchardgrass is a member of the Poaceae, a family characterized by monocotyledonous-type embryos. This species is unique in that somatic embryogenesis can be induced from the cultured leaves of potted plants, which can be maintained conveniently in the greenhouse. Both embryogenic callus and isolated somatic embryos develop directly from cultured leaf sections. Embryogenic callus can be maintained indefinitely. Somatic embryos exhibit typical embryo morphology and germinate readily into plants. Exercises designed to lead students through aspects of culture initiation, maintenance, and plant regeneration are described.
Laboratory Exercises Illustrating Organogenesis and Transformation using Chrysanthemum Cultivars
Authors: Trigiano R.N. , May R.A.
Published: December 2018

A tissue culture laboratory exercise illustrating regeneration of whole plants from leaf segments of chrysanthemum by organogenesis is described. Using simple, common media, shoots can be generated in 5 weeks and rooted after an additional 3 weeks. Acclimatization of plants can be accomplished in a simple mistbed in the greenhouse. The exercise is adaptable to depict genotype differences among cultivars, optimization of shoot induction, effects of growth regulators, and experimental design. Callus is typically not formed during shoot formation; however, co-cultivation of leaf segments with a virulent strain of Agrobacterium tumefaciens produces callus with a strain of disarmed A. tumefaciens harboring NPTII construct affects regeneration of plants resistant to kanamycin.
Yield of Bell Peppers as Impacted by the Combination of Bacterial Spot and a Single Hail Storm: Will Copper Sprays Help?
Authors: Kousik C.S. , Sanders D.C. , Ritchie D.F.
Published: December 2018

The impact of a single hail storm injury in combination with bacterial spot caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria was assessed on three commercial pepper (Capsicum annuum) cultivars—King Arthur, Jupiter, and Rebell. In addition, the effectiveness of copper plus maneb sprays on hail-damaged plants to suppress bacterial spot was evaluated. A hail storm of ≈5-min duration severely damaged and defoliated the pepper plants. Severe bacterial spot was observed 10 days later on all plants. Disease ratings taken 2 weeks after the hail storm were significantly greater than ratings before the storm. Unsprayed plots of all three cultivars had the greatest disease and the least yield. Plots sprayed weekly (7-day schedule) had a significantly greater yield and less disease compared to unsprayed and biweekly sprayed (14-day schedule) plots for all three cultivars. The combination of hail damage and bacterial spot resulted in a 6-fold reduction in yield in the absence of copper plus maneb sprays and a 2-fold reduction with weekly sprays when compared to the previous season with no hail injury, but similar levels of bacterial spot disease. Disease ratings were less and yields were greater for `King Arthur', than for `Jupiter' and `Rebell'. A judicious copper plus maneb spray program can suppress bacterial spot and help recovery of a young pepper crop when hail damage occurs.
Vegetative Growth and Fruit Yield of Three Types of Micropropagated `Redwing' Red Raspberry Nursery Stock
Authors: Finn Chad , Warmund Michele , Starbuck Chris
Published: December 2018

The vegetative growth and fruit yield of three types of micropropagated `Redwing' red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L. var. idaeus) nursery stock were compared. The three types of nursery material included: 1) stage IV (S-IV) actively growing plants; 2) dormant-stage IV (DS-IV) plants; and 3) nursery-matured (NM) S-IV plants, grown for 8 to 12 weeks in the field before harvest for cold storage. On 1 Apr. 1991, primocane-fruiting `Redwing' plants of each type were planted 0.6 m apart in ridged, drip-irrigated, and straw-mulched rows spaced 3 m apart in six, three-plant replications. In the establishment year, a small, but commercially viable, crop was harvested from 16 Aug. 1991 to 28 Oct. 1991. The S-IV and NM plants produced greater yields than DS-IV plants in the establishment year. However, by the end of the second year, the S-IV plants had the greatest fruit yield, followed by NM, with the DS-IV plants continuing to have the lowest yield. Fruit size of the S-IV plants was largest in both years. While there were differences in dry weight during the planting year, by the experiment's conclusion, the dry weights were similar among all nursery types. When planting `Redwing', the less-expensive, easier-to-handle, and higher-yielding S-IV plants would be recommended over the other nursery types.
Comparing Objective Quality Attributes of Grapefruit Imported Into Europe
Authors: Risse L.A. , Bongers A.J.
Published: December 2018

