bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stem Anatomy Influences Rooting of Cuttings from Bur Oak, Quercus macrocarpa
Authors: Moore* Cheryl L. , Dougher Tracy A.O.
Published: February 2019

Bur oak, Quercus macrocarpa Michaux, does not root readily from cuttings, and is considered a recalcitrant species. A method producing industry-acceptable levels of rooted cuttings has not been determined. In this study, we explored the possibility of a physical barrier to root initiation. Bur oak stems exhibit a pentarch vascular cylinder, with roots and leaf traces only initiating at the five “points” of the vascular system. External to this vascular system is a series of sclerified tissue, both fibers and sclerenchyma. Both light microscopy and electron microscopy were utilized to determine whether a combination hedging and etiolation treatment of parent plants would inhibit formation of sclerified tissues.
Grafting Compatibility of Three Varieties of Ficus (Ficus benjamina L.) Grafted on the Rootstock Variety Profit
Authors: González-González* Juan Manuel , Bazán-Tene Marcelino , Radillo-Juárez Francisco , Molina-Ochoa Jaime
Published: February 2019

Plants in the genus Ficus are one of the most used in the ornamentals. it is also used for plant handcrafting such as braid, cylinders, and wall rockets, using a single plant or braiding some plants. The ficus are commonly asexually propagated by slip or shoots. There is the possibility to graft and to obtain plants with two levels of foliage, combining the color and texture. The objective of this research was to evaluate the grafting compatibility of varieties of Ficus benjamina, such as: Vivian, Winter green, and Antillean (green color) grafted on the variety Profit (white color) used as rootstock. The study was carried out under environmental conditions of the Mexican Dry Tropic in Tecomán, Colima, Mexico. The grafting method was by whip or tongue approximation. Bud sticks of the four varieties ≈70-cm long were used as scions. They were previously rooted in polyethylene bags containing 1.5 kg of coconut fiber used as rooting substrate. The rootstocks were grown long in soil until 1.5 m and when they reach similar diameter to the scions. The grafting height and diameter was ≈50-60 cm, and 2-2.6 cm, respectively. Five grafted plants were used as experimental unit, and the treatments were distributed in a completely randomized design with four replications. The variables estimated were: number of leaves after 28 and 35 days post-grafting, and percentage of grafting at 28 and 35 days post-grafting. The tree varieties were compatible with the rootstock, and no differences were obtained between the treatments (Tukey test P< 0.05); both three varieties exhibited 75% of grafting success, and `Antillean' had higher number of leaves, but the three varieties were statistically similar.
Effects of Seed Coat Treatment and Stratification on the Germination Rate of Montezuma Cypress
Authors: Denny* Geoffrey C. , Arnold Michael A.
Published: February 2019

An experiment was initiated to evaluate the effects of previously recommended seed treatments for baldcypress [Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich.] or pondcypress [Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich. var. imbricarium (Nutt.) Croom] on Montezuma cypress [Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich. var. mexicanum Gordon], and to determine which, if any, provided optimum germination. Factorial combinations of seed treatments and stratification (2 °C for 0, 45, or 90 d) were applied to seeds of Montezuma cypress. Treatments included: 1) 90% ethanol 5 min soak, 2) ethyl ether 5 min soak, 3) 100 mg·L-1 citric acid 48 h soak, 4) mechanical scarification, 5) five hot water baths (42 °C) allowing the water to cool to room temperature between baths, and 6) a non-treated control. Three more seed treatments consisted of water soaks at room temperature (25 °C) for 0, 45, or 90 d. Seeds were germinated on moist filter paper in a growth chamber with a 12-h day/night photoperiod at a constant 25 °C. Data was collected daily for 14 d and then weekly for the following 4 wks. Radicle elongation of 1 cm was considered germination. Without stratification, 100 mg·L-1 citric acid and the hot water bath treatments were significantly different from other treatments by 7 d, though not from each other, with a mean cumulative germination of 15.6% and 12.2%, respectively. By 14 d, the 100 mg·L-1 citric acid treatment differed only from the ethyl ether wash attaining 28.9% and 14.4% germination, respectively. There were no other statistically significant differences observed among any other treatments without stratification. Germination percentages were low,<30%, without stratification. Effects of additional stratification will also be discussed.
Rooting Medium Composition and In Vitro Rooting and Greenhouse Survival of Five Raspberry Cultivars
Authors: Hughes* Becky R. , Cook Wanda J. , Keith Candy N.F.
Published: February 2019

