bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Nutrient Treatments Used on Balled and Burlapped Colorado Spruce Trees to Maintain Postharvest Quality
Authors: Tripepi* Robert R. , George Mary W. , Permann K. Amanda , Lloyd John E.
Published: February 2019

The goal of this study was to examine the effectiveness of several nutrient treatments to maintain or enhance the growth and foliar nutrition of Colorado spruce (Picea pungens Engelm.) trees while they were in a mulch holding bed. Sixty 1.5 to 1.8 m tall Colorado spruce trees with 61 cm (24 inch) diameter root balls were heeled into a holding bed of fresh pine bark mulch. The treatments applied to the root balls were a control (pine bark without fertilizer), Osmocote 15-9-12 distributed over the top of the ball at 114.2 g (label rate) per root ball, one Ross Gro-Stake 10-10-10 Evergreen fertilizer spike per ball, one-half cartridge of Ross Root Feeder 10-12-12 evergreen fertilizer injected into the root ball at four points, or a 50:50 mixture (by volume) of Eko Compost mixed with pine bark. Trunk diameters and tree heights were measured and foliar samples for nutrient analyses were collected before applying these treatments and at the end of the growing season 17 weeks later. Overall, the Colorado spruce trees appeared quite normal throughout the study. Changes in tree height and trunk diameter by the end of the growing season were unaffected by the nutrient treatments. By fall, needles from trees treated with the mixture of 50:50 compost:bark had the highest levels of foliar N, Mg, Ca, S, MN and B. Trees treated with one fertilizer spike had the second highest levels of foliar N and S, and these levels were significantly higher than those of trees receiving the other fertilizer treatments. Even though all nutrient treatments failed to influence increases in tree heights and trunk diameters during the first growing season after digging, the compost:bark mixture and to some extent the fertilizer spike improved foliar nutrition during this time.
Investigating Water Requirements of Select, Field-grown Tree Species in a Semi-arid Climate
Authors: Montague* Thayne , Fox Lindsey
Published: February 2019

Recent droughts and depleted water tables across many regions have elevated the necessity to irrigate field-grown (FG) nursery trees. At the same time, ordinances restricting nursery irrigation volume have been implemented, often without regard to plant water requirements. This research investigated growth of seven FG tree species (Acer buergeranum, A. campestre, A. × freemanii `Autumn Blaze', A. truncatum, Quecus muehlenbergii, Q. polymorpha, and Q. robur) subjected to three reference evapotranspiration (ETo) irrigation regimes (100%, 60%, and 30% ETo) in a semi-arid climate. During Spring 2002, nine containerized (11.3 L) trees of each species were field planted in a randomized block design. Each year trees were irrigated through a drip irrigation system. During the first growing season, all trees were irrigated at 100% ETo. Irrigation treatments began Spring 2003. Growth data (shoot elongation and caliper increase) were collected at the end of the 2003 growing season. Species growth data were subjected to analysis of variance. If treatment differences were found, means were separated by Fisher's least significant difference. Shoot growth was influenced by irrigation regime for each species except A. campestre and Q. robur. For each of the five remaining species, the greatest shoot growth increase was generally not associated with the greatest irrigation regime. In a similar manner, caliper increase was influenced by irrigation regime for each species. The 100% ETo irrigation regime produced the greatest caliper increase for A. buergeranum, A. truncatum, Q. polymorpha, and Q. robur. For remaining species, the greatest caliper increase was generally not associated with the greatest irrigation regime.
Increased Tolerance to Cold Storage in Transgenic Petunia Plants expressing the FAD7 Gene
Authors: Khodakovskaya Mariya V. , McAvoy* Richard J. , Wu Hao , Li Yi
Published: February 2019

It has been reported that constitutive expression of the fatty acid desaturase enzyme increased the trienoic fatty acid content of thylakoid membranes in transgenic tobacco, allowing the membranes to remain fluid under cold conditions. While increased cold tolerance resulted from this genetic modification, plants with a constitutively expressed desaturase enzyme would not be particularly well suited for growth under warm temperatures. To increase the ability of plants to tolerate prolonged cold-storage and still perform under greenhouse production conditions (25 °C), a unique cold-inducible genetic construct was cloned and tested. The FAD7 gene, which encodes an omega-3-fatty acid desaturase enzyme, was put under the control of a cold-inducible promoter (cor15a) from Arabidopsis thaliana. Transgenic petunia plants (cv, Marco Polo Odyssey) harboring cor15a:FAD7 were established and conformed by PCR and Southern analysis. Therefore in our study, FAD7 gene expression was induced by exposure to cold temperatures and down regulated under normal growing conditions. RT-PCR indicated a marked increase in FAD7 expression between transgenic plants exposed to a short (3 days) cold treatment prior to long-term cold storage and those that did not receive a cold induction treatment. Transgenic and wild-type plants were induced in cold (3 °C) for 3 days, returned for normal greenhouse conditions for 5 days and then subjected 3 weeks of continuous cold storage. It was observed that two out of eight transgenic lines showed superior cold tolerance relative to wild-type petunia plants. Additionally, plants that showed cold tolerance completely recovered; growing and flowering normally when returned to the 25 °C greenhouse conditions.
Carnation Vase Life as Affected by Gibberellic Acid and Benzyladenine Treatments
Authors: Martinez-Mateo Cesar A. , Morales-Payan* J. Pablo
Published: February 2019