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) were sampled biweekly from importers in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from Oct. 1992 through Sept. 1993. For each sample, fruit size, weight, peel thickness, internal pulp color, juice weight, total soluble solids (TSS), and total acid (TA) were measured. Three grapefruit cultivars—`Marsh' white, `Ruby Red', and `Star Ruby'—were sampled from 12 countries of origin. Florida fruit weighed more, had the thinnest peel, the most juice, the lowest TA, and the highest TSS/TA ratio for all three cultivars compared to all other origins, except for `Ruby Red' grapefruit from California, which had a lower TA and a higher TSS/TA ratio. Turkish `Ruby Red' and Spanish `Star Ruby' fruit weighed the least and had the least amount of juice compared to fruit from other origins. Turkish fruit had the highest TA and the lowest TSS/TA ratio for all three cultivars from all origins. Israeli `Marsh' white and `Star Ruby' had the highest TSS. Overall, the internal quality characteristics of Florida fruit was high compared to fruit from other origins.
Rutgers Urban Gardening: A Study in Cultural Diversity and Gardening
Authors: Patel Ishwarbhai C.
Published: December 2018

Rutgers Urban Gardening (RUG) has established a physical, psychological, and emotional environment that fosters and sustains diversity. RUG enhances cultural diversity by employing an ethnic minority work force of six, reaching diverse audiences representing more than 30 ethnic groups, and offering a wide variety of educational programs. Urban gardening gives people an opportunity to meet others, share concerns, and solve problems together. It cuts across social, economic, cultural, and racial barriers, bringing together people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds.
Growth and Shelf Life of Impatiens in Media Amended with Hydrophilic Polymer and Wetting Agent
Authors: Blodgett Allyson M. , Beattie David J. , White John W.
Published: December 2018

Impatiens wallerana `Accent Red' were grown in a peat : perlite : vermiculite (PPV) or bark : peat : perlite (BPP) medium amended with SuperSorb-C (SS) or Soil Moist (SM) hydrophilic polymer and/or AquaGro-G (AG) wetting agent. In PPV or BPP, neither SS nor SM significantly increased shoot dry weight. In PPV, quality ratings were higher for plants grown in nonamended or SS- or SM- amended medium than for plants in AG-amended medium. In BPP, quality ratings were highest for plants grown in nonamended, AG-, or SM + AG-treated medium. Number of days from final irrigation to permanent wilting point (PWP) was greater in AG, SS + AG, or SM + AG treatments in PPV than in control, SS, or SM treatments, due to smaller plants in AG-amended media. In both media, root dry weight was not significantly greater with the use of either hydrophilic polymer or wetting agent. However, in PPV, AG suppressed root growth compared to the control.
A Long-term Comparison of Broadcast Application versus Drip Fertigation of Nitrogen for Mature Pecan Trees
Authors: Worley R.E. , Daniel J.W. , Dutcher J.D. , Harrison K.A. , Mullinix B.G.
Published: December 2018

No reduction in yield and quality of pecan nuts or leaf mineral nutrient concentration occurred when 100 lb/acre of N was applied through a drip-irrigation system compared with 200 lb/acre applied either all broadcast or half broadcast and half fertigated. Yield of `Stuart', percentage kernel of `Schley', and nut size of both cultivars were increased by irrigation or irrigation and fertigation. The 100 lb/acre N-all-fertigated treatment resulted in less soil pH reduction and less loss of K, Ca, and Mg from soil underneath the tree canopy than broadcast treatments. No evidence of excessive soil pH reduction in the wetted zone of fertigated trees was noticed. Calcium and Mg were higher within than outside the wetted zone.
Comparison of Damage to `Tifgreen' Bermudagrass by Petroleum and Vegetable Oil Hydraulic Fluids
Authors: Elliott M.L. , Prevatte M.
Published: December 2018

