bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(275) Cloning of a Myrosinase cDNA from Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) Root and Its Heterologous Expression in Spodoptera frugiperda Insect Cells
Authors: Li Xian , Bohnert Hans , Schuler Mary , Kushad Mosbah
Published: February 2019

A full-length cDNA (ArMY1) encoding myrosinase (β-thioglucoside glucohydrolase, EC 3.2.3.1) was cloned from horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) root. ArMY1 has an open reading frame of 1614 nucleotides with a deduced protein of 538 amino acids and molecular mass of 61.6 kD. ArMY1 shows highest overall amino acid identity (72%) with Arabidopsis thaliana myrosinase TGG2. ArMY1 mRNA signal of about 1.95 kb was detected in the leaves and roots of horseradish, but not in the leaves of broccoli. Heterologous expression of ArMY1 in baculovirus-infected Sf9 cells resulted in an immunologically active recombinant ArMY1 protein when probed with myrosinase-specific monoclonal antibody 3D7 with apparent mass 65 kD. Phylogenetic analysis showed that ArMY1 does not cluster with any of the current myrosinase subfamilies, i.e., the MA, MB, and MC subfamilies, and may represent a novel myrosinase subfamily in root tissue. This is the first report of cloning of myrosinase cDNA from horseradish root. It provides important sequence information that will enable further studies of myrosinase expression patterns and their interaction with myrosinase–binding proteins and other myrosinase-associated proteins.
(420) Germination and Radicle Elongation Responses of Seven Vegetable Crops to Aqueous Extracts of Hairy Vetch (Vicia villosa) and Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
Authors: Hill Erin C. , Ngouajio Mathieu
Published: February 2019

Hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) (HV) and cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] (CP) are two leguminous cover crops used in vegetable production systems. The residues of both species have been shown to suppress weeds via allelopathic interactions; however, they may also carry a risk of crop injury. A laboratory experiment was designed to study the dose response of carrot, sweet corn, cucumber, lettuce, onion, pepper, and tomato germination and radicle elongation to the aqueous extracts of both HV and CP. Aqueous extracts of fresh, whole plants were lyophilized to obtain a dry powder. Treatments of 0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, 2.00, 4.00, and 8.00 g dry extract/L of distilled water were applied to 10 seeds on filter paper in petri dishes. The petri dishes were then sealed and placed in the dark at 21 °C for 4 to 7 days, depending on the species germination. After the incubation period, germination rates and radicle lengths were recorded. Each treatment had 4 replications and the full experiment was executed twice. Pepper germination was reduced by increasing concentrations of HV extract; however, all other crops were not affected by HV or CP extracts. The HV extract had a significant effect on radicle elongation in carrot, corn, cucumber, lettuce, onion, and tomato. Inhibition of radical growth at 8 g·L-1 ranged from 42% in cucumber to as high as 81% in carrot. The CP extract had a negative effect on the radicle elongation of carrot, corn, lettuce, and tomato. Inhibition at 8 g·L-1 ranged from 42% in carrot to 67% in tomato. This study shows that both HV and CP extracts hold the potential to negatively affect the listed crops. Therefore, studies need to be done on the persistence of these effects in the field to maximize weed control while avoiding crop injury.
(428) Seed Threshing and Cleaningin Flowers
Authors: Tay David
Published: February 2019

Flower seed threshing and cleaning are challenging because many flowers have tiny seed, e.g., the 1000-seed weight of Begonia is 0.01 g, and others have odd-shaped seed, e.g., Tagetes has pappus-bearing seed and Fibigia has winged seed. There is a lack of information on the threshing and cleaning of flower seeds. At the Ornamental Plant Germplasm Center, a small-plot grain belt thresher was modified by disengaging its winnower and a special chute installed to collect the threshed seed and chaff together for cleaning. A custom-made threshing board is used for small samples. The seed with chaff is passed through screen with mesh size that allows all the seed to pass through so that the big pieces of chaff are retained and separated, i.e., scalping. Accurate selection of the next scalping screen (SS) is critical so that the mesh size is just right for at least 95% of the seed to pass through to remove all the chaff larger than the seed. The seed is then sieved on a grading screen (GS) of mesh size that retains at least 95% of the seed to remove all the chaff smaller than the seed. A seed blower is used to further separate the remaining chaff and empty seed based on weight and surface area by adjusting the blowing velocity (BV). A vibratory separator (VS) is used for species with round seed, e.g., Antirrhinum. An X-ray machine is used to monitor the cleaning process. The SC, GS, BV, and VT are given for Agastache, Anisodontea, Antirrhinum, Aquilegia, Aster, Astilboides, Begonia, Belamcanda, Bergenia, Cleome, Coreopsis, Dianthus, Eupatorium, Gaillardia, Geranium, Gypsophila, Iris, Lilium, Lysimachia, Myosotis, Nothoscordom, Oenothera, Passiflora, Penstemon, Petunia, Platycodon, Ranunculus, Rudbeckia, Silene, Stokesia, Synnotia, Tagetes, Talinum, Thalictrum, Verbena, Veronica, and Zinnia.
(311) Armillaria Root Rot of Peach: A Multipronged Approach
Authors: Layne Desmond R. , Schnabel Guido , Cox Kerik , Scorza Ralph , Bussey Karen
Published: February 2019