Experiments were conducted to determine the effect of dipping open `Scania' carnation flowers in aqueous solutions of benzyl adenine (BA) (0, 13, 26, 39, and 52 mg·L-1) and gibberellic acid (GA3) (0, 10, 20, 50, and 100 mg·L-1) on flower vase life. Flowers were dipped for two minutes in BA or GA3 solutions, and visual symptoms of flower senescence were periodically recorded based on distortion, discoloration, and permanent wilting of the petals. In general, visual symptoms of senescence progressed more slowly in BA-treated flowers than in GA3 - treated and control flowers. One week after treatment, the only flowers with satisfactory appearance (slight or no petal distortion, wilting or discoloration) were those treated with BA at the rate of 13 mg·L-1 and GA3 at the rate of 50 mg·L-1.
Effects of Silicon Additive to the Growth and Postharvest Life of Hydroponically Grown `Kardinal' Roses
Authors: Walter* Virginia R.
Published: February 2019

A 100 parts per million solution of potassium silicate was added to the nutrient solution of well established, hydroponically grown `Kardinal' rose plants. No significant effects of silicon were determined on post harvest life of the rose flowers harvested over a 3-month period as compared to flowers harvested from control plants grown without the silicon additive. Silicon additive did have a significant positive effect on the length of harvested stems.
Nitrate and Ammonium Uptake in Vaccinium Species Differing in Tolerance to High Soil pH
Authors: Kosola* Kevin R. , Darnell Rebecca L.
Published: February 2019

Cultivated Vaccinium species (e.g. highbush blueberry, Vaccinium corymbosum, or cranberry, V. macrocarpon) commonly require acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 5.5) for optimum growth. Under these conditions, ammonium (NH4+) is the dominant form of inorganic N. In contrast, V. arboreum, the sparkleberry can tolerate higher-pH mineral soils, where nitrate (NO3-) is typically the predominant inorganic N form. This tolerance may be related to increased ability to acquire and utilize NO3—N. Measurements of 15NO3- and 15NH4+ influx kinetics in excised roots of V. arboreum, V. corymbosum, and V. macrocarpon did not support this hypothesis. NO3- influx kinetics measured from 10 micromolar to 200 micromolar NO3- were similar among all three species. NO3- influx was consistently lower than NH4+ influx at all concentrations for all three species.
Effect of the Accumulated Effective Chilling Hours at the Pruning Time on Budbreak Table Grape on Dessertic Condition
Authors: Robles-Contreras Fabian , de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , Macias-Duarte Ruben
Published: February 2019

The grape crop is important in Sonora State, Mexico, even though the grape growers have some problems that put in risk its continuity. To decide the moment of pruning time is one of the important decisions that the grower must done, because that depends partly the moment and the magnitude the budbreak appeared. The objective of this study was to determine the pruning time using the Effective Chilling Hours (ECH) obtained from the climatologic station. In a commercial lot of the Superior Seedless variety, we studied the effects of pruning at different times depending on the accumulation of ECH (150, 200, 250, 350, and 400). The ECH was calculated by adding the hours that the temperature stayed in following rank 0 °C < X < 10 °C, reducing the hours when the temperature was greater or equal to 25 °C. The data used to calculate this were obtained from the two climatologic stations near the lot in study. The effect in the budbreak was studied in canes and spurs. The results obtained in this study show that the final budbreak in canes as in spurs were not affected by the treatments in study and it was 76.5% and 81.8% for canes and spurs respectively. There is a direct relation (R2 = 0.94) between the ECH at pruning time and the percentage of early budbreak in the canes—from 5.6% (150 ECH) to 54.1% (400 ECH). Whereas in spurs, the early budbreak was favored when pruning is done after at least 200 ECH.
Effect of the Harmony Rootstock on Yield and Qualiy `Flame Seedless' Table Grape
Authors: de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Robles-Contreras Fabian , Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , Macias-Duarte Ruben
Published: February 2019

In the Northwest of Mexico, grape is one of the main crops, specially for table grape (18,000 ha), the `Flame seedless' is one of the important cultivars. Some of the main problems present in this region is the shortage and high cost of the water, nematode and salinity. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of `Harmony' rootstock on `Flame seedless' for table grape. This study was caried in the INIFAP Caborca during 2001 cycle and consisted of ten plants of `Flame Seedless' on `Harmony' rootstock and ten control plants under the drip irrigation system, the statistical design used was completely randomized. The results obtained observe not negative effect for the `Harmony' rootstock on the phenology of `Flame seedless' (budbreak, flowering and color develpment). The effect was positive since harvest date advanced in 4 days (4 June), where as the control harvest was in 8 June, as far as color were no differences, because both treatments colored well, as far as quality this was better on rootstock than that was not grafted (greather berry size and cluster uniformity). The yield was 1,200 boxes/ha when we used rootstock, 335 boxes more than control and obtaining a saving cost of 100% in the nematode control and 30% in water consumption.
Bioflavonoids of Apples: Effects of Genetic Variability, Fruit Parts and Processing
Authors: Lee Vicky W. , Rupasinghe* H.P. Vasantha , Jackson Chung-Ja
Published: February 2019