Petroleum and vegetable oil hydraulic fluids were spread on `Tifgreen' bermudagrass at three volumes (125, 250, and 500 ml) and three temperatures (27, 49, and 94C) to simulate a turfgrass equipment leak. Initial damage, recovery, and effects for a 1-year period were compared among treatments. All hydraulic fluid treatments resulted in 100% leaf necrosis within 10 days of application. Turfgrass recovery was influenced primarily by the fluid volume. After recovery, only plots treated with petroleum hydraulic fluid were periodically chlorotic, resulting in lower turfgrass quality. Long-term negative effects of hydraulic leaks from golf course equipment may be reduced by using vegetable oil hydraulic fluid.
Forced Ambient Air Storage of Different Onion Cultivars
Authors: Medlicott A. , Brice J. , Salgadol T. , Ramirez D.
Published: December 2018

No systematic curing and storage techniques are currently used with onions in Honduras; postharvest losses occur rapidly. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of storage bins (maximum capacity 7t) that use forced ambient air ventilation to manipulate the atmospheric conditions around the onions. The desired storage conditions were 26 to 30C and 60% to 75% relative humidity. Ventilation regimes were manipulated in an attempt to obtain these conditions. The rate of deterioration in four varieties of onions over a 3-month period was determined and compared with onions stored under normal ambient conditions. Marketable onions in the forced-air storage bin compared to the controls stored under ambient conditions after 13 weeks were 82% vs. 37% for `Granex 33'; 71% vs. 40% for `Granex 429'; 63% vs. 31% for `Granex 438'; and 90% vs. 44% for `Texas Grano 502'. This represents a significant increase in the number of marketable onions after storage. All losses were increased by rain and tornado damage after 1 month of storage. The methods used to maintain uniform temperature and humidity conditions in the storage bin are discussed together with the problems encountered. The construction and operating costs are given together with the market prices and the required returns to cover the bin costs.
Two-step Heat Treatment of Pineapple Crowns Increases Thermotolerance
Authors: Hu John S. , Sether Diane M. , Harrington H. Michael , Ullman Diane E.
Published: December 2018

Thermotolerance of pineapple crowns (`Champaka 153') to 50C and above was increased with a 30-min first treatment at 30, 35, or 40C. Pineapple crowns receiving a 30-min heat treatment, before a second heat treatment at 50 or 55C, exhibited significantly less leaf damage than controls receiving no first treatments (P ≤ 0.05). The degree of thermotolerance was dependent upon the season in which crowns were harvested; greater thermotolerance occurred in crowns harvested in April than those harvested in October. Maximum thermotolerance occurred after an interval of at least 8 h between the first treatment and the higher temperature heat treatment. Thermotolerance was stable for at least 24 h.
Educational and Marketing Programs Serving the Landscape Industry
Authors: Garber Melvin , Bondari Kane , Wade Gary
Published: December 2018

A survey of landscape installers was conducted to help determine how university personnel and industry groups could better meet the needs of the landscape industry. The top four opportunities by which university personnel could assist landscape installers were to: 1) provide a hot-line for immediate professional advice (21%); 2) provide more in-house training (21%); 3) facilitate testing and introduction of new products (16%); and 4) provide lists of available publications and research findings (14%). Landscape installers also identified the most valuable information sources regarding types of plants available and plant installation. The implications of the survey results for developing education and marketing plans to serve the landscape installation industry are discussed.
Enclave Employment at Virginia Colleges and Universities
Authors: Dobbs Gerald S. , Relf Diane
Published: December 2018

Surveys taken in 1991 and 1992 in Virginia suggest that the enclave model of employment may be a more successful and long-term method of employing individuals with mental disabilities (IMDs) within Virginia college grounds departments. Individual, competitive placement of IMDs seems to be less successful, resulting in increased level of temporary and short-term employment. Additional research is needed to document the methods and benefits of employment used by other grounds departments, including colleges outside Virginia in the employment of IMDs.
using Palmtop Computers to Collect Plant Data in the Field
Authors: Lehman-Salada Laura , Hickey K. , Salada T.
Published: December 2018

Agricultural research often involves collecting numerical data in the field, orechard or greenhouse. Traditionally, horticulturists have recorded numerical data by hand and then manually entered the information into a computer or calculator for statistical analysis. In the last decade data loggers and portable computers have made data collection and analysis easier and more efficient. A palmtop computer is a small, lightweight instrument that combines the best characteristics of data loggers and portable computers. In our trial, palmtop computers equipped with a spreadsheet software program were ideal for numerical data entry in the field and were a cost-effective alternative to other devices.
Encouraging Environmental and Community Stewardship with Trained Extension Volunteers
Authors: Hlubik William T. , Weidman Richard B.
Published: December 2018