Armillaria root rot (ARR) of peach caused by the soil-borne basidiomycete fungus Armillaria tabescens is causing premature decline and mortality of peach trees on most southeastern U.S. peach farms. Soil inoculum may be present both in former peach orchard sites and on sites that were once in hardwood forest. The fungus is protected under the bark of dead root pieces and may survive up to 100 years at various depths in the soil profile. No commercially available rootstocks are resistant to ARR. Since 2002, we have embarked on a multipronged strategy to develop control options to combat ARR. First, we have two replicated trials on commercial grower replant sites with a history of ARR. Trial 1 compares four preplant fumigation treatments (none, Telone II, methyl bromide, and Enzone), three rootstocks (Lovell, Halford, and Guardian) and preplant root dips with endomycorrhizal fungi. Trial 2 compares the use of raised beds, root collar excavation and preplant root dips. Both trials examine long-term productivity and tree survival. Second, we are examining the use of systemic fungicide injection into infected trees to protect trees around infection foci. Third, we are trying to develop a genetically modified ARR-resistant rootstock. We have inserted the gene encoding the gastrodia antifungal protein (GAFP—a low molecular weight lectin that binds mannose and chitin) from a Chinese orchid into tobacco (model herbaceous system) and plum (model Prunus system). GAFP has antifungal activity against several basidiomycete root rot pathogens. Pathogenicity tests with transformed tobacco plants show enhanced tolerance to several root rot pathogens when compared to nontransformed plants. Transformed plums are being multiplied for pathogenicity tests.
(41) Value-added Products from Agriculture: Sprouts from Canola and Lupin Seeds
Authors: Bhardwaj Harbans , Hamama Anwar
Published: February 2019

Sprouts from various seeds are considered healthy for human consumption. However, no information is available about sprouts made from canola (Brassica napus L.) and white lupin (Lupinus albus L.), two new potential alternate crops in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Canola sprouts, on an average, contained (g/100 g, dry weight basis) 38.9 oil, and 61.5, 18.6, 9.2, 7.4, 92.6, 64.8, and 27.8 percent of 18:1, 18:2, 18:3, total unsaturated, total saturated, MUFA, and PUFA fatty acids, respectively, in the oil. Corresponding values for white lupin sprouts were: 6.5, 43.0, 24.9, 9.3, 17.9, 82.1, 47.9, and 34.2. Canola sprouts contained 26.9% protein, whereas white lupin sprouts contained 26.3% protein. Details of these experiments and further results would be presented.
(188) Evaluation of Edamame Cultivars in Central Pennsylvania
Authors: Sánchez Elsa , Kelley Kathleen , Butler Lynn
Published: February 2019

Eight edamame [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] cultivars were evaluated in the field in 2002, 2003, and 2004 to determine their suitability for growing in central Pennsylvania. Each cultivar was direct seeded and data collected included plant populations (percentage of stand) and marketable yields. Plant populations ranged from less than 1% to 81% and, with one exception in 2002, were below 80%. Eighty percent plant populations or higher are considered optimal. Based on sub-optimal plant populations, none of the edamame cultivars evaluated in the field were determined to be suitable for direct seeding in central Pennsylvania. The effect of temperature on seedling emergence, and therefore, plant populations was then studied. Four of the edamame cultivars used in the field trial were evaluated in growth chambers programmed with varying day/night temperature regimes. Seedling emergence varied by cultivar and was generally below 80% with two exceptions. When grown in a 21.1 °C day/15.6 °C night temperature regime, `Butterbeans' and `Early Hakucho' exceeded 80% seedling emergence. These methods could be used to produce transplants; however, the economic feasibility of doing so should first be evaluated. In the field trial, conclusions on marketable yields were unattainable because soybean plants are known to compensate in yield for plants missing in sub-optimal plant populations. Plant compensation and sub-optimal plant populations rendered yield comparisons between cultivars questionable. The issue of sub-optimal seedling emergence and plant population needs to be studied further before suitability of growing these edamame cultivars in central Pennsylvania can be determined.
(190) Productive Behavior of Varieties with Different Planting Densities in Okra [Hibiscus esculentus (L.)] Cultivation with Controlled Irrigation
Authors: Juarez Francisco Radillo , Gonzalez Juan Manuel González , Tene Marcelino Bazan , Alvarez J. Hyvan Castañeda
Published: February 2019

Vegetables are important in Mexican agriculture because of the exportation opportunities made available by the opening of the Free Trade Agreement. Okra represents a potentially profitable crop, and it is important to understand its behavior in a predetermined environment, and determine its optimal sowing density. The present work was realized to evaluate three genotypes and three densities of okra plants in the production and quality of fresh fruit. The work was realized in the winter–spring cycle in the dry tropic region, using a randomized block design with a bifactorial of nine treatments. During the cultivation cycle, the vegetative and productive variables did not present changes in phenology, and only registered differences in plant height (58.4 and 57.6 cm., respectively) of PX 416543 and `Green Best', with a distance between plants of 18 cm. These results indicate that with increased densities of 41,600, 50,000, and 69,444 plants/ha, there were no differences in the number and weight of fresh fruit/plant. Nevertheless, with the production and support the quality of fresh fruit increased. We conclude that high densities of plants increase the total crop of fresh fruit per hectare without affecting quality. The variety PX 416543 presented the best vegetative and productive behavior.
(192) Commercial Evaluation of Green Snap Bean Varieties in Northwest Mexico
Authors: Grijalva-Contreras Raul Leonel , Macias-Duarte Rubén , Robles-Contreras Fabián , Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel de Jesus
Published: February 2019