Apples are excellent sources of dietary phenolics, in particular flavonoids and chlorogenic acid, which are potent antioxidants that may play important roles in the prevention of chronic diseases. This study investigated the major phenolics profiles of apple fruit in relation to (1) the distribution among 8 Ontario-grown cultivars, (2) the different fruit parts, and (3) the effect of processing of fresh-cuts. In addition, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total phenols content (TPC) were measured in apples by spectrophotometric assays. Flavonoids and chlorogenic acid were quantified using HPLC/PDA. Vitamin C was quantified using HPLC/Fluorescence. TAC, TPC and flavonoids levels were the highest in Honey Crisp and Delicious, moderate in Idared, Spartan, Granny Smith, and Cortland, and the lowest in Crispin and Empire. Apple peel contained 2 to 10-fold higher TAC, TPC and total of 10 major phenolics than that of core and flesh indicating peeling of apples during processing could reduced significantly the nutritional quality of fresh-cut apples. Dihydrochalcone (phloridzin) and chlorogenic acid levels were 2 to 21-fold higher in apple core than skin and flesh. TAC levels and vitamin C contents could be increased up to 3-fold and 14 to 20-fold, respectively by the post-cut dipping treatment with an ascorbic acid-based antioxidant formula. The phenolic profiles of sliced apples were stable up to 21 days at 4°C.
Morphological Characteristics of Stone Cells in Fruit of Pears
Authors: Kim* Wol-Soo , Choi Jin-Ho
Published: February 2019

The stone cells events in the process of lignifications of plant tissues in flesh of Asian pear have been growing as a depressing factor of fruit quality. Therefore, these studies were carried out to search the effect of stone cells on fruit quality, to investigate the anatomical characteristics, such as formative period and distribution of stone cell, to seek forming causes, and to determine the effects of drought stress and calcium foliar application on the formation of stone cell. Fruit quality as contents of the stone cells, such as texture profile, reducing sugars, firmness, and fruit size, were determined. During the growing season of 2002 and 2003, samples for anatomical investigations were taken periodically in Pyrus pyriforia cv. Niitaka, Pyrus communis cv. Bartlett and Pyrus ussiriansis cv. Yari. The morphology of stone cell in the fruit flesh was observed by using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM).
Fresh Produce Food Safety Training Program and Curriculum Development for the Southeast
Authors: Osborne* Dennis , Sanders Douglas C. , Ward Donn R.
Published: February 2019

This project directly addresses national food safety “priority issues”. Project design incorporates food safety and food chain security as focal points of educational efforts, then initiates practical, producer-level research, teaching, and extension whereby food handling and safety issues are addressed in a systems context. The overall Project goals are (1) to deliver information about Fresh Produce Food Safety (“FPFS”) programs and principles defined in the FDA Guide to fresh fruit and vegetable handlers in the Southeastern United States, (2) to provide hands-on individual state assistance with FPFS program implementation, and (3) to determine the influence of packing line procedures on the survival of foodborne pathogens. Part of the education envisioned under the new grant is introducing the concepts of recall and traceback. These concepts, proposed for incorporation into a new Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) act being discussed for adoption, possibly in 2006, essentially allows for the traceback of food to its point of origin. Osborne and others published a new protocol last month as “Model Recall Program for the Fresh Produce Industry” and want to help growers stay ahead of the curve on these issues. As a consequence of this project, the region's commercial fresh fruit and vegetable handlers will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to establish effective GAPs programs. Developing new GAPs programs to fit the specific needs of the packing and chain store operations in the Southeastern United States can significantly reduce the possibility of illness originating from Southeastern fresh fruit and vegetables. Delivering such programs will serve as a valuable training tool for fresh produce industries nationwide.
University of Arkansas Agriculture Professionals' Perceptions toward Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Friedrich* Heather , Rom Curt R. , Popp Jennie , Bellows Barbara , Johnson Donn
Published: February 2019

Interest IN and conversion to sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic agriculture, integrated pest management or increasing biodiversity, has been increasing for a number of years among farmers and ranchers across the United States In order to meet the needs of producers, university researchers and educators must adapt their program areas to reflect this change toward sustainable agriculture practices. Although consumers, producers, and extension workers have been surveyed regarding their attitudes and interests in sustainable agricultural practices, few surveys have examined sustainable agriculture perceptions among university agriculture professionals. The object of this study was to survey 200 agriculture professionals, including research scientists, classroom educators of the Land-Grant agricultural college and the Cooperative Extension service of a southern state with a traditional agricultural economy in order to determine their perceptions and attitudes toward sustainable agriculture and to gather information on current research and education activities relevant to sustainable agriculture. Seventy-eight questions were asked concerning professional incentives, personal and professional importance of topics under the sustainable agriculture rubric, current research and educational activities, and demographics. By conducting this research we hope to identify factors that are an impedance or assistance to future research and education to support sustainable agriculture. The survey findings will provide a foundation for directing and developing agriculture research and education programs for row crops, fruit, vegetable and livestock production.
Suppression of Septoria Leaf Spot Disease of Tomato Using Aerated Compost Tea
Authors: Gangaiah* Chandrappa , Carey Edward E. , Tisserat Ned A.
Published: February 2019