In vitro rooting and subsequent greenhouse survival of `Autumn Britten', `Boyne', `Comet',`Nova' and `Qualicum' raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) plantlets were compared following four weeks on a rooting medium with and without activated charcoal, and with 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 or 3.0 milligrams per litre IBA. The addition of charcoal significantly increased the percentage of plantlets that produced roots in vitro for the hard-to-root cultivars. Percent rooting in vitro was highest with the three lower levels of IBA. Root number was influenced only by the cultivar, while root diameter and length were affected by all the factors investigated. Greenhouse survival was affected by the cultivar, the presence or absence of charcoal and the IBA level in the in vitro rooting medium, with significant interactions. Provided charcoal was present in the rooting medium, the level of IBA didn`t alter survival. The addition of charcoal to the rooting medium improved greenhouse survival of the three hardest-to-root cultivars. Plug plant stem length; internode length and dry weight were increased by the presence of charcoal in the in vitro rooting medium for all but the easiest to establish cultivar. Chemical names used: 3-indolebutyric acid (IBA).
In Vitro Response of Micropropagated Chestnut Shoot to Different Growth Regulators
Authors: Asante* Theophilus , Yang Guochen
Published: February 2019

The role of plant growth regulators in enhancing axillary shoot proliferation, callus production and root initiation of the American chestnut (Castanea dentata) was investigated. Micropropagated shoots were used as explant materials. Different concentrations of indoleburytic acid (IBA), kinetin, N-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-N'-pheylurea (CPPU), naphtha-leneacetic acid (NAA), thidiazuron (TDZ), zeatin, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), and 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) were added to McCown woody plant medium (WPM) to evaluate their effects on in vitro shoot proliferation, callus production, and root initiation. Differences in the number of shoots (primordia), morphology of micropropagated shoots, and amount of callus were observed between the plant growth regulator treatments and concentrations. Explants cultured in media containing CPPU or TDZ produced more shoots (primordia). Callus production increased from NAA to IBA to 2,4-D to 2,4,5-T.
Promotion of Embryogenic Callus Induction of Pimpinella brachicarpa by Environmental Control
Authors: Na* Hae Young , Shin Dong Jin , Chun Changhoo
Published: February 2019

Pimpinella brachicarpa (Chamnamul in Korean) is an indigenous plant that grows in Korean mountain areas. It has not been cultivated yet but is gathered to use as a vegetable. Its difficulty of propagation by seeds is one of the major reasons not to be cultivated as a horticultural crop despite its demand. As a promising propagation method for the Chamnamul, we have developed a micropropagation system using somatic embryogenesis. In the present study, induction of embryogenic callus of the Chamnamul affected by part of explants (leaf and stem) and concentration (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg·L-1) of growth regulators (2.4-D, IAA, IBA, and NAA) was investigated to find the best conditions for embryogenic callus induction. A full strength of MS medium was used for a 50-day culture for all the treatments. The embryogenic callus was firm and light yellow in color and was distinct from the non-embryogenic callus that was friable and semitransparent. More embryogenic callus was induced in the treatments that the stem was used as an explant comparing with the treatments that the leaf was used. The 2.4-D treatments resulted in the better induction of embryogenic callus than other growth regulator treatments, and 1.5 mg·L-1 was the most effective among all the 2,4-D concentration treatments. Addition of 0.1 mg·L-1 BA to 2.4-D treatments retarded the induction of embryogenic callus of the Chamnamul, while the promotion of induction and multiplication of embryogenic callus was reported in many plant species by adding BA with low concentration to an auxin-base medium. The better induction was found in the treatments of darkness and dim lighting (10 μmol·m-2·s-1 of PPF) than in treatments of the higher PPF.
Influence of Basal Medium and Hormones on Callus Induction and its Organogenesis from In Vitro Culture of Rose Leaf Segments
Authors: Maurya* Rajendra , Godara* Nathu Ram , Yadav* Ram C.
Published: February 2019

