bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF ORGANIC AND SYNTHETIC MULCHES ON YIELD OF BASIL UNDER DRIP IRRIGATION
Authors: Palada M.C. , Crossman S.M.A. , Collingwood C.D.
Published: February 2019

Small-scale herb growers in the U.S. Virgin Islands traditionally water their crops with sprinkler cans and garden hoses. This method is inefficient and consumes large amounts of water, a scarce resource in the islands. Introduction of drip irrigation has reduced water use in vegetable production. Integrating this system with mulches may further cut water use, making herb production more profitable. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) was grown in plots with organic (compost or straw) and synthetic (black plastic or weed barrier) mulches. A no mulch control plot was also included. All plots were drip irrigated to maintain soil moisture at -30 kPa. Total plant fresh weight and leaf fresh and dry weights were highest in the compost mulch treatment. Fresh and dry basil yields in black plastic mulched plots were almost identical with those in compost mulch, but did not differ from other treatments. Black plastic mulch reduced water use 46% compared with 27% for compost or straw mulch. All mulch treatments resulted in increased water use efficiency. Organic mulches reduced surface soil temperature, while synthetic mulches increased soil temperature 2-5°C.
ALTERNATE SOD PRODUCTION SYSTEM FOR ZOYSIAGRASS
Authors: Ruemmele Bridget A. , Cunningham Robert , Engelke M. C.
Published: February 2019

A limitation to distribution of some field-grown sod is the time required to produce a saleable product rooted sufficiently to retain its shape when removed from the ground. Research for a more efficient sod production process was examined using sod segments planted at a 1:100 plant:planting area ratio in an aboveground soilless, root-restricting system. Combinations of 3 growth media, 2 rooting stimulants, and 2 fertilizers each at 2 rates were evaluated to determine the most rapid and optimal sod development for zoysiagrass. Treatments were rated weekly for percent cover, rate of stolon development, and rooting. Although treatments with rooting stimulants generally scored higher than other treatments for rooting and percent cover, these differences were not consistently significantly different from week to week. No significant differences occurred among treatments for stolon development ratings. After 16 weeks of growth, sod strength was greatest when the growth medium was a peat and vermiculite mixture.
ECONOMIC COMPARISONS OF TWO HIGH-DENSITY CLING PEACH TRAINING SYSTEMS.
Authors: Asai Wesley K.
Published: February 2019

In an effort to maximize early return on investment and labor efficiency, cling peach growers in California are using two different types of high-density plantings; the perpendicular-V (1.8m × 4.8m = 930 Trees/ha), and the cordon (2.4m × 4.2m = 925 Trees/ha). The V has the advantage of being more traditional in its establishment, where the cordon has the advantage of higher yields and no need for wires, props or ladders to prune, thin and pick.

This study evaluated the cultural and economic considerations of the two systems with respect to their yields during the orchards' establishment years.The cumulative labor costs, specific to the style of training for the first 3 years was $1258 and $901 per hectare for the cordon and V respectively.

Cumulative yields were 40.4 tons/ha for the cordon and 22.0 tons/ha for the V. When contrasting the net returns per hectare, the cordon, in spite of its higher labor input (due largely to higher thinning and harvest costs), had a net profit advantage of $3362.50 per hectare during the first 3 years of establishment.
DELAYS IN REFRIGERATION AND CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE (CA) STORAGE ALTER APPLE QUALITY
Authors: Lehman Laura J. , Greene George M.
Published: February 2019

A two year study of `Golden Delicious' and `York Imperial' apple responses to delayed cooling and CA storage imposition after harvest was completed in 1991. Apples from six to eight commercial orchards were harvested at an acceptable maturity level for long-term storage, subjected to a delay in refrigeration (0,3, or 6 days) followed by a delay in CA storage imposition (0,14, or 28 days), and then stored at 0°c, 2.4% oxygen, and 1.6% carbon dioxide for up to eight months. Fruit acidity, soluble solids content, bitter pit incidence, scald, internal breakdown, and the development of low oxygen injury were not influenced by the delays. Delays often resulted in more rot and excessive weight loss during storage. Delays in both cooling and CA storage imposition had an additive effect on fruit softening, such that the longest delays resulted in the softest fruit.
PEACH TREE RESPONSES TO AMMONIUM AND CALCIUM SPRAYS
Authors: Graham Charles J. , Reighard Gregory L.
Published: February 2019

A field experiment was conducted to assess the effects of several foliar nutrient sprays on the vegetative growth of 'Jefferson' peach budded on 'Nemaguard' and 'Lovell' rootstocks planted on a site with a history of Peach Tree Short Life. The trees received foliar applications of 2 mN solutions of ammonium citrate, calcium citrate, calcium lactate, calcium phosphate, or a water control at 3 week intervals from April to August. Vegetative growth measurements were taken after one growing season. Trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA) was significantly increased by ammonium citrate (TCSA=20.35 cm2), calcium citrate (TCSA=20.03 cm2), and calcium lactate (TCSA=19.91 cm2) when compared to controls (TCSA=16.75 cm2). Trees on 'Nemaguard' responded more to treatments than those on 'Lovell'. All nutrient sprays increased TCSA, lateral growth, terminal growth, and total tree growth on 'Nemaguard' rootstock. Terminal growth increased 12-36%, and total tree growth increased 18-51 % compared to control trees, but only ammonium citrate applications were significantly greater. Lateral growth and TCSA of treated trees increased 65-168% and 17-28%, respectively.
SEEDLING AND DETACHED LEAF SCREENING METHODS FOR RESISTANCE TO GUMMY STEM BLIGHT IN CUCUMBER
Authors: Amand Paul C. St. , Wehner Todd C.
Published: February 2019

