bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory Exercises on DNA Amplification Fingerprinting for Evaluating the Molecular Diversity of Horticultural Species
Authors: Trigiano R.N. , Caetano-Anollés G.
Published: December 2018

The primary objectives of these laboratory exercises are to familiarize advanced undergraduate and graduate students (and instructors) with the general concepts, techniques, and uses of DNA fingerprinting and to remove some of the perceived mystique underlying molecular genetics. The technique of DNA amplification fingerprinting (DAF) is partitioned into four independent laboratory exercises that include DNA isolation, DNA amplification, gel electrophoresis and silver staining, and data collection and analysis. Although the DNA amplification and gel electrophoresis exercises are emphasized, very detailed and easy-to-follow instructions and protocols are provided for all aspects of the DNA fingerprinting process. These exercises, or similar ones, have been successfully completed on the first attempt by several classes of novice graduate students and other researchers.
Root Medium Physical Properties
Authors: Argo William R.
Published: December 2018

Acceptable physical properties are an integral part of root-media quality. However, there is no one growing medium that works best in all situations because root-media physical properties are not constant, but rather can be affected by the grower. Understanding the root environment under production conditions requires an understanding of the dynamic nature of air : water : solid ratio in the medium. The objective of this review is to consider key aspects of root-medium physical properties, which include bulk density and particle size, container capacity, media settling, water absorption, rewettability, moisture release characteristics, and water loss due to evaporation from the root-medium surface.
Seed Germination for Transplants
Authors: Cantliffe Daniel J.
Published: December 2018

Seed germination is a critical step to achieve economic success in a transplant operation. Total germination of a seed lot dictates total plant sales by the producer, while uniformity of germination dictates the quality of the transplant crop. Using high vigor seed will help to achieve uniform stands, as well as maximize stands, in the transplant house or field. In order to maintain the highest seed quality, transplant producers should store unused seeds at recommended temperature and relative humidity for the crop species. Methods to promote uniformity and optimum stands under a wide range of conditions include the use of seed priming, film coating with fungicides, and pelleting for ease of planting.
Effect of Carbon Dioxide Enrichment and Light
Authors: Tremblay Nicolas , Gosselin André
Published: December 2018

Since they grow nearly exponentially, plants in their juvenile phase can benefit more than mature ones of optimal growing conditions. Transplant production in greenhouses offers the opportunity to optimize growing factors in order to reduce production time and improve transplant quality. Carbon dioxide and light are the two driving forces of photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide concentration can be enriched in the greenhouse atmosphere, leading to heavier transplants with thicker leaves and reduced transpiration rates. Supplementary lighting is often considered as more effective than CO2 enrichment for transplant production. It can be used not only to speed up growth and produce higher quality plants, but also to help in production planning. However, residual effects on transplant field yield of CO2 enrichment or supplementary lighting are absent or, at the best, inconsistent.
Commercial-scale Use of Hydrogen Cyanamide for Apple and Peach Blossom Thinning
Authors: Fallahi Esmaeil , Lee Randy R. , Lee Gary A.
Published: December 2018

Hydrogen cyanamide (Dormex, 50% a.i.) for blossom thinning `Early Spur Rome' and `Law Rome' apple (Malus×domestica Borkh.) and `Flavorcrest' peach (Prunus persica L.) was applied with air-blast sprayers on a commercial scale. Full-bloom applications of hydrogen cyanamide at 4 pts formulation per 200 gal/acre (1288 mg·L−1) and 5 pts formulation per 200 gal/acre (1610 mg·L−1) significantly reduced fruit set in apple and peach. In `Early Spur Rome', a postbloom application of carbaryl [Sevin XLR Plus, 4 lb a.i./gal (0.48 kg·L−1)] following a full-bloom spray of hydrogen cyanamide increased fruit thinning with a significant increase in fruit size compared to an application of hydrogen cyanamide alone. In `Law Rome', trees receiving a full-bloom application of hydrogen cyanamide followed by a postbloom application of 1-naphthyl-N-methylcarbamate (carbaryl) + naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) had significantly lower fruit set and larger fruit than those in the carbaryl + NAA treatment. Apples or peaches were not marked by hydrogen cyanamide.
Flower Quality, Flower Number, and Western Flower Thrips Density on Transvaal Daisy Treated with Granular Insecticides
Authors: Cloyd Raymond A. , Sadof Clifford S.
Published: December 2018

Greenhouse studies were conducted to determine the efficacy of two granular systemic insecticides, acephate (Pinpoint 15G) and imidacloprid (Marathon 1G), against western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande) on Transvaal daisy (Gerbera jamesonii H. Bolus ex. Hook. f). These studies were arranged in a randomized complete-block design with four blocks and four treatments per block. Two rates of acephate (0.75 g/16.5-cm pot and 1.0 g/16.5-cm pot) and one rate of imidacloprid (1.3 g/16.5-cm pot) were used in two studies. Plants were artificially inoculated with five adult western flower thrips at the prebloom stage. Plants were evaluated each week for flower quality (1 = complete injury or flower distortion to 5 = no injury), thrips density per flower, and number of plants flowering in each plot. Both studies showed that the acephate treated plants had the best flower quality, lowest numbers of thrips, and greatest number of plants flowering compared to imidacloprid and the check. These studies demonstrate that granulated acephate exhibits some activity in flower tissue and may assist growers in managing western flower thrips in floricultural crops.
Antitranspirants Do not Reduce Transplant Shock of Impatiens Seedlings in a Greenhouse
Authors: van Iersel Marc
Published: December 2018