Compost teas, made using an aerated brewing process, have been reported to have potential for controlling a range of plant diseases and improving crop health. Septoria leaf spot of tomato, caused by the fungus Septoria lycopersici, is a common and destructive disease of tomato in Kansas. A field trial was conducted at Wichita, Kansas during Summer 2003 to evaluate the potential of pre-plant compost, and compost tea applied as a foliar spray or through drip fertigation, to control Septoria leaf spot of tomato. The experimental design included three factors: Pre-plant application of 13N-13P-13K or vermicompost; fertigation with CaNO3 or compost tea; and foliar spray with compost tea, fungicide (Dithane) or water. A split plot design was used with fertigation treatments as main plots and the other two factors as sub-plots. There were 3 replications. Tomato cultivar Merced was used and individual plots consisted of 5 plants grown on beds covered with red plastic mulch and supported by stake and weave system. Aerated compost tea was brewed weekly using a vermicompost-based recipe including alfalfa pellets, molasses, humic acid, fish emulsion and yucca extract and applied to plots starting 2 weeks after transplanting. Disease incidence and severity were recorded weekly for 3 weeks following the appearance of disease. Plots were harvested twice weekly and counts of No. 1, No 2 and cull grade tomatoes were recorded. There were no effects of pre-plant or fertigation treatments on Septoria leaf spot disease, but there was a significant effect due to foliar sprays, with mean severity of compost-tea-sprayed plots (26.3%) and fungicide-sprayed plots (31.9%) significantly lower than water-sprayed plots (45.9%) at trial termination.
Sweet Corn Production by Using Poultry Manure
Authors: Rangappa* Muddappa , Bhardwaj Harbans L. , Dalton H.O.
Published: February 2019

Alternative to the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers can be the utilization of a natural organic source of on-farm animal manure nutrients for the growth, development and production of agricultural crops. The main objective of this research was to compost the poultry manure with organic amendments and utilize for sweet corn production. The composition of composted and uncomposted poultry manure was compared and field experiments were conducted during 2002 and 2004 at Randolph farm of Virginia State Univ. located near Petersburg, Virginia. The field experiments included seven treatments: control with un-composted manure, four treatments with manure (composted with wheat straw turned weekly, composted with wheat straw turned bi-weekly, composted with clover hay turned weekly, and composted with clover hay turned bi-weekly), recommended rate of N fertilizer, and a control without any treatment. Results indicated that composting of poultry manure with an organic amendment such as wheat straw or clover hay helps poultry manure's transformation into a usable fertilizer material for supporting crop production. However, use of clover hay was observed to be desirable than wheat straw for sweet corn production. Addition of clover hay resulted in significantly increased ear fresh and dry weight and also resulted in taller plants. The affects of biweekly vs. weekly turning compost on performance of sweet corn were not significant.
Influence of Different Crown Manipulation Treatments on Shoot Production of Four Cultivars of Daylily
Authors: Carter* Johnny , Clarence Johnson
Published: February 2019

During Fall 2003, a study similar to that of Fall 2002 was conducted to determine the effect of crown manipulation on shoot production in four cultivars of daylily. Three crown manipulation treatments: (1) the shoot cut back two centimeters from crown, (2) the shoot cut back to the crown, and (3) shoot cut back to the crown and scooped out were compared to a control. Four daylily cultivars, `Bull Durham', `Amber Lamp', `Angus McLeod', and `Alvatine Taylor' were used in this study. After eight weeks of observations, the results showed that the cut back to crown treatment caused a significant increase in the number of shoots when compared to the control and other two treatments. Shoot production for the cultivar `Angus McLeod' was significantly better than the other cultivars. Results obtained for Fall 2003 study were similar to that of Fall 2002. These results imply that cutting the shoots back to the crown in some daylily cultivars could possibly be used to enhance multiplication of daylilies during propagation.
Summary Lecture vs. Asynchronous Web-based Method for Instruction of Site Planning for Protected Environment Structures
Authors: Spaw* Marci , Williams Kimberly A. , Brannon Laura A.
Published: February 2019

This study compared student learning outcomes of two teaching methodologies: a summary lecture and an asynchronous web-based method that included a case study (www.hightunnels.org/planningcasestudy.htm) followed by an all-class discussion. Twenty-one students taking an upper-level undergraduate course in greenhouse management were randomly split into two groups. Each group experienced both methodologies with presentations designed to provide complimentary information about site planning for protected environment structures; however, the order in which the groups received the methods was reversed. After each presentation, the participants were given an identical quiz (Time 1 and Time 2) comprised of questions that assessed knowledge gained, higher-order learning, and their perception of how confident they would be in solving actual site planning scenarios. Though quiz scores were not different between the two groups after Time 1 or 2, overall quiz scores improved after Time 2 for both groups combined (P = 0.03). When questions were categorized as lower-order vs. higher-order learning, a greater increase in scores was observed in higher-order learning (P = 0.12 vs. P = 0.04, respectively). Although students' perceived confidence was not influenced by which method was received first (P = 0.23), their confidence increased after Time 2 compared to Time 1 (P = 0.07). Rather than one teaching method being superior to the other, this study suggests that it is beneficial to use both. Interestingly, while students overwhelmingly preferred to receive the summary lecture before the web-based method, there was no significant difference in test scores between the two orders, suggesting that neither order offered any advantage.
Production Systems for Winter Cut Flowers in a Tobacco Transplant Greenhouse
Authors: Niedziela* Carl E. , Yang Guochen
Published: February 2019