In 1993, a modification of the Master Gardener volunteer program was created to focus on ecological principles for environmentally sound gardening. The new program is called the Master Gardener-Environmental and Community Stewardship (MGECS) program and addresses important environmental concerns in Middlesex County, N.J. Program participants receive more than 100 hours of training in horticultural and ecological principles and are required to share their knowledge with others through volunteer activities monitored by cooperative extension staff. Volunteers encourage home comporting, recycling of grass clippings, proper fertilization techniques, and least-toxic pest control in the home landscape and garden. Trained volunteers have helped more than 16,000 people during the past 2 years through lectures, demonstrations, telephone contacts, and newspaper articles. Since the MGECS program began in 1993, the number of volunteer hours per person during the first year has increased by 30% compared to the traditional Master Gardener program offered from 1989 to 1992. This new program is an effective model to encourage practical environmental stewardship through community volunteer action.
Toward a Philosophy for Capstone Courses in Horticulture
Authors: Rhodus Tim , Hoskins James
Published: December 2018

Capstone courses generally target undergraduate students who are nearing completion of their studies. They are designed to build on skills acquired in earlier courses and emphasize situations and challenges that exist in the real world. Specific learning goals and course objectives vary across disciplines and institutions, but most capstone courses provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate a range of professional competencies and communication skills. By incorporating computer simulations, case studies, or research projects, students are better able to develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, a learning goal frequently adopted following curriculum review. A brief overview of the development, current popularity, and widespread offering of university capstone courses is presented. The goals and organization of `Quality, Ethics, and the Global Environment,” the capstone course in the horticulture major at Ohio State Univ., is compared to other capstone courses.
Developing an Integrated Location and Information Database for Teaching Plant Identification and Use
Authors: Sabota Cathy , Beyl Caula A. , Ghale Gokul
Published: December 2018

The landscape plants that exist on the Alabama A&M University, Normal, campus are readily accessible for a plant identification and use course. Managing location, health, and cultivar information is critical to optimizing this resource. As a classroom assignment, campus plants were inventoried; entered into FileMaker Pro 2.1, a relational database manager; characterized; and assigned locations on campus. The campus map was scanned using a Microtek Scanmaker IIxe and the image was imported into MacDraw II. A symbol library, which included symbols for trees, shrubs, and groundcovers, was developed by scanning hand-drawn images and then importing them into MacPaint. These bit-mapped images were duplicated as often as necessary and placed in appropriate locations on the campus map in MacDraw II. Students were exposed to landscape plant materials, database managers, and computer graphics capabilities. This approach has other advantages: database information can be easily coordinated with physical location, plants can be sorted based on their characteristics, and information can be routinely and easily revised and updated. The database is used in the landscape plant materials class as a teaching tool and for self-guided tours.
Implementing Pest-control Strategies for Vocational and Therapeutic Greenhouses
Authors: Airhart Douglas L. , Airhart Kathleen M. , Tristan John
Published: December 2018

Managers of greenhouses used in vocational training or therapeutic programs often face pesticide use restrictions due to medical safety codes, possible sensitivity due to client medications, frequent presence of patient groups, or the added risk of exposure to clients with limited awareness. This review of three horticultural therapy programs emphasizes the practice of preventive measures, manual controls, and limited chemical methods to discourage pest problems and outlines pest control strategies that may not be feasible in commercial greenhouses. The importance and application of integrated pest management and biological pest controls are discussed. Procedures and client activities for sanitation, cultural controls, pest monitoring, and safe application of spray solutions are presented. Client work habits and skills may be developed using the tasks suggested for pest control, and various skill competency levels may be incorporated into the management scheme. The need for client training and task accomplishment may encourage alternative labor-intensive pest-control methods in therapeutic greenhouses.
The Role of Horticulture in Training Correctional Youth
Authors: Flagler Joel
Published: December 2018