Transplanting can result in root damage, thereby limiting the uptake of water and nutrients by plants. This can slow growth and sometimes cause plant death. Antitranspirants have been used to minimize transplant shock of vegetables. The objective of this research was to determine if antitranspirants are useful to reduce transplant shock of impatiens (Impatiens wallerana Hook.f.) seedlings in the greenhouse. Seedling foliage was dipped in or sprayed with antitranspirant (Vapor Gard or WiltPruf) and shoot dry mass was determined at weekly intervals. Antitranspirants reduced posttransplant growth of impatiens as compared to untreated plants, possibly because of a decrease in stomatal conductance, leading to a decrease in photosynthesis. The two dip treatments also caused phytotoxic effects (necrotic spots) on the leaves. In a second study, leaf water, osmotic and pressure potential were determined at 2, 9, and 16 days after transplant. Application of antitranspirants (as a dip or spray) decreased water and osmotic potential compared to control plants. The results of this study indicate that antitranspirants are not useful for minimizing transplant shock of impatiens under greenhouse conditions.
Root Pruning and Soil Type Affect Pecan Root Regeneration
Authors: McCraw B.D. , Smith M.W.
Published: December 2018

Taproots of 2-year-old `Apache' seedling pecan [Carya illinoensis (Wang)] trees were pruned to 1 ft (30 cm), 2 ft (60 cm), or 3 ft (90 cm) in combination with wounding treatments consisting of no wounding, scraping through pericycle tissue on one or two sides of the taproot, or longitudinally splitting the taproot for about half its length. The trees were planted in a Port silt loam soil and a Teller sandy loam soil and grown without irrigation. At the end of the first and second growing seasons, top growth was measured, trees were dug and root system regrowth was evaluated. Tree root weight and number of roots per tree decreased with increasing taproot length.
Improving Bedding Plant Quality and Stress Resistance with Low Phosphorus
Authors: Borch Kristian , Brown Kathleen M. , Lynch Jonathan P.
Published: December 2018

Bedding plants are frequently exposed to water stress during the postproduction period, resulting in reduced quality. We demonstrated that alumina-buffered P fertilizer (Al-P) provides adequate but much lower P concentrations than conventionally used in soilless mixes. When impatiens (Impatiens wallerana Hook. f. `Impulse Orange') and marigold (Tagetes patula L. `Janie Tangerine') plants were grown with reduced phosphorus using Al-P, P leaching was greatly reduced and plant quality was improved. Diameter of impatiens plants and leaf area of plants of both species were reduced by Al-P. Marigold plants grown with Al-P had more flowers and fewer wilted flowers. Flower wilting was also reduced for impatiens plants grown with Al-P. In marigold plants, roots were confined to a small volume beneath the drip tube in control plants, while roots of Al-P plants were well distributed through the medium. There was no obvious difference in impatiens root distribution. When plants at the marketing stage were exposed to drought, the Al-P plants of both species wilted more slowly than the conventionally fertilized controls. The reduced leaf area in both species and the improved root distribution of marigold may account for the improvement in drought tolerance of the Al-P plants.
Using Commercial Bumble Bee Colonies as Backup Pollinators for Honey Bees to Produce Cucumbers and Watermelons
Authors: Stanghellini M.S. , Ambrose J.T. , Schultheis J.R.
Published: December 2018

The effectiveness of bumble bees, Bombus impatiens Cresson, and honey bees, Apis mellifera L., on the pollination of cucumber, Cucumis sativus L., and watermelon, Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai, was compared under field conditions. Comparisons were based on fruit abortion rates and seed set as influenced by bee type (honey bee or bumble bee) and the number of bee visits to treatment flowers (1, 6, 12, and 18 bee visits), plus two controls: a no-visit treatment and an open-pollinated (unrestricted visitation) treatment. For both crops, an increased number of bee visits had a strong positive effect on fruit and seed set. All cucumber and watermelon flowers bagged to prevent insect visitation aborted, demonstrating the need for active transfer of pollen between staminate and pistillate flowers. Bumble bee-visited flowers consistently had lower abortion rates and higher seed sets in the cucumber and watermelon studies than did honey bee-visited flowers when compared at the same bee visitation level. Only slight differences in fruit abortion rates were detected between bee types in the watermelon study. However, abortion rates for bumble bee-visited flowers were consistently less than those for honey bee-visited flowers when compared at equal bee visitation levels, with one exception at the 12 bee visit level. As the number of honey bee colonies continues to decline due to parasitic mite pests and based on the data obtained, we conclude that bumble bees have a great potential to serve as a supplemental pollinator for cucumbers, watermelons, and possibly other vine crops, when honey bees available for rental are in limited supply.
Rapid Detection of Pectolytic Erwinia sp. in Aglaonema sp.
Authors: Arias R.S. , Alvarez A.M. , Murakami P.K.
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this research was to develop a rapid microplate assay for detecting and presumptively identifying pathogenic pectolytic Erwinia sp. in ornamental propagative stock and to readily distinguish them from nonpathogenic bacteria associated with Aglaonema. The assay was developed by modifying an existing crystal violet-sodium polypectate (CVP) medium to visualize the depolymerization of pectate by addition of bromcresol purple (BCP), then acidifying with a dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution. The assay was sufficiently sensitive to detect latent (symptomless) infections in small sections of leaf or stem tissue. Based on inoculum titration assays, 40 to 600 colony-forming units (CFU) of Erwinia chrysanthemi (Burkholder et al.) were required to produce symptoms in Aglaonema stems and leaves, respectively. The microplate assay was able to detect the pathogen at low levels (40 to 60 CFU) in tissue segments of ≈1 cm2. In tests of bacterial strains isolated from 211 samples from Aglaonema `Silver Queen', `Emerald Beauty', and `San Luis' grown in Hawaii, only the pectolytic and pathogenic Erwinia sp. reacted positively in the microplate assay. Other bacteria associated with Aglaonema, including Pseudomonas paucimobilis (Holmes), P. vesicularis (Galarneault and Leifson), and nonpectolytic Erwinia sp., were not detected by the assay. Pectolytic strains of Ralstonia (Pseudomonas) solanacearum (Smith) were differentiated from pectolytic Erwinia sp. by the yellow color that developed in wells of the latter strains after acidification of the medium with dilute HCl. The test is visual and can be performed with minimal equipment and cost.
The Greenhouse of the Future: Using a Sponsored Competition in a Capstone Course
Authors: Bates Ricky M. , Baumbauer David A.
Published: December 2018