Gummy stem blight (Didymella bryoniae (Auersw.) Rehm) is one of the major cucumber diseases, causing the second highest loss of any disease in North Carolina. Published methods of screening for resistance to this fungus are poorly correlated with field resistance. The objective of this study was to develop seedling or detached-leaf screening methods that are correlated with field resistance. Seedling tests examined the effects of: seedling age (1, 2 or 3 true leaves), days in humidity chamber, inoculum concentration (1×105, 1×106 or 1×107 spores per ml), time of inoculation (am vs. pm), fungal isolates, and cultigens. Detached leaf tests examined the effects of leaf age (1st, 2nd or 3rd true leaf), inoculum concentration (1×104, 1×105 or 1×106 spores per ml), and light levels during incubation (dark vs. 12h light/12h dark). Correlations between seedling tests and field data were moderate to high (r = 0.5 to 0.7). However, the coefficients of variation were also high. Correlations between detached leaf tests and field data were very low or negative.
SURFACE TREATMENTS AND TEMPERATURE CONDITIONING AFFECT GAS DIFFUSION OF GRAPEFRUIT
Authors: McDonald Roy E. , McCollum T. Gregory , Nordby Harold E.
Published: February 2019

The effects of temperature conditioning (7 days at 21C), application of safflower oil, squalane or squalene (all 10% in hexane spray), and a commercial wax (Flavorseal) on gas diffusion of `Marsh' grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) were studied. Gas diffusion was determined by either ethane influx or ethylene efflux. Less ethane diffused into fruit that were temperature conditioned compared with nonconditioned, and into squalene-treated compared with nonsqualene-treated fruit. As a percent of non-treated controls, ethane influx was 83, 60, 25, and 14 for the surface treatments Flavorseal, safflower oil, squalene and squalane, respectively. Surface treatments were also applied to fruit that were producing ethylene due to previous chilling injury. Squalane was the most restrictive of ethylene efflux followed by safflower oil, squalene, and Flavorseal. All of the surface treatments used have been reported to reduce chilling injury in grapefruit. Perhaps, their molecular structure influences the expression of chilling injury.
A COMPARISON OF THREE MECHANICAL HARVESTERS AND HANDRAKING FOR WILD BLUEBERRIES
Authors: Yarborouph David E.
Published: February 2019

Hand raking was compared to a non-mechanized machine and to two self propelled harvesters for yield and harvest time. Experimental design was split-plot replicated six times with four harvesters/plot with each raker using each machine in each plot. The machines were operated adjacent to one another. Hand raking resulted in the highest yield recovery of all harvesters. Average yield varied by raker from a high of 4831 kg/ha to a low of 3884 kg/ha. The Bluevester harvester recovered 91% of hand harvest and was 1.6 times faster than hand raking while the Darlington machine harvested one half of hand harvest in one quarter of the time. The Easy Pick recovered 81% of hand harvest but was twice as fast. Mechanical harvesters took less time but recovered fewer berries. A economic analysis is needed to fully evaluate these machines.
OPTIMUM ALLOCATION OF OBJECTIVE COLOR MEASUREMENTS FOR EVALUATING FRESH STRAWBERRY FRUIT
Authors: Sacks Erik J. , Shaw Douglas V.
Published: February 2019

To determine the best sampling strategies, components of variance were estimated for 10 color traits of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) fruit. Over three dates in one growing season, 2000+ fruit from 47 genotypes were observed. Within-fruit, among-fruit within genotypes, and harvest date variances were compared. Variances for harvest dates were non-significant or small (0-8% of the total variance). Genotype × date variances were highly significant but small (≤ 6% of the total) for all color traits except internal hue (14% of the total). For external color traits, the within-fruit variance was greater than the among-fruit variance (16-64% and 0-14% of the total, respectively). For internal color traits, the among-fruit variance was greater than the within-fruit variance (20-37% and 9-19% of the total, respectively). Obtaining two observations per fruit for multiple fruit on one harvest date is an efficient strategy for determining a genotype's fruit color. With two observations per fruit, 7 to 22 fruit are needed to estimate a genotype's value within 2 units (CIELAB or degrees) with 95% confidence.
POTTED MINIATURE ROSE LONGEVITY AFFECTED BY FLOWER RESPIRATION
Authors: Monteiro José A. , Nell Terril A. , Barrett James E.
Published: February 2019

Five cultivars of potted miniature roses (`Candy Sunblaze', `Lady Sunblaze', `Orange Sunblaze', `Red Sunblaze' and `Royal Sunblaze') were grown until stage 1 (bud showing color with sepals starting to unfold). At this stage one half of the plants were moved to interior conditions (12 μmol s-1 m-2 from cool white fluorescent lights for 12 hr daily and 21 ± 1C) and the other half were maintained in the greenhouse at recommended production conditions. Stage 1 bud respiration, flower respiration at flowering and at 2, 4, 6 and 8 days after flowering were assessed for plants in the greenhouse and under interior conditions. Also, flower interior longevity was assessed for all the cultivars and the correlations between flower longevity and flower respiration at the different stages were analyzed. At flowering and under interior conditions `Red Sunblaze' lasted the longest (23 days) followed by `Orange Sunblaze' (18 days), `Lady Sunblaze' and `Candy Sunblaze' (16 days), and `Royal Sunblaze' (13 days) and flower respiration was 2.08, 2.74, 3.91, 3.59 and 3.94 mg CO2 g-1 hr-1, respectively. In miniature rose, flower longevity was negatively correlated with flower respiration rate (P = 0.01).
MORPHOLOGICAL ALTERATIONS IN PECAN ROOTS INDUCED BY ROOT-KNOT NEMATODES
Authors: Yates I. , Sparks D. , Powell W.M.
Published: February 2019