Production of green snap beans is a good alternative for Caborca, Sonora, Mexico. This vegetable can be harvested during the last week of November when market prices are good, and has good adaptation, and high yield and pod quality. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate 11 green snap bean varieties. This experiment was carried out on a commercial field, where seed was sown on 25 Aug. 2003. Density was 20 seeds/m (60 kg·ha-1). In this trial, we used a drip-irrigation system on beds 2 m apart and two rows with 36 cm of separation per bed. The first harvest was 68 days after the sowing date and lasted for 20 days, with four cuttings during that time. The varieties with greater yield were `Castaño', `Festina', and `Landmark' with 541, 494, and 463 boxes/ha (>30 pounds/box), respectively. The varieties with low yield were `Espada' and `Leader' with only 52 and 75 boxes/ha, respectively. The control `Savannah' yielded 235 boxes/ha. The pod quality distribution was 20%, 35%, and 45% for first, second, and third classification, respectively. `Savannah' and `Festina' had the best pod color (dark green). None of the varieties evaluated had pest or disease problems.
(390) Chemotype Variation among Black Cohosh Populations
Authors: Al-Amier Hussein , Nasr Khaled A. , Lück Lorna , Craker Lyle E.
Published: February 2019

Black cohosh [Actaea racemosa L.; syn. Cimicifuga racemosa (L.) Nutt.] is a medicinal plant native to America and the woodlands of eastern North America. The roots and rhizomes of black cohosh, used by Native Americans to ease childbirth and treat menstrual cramps, rheumatism, headaches, coughs, asthma, and snakebites, are currently popular as an herbal remedy in the United States and Europe for the relief of discomfort associated with menopause. To determine chemical variation among populations of this perennial plant, root samples from 33 locations within the natural range of the species, ranging from Massachusetts to South Carolina and west to Missouri and Tennessee, were collected and chemically analyzed by HPLC-PDA using a C-18 reversed phase column (Phenomenex) for separation of the chemical constituents. The constituents were identified by comparison with commercial standards, including actein, methyl-beta-arabinopyranoside, caffeic acid, cimicifugoside, cimicifugoside H1, cimiracemoside A, 26 deoxyactein, ferulic acid, isoferulic acid, kaempferol, formononetin, and others. Chemically, an extract of the root and rhizome is known to contain at least three major natural product groups: cycloartenal-type triterpenes, phenolics, and flavonoids. Chemical constituents, especially formononetin, varied among the populations.
(391) Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa L.) Propagation and Growth in Perlite Hydroponic Systems
Authors: Kim Hyung Jun , Harlow Chris , Peet Mary
Published: February 2019

Rhizomes of black cohosh (Actaea racemosa L.) grown in the deep woodland shade of eastern North America have been used historically as medicinals, but wild populations have declined because of collection pressure. The purpose of this study is to determine the potential for black cohosh production in perlite. Currently, cultivated plants represent just 3% of the total harvest. Perlite production should also result in clean, uniform plant material. Rhizomes were grown at 18 °C in controlled environment chambers in the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Phytotron in perlite for 42 days with fertigation 3, 6, or 12 times daily and 18.5, 21.5, or 24.5 °C root zone temperatures adjusted using heating cables. Leaf areas of the 21.5 and 24.5 °C root temperature treatments were greater than the 18.5 °C treatment. Stem number and new root number was highest in the 21.5 °C treatment. No effects of the fertigation treatments were significant. The second experiment was conducted 7 June–31 Oct. 2004 in a naturally lit temperature-controlled (22/18 °C) glass greenhouse in the NCSU Phytotron at nutrient solution EC levels of 0.7, 1.1, or 1.5 dS·m-1 and shading levels of 0%, 50%, and 75%. Highest leaf area and increase in fresh weight of the rhizomes over the experimental period was in the 50% shading treatment, but no significant effects of EC treatments were observed. Rhizome fresh weight increased 310% in the 50% shade, compared to 193% and 196% in the 0% and 75% shading treatments, respectively. In conclusion, black cohosh appears to prefer some shading during summer and 21.5 °C root temperatures. Low EC (0.7 dS·m-1) and infrequent watering (3 times daily) did not appear to limit growth in this system, but these results should be confirmed in larger studies in commercial greenhouses.
(392) Effect of Bovine Manure Application to Soil on the Development of Sabila Crops (Aloe vera barbadensis) in the Sonoran Desert
Authors: Robles-Contreras Fabián , Macias-Duarte Rubén , Grijalva-Contreras Raul Leonel , Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel de Jesus
Published: February 2019

The sabila plant is considered a strategic crop for the arid and semi-arid lands of Mexico, because it can be a high water-efficient crop due to its low water requirements, and is currently developing satisfactorily on an experimental scale in the agricultural area of Caborca, Sonora, Mexico, in the Sonoran Desert. This agricultural zone is characterized by a sandy soil with little or no organic matter and limited water supplies. Research consisted of evaluating the effect of bovine manure (BM) application to soil on the yield and size of sabila leaves. A sabila planting was established in Summer 2002, with a density of 15,000 plants/ha. Two applications of BM (9 t·ha-1) were made, one at planting time in Aug. 2002, and another one in Feb. 2003. BM was not applied to the control treatment. Although the harvest of leaves initiated in Dec. 2003 (plant formation), the first commercial harvest was made in Jan. 2005. We measured the yield and the average weight of leaves. The results indicated statistical differences (0.05) and an increase in the yield of 12.2 t·ha-1, which represents 26% more with the BM application with respect to the control, which produced 47.1 t·ha-1. As far as the average weight of leaves, there were no statistical differences between the BM application (597 g) and the control (532 g), although in both cases, they met the standards demanded by companies that manufacture products with sabila.
(458) pH Optima for Myrosinase Activity in Crude Extracts from Cruciferous Crops
Authors: Charron Craig S. , Sams Carl E.
Published: February 2019