Influence of culture media and hormone concentrations on plant regeneration from rose (Rosa hybrida L. cv. Raktagandha) leaf segments were investigated. Leaves were excised from healthy, well-grown and mature plants. Leaf segments (4-5 mm long) were sectioned and cultured on Murashige and Skoog (1962) medium containing different concentration of growth hormones. Callus formation was most prolific (97.09%) on MS medium containing MS basal salts + 0.5 mg·L-1 BAP + 2.0 mg·L-1 2,4-D. maximum (56.67%) organogenesis or shoot differentiation was achieved on MS modified medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L-1 BAP + 0.1 mg·L-1 NAA + 10.0 mg·L-1 Adenine Sulphate. The highest percentage (93.73%) of in-vitro rooting was observed in half-strength MS basal medium containing 0.5 mg·L-1 IBA. Rooted plants were transferred in to sterilized potting mixture and grown in a greenhouse.
Influence of Fertilizer Application Timing and Rate on Azalea Bloom
Authors: Fulenwider* Julie , Creech David
Published: February 2019

General guidelines for the fertilization of azaleas in Southern landscapes often suggest applications be made after bloom. Early fertilizations are thought to encourage earlier blooms which are more likely to be damaged by spring freezes. Three years of data will be presented. Treatments include four fertilization rates, and various times of application from early (December-January) to late (March-April). Four to six varieties were evaluated (depending on the year of the study) in the SFA Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden and in plantings on the Stephen F. Austin State Univ. campus. A randomized complete block design was utilized with three plants per replication. Influence of timing and rate of fertilizer application on bloom date and persistence. Influence of fertilizer treatments on leaf nutrient concentrations will be presented.
Effect of Compost Type on Bermudagrass Invasion
Authors: McDowell* Kristen L. , Ong Kevin , Harp Derald A.
Published: February 2019

A study was conducted on the Texas A&M Univ.-Commerce campus to evaluate the effect of compost type on the spread of bermudagrass into rose garden beds. Roses were planted in an randomized complete-block design in beds amended with composts derived from yard waste, manure, poultry litter, or dairy manure, or an unamended control. The study site was free of vegetation prior to planting. No pre- or post-emergent herbicides were applied after planting. Each bed was assessed visually monthly and scored on a scale of 0 to 10, with each point equivalent to 10% coverage. A bed received a score of 10 upon full coverage. Beds amended with poultry litter and yard waste had significantly higher bermudagrass invasion and reached 100% coverage more quickly than other treatments. Some of the poultry litter beds reached 100% coverage within 40 days of planting. The control planting had significantly lower coverage than all compost treatments throughout the study.
Effect of Soil Amendments on Growth of Pentas in a Simulated Landscape
Authors: Vyapari* Sudeep , Scheiber S.M. , Beeson Richard C.
Published: February 2019

During Fall 2003, a study was conducted to determine the effect of soil amendments on growth and response of Pentas lanceolata `New Look Red' in the landscape. Pentas were grown in 250L drainage lysimeters in an open-sided clear polyethylene covered shelter filled with local top soil (Apopka fine sand). The treatments used were non-amended top soil (control) and soil amended with either compost (5% by volume) or clay (5% by volume) in the top 15 cm. Best Management Practices were followed. Irrigation frequency and rate were regulated using a tensiometer-controlled automatic irrigation system. When plant available water in each soil type had declined to 70% or less, the plants were irrigated back to field capacity. Data were recorded on initial and final growth indices, shoot dry weight, and root dry weight. Final growth indices between control and soil amended with compost were not different; however, growth in the clay-based soil was significantly less than the compost-based soil type. The mean shoot dry weight (77.2 g) produced from plants in compost amended soil type was significantly higher than either control (57.45 g) or clay amended (54.92 g) soil types. No significant differences were found for either initial growth indices or root dry weight among the three treatments.
Landscape Leaf-waste Pellets as an Herbicide Carrier for Container-grown Landscape Plants
Authors: Samtani Jayesh , Kling* Gary , Williams David
Published: February 2019