Root-knot nematode infection of pecan trees results in reduced growth and vigor of above ground plant parts and gall formation on roots. One-year-old roots parasitized by nematodes were collected and examined by light and scanning electron microscopy for structural anomalies. The root's injury response to nematode feeding was dependent on the location of the nematode in the root. Location in the root exterior to the vascular cambium resulted in hyperplasia forming a burrow for the nematode. Root penetration interior to the vascular cambium resulted in giant cells contiguous to the anterior region of the root-knot nematode. The giant cells occupied extensive regions of the root disrupting the xylem and obliterating cells in the penetration pathway. Giant cells were multi-nucleate with dense cytoplasm and thickened cell walls.
CONSUMER MARKETING PREFERENCES OF NURSERY STOCK
Authors: Khatamian Houchang , Stevens Alan
Published: February 2019

The main purpose of this study was to determine consumer preferences as influenced by type of packaging, size of container, and price when purchasing ornamental plants. From February to May 1991 over 1000 questionnaires were completed through personal on site interviews conducted at Flower/Garden shows and Garden Centers.

Forty one percent of participants preferred to purchase their trees as balled in burlap form and 47% chose to buy their shrubs in containers. Shoppers purchased 60% of their nursery plants from Garden Centers followed by 22% at discount outlets such as K-mart.

The most important factors in purchasing nursery stock were the price and quality of the plants followed by its size. Packing was an important factor but ranked much lower than price and quality.
EFFECTS OF PLANT ARCHITECTURE ON MICROCLIMATE, WHITE MOLD, AND YIELD IN PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L. AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DISEASE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Deshpande Rohini , Coyne D. P. , Hubbard K. G. , Steadman J. R. , Kerr E. P. , Parkhurst Anne M.
Published: February 2019

The microclimate of Great Northern (GN) dry bean lines with diverse plant architecture was investigated in terms of white mold (WM) incidence and yield. A split-plot design was used with protected (3 weekly sprays of benomyl 0.9 KG HA-1 after flowering) and unprotected treatments as main-plots and GN lines as sub-plots in a WM nursery (1990, 1991). Canopy density, erectness, leaf area index, and plant characteristics were measured. `Starlight' (upright) and `Tara' (prostrate) were selected for detailed microclimate studies. An infrared thermometer, humidity sensor, and a thermistor were placed within the canopy at the advent of flowering. Leaf wetness and its duration were estimated by the leaf temperature in combination with air temperature and dewpoint temperature. `Starlight' showed later and shorter duration of leaf wetness, lower humidity, and WM and higher yield than `Tara'. Severe WM and reduced yields occurred also on all other susceptible entries with dense prostrate plant habits in the unprotected plots. Fractal analysis was done on the images of the canopy to quantify the light interception within the canopy.
SILICA SLAG AND BARK SLAG INFLUENCE INFECTION OF PLASMODIOPHORA BRASSICA INFECTIONIN AN INTENSIVE CHINESE CABBAGE PRODUCTION SYSTEM.
Authors: Chang Loong-sheng , Yeh Chun-yen , Liao Chien-hwa
Published: February 2019

Race 1 of Plasmodiophora brassica isolated from high altitude of vegetable production district induced clubroot on cabbage, and Chinese cabbage. Inoculation of race from northwestern coast of Taiwan resulted clubroot of Chinese cabbage neither in cabbage. The addition of bark slag or silica slag significantly decreased clubroot infection and increased the weight of Chinese cabbage in the infected field. The addition of 3 gram slaked lime +1 gram KC1 +1.78 gram ammonium sulfate + 1 gram calcium superphosphate at 500 gram soil 2 month after transplanting increased dry wight of cabbage and decreased infection root hair followed by inoculation of race 1.
CHLOROPHYLL DEFICIENCIES IN LETTUCE
Authors: Ryder Edward J.
Published: February 2019

Three chlorophyll deficiency traits in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) are reported. One, chlorophyll deficient-3 (cd-3), is quite yellow in the seedling stage, and controlled by a single recessive allele. Chlorophyll deficient-4 (cd-4) has sectors of yellow-green and green in the true leaves. It is inherited as a single recessive, and may be allelic to chlorophyll deficient-2 (cd-2). Sickly (si) is stunted, yellow, and partially necrotic, and is also controlled by a single allele. Virescent (vi) is epistatic to cd-4 and the latter is partially lethal. Linkage and additional epistatic relations with previously named chlorophyll deficient genes and other traits are discussed.
PREDICTION OF ROSE FLOWERING SHOOT DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Pasian C. C. , Lieth J. H.
Published: February 2019

Temperature affects the rate of rose shoot development. In this study heat units were used to quantify “physiological age”. The objective was to determine whether rose shoots require the same number of heat units to reach various stages regardless of climatic conditions. The dates of occurrence of “bud break” (BB), unfolding of each leaf, “visible flower bud” (VFB), and harvest (H) were observed for 126 shoots of 'Cara Mia' roses growing under 5 different temperature and light regimes. Average air temperature (T) and photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) levels were recorded hourly. Heat units, defined as the sum of the difference T-Tb (units: °C hr-1) where Tb is the base temperature, were found to be a suitable for tracking most phases of rose crop development. The duration of the phase from H to BB showed considerable variation and thus could not be predicted this way. The duration from BB to VFB or H could be predicted reasonably well to occur at 5900 ± 670 and 12300 ± 1000 °C hr-1 (Mean ± Std. dev.), respectively, assuming Tb =6 °C. The occurrence of unfolding of each leaf can be predicted similarly. PPFD integrals had no significant effect on any development rates.
STATUS OF TRANSPLANT TECHNOLOGY IN AUSTRALIA: A COMMERCIAL OVERVIEW
Authors: Cliffe David O.
Published: February 2019