Horticulture students often lack practical experience integrating information from diverse sources to solve complex real-life problems. Capstone courses seek to remedy this by giving students an opportunity to demonstrate a range of workplace skills such as teamwork, effective communication, and critical thinking. Sponsored competitions provide educators with an active-learning framework into which the goals of a capstone course can be developed. The Greenhouse of the Future competition allowed undergraduate students to conceptualize, develop, and prototype innovative greenhouse designs in a national competition venue. This article explains the guidelines of the Greenhouse of the Future competition and discusses how the competition was integrated into the capstone course Greenhouse Management.
Educational Needs of the Nursery and Landscape Industry in Delaware
Authors: Barton Susan , Ilvento Tom , Mercer Jo
Published: December 2018

Keeping up with cultural issues, recruiting new employees, motivating employees, and weed control were the issues most frequently cited as “very serious” or “somewhat serious” by surveyed members of the nursery and landscape industry. The focus of important issues changed somewhat based on the type of business. Retailers were more concerned with marketing and less concerned with plant maintenance. Pesticide regulation was more important to firms that provide some form of plant maintenance for consumers. Small firms were less concerned with employee issues, and large firms were more concerned with regulation. The most desirable method of receiving information was still printed materials, but firms with equipment (i.e., facsimile machines, computers) were more likely (30%) to use these forms of communication. E-mail was a very popular form of communication with firms that had e-mail access. Technology-oriented communication will probably increase in popularity as more firms gain access to technology.
Clientele Perceptions of Master Gardener Training Delivered via Interactive Television versus Face to Face
Authors: Warmund Michele R. , Schrock Denny
Published: December 2018

Master Gardener training was delivered via interactive television (IT) or face to face (FTF) in Missouri in 1997. IT and FTF participants were surveyed on their acceptance of the Master Gardener training method and their perceptions of program quality and technology to evaluate the newly developed multiple site IT training. Demographic characteristics were also recorded to determine if IT format attracted a different clientele than that of FTF training. Those who participated in IT training generally had more years of education than those in the FTF training and lived in suburban rather than rural areas. IT participants missed fewer training sessions than FTF participants. However, IT participants rated the slide quality, sound, and overall training lower than the FTF group. Some problems associated with IT training identified by the participants are correctable, which should improve future acceptance of this technology.
The Use of Ground Covers during the Establishment of Heart-of-Palm Plantations in Hawaii
Authors: Clement Charles R. , DeFrank Joseph
Published: December 2018

Pejibaye (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) is being evaluated in Hawaii for production of fresh heart-of-palm. Yields and offshoot (sucker) production were evaluated in response to woven black polypropylene mat (control), three legumes [Arachis pintoi Krap. & Greg., Cassia rotundifolia Pers., and Desmodium heterocarpon (L.) DC], and a grass (Chloris gayana Kunth) used as ground covers. D. heterocarpon and C. gayana formed closed canopies quickly and controlled weeds well, but required more frequent mowing. A. pintoi formed a closed canopy slowly and only controlled weeds after forming a thick canopy, but required less mowing. Cassia rotundifolia died out after flowering and setting seed. All vegetative ground covers delayed heart-of-palm harvest and had reduced yields 1.5 years after planting. A combination of polypropylene (adjacent to plants) and vegetative ground covers (in service rows) may provide the best solution to minimizing labor for vegetative management in this orchard crop.
Phosphate Starter Fertilizer Temporarily Enhances Soil Arsenic Uptake by Apple Trees Grown under Field Conditions
Authors: Peryea F.J.
Published: December 2018