Plug seedlings of lisianthus [Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn. `Mariachi'] and stock [Matthiola incana (L.) R.Br. `Cheerful White'] were planted on 20 Nov. 2003 followed by plug seedlings of snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus L. `Maryland') and seeds of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L. `Sunbrite') the next day. Each species was planted in four production systems (harvest lugs, lay-flat bags, pots, and polystyrene trays). Production systems were randomized in a Latin-square design with four replications of each system. Each treatment plot was 0.7 m × 1.1 m. Planting densities was 62 plants/m2 for stock and 31 plants/m2 for lisianthus, snapdragon, and sunflower. The harvest lugs were 55 cm × 37 cm × 16 cm. The lay-flat bags were 114 cm × 30 cm × 3 cm. The pots were 25 cm bulb pans. The polystyrene trays were 67 cm × 34 cm × 5 cm and contained 32 square cells. All of the containers were filled with the same tobacco germination media. The plants in the harvest lugs, lay-flat bags and pots were irrigated daily with 150 mg·kg-1 of N from 20N-4.4P-16.6K. The plants in the polystyrene trays were floated on a solution of 150 mg·kg-1 of N from 20N-4.4P-16.6K. Float solutions were monitored and adjusted weekly for volume and fertilizer concentration. Individual stems were harvested from each species at the appropriate stage of development for market. The weight and length of individual stems were recorded. Rate of growth and maturation differed between production systems and locations in the greenhouse. Detailed results will be presented.
Growth and Flowering Responses of Cyclamen persicum to Temperature and Photosynthetic Photon Flux
Authors: Oh* Wook , Cheon In Hye , Kim Ki Sun
Published: February 2019

This research was conducted to investigate the growth and flowering responses of Cyclamen persicum Mill. `Piccolo' to temperature and photosynthetic photon fluxes (PPF), and to obtain fundamental data for production of good quality pot plant. Cyclamen plants with 10 fully unfolded leaves were grown in growth chambers maintained at three day/night temperatures [20/10 (LT), 25/15 (MT), and 30/20 °C (HT)] combined with three PPF [250 (LF), 350 (MF), and 650 (HF) μmol·m-2·s-1] under 14 h-photoperiod. After 3 months, the higher the temperature was, the greater plant width was. It was the greatest under MT/MF and HT/MF. The number of leaves was greater with increasing temperature and PPF. Petiole length, leaf size, and fresh weight were higher with increase in temperature but decrease in PPF. Days to flowering were lower in MT/MF and MT/HF, but higher under LT regardless of PPF. The number of flowers was the highest under MT/MF and MT/HF, and higher under MF in each temperature treatment. Flowering period was longer in LT and MT compared with HT. Most leaves of plants grown under HT curled upward because of boron deficiency induced by higher temperature and lower humidity. Chlorophyll content was higher in medium and low temperature, except LT/HF. The lower side of leaf in low temperature was more reddish compared to that in higher temperature due to some pigments considered as anthocyanin. Photosynthesis was the highest in MT/MF, but low in MT/HF and LT/HF in accordance with the chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) which was lower under the same environment. These results indicate that 25/15°C and 350 μmol·m-2·s-1 yielded the best pot cyclamen in this study.
Horticultural Therapy Improves Vocational Skills, Self-esteem, and Environmental Awareness of Criminal Offenders in a Community Corrections Setting
Authors: Mattson* Richard H. , Kim Eunhee , Marlowe Gary E. , Nicholson Jimmy D.
Published: February 2019

At the Lamar County Adult Probation Program in Paris, Texas, a three-year study (Spring 2001-Fall 2003) involving 376 probationers was conducted to investigate the rehabilitative effects on probationers of a horticulture vocational training program. Data were collected on 189 adults who were randomly assigned to a horticulture group doing greenhouse plant production and vegetable gardening activities. The horticulture group was compared with 187 adults who were in a non-horticulture community service group doing trash clean-up and janitorial work. Within the horticulture group, significant improvement occurred in horticultural knowledge (KSU General and Specific Horticulture Exams), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), and environmental awareness (Environmental Response Inventory). These changes did not occur within the non-horticulture community service group. Future research will examine recidivism rates and vocational placements of probationers from both groups.
The Master Gardeners of Southern Nevada
Authors: O'Callaghan* Angela
Published: February 2019

Gardening in the Mojave requires different skills from those needed elsewhere. Southern Nevada's population explosion greatly increased requests for appropriate horticultural information. This placed a large demand on Cooperative Extension. To meet the need, volunteers receive extensive training on topics of interest to residents. Those who complete training and meet other requirements are titled “Master Gardeners”. Two hundred volunteers staff a help-line 5 days per week and participate in 20 community projects designed and led by Master Gardeners under UNCE supervision. About 50 people annually attend a 70 hour session (daytime or evening). The evening session was added to give people with day jobs the chance to learn gardening information in order to contribute to the community. Extension faculty and other professionals teach the classes. Topics include horticulture and plant nutrition, soils, irrigation, pruning, plant diseases and insects, and desert ecology. Students evaluate each class. Attendees come to the program through mass media and word of mouth. Most Master Gardeners are white, but active recruitment has increased the number of participants of color. For certification, one must complete training, pass a comprehensive final exam, and give a minimum of 50 hours—15 hours at the help desk and another 35 hours either at the help desk or a project. Volunteers are recertified each year if they contribute at least 35 hours at projects or the help desk and spend 15 hours in continuing education. Those who cannot meet the requirements are placed on inactive status. Adding an orientation session introducing Cooperative Extension, the MG program and its volunteer requirement has improved the ratio of attendees to those who later become certified.
Targeted Horticultural Education with the Greenhouse Tomato Short Course
Authors: Snyder* Richard , Ingram David , Layton Blake , Hood Ken , Peet Mary , Donnell Mary , Giacomelli Gene , Kemble Joe , Harris Pat , Killebrew Frank
Published: February 2019