Transplant production utilizing cell containers has been practiced commercially in Australia for fifteen years, with Todd flats the predominant type in use. Many methods of transplant production have evolved in Australia which due to its unique climate and the needs of the horticultural industry, which grow a diverse range of crops throughout the year. Current growing practices include nutrient programs, pre-shipping treatments, and methods of transporting plants over long distances. Current production costings will be discussed. A number of areas will be discussed that warrant more research to reduce costs and also expand the concept of cell production to encompass a wider range of plant species.
POST HARVEST HANDLING OF TRANSPLANTS
Authors: Cantliffe Daniel J.
Published: February 2019

Transplants are grown and shipped locally or over long distances. Shipping conditions and time in transit depend on the distance travelled. Local growers may receive transplants in trays they were grown in while those shipped long distances are pulled and packed in boxes. Plant field performance is directly correlated with seedling vigor at the time of transplanting. Factors which can affect transplant vigor during growing and shipping include the plant hardening techniques employed, mechanical injury at any stage of plant growing, shipping and planting, length and conditions of transit, and storage prior to transplanting. Mechanical injury begins as soon as the plants are removed from the tray, while reduced watering and/or nutrition during hardening may have a long term effect on plant productivity. High temperature during shipping, packing plants too densely, and prolonged storage in the dark can reduce subsequent yields. Knowledge of proper conditions for transplant pre- and post-harvest handling and shipping are not clearly understood by many transplant producers and growers. Such knowledge can greatly improve transplant vigor and potentially give growers better yields.
EFFECT OF “V”- AND CONESHAPED CANOPIES ON VEGETATIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE GROWTH OF `GOLDEN DELICIOUS'/M. 9 APPLE.
Authors: Taylor B.H. , Geisler-Taylor D. , Lenz F.
Published: February 2019

Beginning in 1986 in Bonn, trees growing in 120 liter lysimeters spaced 2.0 × 3.4 m apart were trained to either “V” - or spindle-shaped canopies. During the 4th and 5th leaf half of the trees in each training form were covered with shade fabric to reduce insolation to 42% of overhead PAR. In the 4th leaf both canopy shapes produced 26 mt apples/ha (1470 trees/ha, basis) in full sun, and shading reduced yields by 23%. But the 5th leaf yields reached 54 and 39 mt/ha under full sun in the “V”- and spindle-shaped canopies, respectively; furthermore the “V”-shaped trees under shade fabric had 25% greater yield efficiency than the spindle in full sun whereas the spindle trees under the same shade had 41% less yield efficiency than those in full sun. These differences in yield could be partially explained by differences measured in the pattern of distribution of shoots, wood and fruit in the canopies caused by tree training. Training to the “V”-shape increased dry matter partitioning to fruit on the shaded trees at the expense of the stem fraction in contrast to the opposite effect on spindle trees.
EFFECTS OF TREE SUPPORT AND TRAINING SYSTEM ON APPLE TREE GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Elfying D.C.
Published: February 2019

'Empire' (E) and 'Marshall McIntosh' (MM)/'Mark' trees planted in 1986 were trained to the freestanding central leader (CL), central leader with annual extension-shoot heading (HCL), slender spindle (SS) or vertical axis (VA). Support with a full tree stake (SS & VA) had little effect on shoot growth. HCL increased shoot number and mean length. Fewer pruning cuts were made on supported trees, while more were made on HCL trees. Dry weight of prunings 1989-91 was the same for all MM trees, while in E trees, CL and SS had lower pruning weights than HCL and VA. Bloom density was uninfluenced by support or training. Fruit set was greater in 1990 and 1991 on supported E trees, and in 1990 on supported MM trees. Yield was greater on supported systems in 3 out of 4 production years. Total yield after 6 years of age was 26-38% greater for supported trees of both cultivars. Bienniality was reduced about 15% by support in MM trees but unaffected by support or training in E trees. Net total crop value (estimated annual crop value minus annual harvest cost and support cost, if applicable, annual 10% discount rate) in 1991 was approximately $1600 per ha greater for supported E trees and $270 per ha greater for supported MM trees.
ULTRASONIC AEROPONICS - SOILLESS CULTURE OF THE FUTURE
Authors: Zobel R.W. , Matthews Laura
Published: February 2019

Aeroponics, as a method of soilless culture, has been in intermittent use since the 1950's. Early Russian and Italian research suggested that productivity and use of space was optimized with this technique. Prior to the introduction of ultrasonic techniques, aeroponics utilized spray nozzles or spinning disks. In addition to the need for frequent cleaning, the first results in the formation of a boundary layer on the root surface, similar to that formed in hydroponics, which results in nutrient and aeration gradients. The second results in significant physical disturbance to the root system and, except under very controlled conditions, also develops a boundary layer. Ultrasonic fogs avoid these side effects and allow the use of carbon dioxide enrichment of the root zone as well as reduced nutrient concentrations. Initial results with commercially available equipment are very promising. Commercial implementations of ultrasonic aeroponics promise to be far less energy and manpower intensive than any other method of plant culture. Lettuce, corn, tomato, soybean, dry bean, and geraniums have all been cultured with this method.
CHEMICAL EFFECT ON SQUASH FRUIT SETTING
Authors: Ibrahim Aly M. , AlZeir Khalid A. , Majeed Mohammed A.
Published: February 2019