Monoammonium phosphate (MAP) is a popular starter fertilizer in Pacific Northwest tree fruit orchards; however, its use on soils contaminated with lead arsenate pesticide residues can enhance As solubility, thereby increasing As phytoavailability. `Fuji'/EMLA.26 apple trees (Malus ×domestica Borkh.) were planted in Mar. 1992 on a lead arsenate-contaminated Cashmont gravelly sandy loam soil (HCl-extractable soil As range: 60-222 mg·kg-1) using in-hole starter fertilizer application of either MAP or ammonium sulfate at equivalent N and anion rates. In ensuing years, all trees received identical applications of ammonium nitrate only. Relative trunk cross-sectional area was inversely related to soil As concentration in the year of planting but not in subsequent years, and was independent of starter fertilizer treatment. Leaf and fruit As were positively related to soil As in all years. Leaf As was initially higher in the MAP-treated trees; however, this effect diminished over time and disappeared by 1995. Fruit As was independent of starter fertilizer treatment, and was substantially lower than the tolerance established for As in fresh produce. The experimental results indicate that MAP starter fertilizer can increase soil As phytoavailability to apple trees grown under field conditions; however, the effects on tree growth and food safety are insignificant.
Surfactants Improve the Susceptibility of Five Landscape Pines to Pitch Canker Disease, Caused by Fusarium subglutinans f. sp. pini
Authors: Gordon Thomas R. , Okamoto Dorothy , Storer Andrew J. , Wood David L.
Published: December 2018

Pitch canker, caused by Fusarium subglutinans f. sp. pini, causes branch die-back and stem cankers in many species of pine. Monterey pine (Pinus radiata D. Don), one of the most widely planted pines in the world, is extremely susceptible to pitch canker. Four other pine species, which might serve as alternatives to Monterey pine in landscape settings, were found to be relatively resistant, based on the size of lesions resulting from branch inoculations under greenhouse conditions. Of these species, Japanese black pine (P. thunbergiana Franco) was the most resistant, followed by Canary Island pine (P. canariensis Sweet ex K. Spreng), Italian stone pine (P. pinea L.), and Aleppo pine (P. halepensis Mill.). Consistent with these findings, a field survey conducted in Alameda County, Calif., revealed Monterey pine to have the highest incidence of infection, with significantly lower levels in Aleppo, Canary Island, and Italian stone pines. Japanese black pine was not observed in the survey area.
Using Ethephon and GA3 to Overcome Thermoinhibition in `Jalapeño M' Pepper Seed
Authors: Carter Anne K. , Stevens Roseann
Published: December 2018

`Jalapeño M' pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds were soaked for 40 h in solutions of 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 mm GA3 (using Release, 10% GA3) and 0.0, 1.75, 3.5, 7.0, or 10.5 mm ethephon in all combinations in petri dishes at 25 °C. The seeds were rinsed, dried for 24 hours, then germinated at either 25 or 40 °C. Thermoinhibition was induced at 40 °C, as nontreated seeds failed to germinate, but 99% of the seeds germinated at 25 °C after 7 days. Pretreatment with H2O alone partially alleviated thermoinhibition at 40 °C (41% germination). Pretreatment with ethephon alone resulted in up to 50% germination and with GA3 alone up to 79% germination. The effects of the GA3 and ethephon were additive, as the highest germination percentage (91%) at 40 °C was obtained with 3.5 mm ethephon + 3.0 mm GA3. The percentage of abnormal radicles was <1% in all treatments. Chemicals used: (2-chloroethyl) phosphonic acid (ethephon); gibberellic acid (GA3).
Spectral Filters Affect Growth, Flowering, and Postharvest Quality of Easter Lilies
Authors: Kambalapally V.R. , Rajapakse Nihal C.
Published: December 2018

The role of light quality on growth, flowering, and postharvest characteristics of `Nellie White' Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum Thunb.) was evaluated in two growing seasons using 4% CuSO4 and water (control) as spectral filters. The CuSO4 filter significantly reduced plant height and internode length. However, the height reduction was smaller in the 1994-95 season (9%) than in the 1995-96 growing season (32%). The number of days to flower bud appearance and flower opening, and the number and diameter of flowers were not significantly affected by the spectral filters in either season. The CuSO4 filters reduced flower longevity by 3 days in nonstored plants, and by 5 days when plants were subjected to 1 week storage at 4 °C prior to placing in the postharvest room. Results suggest that spectral filters are effective in controlling height and producing compact Easter lily plants without causing a delay in flowering or reducing number of flowers per plant but flower longevity can be adversely affected.
Growing Shiitake Mushroom on Hardwood Sawdust in the Greenhouse
Authors: Pacumbaba R.P. , Pacumbaba R.O.
Published: December 2018