Since 1992, Rutgers University-Cook College has been working with the New Jersey Dept. of Corrections and Division of Juvenile Services to develop and deliver training programs. One goal of this specialized training has been to make New Jersey's adjudicated youth more employable. Another goal has been to impart personal development skills that can lead to improved self-esteem and outlook.
Pecan Production Trends: A Comparison of Production in the Southeastern and Southwestern United States
Authors: Peña Jose G.
Published: December 2018

The United States pecan industry experienced dynamic production changes during the last 25 years. Production in Georgia, the leading state, experienced serious problems during the late 1980s and early 1990s as a result of orchard crowding, old orchards, high incidence of diseases, and other problems. During the same 25-year period, plantings and production shifted to the southwestern United States to new production centers in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California under a drier, more-favorable growing environment. Although the southeastern region continues to lead the nation in annual pecan production due to the high number and concentration of orchards with improved varieties, production in the southwestern region eventually may dominate the industry.
Quality Indices and Sensory Scores Support Early Harvest of Pecans
Authors: Silva Juan L. , Matta Frank B. , Herrera Esteban A.
Published: December 2018

Pecans [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh. C.) Koch] were harvested weekly for 9 and 7 weeks until normal harvest time during 1986 and 1987, respectively. Kernels were tested for chemical, physical, and sensory properties. Moisture decreased from 13% at initial harvest time to 4% to 6% by normal harvest. Free fatty acids decreased from 0.5% to 0.2% by the third week before normal harvest. Tannins fluctuated, but averaged about 0.8%. Hue angle remained constant from the fourth week to normal harvest. Shear force increased from 90 to 135 N by the second week before normal harvest. Pecans can be harvested about 2 weeks before normal harvest without significant quality deficiencies.
Economic Comparison of Removing Pecan Trees and Planting Young Trees and Transplanting Established, Mature Trees
Authors: Herrera Estaban A.
Published: December 2018

Pecans [Carya illinoinensis Wangenh. K. (Koch)], grown in western Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, are usually planted at a spacing of 9.1 × 9.1 m (30 × 30 ft). At this spacing, orchards begin to crowd in about 20 years. This crowding results in reduced yields and nut quality, Strategically removing trees over a period of years is the best alternative to avoid tree-crowding problems. Establishing a new orchard with transplanted mature trees can show a profit 3 years earlier than if using nursery-produced trees.
Water Management in Irrigated Pecan Orchards in the Southwestern United States
Authors: Miyamoto S. , Henggeler J. , Storey J. Benton
Published: December 2018

Irrigated production of pecans in the southwestern United States started with notoriously inefficient flood irrigation along river basins. Today, most surface-irrigated orchards are laser-leveled, and many orchards in upland areas are under sprinkler or drip irrigation. Technical and scientific knowledge for improving water management also has evolved from studying drought effects on tree performance to an improved understanding of water relations, salt effects, evapotranspiration processes, and the distribution of water and salts in irrigated fields. Yet, many growers still experience difficulties with water management and may benefit from maintaining the soil water suction above saturation but below 30 to 40 cb until shuck opening. The soil salinity should be kept below 2.5 dS·m−1, and irrigation water should be applied to essentially the entire root zone for optimum tree growth. Due to extreme soil variability existing in most irrigated fields of the southwestern region, these guidelines alone are not adequate. Soil profiles, root distributions, water quality, and irrigation methods may have to be examined to improve water management.
Growth of Two Tropical Foliage Plants Using Coir Dust as a Container Medium Amendment
Authors: Meerow Alan W.
Published: December 2018

Growth of Ravenea rivularis Jumelle and Perrier (majesty palm) and `Lady Jane' Anthurium Schott was compared in container media, using as a primary organic component sphagnum peat, sedge peat, or coir dust. Growth index and shoot and root dry weights of majesty palm were significantly higher in the coir than the sedge peat medium. Growth index and shoot dry weight were only marginally higher for the anthurium in the coir vs. sedge peat medium, and root dry weights were comparable. Both crops grew equally well in the coir and the sphagnum peat medium. The sedge peat medium had the most air porosity and the least water-holding capacity of the three media at the initiation of the trials, but at termination showed a reversal of these parameters. The coir medium showed the least change in these parameters over 8 months. High-quality coir dust appears to be an acceptable substitute for sphagnum or sedge peat in soilless container media.
Forcing Herbaceous Perennials to Flower after Storage Outdoors under a Thermoblanket
Authors: Iles Jeffery K. , Agnew Nancy H.
Published: December 2018