There has been significant interest in the glucosinolate-myrosinase system in plants of the Brassicaceae due to accumulating evidence that some glucosinolate degradation products are anticarcinogenic and/or suppressive to plant pathogens. Because glucosinolate hydrolysis is catalyzed by endogenous myrosinase, characterization of myrosinase activity is important for elucidating the potential bioactivity of crop glucosinolates. We measured the specific activity in citrate-phosphate buffer extracts across the pH range 4.5–6.5 of two cultivars each of five Brassica groups grown during two fall and two spring seasons. Specific activity in two kale cultivars was highly variable, but tended to have highest activity from pH 5.0–6.0. In both cauliflower cultivars from Fall 2000, Fall 2001, and Spring 2002, optimal pH was around pH 6.0. In Spring 2000, however, specific activity was highest at pH 5.0. Maximum specific activity in both cabbage cultivars occurred in the pH range 5.5–6.0 in Fall 2000, Fall 2001, and Spring 2002. In Spring 2000, specific activity in `Red Acre' cabbage was uniform across the range pH 4.5–5.5 and maximum specific activity was at pH 5.0 for `Early Round Dutch' cabbage. Both brussels sprouts cultivars had pH maxima around pH 5.5–6.0 and significantly lower activity at pH 4.5. Specific activity in broccoli was much like that of cauliflower in that highest activity occurred around pH 5.5–6.0 in Fall 2000, Fall 2001, and Spring 2002, but in Spring 2000, maximum activity was at pH 5.0. These results indicate that in most cases, pH optima were in the range 5.5–6.0, but varied somewhat with season and genotype.
(321) Rapid and Differential Rates of Root Browning in Apple Trees under Different Irrigation Treatments
Authors: Palanjian Katie , Valenzuela Luis , Neilsen Denise , Neilsen Gerry , Eissenstat David
Published: February 2019

As roots change color from white to brown, their absorptivity for water and nutrients typically diminishes. The effects of irrigation on root pigmentation were studied during 2003 and 2004 in Summerland, British Columbia, using an experimental orchard of `Golden Delicious' apple trees on M9 rootstocks. Root pigmentation was monitored weekly over the growing season using a minirhizotron camera inserted into clear plastic tubes in the root zone. Each tree had two emitters, one on either side of the bole and ≈30 cm from the trunk. Four irrigation treatments were tested: full irrigation with replenishing 100% of daily evapotranspiration (ET) on both sides of the tree (100% both), 50% ET irrigation on both sides (50% both), irrigating alternating sides of the tree with 50% ET (50% alternating) and one-sided irrigation at 50% ET (50% one-side). The 50% alternating irrigation treatment simulated the irrigation practice of partial root zone drying where irrigation was alternated about weekly from one side of the tree to the other. Root pigmentation was remarkably fast among these trees, with median days to browning ranging from 4 to 10 days among treatments. For 50% one-side trees, root pigmentation on the dry side of the tree was much faster than roots on the wet side (4 and 7 days, respectively; P< 0.007). Otherwise, no additional significant effects of irrigation on pigmentation were detected.
(322) The Effect of Plant Growth Regulators and Time of Plantings on Stem Cuttings of Peach cv. Shan-i-Punjab
Authors: Thind Sushobitbir Singh , Singh Harmander Pal , Singh Sukhdev
Published: February 2019

Peach [Prunus persica Batsch. (L.)] is a major fruit of northern India, which is commercially propagated through stem cuttings. There is a scarcity of information available on the effect of plant growth regulators (PGRs) and time of plantings on rooting of peach stem cuttings. Studies were conducted to learn the effects of various PGRs and planting times on stem cuttings of peach cv. Shan-i-Punjab at the fruit nursery of the Horticulture Department, Khalsa College, Amritsar, India, in 2001 and 2002. The study on stem cuttings, taken from the middle portion of the shoot, compared three PGRs: indolebutyric acid (IBA), indoleacetic acid (IAA), and naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), each at concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 mg·L-1 and two planting dates (20 Dec. and 20 Jan.). Cuttings were treated for 24 hours before keeping under moist sand for 1 month for callusing. Callused cuttings were planted in the field. Measurements on sprouting percentage, survival percentage, plant height, shoot diameter, number of leaves per plant, leaf size, average root length, and root weight per cutting were recorded. The study showed that, overall, auxins had significant effect on the success and rooting character of peach plants over the control. The greatest sprouting and survival percentage, plant height, leaf area, and shoot diameter was exhibited by IBA followed by IAA and NAA. IBA at 100 ppm proved to be the most suitable PGR for improving success along with other rooting and vegetative characters of the plant. The cuttings planted on 20 Dec. gave a higher percentage of success (55.32%) over those planted on 20 Jan. (33.04 %), during both years of study. The other plant characteristics, such as average root length, plant height, leaf area, and plant height, of cuttings planted on 20 Dec. also showed greater success during both years.
(95) Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta L.) as a Potted Plant Crop in Response to Pinching and Paclobutrazol
Authors: Alsup Clydette M. , Trewatha Pamela B.
Published: February 2019