Seven strains of shiitake mushroom [Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegler] produced spawn in culture vessels containing hardwood sawdust amended with YVMBS (yeast extract, multigrain oatmeal, brown sugar) broth within 35 to 45 days after mycelia inoculations. Under greenhouse conditions, shiitake basidiocarps (mushroom fruit) appeared from 1 to 3 months after spawn inoculations of the hardwood sawdust amended with YVMBS broth. The shiitake mushroom strains LE2, LE1, LE6, and LE5 had 10.4, 7.3, 2.5, and 1.6 times more fresh harvested basidiocarps, respectively, on the amended hardwood sawdust compared to the controls. The amount of basidiocarps produced by the shiitake strains LE3, LE4, and LE7 was the same on both hardwood sawdust treatments. The basidiocarps of LE1, LE2, LE3, LE4, and LE5 were averaged 5 inches (12.7 cm) in diameter, however, the basidiocarps of LE6 and LE7 were averaging only 2 inches (5.1 cm) in diameter. The only pests of the shiitake basidiocarps in the greenhouse were slugs, but they were easily controlled by applying table salt. The start up cost of inoculating 100 shiitake spawn blocks on hardwood sawdust on one bench in the greenhouse was $77. The start up cost of inoculating shiitake spawn on 100 logs was $1,329.75. In 1 year, shiitake strains LE1, LE2, LE5, and LE6 produced 19.5, 20.2, 7.9, and 4.5 lb (8.8, 9.2, 3.6, and 2.0 kg), respectively, of harvested fresh basidiocarps on amended hardwood sawdust in the greenhouse. The mushrooms retail for $3.20 to $4.20/lb ($7.05 to $9.26/kg). The use of the hardwood sawdust amended with YVMBS broth for shiitake production in the greenhouse has considerable economic potential for shiitake mushroom growers.
Differences in Bedding Plant Growth and Nitrate Loss with a Controlled-release Fertilizer and Two Irrigation Systems
Authors: Klock-Moore Kimberly A. , Broschat Timothy K.
Published: December 2018

Growth of hand-watered and subirrigated `Ultra Red' petunia (Petunia ×hybrida Hort.) and `Super Elfin Violet' impatiens (Impatiens wallerana Hook.f.) plants were compared when grown using four controlled-release fertilizer rates and four fertilizer placements in the pot. Furthermore, the amount of NO3-N leached from hand-watered plants was compared to amount captured by subirrigation system. Before planting, Osmocote (14N-6.2P-11.6K) (4 month release) was either topdressed (TD), layered in the middle of the pot (M), layered at the bottom of the pot (B), or incorporated throughout (I) the substrate at 1.25, 2.5, 5.0, or 7.5 kg·m-3 (oz/ft3). Shoot dry mass of petunia plants was similar between both irrigation systems and among the four fertilizer placements. Subirrigated petunias fertilized with 2.5 kg·m-3 had similar shoot dry mass as hand-watered petunias fertilized with 7.5 kg·m-3. Hand-watered impatiens had greater shoot dry mass than subirrigated impatiens. Hand-watered impatiens also had greater shoot dry mass in pots with fertilizer at TD, M, or I than with fertilizer at B, but no difference in growth was observed in subirrigated impatiens among the different fertilizer placements. Finally, significantly more NO3-N was leached from hand-watered plants than was captured with the subirrigation systems.
Effects of Nutritional Factors on Regular Cropping of Apple
Authors: Stiles Warren C.
Published: December 2018

Nutritional status of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) trees may influence regularity of cropping through effects of some nutrient elements at various stages of the floral initiation, development, pollination, fertilization and fruit setting process. Other elements may influence regularity of cropping more indirectly as consequences of their effects on physiological processes or by modifying the sensitivity of the tree to adverse environmental factors. This report provides a brief summary of reported impacts of mineral nutrition on regularity of cropping.
No-till Vegetable Production—Its Time is Now
Authors: Morse Ronald D.
Published: December 2018

Advantages of no-till (NT) production systems are acknowledged throughout the world. During the 1990s, production of NT vegetable crops has increased for both direct seeded and transplanted crops. Increased interest in reduced-tillage systems among research workers and vegetable growers is attributed to: 1) development and commercialization of NT transplanters and seeders, 2) advancements in the technology and practice of producing and managing high-residue cover crop mulches, and 3) improvements and acceptance of integrated weed management techniques. Results from research experiments and grower's fields over the years has shown that success with NT transplanted crops is highly dependent on achieving key production objectives, including: 1) production of dense, uniformly distributed cover crops; 2) skillful management of cover crops before transplanting, leaving a heavy, uniformly distributed killed mulch cover over the soil surface; 3) establishment of transplants into cover crops with minimum disturbance of surface residues and surface soil; and 4) adoption of year-round weed control strategies.
Soil Water Uptake Patterns of Pecan Trees Grown in Coarse Gravelly Soils
Authors: Sorensen Ronald B. , Jones Tim L.
Published: December 2018

Soil depth for water uptake in pecan trees [Carya illinoensis (Wangenh.) C. Koch `Western Schley'] is considered to be <100 cm (3.2 ft) for sites that have high water tables. The objective of this research was to determine the water uptake pattern of pecan trees grown on sites with a deep water table [>30 m (100 ft)] and irrigated at 50 kPa (0.5 bar). Trees (15- to 20-year-old trunks) were transplanted into laser-leveled terraces in 1986. Two terraces (T) were selected and irrigated (1994 and 1995) at 50 kPa (T5) and farmer controlled [T6, weekly at ≈30 kPa (0.3 bar)]. Soil water content was measured on a 1.3 by 1.3 m (4 ft by 4 ft) grid for one tree in each terrace using a neutron probe. In 1994, the average soil depth for water uptake was 75 (2.5 ft) and 62 cm (2.0 ft) for T5 and T6 respectively. In 1995, the average soil depth for water uptake was 150 cm (5 ft) on T5 and 130 cm (4 ft) on T6. The total quantity of water removed below 140 cm (4.6 ft) soil depth was minor (<15%) when compared with the total water removed between 0 and 140 cm depth. T5 showed a deeper (260 cm; 8.5 ft) and wider (3.0 to 5.0 m; 10 to 16 ft) water uptake pattern compared with T6. Thus, pecan trees growing on these coarse soils with a deep water table and irrigated at 50 kPa have an effective root zone of ≈140 to 150 cm (4.6 to 5.0 ft).
Commercial Ripening of Cannery Pears with Ethylene
Authors: Clayton Murray , Biasi William V. , Mitcham Elizabeth J.
Published: December 2018