Conventional herbicide applications to container-grown landscape plants, often requires multiple spray applications of herbicides in a growing season and presents problems such as non-uniform application, leaching, run-off, environmental pollution, worker exposure and phytotoxicity to the landscape plants. The use of an organic herbicide carrier could help reduce some of the problems associated with spray applications. Landscape-leaf waste pellets were evaluated as a preemergent herbicide carrier for container-grown landscape plants. Isoxaben, prodiamine and pendimethalin were applied to Chrysanthemum × grandiflorum `Lisa', Euonymus fortunei `Coloratus' and Spiraea japonica `Neon Flash', at rates of 1.12, 2.25, and 2.25 kg·ha-1 active ingredient, respectively, with either water or landscape leaf waste pellets as a carrier. Portulaca oleracea, Senecio vulgaris, and Setaria faberi were seeded following treatment application. Visual ratings on efficacy and photoxicity to landscape plants, and shoot fresh and dry biomass were determined for both weeds and crop plants. Landscape leaf pellets served as an effective carrier for application of prodiamine and pendimethalin and combinations of these herbicides with isoxaben in controlling weeds. Leaf waste pellets as a carrier produced equivalent weed control and phytotoxicity ratings to conventional spray application of these herbicides, on both Chrysanthemum and Euonymus. The pellets did not make a consistently effective carrier for the application of isoxaben alone. Application of herbicides on leaf pellets could result in more uniform herbicide applications, minimize loss of herbicides to the environment and reduce the risk of herbicide contact with nursery workers.
Evaluation of Dichlobenil and Flumioxazin Preemergent Formulations for Ornamental Weed Control
Authors: Bigger* Michele M. , Mathers Hannah M. , Pope Jennifer A. , Case Luke T.
Published: February 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the extent and duration of efficacy and phytotoxicity of two new formulations of dichlobenil (Casoron 50WP and Casoron CS), applied alone or onto two bark mulches, pine nuggets or shredded hardwood. The herbicide treated bark was compared to a control (weedy check), direct sprays of the herbicides and mulch alone. Three granular preemergent herbicides, dichlobenil (Casoron 4G) and two formulation of flumioxazin (Broadstar 0.17G, VC1351, and VC1453) were also evaluated for a total of 12 treatments. The trial started on May 23, 2003. Visual ratings and dry weights were evaluated for efficacy at 4, 8 and 16 weeks after treatment (WAT) and phytotoxicity 2, 4, 8, and 16 WAT. Ratings of efficacy were based on a 1-10 scale where, 0 represents no control, 10 represents complete control. Visual rating scores of 1 (no injury) to 10 (complete kill) were used for phytotoxicity on Salvia May Night. The two most efficacious treatments are Casoron CS as a directed spray (7.9) and treated on pine nuggets (9.0). The hardwood bark with Casoron CS also was providing an efficacy rating of 7.75 in the analyses of combined dates 4 and 8 WAT. The weed control provided by the untreated hardwood bark and pine nuggets was not significantly different from the control. Four treatments—Casoron CS and 4G, Casoron CS on pine, and CS on hardwood—provided ratings of 3 and above for phytotoxicity, in the analyses of combined dates 2, 4, 8, and 16 WAT. Although the Casoron CS was the second most efficacious treatment it had a phytotoxicity rating of 9.25 over combined dates. The CS on pine, however, had a significantly reduced phytotoxicity rating (3.5) and superior efficacy.
The Fate of Bifenthrin and Fipronil in Pine Bark Nursery Media
Authors: Harris* Russell S. , Bush* Edward W. , Ward Ronald J.
Published: February 2019