Nine herbaceous perennial species were evaluated for use as flowering potted plants for late winter and early spring sales. Plugs of `King Edward' Achillea × Lewisii Ingw. (yarrow), Arabis sturii Mottet. (rockcress), `Alba' Armeria maritima (Mill.) Willd. (common thrift), `New Hybrid' Bergenia cordifolia (Haw.) Sternb. (bergenia), Chrysogonum virgianum L. (goldenstar), `War Bonnet' Dianthus × Allwoodii Hort. Allw. (Allwood pinks), Phlox × chattahoochee L. (Chattahoochee phlox), `Sentimental Blue' Platycodon grandiflorus (Jacq.) A. DC. (balloonflower), and Veronica L. × `Sunny Border Blue' (veronica) were established in 14-cm (0.8-liter) round plastic containers, grown for one season and covered with a thermoblanket for winter. Five plants of each species were transferred to a 21 ± 3C glasshouse for forcing under natural daylengths at six 10-day intervals beginning 1 Dec. 1993. Arabis sturii, Phlox × chattahoochee, Platycodon grandiflorus `Sentimental Blue', and Veronica × `Sunny Border Blue' flowered out of season without supplemental lighting. `Alba' Armeria maritima and Chrysogonum virginianum also flowered; however, their floral displays were less effective. `New Hybrid' Bergenia cordifolia did not flower and `King Edward' Achillea × Lewisii and `War Bonnet' Dianthus × Allwoodii only flowered sporadically, therefore, these perennials are not recommended for forcing out of season using our vernalization method.
Postharvest Characteristics of cut Inflorescences of Lupinus havardii
Authors: Davis Tim D. , Mackay Wayne A. , Sankhla Narendra
Published: December 2018

Big Bend bluebonnet (Lupinus havardii Wats.) is native to a narrow geographic range in southwestern Texas and produces attractive blue inflorescences (racemes) that may be used as cut flowers. Several crops were produced in the greenhouse to determine postharvest-characteristics of the cut inflorescences. Without any postharvest conditioning treatments, the inflorescences held in water had an average vase life of about 7 days. During this period, an average of 13 flowers abscised per inflorescence. When preconditioned for 4 hours in 40 to 160 mg·liter−1 silver thiosulfate (STS), vase life increased to 10 to 12 days and fewer than three flowers abscised per inflorescence. A commercial floral preservative (Oasis) had no effect on flower abscission or vase life of STS-treated inflorescences. Flower abscission and vase life were the same whether STS-treated inflorescences were placed in floral foam moistened with water or in water alone. Storing STS-preconditioned inflorescences in water at 5C for 72 hours did not affect flower abscission or vase life compared to the unstored control. Dry postharvest storage at 5C for 72 hours caused noticeable wilting, but, on dehydration, these inflorescences still had a vase life of about 8 days. Postharvest characteristics of pink-and white-flowered breeding lines were the same as for the blue-flowered line. These results indicate that cut inflorescences of L. havardii have desirable postharvest qualities and can be stored for up to 72 hours without seriously limiting vase life.
Inefficacy of Methanol as a Growth Promoter in Selected Vegetable Crops
Authors: Esensee V. , Leskovar D.I. , Boales A.K.
Published: December 2018

Nonomura and Benson (1992) reported that foliar applications of dilute solutions of methanol caused growth and yield increases and reduced water use in several crops. The request from commercial growers for explicit information regarding this report prompted our experiments using the same procedures. Growth of cantaloupe, pepper, cabbage, cauliflower and onion seedlings and mature plants were evaluated in the laboratory and greenhouse in 1993 and in the field in 1993 and 1994. Treatments of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40% methanol (v/v water) with 0.1% surfactant generally did not cause significant growth differences. Stem diameters or lengths, shoot fresh and dry weights, or root fresh and dry weights of seedlings were unaffected as a result of methanol treatment. In the field, cabbage head weight was slightly higher after methanol application only in 1993, whereas cantaloupe fruit weight and number were significantly lower in 1993, but not in 1994.