`Bartlett' pears (Pyrus communis L.) were harvested and ripened with and without ethylene in standard field bins at a commercial cannery. Mean firmness and firmness uniformity within a bin was evaluated for ethylene- and nonethylene-treated fruit. Uniformity of firmness among pears within a bin increased as ripening progressed. Applying 100 ppm (10 Pa) of ethylene gas during the first 24 hours of commercial ripening accelerated ripening of `Bartlett' pears held in standard field bins. Improved firmness uniformity would therefore be expected in ethylene-treated fruit commercially ripened to a lower firmness than untreated fruit otherwise ripened and processed at a higher firmness—the improved firmness uniformity was due to the lower firmness and not a specific effect of ethylene on ripening uniformity. When fruit were cold-stored for 20 days at 32 °F (0 °C) before ripening, the mean firmness and firmness uniformity of fruit exposed to ethylene during initial ripening was no different than nonethylene-treated fruit. Results from this study also indicate that fluctuations in ripening room air temperature, under some conditions, might increase firmness variability between fruit within a standard field bin.
Maturity of Fresh-market Sweet Corn with Direct-seeded Plants, Transplants, Clear Plastic Mulch, and Rowcover Combinations
Authors: Aguyoh Joseph , Taber Henry G. , Lawson Vince
Published: December 2018

Sweet corn (Zea mays L.) growers in the upper midwestern U.S. have used clear plastic mulch to improve early yield and advance crop maturity. Results of this practice have been inconsistent because of early season temperature variability and inadequate information on cultivar adaptation. Our objective was to improve the performance consistency by investigating earliness techniques with the early, sugary-enhancer (se) cultivar Temptation planted at two sites. Treatments were bare soil or clear plastic mulch, rowcovers or none, and direct-seeded or transplanted plants. Transplants were produced in the greenhouse in either 50-cell plastic trays or peat pot strips, 2.3 inches × 4.0 inches deep (6 × 10 cm) and were evaluated according to transplant age and cell size. In the cold springs of 1996 and 1997, the use of clear plastic mulch shortened maturity of sweet corn by 1 and 10 days, respectively, for the silt loam site; but no maturity advantage was observed for the loamy sand site. Clear plastic raised the minimum soil temperature by 3.8 to 4.0 °F (2.1 to 2.2 °C) at both sites. The 2-week-old 50-cell tray transplants matured 6 days earlier than the peat pot strip transplants or direct seeded at both locations in 1997. Marketable yield from the transplants was inconsistent by location and year. Four-week-old transplants did not withstand field stress and performed poorly regardless of type of container. Ear quality as indicated by row number, ear diameter, ear length, and tipfill was lowest with transplants.
Sensory Attributes, Phytotoxicity, and Production of Grape Cultivars after Treatment with Two Deer Repellents
Authors: Howery Larry D. , Nolte Dale L. , Sullivan Lawrence M. , Kilby Michael W.
Published: December 2018

The objective of our experiment was to determine if the application of two deer repellents to six grape cultivars (Vitis vinifera L.) caused significant phytotoxic effects, production losses, or altered the sensory characteristics of wine. We evaluated fifteen single vine plants from six different cultivars in a randomized block design that included the two repellent treatments and an untreated control. During spring 1997, we applied repellents biweekly from budbreak until flowering (2 Apr. to 14 May). Plantskyyd was applied more frequently than recommended by the product label (for trees) due to rapid emergence of unprotected shoot growth in vineyards. Hot Sauce and Plantskydd caused some initial minor phytotoxicity during 1997, however, the yield and phytotoxicity of treated plants were similar to controls by harvest. A panel detected a significant difference in the color, aroma, or taste of `Chardonnay' wine made from grapes treated with repellents compared to wine made from untreated control grapes (P = 0.001 for Hot Sauce; P = 0.05 for Plantskydd). We conclude that Hot Sauce and Plantskydd did not cause serious production losses or phytotoxic effects for the six cultivars treated. However, both Hot Sauce and Plantskydd significantly altered the sensory attributes of Chardonnay wine, which may preclude the use of chemical repellents in wine grape vineyards under the experimental conditions applied in our study.
Comparison of Container Placement Patterns for Maximizing Greenhouse Space Use
Authors: Will Elizabeth , Faust James E. , Burgoa Benali B.
Published: December 2018