Bifenthrin and fipronil are important pesticides used in the nursery industry for the control of imported fire ants. Our research measured the influence of irrigation frequency and time on the degradation of bifenthrin and fipronil in pine bark nursery medium. Pine bark media leachates were collected over a 180-d period. Levels of bifenthrin, fipronil, and metabolites of fipronil (MB 46513, MB 45950, MB 46136) were measured using gas chromatography and mass spectrophotometery. Bifenthrin leachate concentrations decreased from 60 ppb on day 1 to ≈1 ppb after 120 d. Fipronil leachate concentrations decreased from 40 ppb on day one to a low of 15 ppb after 120 d. In contrast, metabolites MB 45950 and MB 46136 gradually increased over the 180-d period. Metabolite MB 46513 was not detected during the experiment. Pine bark medium leachate concentrations of bifenthrin and fipronil were greater than previously reported levels in pure water. We theorize that organic compounds present in pine bark may have increased the solubility of these chemicals.
Effectiveness of Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate and Mancozeb in Controlling Anthracnose on Euonymus fortunei
Authors: Boyer* Cheryl R. , Cole Janet C. , Conway Kenneth E.
Published: February 2019

Plants of Euonymus fortunei `Emerald Gaiety', `Emerald 'n Gold' and `Canadale Gold' were sprayed to runoff weekly at two sites with one of three fungicide treatments or water (control) to determine fungicide effectiveness in controlling anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Copper sulfate pentahydrate was applied at 0.4 or 0.6 g·L-1 a.i. or mancozeb was applied at 1.8 g·L-1 a.i.. Plants were rated for disease incidence approximately monthly. No interaction occurred between fungicide and cultivar. Differences among fungicide treatments were not apparent until weeks 18 or 20 depending on the site, when plants treated with mancozeb had lower disease ratings than plants receiving any other treatment. Cultivars differed at almost every rating date at both sites. Poison agar experiments were conducted to determine mycelial inhibition by copper sulfate pentahydrate or mancozeb.
Evaluation of Soybean Oil Formulations for Effects on Powdery Mildew and Net Photosynthetic Rates of Dogwoods
Authors: Cannon* Adriane , Deyton Dennis , Sams Carl , Klingeman William
Published: February 2019

Two experiments were conducted in a greenhouse to evaluate soy-bean oil (SO) formulations for effects on powdery mildew (PM) and photosynthesis of dogwood trees. In the first experiment, one-year-old potted trees were sprayed with different formulations of 2% SO one day before exposure to PM. The formulations were emulsified with: teric/termul, lauriciden, lecithin, lecithin/MD 1, lecithin/MD 2, or Latron B-1956. A commercial formulation of Golden Natur'l was also used. The trees were arranged in a completely randomized design with six replications and eight treatments. In the second experiment, trees were sprayed 4 days after initial exposure to PM with the same treatments and arranged in a similar experimental design. The severity of PM infection was rated using the scale: 1 = 0%, 2 = 1% to 3%, 3 = 4% to 6%, 4 = 7% to 12%, 5 = 13% to 25%, 6 = 26% to 50%, 7 = 51% to 87%, and 8 = 88% to 100% of leaves visually displaying PM. The net photosynthetic (Pn) rates were measured using an infrared gas analyzer. In the first experiment, trees sprayed pre-inoculation with Golden Natur'l, lecithin, lecithin/MD 1, or Latron B-1956 formulation had less PM than control trees at 19 and 24 days after spraying (DAS). Pn of leaves sprayed with lecithin or Latron B-1956 formulations had 68% and 40% lower Pn rates, respectively, of the control leaves at one DAS. However, by 11 DAS, none of the SO formulations significantly affected Pn rates. Leaves of plants (expt. 2) sprayed with teric/termul, lauriciden, lecithin, and lecithin/MD 2 formulations had less PM than control trees at 28 DAS. All formulations reduced Pn rates at 6 DAS, with only Golden Natur'l treated leaves recovering to rates similar to control leaves by 15 DAS.
Hypobaria Affects Gas Exchange, Ethylene Evolution and Growth of Lettuce in NASA Advanced Life Support Systems (ALS)
Authors: He Chuanjiu , Davies* Fred , Lacey Ronald , Ngo Que
Published: February 2019