Squash is grown in the field and in tunnel type greenhouses in Saudi Arabia. To satisfy the demand for squash, additional production in controlled greenhouses would be desirable. The Jedida cultivar was treated with growth regulators. Seedlings were sprayed with Ethrel at 400 ppm. At flowering, six treatments were made: Agriton (60g/100L), sprayed at 10 day intervals; IAA (1%), IBA (1%), and Rootone, dusted on stigmas; hand pollination; and control. Fruits were harvested when they were 12 cm long. Ethrel increased the number of female flowers by 96% and changed the female: male ratio from 1:2 to 8:1. Highest marketable yield was obtained with the hand pollination, IBA, and IAA treatments. Yield in the Control treatment was low due to low insect activity. The results suggest that treatment with IAA or IBA will permit production of squash on a commercial scale in controlled greenhouses.
EFFECT OF ETHEPHON ON MISTLETOE REMOVAL
Authors: Aldrich James H. , Norcini Jeffrey G.
Published: February 2019

The parasitic eastern mistletoe, Phoradendron serotinum is a perennial evergreen that infests trees including the deciduous pecan [Carya illinoensis (Wangenh.) C.Koch]. Various chemical and/or mechanical methods of mistletoe eradication have been studied. An efficient method of mistletoe removal in deciduous trees involves the use of ethephon, an ethylene-releasing compound. Mistletoe in dormant `Stuart' trees and `Desirable' trees at bud break were treated on 15 Mar. with 0, 2500, 5000, 7500, or 10,000 ppm ethephon [pH of treatment solution adjusted with 1.2 ml/L of a buffering agent (pH +, Stoller Chemical Co.)]. `Desirable' trees at the prepollination stage of development were treated with 0, 312, 625, 1250, or 2500 ppm + 1.2 ml/L of the buffering agent on 27 Mar. 1991. All ethephon treatments except 312 and 625 ppm resulted in >95% defoliation on 18 Apr. All chemical treatments resulted in abscission cf some mistletoe branchlets. There was a negative correlation between ethephon concentration and mistletoe regrowth on 2 Dec. for both cultivars. The most effective treatment was 2500 ppm applied at prepollination on `Desirable'. This treatment resulted in no mistletoe regrowth on 80% of the trees. No phytotoxicity to the pecans was observed.
KENAF PITH AS A VERMICULITE SUBSTITUTE IN PEAT-BASED MEDIA.
Authors: Hawcroft Brad B. , Newman Steven E.
Published: February 2019

Kenaf is an alternative fiber crop being evaluated in Mississippi. Kenaf, primarily grown in Asia, can be used in the manufacture of paper, fiber board, acoustical tiles and compost. The bark is the source of the fiber used, leaving the fiber core or pith for use as a paper additive, poultry litter, or is discarded. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential use of kenaf fiber core as a vermiculite substitute in a sphagnum peat moss-based medium.

Plugs of Celosia argentea, Viola × wittrockiana, and Impatiens wallerana were transplanted into 10 cm pots containing 5 different sphagnum peat moss-based media modified with the milled fiber core (pith) of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) and/or vermiculite. The media were as follows: 5 peat: 0 kenaf : 5 vermiculite (v/v/v); 5 peat : 1 kenaf : 4 vermiculite (v/v/v); 5 peat : 2 kenaf : 3 vermiculite (v/v/v); 5 peat : 3 kenaf : 2 vermiculite (v/v/v); 5 peat : 4 kenaf : 1 vermiculite (v/v/v); and 5 peat : 5 kenaf: 0 vermiculite (v/v/v). Water holding capacity, pore space, pH and media shrinkage were monitored throughout the study along with plant growth and plant quality.
TIME VARIATION IN FLOWER QUALITY AND YIELD OF ZINNIA
Authors: Stevens Alan , Gast Karen , Albrecht Mary L.
Published: February 2019

The introduction of an alternative crop invokes a myriad of unknowns. Cyclic production patterns need to be described so that staggered plantings can be programmed to provide continual product supply to the marketplace. The impact of time on flower quality as well as yield is critical. Zinnia elegans `State Fair Mix' (tall and large flowered) and `Pumila Mix' (smaller flowered) were field-produced for study. Flower diameters of Z. elegans `State Fair' and Pumila displayed similar patterns; increasing from first harvest to week 5, decreasing until weeks 8/9 and then beginning to increase in week 10. Flower diameters were smaller at weeks 8/9 than at initial harvest. The number of stems harvested (per sq. meter) of Pumila decreased from initial harvest (13.5) until weeks 5-7 (7.5) and then increased dramatically to week 10 (38). Stem numbers of State Fair decreased from initial harvest (4.9) until weeks 4/5 (1.6) and then increased through week 9 (6.8).
PROLINE AND ABA INDUCING CHILLING TOLERANCE VIA DIFFERENT MECHANISMS
Authors: Xin Zhanguo , Li Paul H.
Published: February 2019