The Mississippi (MS) Greenhouse Tomato Short Course has been held every March since 1989. The purpose of this 2-day, intensive training is to educate growers so they will be able to successfully grow greenhouse tomatoes as a viable horticultural business. With a mixture of experienced, novice, and prospective growers, it is just as important to provide current growers with research based, practical information, as to expose potential growers to the realities of the business, helping them make an informed decision before investing time and money. Beginning as a small program for a handful growers in the conference room at the Truck Crops Experiment Station, it has gradually grown in number and diversity of participants and invited speakers, depth of subject matter, and geographic origin of growers and speakers. The 2003 program had 142 participants from over 20 states and 4 countries, making it the largest such program in the United States. This is in keeping with the recent trend. The typical lineup of topics includes the basics of producing a commercial crop of hydroponic greenhouse tomatoes, the budget for establishing and operating a greenhouse business, marketing and promotion, pest and disease identification and management, and the grower's point of view. Other topics, varying year to year, include heating, cooling, and ventilation of greenhouses, record keeping, new technologies, biological control, diagnostics, and alternative crops. For 2004, the subject of organic production will be introduced. With targeted extension programming such as this Short Course, the greenhouse tomato industry in MS has grown from 15 growers in 1989 to 135 growers today, producing $6.5 million in annual gross sales. Complete information can be found at www.msstate.edu/dept/cmrec/ghsc.htm.
Commercial Field-grown Ornamentals: An Innovative Example of Successful Transition from Cotton Farming on the Texas High Plains
Authors: Wallace* Russell W. , Kaufman Harold W.
Published: February 2019

Over 5 million acres of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) are grown annually on the Texas High Plains, providing important resources to local, state and national economies. In recent years, growers have shown interest in farm diversification in order to increase profits. After determining a market, Agri-Gold, Inc. (Olton, Texas; population 2100) successfully diversified from cotton farming by starting with 30 acres of land and 7 canna lily (Canna ×generalis) varieties, but has now grown to produce 500 acres of cannas, 350 acres of irises (Iris sp.) and 100 acres of daylilies (Hemerocallis sp.). Agri-Gold annually markets 75 varieties of cannas, and over 90 iris and 150 daylily varieties while providing important employment opportunities to 50 full-time personnel and 150 part-time seasonal laborers. Crops are grown and marketed for their reproductive structures (rhizomes, bulbs, and crowns) and sold to retail chains throughout the United States. Warm, dry, sunny days and cool nights provide a quality environment for the reproductive growth of these crops. The arid climate and well-drained soils suppress diseases that may occasionally attack, and there are few natural insects that feed on the roots and foliage. Environmentally friendly products such as composted manure (locally produced) and biologicals, as well as integrated pest management (IPM) strategies are routinely included in field management and production decisions. Recent cooperative research efforts between Agri-Gold and Texas Cooperative Extension have evaluated herbicides for control of yellow (Cyperus esculentus L.) and purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.), as well as biological treatments for improved root growth and control of winter storage rots.
Growing Healthy Children: Can Gardening Improve Fruit and Vegetable Attitudes in Minority Children?
Authors: Nolan* Geralyn , Zajicek Jayne
Published: February 2019

Child obesity has become a national concern. Obesity in children ages 6-17 has more than doubled in the past 30 years. Only twenty percent of children today consume the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables. This trend is even more pronounced in minority populations. Past studies have reported that horticulture based curriculum, including gardening, can improve children's attitudes toward eating fruits and vegetables. To investigate whether children of a minority population can benefit from gardening supplemented with nutritional curriculum, research was conducted with elementary schools in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Elementary school teachers participating in this research agreed to have school gardens and complete all activities in a nutritional curriculum provided to them through the Texas Extension Service. Children in the participating schools completed a pre- and post-test evaluating their attitudes and snack preferences toward fruits and vegetables and their knowledge before and after gardening supplemented with nutritional information. Statistically significant differences were detected between pre- and post-test scores for all three variables. After comparing pre-and post-test scores, it was concluded that gardening with supplemental instruction, had a positive effect on all three variables including students attitudes and snack preferences toward fruits and vegetables and their nutritional knowledge.
Aroma Production in Climacteric Fruit: A Comparison of Tomato, Apple, and Banana
Authors: Jayanty Sastry , Canoles Mauricio , Ferenczi Alejandra , Song Jun , Beaudry* Randolph
Published: February 2019