In two experiments, seedlings of black-eyed susan were transplanted into 15-cm pots and after 1 week received one of the following treatments: media drench application of 0.1, 1, 10, or 100 mg·L-1 of paclobutrazol or pinching back of terminal growth once, twice, or three times. After plants reached salable size, plant height, lateral branch length and number, and flower counts were taken, and plants were harvested for dry weights. In the first experiment, all pinching treatments and 10 mg·L-1 paclobutrazol reduced plant height and increased lateral branching. Flower count at harvest was enhanced by paclobutrazol and reduced by pinching, due to delayed development of inflorescences. Lateral branching and flower bud count were greatest in the second study on plants receiving three pinches. The 100 mg·L-1 paclobutrazol-drenched plants had lowest height, dry weight, and bud count and were severely stunted. The most attractive plants appeared to be those that received the 10 mg·L-1 paclobutrazol drench treatments.
(107) Effects of Defoliants (CuEDTA and ZnSO4) and Foliar Urea on Defoliation and Nitrogen Reserves of Almond Nursery Plants
Authors: Bi Guihong , Scagel Carolyn , Fuchigami Leslie
Published: February 2019

One-year-old field-grown `Nonpareil'/'Nemaguard' and `Nonpareil'/`Lovell' almond nursery trees were used to study the effects of chemical defoliants (CuEDTA and ZnSO4) and foliar applications of urea on defoliation and nitrogen (N) reserves. Although both chemical defoliants significantly promoted earlier defoliation, CuEDTA was more effective than ZnSO4 in promoting early defoliation. Two applications of defoliant had a similar effect as one application on promoting leaf abscission. Foliar applications of urea in addition to defoliant applications (urea + defoliant treatments) generally increased the efficiency of ZnSO4 (1.25% to 2%) and CuEDTA (0.5%) in promoting early defoliation. Although treatments with only defoliants did not consistently lower N reserve levels, trees treated with foliar urea or urea + defoliants had significantly higher nitrogen reserves compared to trees receiving only defoliant treatments. N reserves were comparable in urea + defoliant-treated trees to the levels found in naturally defoliated (control) trees. We conclude that both CuEDTA and ZnSO4 are effective in promoting early defoliation of almond nursery trees. Combining urea with defoliants can effectively promote early defoliation and is important for achieving N reserves similar to naturally defoliated trees.
(176) In Vitro Germination of Galax under Different Culture Medium pH Conditions
Authors: Yang Guochen , Niedziela Carl , Lu Zhongge (Cindy)
Published: February 2019

The goal of this study was to expedite galax seed germination in vitro. Galax seeds were collected from Yancey County, N.C., at an elevation of about 1100 m. Aseptic cultures were established using the tiny rust-colored seeds. In vitro seed germination was achieved under different pH conditions (4.2, 5.0, and 5.8). Seeds cultured in the medium with pH 4.2 tended to germinate early with a better rate than those cultured with a higher pH of 5.0 or 5.8 at the very beginning. Gradually, seeds from media with pH 5.0 and 5.8 caught up in germination. Eventually, seeds from all pH treatments produced a very similar germination rate. Attempts to use the matted and scaly rhizomes and very tender new growth as explant materials to establish aseptic cultures were not successful, due to severe contamination. However, our observations suggested that the very tender new growth could be a good source of explants once the optimum sterilization time is established.
(201) Strategies to Encourage Grower/Industry Participation in the Development of BMPs for Vegetables in Southern Florida
Authors: Lamberts Mary , Olczyk Teresa , Gilreath Phyllis , McAvoy Gene , Whidden Alicia , Parmenter Darrin , Skvarch Ed , Li Yuncong , Coffin Christine , Pybas Donald
Published: February 2019

Florida, like other states, is developing BMPs for specific commodities. Vegetables are in a statewide document that includes field crops. Vegetable advisory committee members from the counties in southern Florida were concerned that the existing document was too broad in its scope and that many practices did not apply to production on sandy or calcareous soils. Based on grower comments, extension agents organized grower meetings to address these issues. The first meeting was a presentation by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Office of Agricultural Water Policy. The second meeting in Miami–Dade was a hands-on session, where growers and industry were divided into three areas—nutrition, pesticides, and water quality. Each group was facilitated by a faculty member or the NRCS conservationist. Other counties used newsletters and other methods to receive grower feedback. Participant comments were compiled and forwarded to FDACS, where they are being incorporated into a greatly revised document. Concerns will be presented.
(214) Brassinosteroid-induced Femaleness in Cucumber and Relationship to Ethylene Production
Authors: Papadopoulou Ekaterina , Grumet Rebecca
Published: February 2019

The cucurbit family is noted for diversity in sex expression phenotypes.

Typically, a phase of male flowers precedes the appearance of female or hermaphrodite flowers. Sex determination of individual flowers is regulated by genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Ethylene, auxins, and gibberellins all influence flower sex, with ethylene, which promotes femaleness, playing a predominant role. In this study, we tested whether brassinosteroids, a more recently identified class of plant hormones, also influence cucurbit sex expression. Applied epi-brassinolide (epi-BL) caused a significant decrease in time of appearance of the first female flower on monoecious cucumber plants, and increased total female flowers on the main stem. Increasing concentrations had a stronger effect. Of the three species tested, cucumber, melon, and zucchini, cucumber was the most responsive. Application of epi-BL also caused an increase in ethylene production by cucumber and zucchini seedlings, suggesting that the BR effect may be mediated by ethylene. To investigate the possible relationship between BR and ethylene on sex expression, we identified the concentration of ethephon (5 ppm) that caused an increase in ethylene production comparable to that induced by 10 μm epi-BL (about two-fold). Treatment with 5 ppm ethephon was sufficient to increase femaleness of cucumber plants, but not zucchini plants, suggesting that the difference in response to epi-BL may reflect differences in sensitivity to ethylene. Collectively, our results indicate that application of brassinosteroids to cucumber cause earlier and increased female flower production, and that the effects may be mediated, at least in part, by brassinosteroid-induced increased production of ethylene.
(154) Investigating Consumer Demand for Fresh Market Edamame in Metro-Philadelphia Supermarkets
Authors: Montri Dru N. , Kelley Kathleen M. , Sánchez Elsa S.
Published: February 2019