Exogenous proline and ABA can induce chilling tolerance. Whether there is any relationship between the proline and ABA in inducing chilling tolerance is not known. We attempted to elucidate their interrelationship by comparing the time course of proline and ABA induced chilling tolerance and of the uptake of proline and ABA in the cultured cells of maize (Zea mays L. Black Mexican Sweet). The uptake of proline was increasing continually during a 24 h culture at 28°C. However, the proline induced chilling tolerance became significant after 6 h treatment and reached maximum after 12 h. When cells were transferred to a ABA-containing medium the uptake of ABA in the cells reached almost plateau in 2 h period. The ABA induced chilling tolerance was insignificant at 6 h, became significant at 12 h, and reached maximum at 24 h. Although the rate of ABA induced chilling tolerance was slower than the rate of proline induced chilling tolerance, there was no any increase in endogenous free proline in the ABA treated cells. Statistical analysis indicates that there is no interrelationship between proline and ABA in the induction of chilling tolerance in maize. ABA induces specific proteins which may play essential role(s) in the development of chilling tolerance. None of these proteins was observed in proline treated cells. We concluded that the induction mechanisms of chilling tolerance between proline and ABA are independent in maize.
INTERACTION BETWEEN DIURNAL TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS AND GIBBERELLINS ON LYCOPERSlCUM STEM ELONGATION AND CHLOROPHYLL CONTENT.
Authors: Erwin John E. , Pierson Gerald
Published: February 2019

Lypcopersicum esculentum cv `Money Maker' seeds were germinated at constant 20C. Three days after germination seedlings were randomly divided into 3 groups and placed into 3 growth chambers maintained at 23/17, 20/20, or 17/23C (day/night temperature) (DT/NT). Irradiance and photoperiod were maintained at 250 μmol s-1 m-2 and 12 hrs, respectively. At the 2 leaf stage, plants in each chamber were divided into 3 groups of 3 plants each to receive a growth regulator treatment. Growth regulator treatments consisted of spray applications of either ancymidol (52ppm), GA3 (12ppm), or water applied every 3 days for 21 days. Measurements were taken on internode length and chlorophyll content after 21 days. Internode length increased as the difference (DIF) between DT and NT increased (DT-NT). Exogenous applications of GA3 overcame inhibition of stem elongation resulting from a -DIF environment. Application of ancymidol did not significantly decrease stem elongation in a -DIF environment. Temperature regime had a significant impact on chlorophyll content per mg dry weight. In contrast, growth regulator applications had a significant impact on chlorophyll content cm-2. There was no significant impact of either temperature regime or growth regulator treatment on the chlorophyll a/b ratio.
DEVELOPMENT OF TRANSFORMATION SYSTEM FOR COFFEA ARABICA USING PARTICLE GUN METHOD
Authors: Nagai Chifumi , Mai Zhuping , Jong Jerek
Published: February 2019

Somatic embryogenesis of coffee has been studied for the purpose of obtaining target tissues for stable genetic transformation through use of a particle gun. Eight cultivars of C. arabica were selected for callus induction from leaves. Primary calli were induced within two weeks in over 98% of the leaf disks explanted on MS medium with 2,4-D and kinetin prior to treatment on a secondary culture medium. Somatic embryos were obtained from `Catuai' and `Blue Mountain' after six months from explanting. Somatic embryos were germinated in MS media and developed into plants. Somatic embryos and embryogenic calli are being used for gene transformation experiments with the helium-driven particle gun.
INFLUENCE OF CULTURE ON FRESH-MARKET TOMATO PRODUCTION COSTS
Authors: Motes James E. , Schatzer Raymond J.
Published: February 2019

Fresh market tomato cultivar and cultural trials are conducted yearly at the Oklahoma Vegetable Research Station near Tulsa. From 14 to 18 cultivars have been evaluated each season since 1985 comparing the Florida stake-and-weave and the wire mesh cage cultural systems. Results from 7 years of trials indicate caging produced 32% greater marketable yield than the stake-and-weave system. Percentage early yield was reduced with the cage system. Percentage of cull fruit was greater with the stake-and-weave system due to a higher incidence of fruit cracking. Average fruit size was not affected by cultural system. Cost of production analysis showed a lower cost of production with the cage system. The cage system is more capital intensive and the stake-and-weave system is more labor intensive. Undesirable factors in the use of cages are greater difficulty in picking the early fruit clusters, logistics in off-season storage of cages and the larger capital investment required for the cage system.
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THREE GROWTH TYPES
Authors: Giovannini D. , Glenn D.M. , Scorza R.
Published: February 2019

The objective was to study selected physiological characteristics of the canopy and examine changes in dry matter partitioning between the root and shoot in two genetically reduced size growth types (dwarf and pillar) relative to the standard growth type. The dwarf phenotype had reduced leaf/root ratio, less allocation of dry matter to woody tissue and more to leaf tissue, high net photosynthesis, and lower leaf respiration compared to the standard and pillar phenotypes. The dwarf and pillar types had greater resistance to water flow than the standard type. Genetic changes in growth habit significantly alter many physiological parameters of peach tree growth and structure.
CONSTRUCTING A DEMONSTRATION VEGETABLE GARDEN
Authors: Marutani M. , Quitugua R. , Simpson C. , Crisostomo R.
Published: February 2019

A demonstration vegetable garden was constructed for students in elementary, middle and high schools to expose them to agricultural science. On Charter Day, a University-wide celebration, students were invited to the garden on the University campus. The purpose of this project was twofold: (1) for participants to learn how to make a garden and (2) for visitors to see a variety of available crops and cultural techniques. Approximately 30 vegetable crops were grown. The garden also presented some cultural practices to improve plant development, which included weed control by solarization, mulching, a drip irrigation system, staking, shading and crop cover. Different types of compost bins were shown and various nitrogen-fixing legumes were displayed as useful hedge plants for the garden.
ALLEVIATION OF CHILLING INJURY OF PONKAN DURING AND AFTER LOW-TEMPERATURE QUARANTINE TREATMENT BY USING SUCROSE FATTY ACID ESTERS
Authors: Murata Takao , Yamawaki Kazuki
Published: February 2019

Ponkan (Citrus reticulata Blanco), that is chilling sensitive, must undergo a quarantine treatment to disinfest fruit fly before export to Japan from Taiwan. Pitting caused by chilling injury tends to induce a poor fruit quality in a market.