Volatile aroma compounds produced by apple, banana, and tomato are produced throughout development, however, those associated with ripening and edible quality are dependent upon ethylene action. In apple and banana, characteristic aroma is, in large part, dependent upon the formation of volatile esters. In tomato, many of the characteristic aromas are dependent upon tissue disruption and result from aldehydes and alcohols following lipid degradation. For apple and banana, the enzyme alcohol acyl-CoA transferase (AAT, EC 2.3.1.84) is the enzyme responsible for the final reaction in the pathway for ester formation and catalyzes the union of an alcohol and the CoA derivative of fatty acids. In both tissues, AAT gene expression was detected prior to the onset of ester production. In apple, AAT expression was found to be closely tied with the onset of autocatalytic ethylene synthesis. In banana, ethylene synthesis peaked and began to decline well before ester synthesis began. However, the expression of AAT increased as ester production increased for both tissues. Tomato fruit, like apple and banana, produced characteristic aromas following the onset of the ethylene climacteric, suggesting changes in the activity of various components of the lipoxygenase pathway. In all three tissue types, there are continuous, significant shifts in the aroma profile as fruit ripen age, suggesting shifts in specific metabolic pathways associated with precursor synthesis or degradation.
Temporary Relationship Between C2 H4 Evolution and C2 H4 Recptor Genes
Authors: Solomos* Theo , Trivedi Prabodh , Asif Mehar , Pathak Neelam , Mattoo Autar
Published: February 2019

`Granny Smith' apples were stored at 1 °C, 5 °C and 20 °C, then treated at the preclimacteric stage with 2 ppm MCP, various O2 concentrations, and MCP + low O2. All the treatments greatly retarded the onset of the C2 H4 climacteric, and hence ripening. MCP + low O2 was much more effective than were the applications of MCP and low O2 singly. Even at 20 °C, 4.04 kPa O2 inhibited the rise in C2 H4 evolution for 145 d. Neither low O2 nor MCP inhibited the System 1 C2 H4 evolution. The suppression of the climacteric rise in C2 H4 evolution was accompanied by a strong inhibition of the accumulation of ERS1 C2 H4 receptor and ACS transcripts. On the other hand, ETR1 receptor was constitutively expressed. When climacteric fruits were treated with MCP, and with low O2 + MCP the rate of C2 H4 evolution decreased sharply. This occurred simultaneously with a decrease in ERS1 mRNA. Moreover, the decrease in ERS1 mRNA paralleled the decrease in C2 H4 evolution. The data thus indicate that the initiation and sustainment of the C2 H4 climacteric requires the presence of functional C2 H4 receptors. The expression of ETR2 and ERS2 is also under investigation.
Responses of Fresh-cut Watermelon to 1-Methylcyclopropene and CaCl2
Authors: Mao* Linchun , Huber Donald J.
Published: February 2019

Having been hold in 10 μL·L-1 1-MCP or air for 18 h, seedless watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Matsum and Nakai, cv. Millionaire) fruits were cut to obtain tissue cylinders which were rinsed with 2% CaCl2 or deionized water. Respiration rate, ethylene production, firmness, electrolyte leakage, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, microbial growth rates (aerobic bacteria and yeast counts), and activities of ACS, ACO, PLC, PLD, LOX were determined during 7 days at 10°C to investigate the effects of 1-MCP and CaCl2. Ethylene was not detected in cylinders, while wound-induced respiration rates increased over time. Although 1-MCP stimulated ACS activity, it completely inhibited ACO activity and lowered respiration rate. CaCl2 had little effect on ACS activity, but stimulated ACO activity and maintained tissue firmness throughout storage. 1-MCP abolished the effect of CaCl2 in retaining or stimulating PLC, PLD and LOX activities, but inhibited aerobic bacteria synergically with CaCl2. Results suggest that 2% CaCl2 stimulated activities of PLC, PLD and LOX, which are key enzymes catalyzing phospholipid degradation. Results also provide evidence indicating that 1-MCP counteracts CaCl2 in aspect of lipolytic enzymes through unknown mechanisms. Furthermore, we provide results that 1-MCP and CaCl2 have a synergic effect in inhibiting the growth of aerobic bacteria. We suggest that CaCl2 may be applied together with 1-MCP as a complex treatment to extend shelf life of fresh-cut products.
Somatic Embryogenesis and Plant Regeneration from Various Explants of Golden Pothos
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen* Jianjun , Henny Richard
Published: February 2019

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum Linden & Andre), a climbing vine with leathery, shiny-surfaced, solid green or variegated heart-shaped leaves, is widely grown as an ornamental tropical foliage plant in hanging baskets or on poles as climbers for interiorscaping. Since pothos easily develops roots from nodes, its propagation is mainly from eye cuttings. Eye cuttings, however, frequently carry diseases from stock plants into production greenhouses. The objectives of this study were to investigate if somatic embryogenesis could be induced from a common cultivar `Golden Pothos' and germinated somatic embryos could be a means of clean propagule production. Using a modified MS medium supplemented with 2 mg·L-1 CPPU or TDZ and 0.2 mg·L-1 NAA or 0.5 mg·L-1 2,4-D, somatic embryos formed directly at cut edges of leaf explants, around petiole and stem explant ends, and along their side surfaces. Most somatic embryos maturated and grew into multiple buds or shoots; some of them developed into whole plants on the original medium. Somatic embryos also germinated and developed into plants on MS medium containing 2 mg·L-1 Zeatin and 0.2 mg·L-1 NAA, MS or 1/2 MS containing 2 mg·L-1 BA with or without 0.2 mg·L-1 NAA. Shoots elongated and roots grew on PGR-free medium. Plantlets grew healthy in shaded greenhouses after transferring to soilless substrates. This study suggests that the established method of somatic embryogenesis can be used to generate disease-free propagules of pothos for production.
Terroir Evaluation for Winegrapes in Nebraska
Authors: Read* Paul E. , Waltman William J. , Gamet Stephen
Published: February 2019