A series of equations were developed to provide a convenient means to calculate the number of containers that can be placed into a specified area using three different placement patterns. The calculations require three pieces of information; the container spacing, i.e., distance between the center of one container and the center of the neighboring container, and the length and width of the greenhouse bench or floor area. The solutions allow comparisons of the total number of containers that will fit into that area using three different placement patterns: square, long-staggered, and short-staggered. In general, the closer the container spacing or the larger the production area, the greater the benefit of staggered spacing compared to square spacing. Staggered spacing frequently allows for up to 13% more containers to fit into a given area than square spacing; however, calculations must be made for specific situations to determine the most efficient spacing pattern. Cost analyses were performed on a range of container spacings and greenhouse dimensions. Spacing pattern can affect overhead costs from $0.02 to $0.20 per container for a 10-week crop. A spreadsheet, Bench Crop Calculator, is available from the authors for providing assistance in performing the calculations.
Horticultural Import Diversification by U.S. Cucumber Processors: A Monte Carlo Risk Assessment
Authors: Frenz Byron L. , Staub Jack E.
Published: December 2018

Development projects in developing countries are generally considered to be speculative investments. Potentially significant returns on investment opportunities are often overlooked by assuming that investment risks in developing countries are greater or less manageable than the risks of investment in developed countries. An import purchasing-risk evaluation identified the costs associated with the production and export of processing cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.) from Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic) to the United States. Although production and export analyses suggested that Hispaniola might not replace Mexico as the primary source of cucumbers for processing in the United States between November and April, Hispaniola affords the U.S. processing industry with an alternative investment option for reducing single-sourcing raw product risk. Therefore, an import diversification evaluation was conducted using Monte Carlo simulation to define a investment-risk model. Monte Carlo simulations of the means and variances of the components of cost andprice were used to assess investment risk under various investment strategies. This model identified sources of cost variation which were then used to characterize export risks derived from growing processing cucumbers on Hispaniola. It was determined that U.S. processors can reduce overall purchasing-risk by diversifying Mexican production to Hispaniola. Through the creation of a strategic transportation alliance between the U.S. and Hispaniola project participants, the export-import costs were such that the investment-risk model identified the allocation of 80% of the production in Mexico and 20% in Haiti as the most favorable diversification strategy. This strategy offered less risk and greater potential long-term returns than purchasing cucumbers solely in Mexico.
Edina Goes Green Part II: Using Home Lawns as Demonstration Sites to Teach Low-input Lawn Care
Authors: Carpenter Perrin J. , Meyer Mary Hockenberry
Published: December 2018

Master Gardeners (MGs) were paired with homeowners who volunteered their lawns for demonstration sites in Edina, Minn., as part of a yearlong community-wide campaign to teach low-input lawn care. Project objectives were to 1) promote locations where community members could see low-input lawn care, 2) provide individualized instruction to homeowners via MGs, and 3) explore the feasibility of home lawns as public demonstration sites. Surveys suggest that participants changed practices because of the individual instruction from MGs. Further recommendations are given for using private homes as demonstration sites.
Performance of New Marianna Rootstocks in California for `French' Prune
Authors: Southwick Stephen M. , Yeager James T. , Osgood Joseph , Buchner Richard , Olson William , Norton Maxwell
Published: December 2018

Ten new marianna root-stocks [Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. × P. munsoniana Wight & Hedr.(?)] derived from open pollination of `Marianna 2616' (M series) were planted in 1987 and evaluated at four commercial orchard locations in California (Tehama, Butte, Sutter, and Merced counties) with `Improved French' prune (P. domestica L.) as the scion. These rootstocks were compared to three standard rootstocks: `Marianna 2624', myrobalan seedling (P. cerasifera Ehrh.) and `Myrobalan 29C'. Leaf potassium (K) and nitrogen (N), tree growth, fruit production and fruit quality were measured. Selection M40 in particular had high leaf N, high leaf K (equal to `Marianna 2624' and better than the myrobalan standards), higher yield efficiency per tree, fruit size, drying characteristics, and few root suckers when compared to the three standard rootstocks. M40 is being considered for patent and release by the Pomology Department at the University of California, Davis. Selection M58 had the highest yield efficiency of any tested rootstock. Several selections had characteristics that would make expanded planting worth considering.
A Multifunctional Horticulture Teaching Garden at Oregon State University
Authors: VanDerZanden Ann Marie , Cook Tom
Published: December 2018

Once an abandoned property at the edge of campus, the 7,000 ft2 (650.3 m2) horticulture teaching garden at Oregon State University has evolved from an overgrown residential lot into a well-defined and meticulously maintained garden. Since its beginning, an irrigation system, hardscapes, turf, bulbs, annuals, perennials, and woody plants have been installed by students enrolled in undergraduate horticulture courses. About 200 students use the garden annually as part of their formal instruction and it is currently integrated into the curricula of courses in landscape design, landscape construction and maintenance, and herbaceous and woody plant identification. Because the garden space is dynamic, curriculum changes can easily be accommodated.
Development and Integration of an Instructional Garden in Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Authors: Stimart Dennis P.
Published: December 2018