The alleviation of chilling injury of ponkan during and after low temperature disinfestation (at 1° ± 0.2°C, for 15-16 days) was investigated by treatment with 0.35% sucrose fatty acid esters (C- 10:0, 12:0, 14:0, 16:0, 18:0 and 18:1 acid esters).

Development of pitting on the fruit surface after transfer to 20°C from low temperature quarantine treatment was suppressed significantly by the treatment with the sucrose fatty acid esters. Sucrose myristate ester (C- 14:0, M-1695) was most effective among the used esters to inhibit the occurrence of pitting. In addition, the treatment with esters influenced fruit quality and weight loss. However, the treatment did not affect respiratory rate of the fruit.
PILOT COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION OF CONCENTRATED JUICES FROM CITRUS FRUITS GROWN IN NIGERIA.
Authors: Smith-Kayoae O. , Agbeja V.O. , Denton A.O. , Aliyu A.
Published: February 2019

The development of a natural base for beverage products covers key steps including raw materials identification and sourcing, process development, product testing an market introduction. Agege 1 - a widespread sweet orange cultivar was compared with Parson Brown sweet orange type in the production of concentrated juice (approximate 30° Brix). Yield for Agege 1 was 14-16% while Parson Brown had 9-11% based on the processing modules adopted. Analysis of samples showed 40-110 millgram percent and 125-350 microgram percent for vitamins C and A respectively. Sensory testing revealed that concentrated juice for Agege 1 had superior appearance characteristics particularly in terms of color.
INVESTIGATION AND STUDY OF WILD ORNAMENTAL PLANTS IN MOUNTAIN AREA OF NORTHERN CHINA
Authors: Deshun Zhang , Xiangyun Jia
Published: February 2019

Taking Beihua shan and Wuling shan mountain as examples, the author investigated the Wild Ornamental Plants (WOP) resources in mountain area of northern China in detail with ecological systematic sampling method. The meteorological data of no meteorological observed plots was reckoned theoretically using statistics. And then the main factors that influence the WOP distribution were sifted out by the progressive regression analysis. At last the optimized chains of adaptability with which the WOP will be introduced from mountain to urban area and of most suitable place on which certain plants will be introduced were defined. In order to enrich the capital Beijing's afforestation materiels, this paper offers a reliable basis in terms of theory.
INFLUENCE OF POLYAMINES ON TOLERANCE OF ZUCCHINI SQUASH TO CHILLING INJURY
Authors: Wang Chien Yi
Published: February 2019

Temperature conditioning of zucchini squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) at 15°C for 2 days enhanced polyamine levels and delayed the development of chilling injury during storage at 5°C. Direct treatment of zucchini squash with polyamines increased the endogenous levels of polyamines and reduced chilling injury. However, treatment with polyamine inhibitors after harvest but before temperature conditioning suppressed the increase of endogenous polyamines and reduced the benefit obtained from temperature conditioning. These results suggest that the resistance of squash to chilling injury may be related to the endogenous levels of polyamines.
INVESTIGATING CULTIVAR DIFFERENCES IN STRESS-INDUCED ABSCISSION IN BELL PEPPER (CAPSICUM ANNUM L.) WITH GROWTH ANALYSIS
Authors: Turner A.D. , Wien H.C.
Published: February 2019

Cultivars of bell pepper differ in susceptibility to bud/flower abscission. Reduction in the level of assimilate, and alterations in assimilate partitioning may be involved in the processes leading to bud/flower abscission. Four growth analysis experiments were conducted to determine whether two pepper cultivars differing in susceptibility to stress-induced abscission showed corresponding differences in growth and rates and dry matter partitioning when subjected to shade stress. The reduction in RGR and NAR with shading was significantly greater for the abscission-susceptible `Shamrock' than the more tolerant `Ace'. Partitioning of dry matter to reproductive structures was reduced by shading. There were no cultivar differences in the proportion of dry matter partitioned to young developing leaves. Fully expanded leaves comprised a larger proportion of total dry matter in `Shamrock'. The lower NAR of `Shamrock' under stress may have led to greater bud/flower abscission than `Ace' under shade stress. If preferential partitioning of dry matter to competing structures (developing leaves) is also involved, it was not detected using this technique.
PROTEIN CHANGES IN ENDODORMANT SHOOTS, SPURS, AND FLORAL BUDS OF VARIOUS FRUIT CROPS DURING WINTER
Authors: Lang Gregory A. , Tao Jiaxun
Published: February 2019