An in-store marketing study was conducted in Fall 2004 to determine consumer demand for fresh, inshell edamame [Glycinemax (L.) Merrill]. Each Wednesday from 1 Sept. to 6 Oct. 2004, thirty 12-ounce plastic clamshells were placed in the produce department of four supermarkets in metro-Philadelphia, Pa. Packaged edamame remained in the supermarkets for 1 week and was replaced with fresh product when the next weekly delivery was made. A sample recipe, a follow-up survey and an addressed, postage-paid reply envelope were attached to the bottom of each clamshell. The survey was used to determine consumer perceptions, interest in Pennsylvania-grown edamame and the criteria they consider when choosing new produce items sold at supermarkets for themselves and their families. Of the 480 clamshells that were delivered, 312 were purchased. The total number of clamshells purchased weekly ranged from 64 to 87, while the number of clamshells purchased weekly at individual stores ranged from 6 to 30. Thirty-three surveys were returned with all participants responding that they had heard of or were familiar with edamame prior to purchasing the container. Of those who responded, 78.8% had purchased edamame before. Based on the total number of packages sold, a potential demand for fresh, inshell edamame exists among consumers in metro-Philadelphia. Results from this study will be used to assist small-acreage growers interested in marketing specialty vegetable crops, such as edamame, to chain supermarkets. By understanding consumer interests, we are able to more effectively determine which type of packaging and promotional materials best attract the attention of potential buyers.
(155) New Opportunities for Asian Vegetablesin Local Markets
Authors: Range Kurt T. , Walters S. Alan , Taylor Bradley H. , Moon Wanki
Published: February 2019

Consumers at two local direct produce markets in greater St. Louis, Illinois, were surveyed to measure interest and buying habits for Asian vegetables in 2003. A written survey instrument containing 20 questions about use, attitudes, and purchasing behavior of Asian vegetables was completed by 40 randomly selected shoppers at each market: a farmers market and a roadside market. Although most respondents were not familiar with Asian vegetables and 79% consumed less than 5 lbs of the product annually, they expressed a strong interest to learn more about these vegetables. Respondents reported typically purchasing Asian vegetables at supermarkets (31%), restaurants (30%), and direct markets (9%), while 30% did not normally purchase the product. Only 20% of the participants consumed Asian vegetables more than once per month, while an additional 25% avoided these vegetables entirely. When asked, “What would persuade you to purchase fresh Asian vegetables?”, surprisingly 40% of respondents answered “access to recipes.” Our results suggest local marketers can dramatically increase sales of Asian vegetables with simple education/promotion efforts.
(331) In Brazil, Preharvest Calcium Sprays Were Not Always Needed to Improve Fruit Quality of `Gala' Apples
Authors: Ernani Paulo Roberto , Dias Jaques , Amarante Cassandro Vidal , Ribieiro Diorvania
Published: February 2019

Calcium sprays have improved quality and storage life of apples throughout the world as a result of Ca prevention of many fruit physiological disorders. The efficacy of Ca sprays, however, varies according to soil, cultivar/rootstock, orchard cultural practices, and weather conditions. This study was carried out from 1998 to 2004 in southern Brazil in order to assess the effect of Ca sprays on quality of `Gala' fruits in an orchard planted in 1988 on a density of 1234 trees/ha. Treatments consisted of 0, 4, 8, and 12 sprays of 0.5% CaCl2. Fruits of same size and maturity level were annually analyzed at harvest and after 5 months of cold storage. In five out of six seasons, fruits from all treatments were free of any physiological disorder, and Ca sprays had no effect on leaf composition and on fruit quality attributes (soluble solids, acidity, starch pattern index, flesh firmness, and concentrations of N, K, Ca, and Mg). In the 2000–01 season, however, when yield was 18 t·ha-1 and fruits had an average weight of 175 g, the incidence of bitter pit plus lenticel blotch pit on stored fruits decreased from 24% in the treatment with no calcium to 2% in that with 12 calcium sprays. Two seasons later, yield was also light (25 t·ha-1) and fruits were big in size (168 g), but they did not show any disorders regardless of Ca sprays. It seems that the incidence of Ca related disorders in `Gala' apples grown on limed soils in Brazil only occurs in seasons with a light crop load as a result of large fruits and a high leaf/fruit ratio, associated with some unknown climatic factor.
(415) Evaluation of Weed Control Practices in an Organic Bell Pepper Production System
Authors: Law Derek M. , Rowell Brent
Published: February 2019