The Allen Centennial Gardens are instructional gardens managed by the Department of Horticulture, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Twenty-two garden styles exist on the 2.5-acre (1.0-ha) campus site with a primary focus on herbaceous annual, biennial and perennial ornamental plants. The gardens are used for instruction mostly by the Department of Horticulture and secondly by departments of art, botany, entomology, landscape architecture, plant pathology, and soils. Class work sessions are limited due to the gardens' prominence on campus, high aesthetic standards, space restrictions, and large class sizes. Undergraduate students are the primary source of labor for plant propagation, installation and maintenance; management; and preparation of interpretive literature. Work experience at the gardens assists students with obtaining career advances in ornamental horticulture. Future challenges include initiating greater faculty use of the gardens for instruction and creating innovative ways to use the gardens to enhance instruction.
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia: A Living Laboratory for Student Education
Authors: Lewis A.J. , Affolter J.M.
Published: December 2018

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia serves as an important academic resource for the University of Georgia by supporting interdisciplinary learning experiences in fields including botany, horticulture, environmental design, ecology, anthropology, geography, instructional technology, science education, entomology, forestry, and art. Field trips, independent study, internships, work-study and other botanical garden experiences strengthen and support the university's teaching, research and public service/outreach missions.
Reaching Out: A University Botanical Garden Builds Long-distance Relationships
Authors: Byers Robert D.
Published: December 2018

Botanical gardens continually seek new ways to improve their education programs and increase their audiences. In the case of most university gardens, the larger academic community presents many opportunities. However, what does a university garden do when separated by several hours travel from the campus served? Garvan Woodland Gardens and the University of Arkansas (UA) have developed several ways to address this challenge. A summer school session and Elderhostel program work together to benefit both partners in this alliance. This article discusses these efforts according to their structure, costs, and educational benefits.
Laboratory Techniques for Determining Ploidy in Plants
Authors: Cramer Christopher S.
Published: December 2018

Determination of ploidy is an essential plant breeding technique. Laboratory exercises for teaching students how to determine ploidy in plant tissues using various techniques are described for geranium and onion. The different methods include root tip squashes, pollen mother cell squashes, pollen grain size and germinal pore counts, stomata size and density determination, and gross morphology.
The Effects of Sun, Shade, and Predation on Azalea Lace Bug Populations in Containerized Azaleas
Authors: Kintz Janet L. , Alverson David R.
Published: December 2018

The effects of sun and shade in a small monocultural nursery-like environment and the effect of natural enemies on the population density of azalea lace bugs (Stephanitis pyrioides Scott) on azaleas (Rhododendron L.) in the nursery environment were assessed. A comparison of sun and shade treatments for total number of azalea lace bug eggs collected and eclosed revealed no significant (P < 0.05) differences. Stippling damage did not differ significantly between sun and shade treatments. Therefore, lace bug oviposition or eclosion were not affected by sun or shade. Arthropods collected from 5 weeks of beat samples were divided into four feeding guilds: predator-parasitoid (eight families), chelicerates (six families), chewing herbivores (two families), and piercing-sucking herbivores (nine families). Guilds were not significantly different between sun and shade treatments. In the small monocultures designed for this experiment, the 4 guilds do not appear to show preference for sun or shade habitats. No significant differences in azalea lace bug populations between caged and uncaged azalea cuttings in the nursery environment indicate there were no consequential effects of predation or parasitism on egg eclosion or subsequent instars in the first generation.
Controlled Atmosphere Tents for Storing Fresh Commodities in Conventional Refrigerated Rooms
Authors: Leyte Jerry C. , Forney Charles F.
Published: December 2018

A plastic tent was designed and constructed for the controlled atmosphere (CA) storage of small quantities of fresh produce. The CA tent is suspended from pallet racking in a standard cold room and can hold two standard pallets stacked 6 feet high with produce. Tents are sealed with two air tight zippers and a small water trough, resulting in an airtight chamber that successfully maintains CA storage environments. The CA tents are easily set up and removed to allow flexibility in use of storage space. To provide efficient use of storage space tents can be stacked two or three high on pallet racking. Tents are easily loaded and unloaded by a single person using a forklift. CA tents provide an economical alternative to traditional CA rooms for the storage of small quantities of fresh produce under CA environments.
Teaching landscape construction at the University of Tennessee
Authors: Williams D.B.
Published: December 2018

Student-built landscape construction projects at the University of Tennessee serve to give students practical experience, provide workable solutions to landscape needs on the University of Tennessee agricultural campus, and provide ideas to visitors on landscape construction. Success has been based on a growing population of students interested in construction, a teacher well experienced in construction, a list of more than 20 completed projects, the ability to attract funding over the usual teaching budget, and the ability to gain administrative approval of projects.
Strategic planning in universities: a case of Ukraine
Authors: Ponomarenko Tetiana , Tohochynskyi Oleksii , Kaminska Tetiana , Kadol Larisa , Okhrimenko Igor
Published: December 2018

The effective management core principles include the obligatory approval of the orga¬nization’s mission and its strategic plan availability. This also applies to specific organizations such as universities. The purpose of the article is to test the hypothesis that to date, most Ukrainian universities do not care about the presence of such attributes of effective performance (at least, they do not publish them on their sites). The site analysis was carried out in the top 50 out of 289 universities in Ukraine. It turned out that 29 out of these 50 have no mission (do not publish it on the site), and eight universities do not have a strategy. It is established that the most common mistakes in the strategy development are the lack of quantitative indicators, giving a special attention to the coverage of the results achieved; inclusion in the text of the document the thematic sections, which do not concern the prospects of university development, etc.