We have previously demonstrated that a protein of ∼62 kD decreases in response to temperature during the final stages of chilling unit accumulation in dormant peach flower buds (Lang and Tao, 1991, HortSci. 26:733). To further examine proteins that potentially may be associated with endodormancy, floral buds, spurs, and/or shoots were collected during winter from `Anna' apple, various blueberry cultivars, `MidSouth' grape, `20th Century' pear, `Hawthorne' peach, and `Santa Rosa' plum. Soluble proteins were extracted and analyzed by one-dimensional SDS-PAGE. A major protein of ∼62 kD was present in plum, and lesser amounts of one or two similar proteins were found in blueberry, but not in apple or grape. The 62 kD peach protein originally found in buds was also present, in lesser proportions, in peach shoot xylem and phloem tissues, but not in petioles or seeds. Apple exhibited a major protein band at ca. 31 kD that may be a storage protein. The similarities and disparities in protein profiles between fruit crops, as well as changes that occur during winter, will be discussed with respect to dormancy, cold hardiness, and storage compounds.
PRE-FORCING TREATMENTS HELP BREAK BUD DORMANCY OF FORCED WOODY PLANT SPECIES
Authors: Yang Guochen , Read Paul E.
Published: February 2019

A certain period of cold is needed to break bud dormancy for almost all woody species. A pre-forcing bleach soak has been demonstrated to at least partially replace this requirement (Yang and Read, 1989). Therefore, new softwood growth can be produced in the off-season. Such supple softwood growth is excellent material to be used either as explants for in vitro culture, or as cuttings for macropropagation of woody species. Further studies on pre-forcing bleach soaks were conducted to investigate optimum concentration and duration of soak, and to find the most suitable depth of bleach solution soak, in order to maximize the breaking of bud dormancy. Optimum bud break was obtained by soaking the basal 1/3 of dormant stems in 10% bleach solution for 10 minutes prior to forcing. Soaking dormant woody stems in alcohol solutions prior to placing stems in the forcing solution was also studied. The alcohol soak had negative effects on bud break of spirea, although it showed positive effects for lilac and privet.
COMPACTION AFFECTS COMPOST EFFICACY IN DWARF OLEANDER PRODUCTION
Authors: Fitzpatrick George E. , Verkade Stephen D.
Published: February 2019

Three compost products made from urban waste materials, municipal solid waste (MSW), yard trash (YT), and a co-compost made from 1 part sewage sludge and 3 parts yard trash (S-YT), were used as growing media for production of dwarf oleander (Nerium oleander L.) in 25 cm. diameter containers. In one test the composts were used as stand-alone growing media and in a second test they were blended with pine bark (PB) and sand (S) in 2 ratios: 4 compost: 5 PB: 1 S and 1 compost: 1 PB: 1 S. The S-YT co-compost produced plants with the highest biomass in both tests. Reduced growth of dwarf oleander in each test was associated with the degree to which the media compacted during the 5.5 month production period. The MSW compost compacted an average 8.5 cm. per container when used as a stand-alone medium, while the S-YT mixes compacted much less, typically < 4.0 cm.
INFLUENCE OF LIME ON GROWTH AND QUALITY OF SELECTED FOLIAGE PLANTS
Authors: Rauch Fred D.
Published: February 2019

A series of studies has been conducted to determine the optimum dolomitic lime rate for the production of foliage plants in a peat/perlite potting mix. Treatments consisted of 10 rates of dolomitic lime from 0 to 6 kg/cu m on 6 species of ornamental foliage plants. In all cases to date the 0 lime rate resulted in as good or better plant growth and quality as the other lime treatments. In general, as lime rate increased there was a reduction in growth and increase in chlorosis under the condition of this trial.
DEGRADATION OF A BARK STORAGE PROTEIN IN POPLAR.
Authors: Englert John M. , Coleman Gary D. , Chen Tony H.H. , Fuchigami Leslie H.
Published: February 2019

A 32kDa bark storage protein (BSP) which accumulates in the fall and is degraded in the spring has been identified in Populus deltoides bark. The BSP gene has been shown to be regulated by short day (SD) photoperiod (8 h). The physiological condition of the plant and the environmental factors necessary for the degradation and retranslocation of BSP are of considerable interest for determining the role of this protein in the remobilization of nitrogen in trees.

Poplar plants were placed in a SD growth chamber for 4 or 7 weeks to induce growth cessation (bud set) or dormancy, respectively. BSP accumulated to high levels in bark tissues after 3 weeks SD and remained high through 7 weeks SD. Plants in which growth had stopped (4 weeks SD), or in which dormancy (7 weeks SD) was broken with hydrogen cyanamide (0.5 M) or chilling (4 weeks 0C) broke bud within 1 week of being placed into long day (LD) conditions. Dormant plants which were not chilled broke bud after 3 weeks LD. BSP levels decreased around the time of budbreak, suggesting that the degradation of BSP is dependent on the need for a nitrogen sink, ie. budbreak and new shoot growth.
SIMULATION OF PINEAPPLE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Zhang Jingbo , Bartholomew Duane P.
Published: February 2019

A simulation model of pineapple growth and development (CERES-Pineapple) was developed, using the structure of CERES-Maize and a heat unit model for pineapple inflorescence development. The model is process-oriented and incremented daily. It simulates the effects of planting date, plant population, plant size at planting and at forcing, and weather on pineapple crop growth and development. CERES-Pineapple was calibrated to field data collected from a plant population trial at Kunia, Hawaii, and validated using data from 11 plantings of pineapple grown in Hawaii. The model accurately simulated pineapple growth and development for most Hawaii conditions but underpredicted fruit yields for pineapple grown at high elevations. CERES-Pineapple also provides a frame-work for the conduct of pineapple research and has potential to serve as a decision aid for pineapple farmers.
PUTTING RESEARCH INTO ACTION
Authors: Relf Diane
Published: February 2019

Research on the role of horticulture in human well-being can have application among diverse groups. Dissemination and application of research results can be accomplished through Cooperative Extension Service, the horticulture industry, non-profit associations, and trade associations for users of horticulture products and services. On e of the roles of the People-Plant Council is to increase availability of research information to these groups.