A 2-yearfield study in Lexington, Ky., evaluated the use of mulches in two organic production systems for bell peppers. Two planting strategies, flat ground and plastic-covered raised beds, and five weed control practices, straw mulch, compost mulch, wood chip mulch, corn gluten, and “living mulch” clover were tested. In 2003, the mulches were applied at planting, while in 2004, shallow soil cultivation was used for 6 weeks prior to mulch application. In 2003, the experimental field had been under a winter wheat cover crop; in 2004, the field had been cover cropped for more than a year prior to planting with sudex/cowpea (Summer 2003) and rye/hairy vetch (Winter/Spring 2004). Bell pepper yields in both bed treatments were very low in 2003 due to extensive weed competition. In 2004, plastic-covered raised beds coupled with mulching in-between beds resulted in significantly higher yields than the peppers grown on flat ground. These yields were as high as yields from a conventional pepper trial conducted on the same farm. Compost mulch, continuous cultivation, and wood chip mulch provided excellent weed control in 2004. Straw mulch was variable in its weed control efficacy; corn gluten and “living mulch” clover were ineffective.
(435) Physiological Study of Deacclimation and Reacclimation in Deciduous Azalea (Rhododendron subgenus Pentanthera) Species
Authors: Kalberer Scott , Leyva-Estrada Norma , Krebs Stephen , Arora Rajeev
Published: February 2019

Winter survival of temperate-zone woody perennials requires them to resist loss of frost hardiness (deacclimation) during winter and early spring thaws. However, little is known about deacclimation response in woody landscape plants. Moreover, what impact, if any, the degree of deacclimation has on reacclimation capacity has not been systematically studied. We used nine genotypes of deciduous azaleas (Rhododendron subgenus Pentanthera) to investigate effects of deacclimating conditions on bud cold hardiness and reacclimation ability. Dormant floral buds, with 3–5 cm stem attached, were collected in late December from field-grown plants, and placed in constant warm [22 °C 15 °C (D/N)] and humid conditions for increasing durations (0-day to 14-day) to stimulate deacclimation. Bud cold hardiness (lt50) was determined (using logistic regressions) by evaluating immature flower survival at subfreezing treatment temperatures. Results indicated that azalea genotypes from colder provenances showed greater initial frost hardiness. Typically northern genotypes had slow to intermediate deacclimation rates, while rates of southern genotypes were intermediate to rapid. High initial frost hardiness was frequently associated with slow deacclimation. Buds retained the capacity to reacclimate upon cold exposure [2 °C/–2 °C; (12 h/12 h)] even after 8 days of deacclimation. Distinct differences were observed between the two latitudinal ecotypes of R. viscosum with respect to their initial bud hardiness, deacclimation rates, and reacclimation capacities. We suggest that the three attributes, i.e., high initial hardiness, slow deacclimation, and high reacclimation capacity, together may be important for winter-survival of azalea buds.
(108) Assessing the Preparedness of College/University-trained Graduates Entering the Landscape Contracting Industry
Authors: Beidler Kory , Iles Jeffery
Published: February 2019

Using a mail questionnaire, we invited landscape contracting decision-makers to comment on the effectiveness of landscape contracting programs at colleges and universities in preparing students for professional careers. After organizing the Associated Landscape Contractors of America 2003 online member list (2049 companies) into four strata, based on company size, we chose a stratified random sample of 400 companies for our study. Completed questionnaires were received from 137 companies (35% response rate). A much larger percentage of respondents were either satisfied or extremely satisfied (52%) with college graduates recently hired than those who were dissatisfied or extremely dissatisfied (8.1%). But, when asked to consider four knowledge categories, a majority (53%) said recent graduates are deficient in business knowledge, whereas smaller percentages of respondents noted deficiencies in construction (25.1%), horticulture (9.6%), and design skills (5.1%). When asked to rate the importance of topics that could be taught in undergraduate landscape contracting programs, respondents identified business topics (personnel management, estimating and bidding, and clientele management) as their top three choices. Respondents also named three business-related skills (client relationships, time management, and managing employees) among the top five most important skills for landscape contracting professionals. Despite the stated importance of business training and business skills, more than two-thirds (68.3%) of respondents said when hiring for an entry-level landscape contracting position, they would prefer candidates with strong horticulture skills over those with strong business skills.
(114) Effects of Planting Depth on Landscape Tree Survival and Girdling Root Formation
Authors: Wells Christina , Townsend Karen , Caldwell Judy , Ham Donald , Smiley E. Thomas , Sherwood Michael
Published: February 2019

Landscape trees are frequently planted with their root collars below grade, and it has been suggested that such deep planting predisposes trees to transplant failure and girdling root formation. The objective of the present research was to examine the effect of planting depth on the health, survival, and root development of two popular landscape trees, red maple (Acer rubrum) and `Yoshino' cherry (Prunus ×yedoensis). Trees were transplanted with their root flares at grade, 15 cm below grade or 31 cm below grade. Deep planting had a strong negative effect on the short-term survival of `Yoshino' cherries. Two years posttransplant, 50% of the 15-cm- and 31-cm-deep planted cherries had died, whereas all the control cherries had survived (P< 0.001; 2). Short-term survival of maples was not affected by planting depth. Deep-planted trees of both species exhibited little fine root regrowth into the upper soil layers during the first year after transplant. Four years posttransplant, control maples had 14% ± 19% of their trunk circumference encircled by girdling or potentially-girdling roots; this number rose to 48% ± 29% and 71% ± 21% for 15-cm- and 31-cm-deep planted maples, respectively (P< 0.01; ANOVA main effect). There were no treatment-related differences in girdling root development in the cherries.
(333) Floral Commitment and Morphogenesis in Ten Apple Cultivars
Authors: Peng Jianying , Hirst Peter
Published: February 2019