Terroir embodies a defined place, integrating soils, geology, climate, the cultivar, and the role of cultivation, culture, and history in producing wine (Wilson, 1999; White, 2003).The understated topographic changes, thick loess soils, diffuse climatic boundaries (humid to arid), and brief viticultural history contribute to a misconception that “terroir” may not be applicable or that niche microclimates for vineyards may not exist in Nebraska. With many new cultivars and selections now available that are adapted to growing environments once considered marginal vineyard settings and the wealth of geospatial resource databases (soils, climate, and topography) available, we have begun to combine traditional field cultivar evaluation studies with the geophysical data to determine appropriate site/cultivar suitability. Our data have shown that cultivars that were previously considered unlikely to be successful may be suited to viticulture in specific locations, e.g., Riesling, Lemberger, Cynthiana/Norton, Vignoles, and Chambourcin in southeast Nebraska (our “vinifera triangle”). Mean hardiness ratings (scale 1 to 9, where 1 = dead and 9 = no injury) have been obtained for more than 50 cultivars and selections, ranging from 1.86 for Viognier to 8.66 for Frontenac and 8.71 for Saint Croix, for example. Data for most of the cultivars under test will be presented and matched with “terroirs”, providing growers with a vineyard decision support system that can help match genotypes to their specific vineyard sites and help avoid poor cultivar selection.
Comparative Study on Fresh Transplant Production in the Major Strawberry Growing Areas of Egypt
Authors: Ragab* Mohamed
Published: February 2019

This study was carried out during 2002 and 2003 seasons in sandy soils at three different major strawberry production areas i.e. Ismailia (East Delta), Qaluobia (Middle Delta), and Nobaria (West Delta) to compare runner formation and fresh transplant production under four different nursery planting dates i.e. 1, 15, and 30 Apr. and 15 May. Camarosa cultivar was used. Data were recorded on number of main runners, number of fresh transplants dug in September, crown diameter, number of roots, root length, number of leaves, and carbohydrates content in roots and crowns of transplant. Results indicate that, there were significant increases in number of main runners, number of fresh transplants, number of roots, root length, and total carbohydrates in roots and crowns in Ismailia (East Delta) location as compared with other tested locations. On the other hand, Nobaria location showed the lowest value for the above mentioned studied characters. As for nursery planting date, planting nursery mother plants on 1 or 15 Apr. resulted in significant increments in number of runners and marketable fresh transplants as well as number and length of roots and total carbohydrates in roots and crown. However, plants planted in mid May gave the highest values of crown diameter. The study concluded that early establishment of strawberry nursery (first or mid April) is preferable to increase number and quality of fresh transplants. Moreover, Ismailia area (East Delta) was the best for transplant production as compared with the other tested locations. These results may be due to its microclimate condition.
Fruit Set, Retention, and Developmental Rates Vary in Massachusetts Cranberry Cultivars
Authors: De Moranville* Carolyn J.
Published: February 2019

Cranberry fruit development was studied in 3 years at the Univ. of Massachusetts Cranberry Station farm. Beginning at 4 weeks from 50% out of bloom and continuing until late Sept, 5 replicate samples of 25 fruiting uprights were collected biweekly from each of 7 cultivar beds. Fruit were removed from uprights and sorted into size classes using stacked soil sieves (16-, 12.5-, 9.5-, and 5.6-mm grids). Fruit from each class was counted and weighed. `Ben Lear', a native Wisconsin selection and the fourth most planted cultivar in Massachusetts, consistently produced the greatest yield (mass) of fruit. This was attributed to consistent fruit retention and large fruit size (majority of fruit at harvest were >12.5 mm in dia). In comparison, `Pilgrim', a large-fruited hybrid cultivar, was near the median for fruit yield due to poor fruit set (≈1.2 berries per upright compared to ≈1.6 for `Ben Lear'). `Stevens', the hybrid cultivar of choice in the MA cranberry industry, had yield similar to `Ben Lear' in only 2 of 3 years. Fruit set and retention in `Stevens' was less than that in `Ben Lear', but larger mass of individual fruit in `Stevens' generally made up for fewer fruit produced. Native cultivars `Early Black' and `Howes', which account for >50% of the MA cranberry acreage, had variable yield attributable to variable fruit set and retention by year. These cultivars bear small fruit (≈1 gm/berry; only half of berries >12.5 mm in diameter). Growth curves showed evidence of a `lag phase' in cranberry fruit mass accumulation occurring approximately at the mid-point of fruit development. Although much of the final fruit mass had accumulated by Sept, additional mass did accumulate up to the harvest of the beds (≈1Oct.). This has implications for growers who harvest fruit in early Sept for `white' cranberry juice.