Buds were sampled from nonflowering spurs on 1-year-old wood of 10 apple cultivars during the 2004 growing season and dissected to determine floral commitment and morphogenesis. Dissected buds were classified into five stages based on floral bud morphogenesis. The 10 cultivars differed in their patterns of floral commitment and morphogenesis. At the end of the growing season, the proportion of floral buds was 30% to 100% depending on cultivar. The probability of observing doming, indicating floral commitment, was from 5% to 50% depending on cultivar, with `NJ90' (50%), `Zestar' (30%), and `CQR10T17' (30%) rated among the highest. The lowest probability (5%) was with `Ambrosia', `Pinova', and `Silken'. The time of a peak of floral commitment was earliest in `Delblush' and `CQR10T17' and latest in `Sundance'™ and `Pinova'. Most cultivars exhibited a single peak of floral commitment, except for `Pink Lady' in which two peaks were present. The duration of the process of flower initiation was from 20 to 43 days depending on cultivar. The timing of floral commitment and morphogenesis was not related either to blooming date, or to fruit harvest time of the cultivar.
(334) Fruit Set and Yield in Relation to Reserve Nitrogen and Reserve Carbohydrates in `Gala' Apple Trees
Authors: Xia Guohai , Cheng Lailiang
Published: February 2019

Four-year-old `Gala'/M.26 trees were grown under low (2.5 mm), medium (12.5 mm), or high (25 mm) N supply with balanced nutrients in sand culture and the cropload was adjusted to 5 fruit/cm2 trunk cross-sectional area at 10 mm king fruit. After harvesting, half of the trees in each N treatment were sprayed twice with 3% urea a week apart in late September. Before budbreak the following spring, four trees from each treatment combination were destructively sampled for reserve nitrogen and carbohydrate analysis. Foliar urea application significantly increased tree N concentration and concentrations of both free amino acids and proteins, but decreased the concentration of total nonstructural carbohydrates (TNC) at each soil N supply level. When the carbon in free amino acids and proteins are taken into account, trees sprayed with foliar urea had similar levels of total sum of carbon in TNC, free amino acids and proteins. On a whole tree basis, trees sprayed with foliar urea had more N and less TNC. During the second year of the experiment, all the trees received normal N supply. Trees sprayed with foliar urea the previous fall had a significantly larger total leaf area and higher fruit set, fruit number, and total yield than those unsprayed. We conclude that fruit set and early fruit development as well as vegetative growth in spring is mainly determined by reserve nitrogen, not by reserve carbohydrates. Conversion of a portion of TNC to amino acids and proteins leads to better growth and fruiting of apple trees.
(50) Effect of Delayed MA Packaging and Packaging Film on Quality Maintenance of Fresh-cut Iceberg Lettuce
Authors: Kim Ji Gang , Choi Sun Tay , Lim Chai Il
Published: February 2019

Modified atmosphere (MA) packaging has been used to maintain quality of fresh-cut lettuce, but O2 depletion and excessive CO2 accumulation can be injurious. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of delayed MA packaging using three different films on quality maintenance of fresh-cut iceberg lettuce. Iceberg lettuce leaves were sliced, washed, dried, and placed for 0, 5, 10, and 15 hours under air atmosphere at 5 °C. Samples were packaged with 2.9 and 16.6 pmol·kg·Pa·s, oxygen transmission rate (OTR) films and microperforated film (P-plus), and stored for 12 days at 5 °C. Results indicated that delayed packaging affected gas composition (O2 and CO2), fermentative volatile production, off-odor, color, and tissue electrolyte leakage. With 2.9 OTR film, longer delayed time maintained quality by inhibiting off-odor development and the accumulation of ethanol. However, delayed packaging was not effective in maintaining quality of samples packaged with 16.6 OTR film and P-plus film. Regardless of delayed time, all 16.6 OTR-packaged samples had severe discoloration after 7 days of storage. All delayed treatments packaged with P-plus film attained the desired O2 (3–5 kPa) and CO2 levels (10–12 kPa) from day 9 to the end of storage. A 15-hour delayed packaging into packages prepared from 2.9 OTR film and samples packaged with P-plus film maintained quality by inhibiting off-odor development. The results indicate that delayed packaging could be an alternative method when fresh-cut lettuce is packaged with low OTR films.
(52) Postharvest Alleviation of Chilling Injury and Diseases of Cantaloupe Melons
Authors: Krarup Christian , Núñez Oscar
Published: February 2019

Chilling injury of cantaloupe melons (Cucumismelo, Cantalupensis group), although variable among cultivars, precludes the use of temperatures close to 0 °C for long term storage or transport. Diseases, either associated with chilling or independent from it, are usually the main factor terminating postharvest life of these melons. `Colima', a Western Shipper cultivar highly sensitive to chilling, was used to evaluate chilling and disease response to the following treatments: immersion in water at 60 °C for 1 minute (with or without 150 ppm chlorine), individual packaging (PVC, whole or perforated), exposure to air at 38 °C for 12 hours (with or without individual packaging), and control. After storage for 18 days at 0 °C and a simulated retail period of 3 days at 20 °C, there were significant differences among treatments: chilling was alleviated in heat-treated and especially in plastic-wrapped fruit, and the presence of diseases caused by pathogens such as Alternaria, Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Rhizopus was markedly reduced by heat treatments. Overall, visual quality was high and superior in fruit immersed in water at 60 °C with 150 ppm chlorine due to almost complete supression of diseases. Project financed by FONDECYT 1020882.