Elevated levels of ethylene occur in enclosed crop production systems and in space-flight environments—leading to adverse plant growth and sterility. There are engineering advantages in growing plants at hypobaric (reduced atmospheric pressure) conditions in biomass production for extraterrestrial base or spaceflight environments. Objectives of this research were to characterize the influence of hypobaria on gas exchange and ethylene evolution of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Buttercrunch). Lettuce was grown under variable total gas pressures [50 and 101 kPa (ambient)]. The six chambered, modular low plant growth (LPPG) system has a Rosemount industrial process gas chromatograph (GC) for determining gas concentrations of oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N). With the LPPG system, changes in CO2 can be tracked during the light and dark periods on a whole canopy basis, and transpirate collected as a measurement of transpiration. During short growth periods of up to seven days, growth was comparable between low and ambient pressure. However, there was a tendency for leaf tip burn under ambient pressure, in part because of higher ethylene levels. Tip burn increased under high light (600 vs. 300 μmol·m-1·s-1) and high CO2 (600 vs. 100 Pa). The CO2 assimilation rate and dark respiration tended to be higher under ambient conditions. High humidity (100%) reduced CO2 assimilation rate compared to 70% RH. Ethylene was increased by high light (600 vs. 300 μmol·m-1·s-1) and high CO2 (600 vs. 100 Pa). Ethylene was higher under ambient than low pressure. Enhanced plant growth under low pressure may be attributed to reduced ethylene production and decreased dark respiration (lower night consumption of metabolites).
Development of a Controlled Release Fertilizer Program for Chipping Potatoes
Authors: Hutchinson* Chad , Simonne Eric
Published: February 2019

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production best management practices (BMPs) are under development for the Tri-County Agricultural Area (TCAA; St. Johns, Putnam, and Flagler counties) near Hastings, Fla. BMPs are designed to reduce nitrate non-point pollution in the St. Johns River from the |8000 ha in potato production in the TCAA. Research to develop a controlled release fertilizer (CRF) program to help growers meet the current nitrogen rate BMPs was conducted during the 2003 season. A randomized complete block experiment with four replications was conducted at the Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Hastings, Fla. The treatments were no nitrogen control, ammonium nitrate (168 and 212 kg N/ha) and three CRF products blended at different ratios (168 kg N/ha). Total tuber yields for `Atlantic' for the no nitrogen, and 168 and 212 kg N/ha ammonium nitrate treatments were 11.5, 23.4, and 36.4 MT/ha. The best combination of the three CRF products were a ratio of 33:33:33 with a 40 day, 75 day, 120 day release period, respectively. Total yield for this blend was 42.2 MT/ha. Specific gravities for tubers in all four treatments were 1.060, 1.072, 1.078, and 1.082, respectively. Percent of tubers with hollow heart four all four treatment were 8.1, 18.2, 20.0, and 6.4% respectively. Percent of tubers with internal heat necrosis four all four treatments were 20.6, 8.1, 20.6, and 6.3%, respectively. The CRF treatment produced significantly more tubers than the ammonium nitrate treatment at the same nitrogen rate. Quality of the tubers in the CRF treatment was higher than tubers from the no nitrogen control and ammonium nitrate treatments. Research will continue to optimize the CRF program for potato production in Florida.
Intercellular Distribution of Phosphorus and Cations within Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Cucumber Root using X-Ray Microanalysis
Authors: Lee* Yun-Jeong , Lee Sang-Min , Kim Seung-Hwan
Published: February 2019

The elemental distribution (P, Ca, K, Mg) within inter- and intracellular structure of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) cucumber root was determined using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX). Cucumber (Cucumis sativus cv. Chinesische Schlange) was grown as a test plant using compartmentalized pots with separate zones for hyphal growth and was inoculated or not with the AM fungus, Glomus mosseae (BEG 107). EDAX studies revealed that P in intercellular structures including fungal cells in cucumber root colonized with AM was mainly localized in both polyphosphate granules in arbuscular vacuole and arbuscular cytoplasm. Ca in AM root was mostly localized in cortex cell wall, interfacial apoplast between root and fungus, arbuscular cytoplasm and poly phosphate granules. Mg was distributed homogenously in most cell compartments within AM root while K was localized mainly in cell wall of stele. Higher contents of Ca and Mg were detected in polyphosphate granules whereas lower content of K was detectable. These results indicate that polyphosphate granules could play a role as a complex forming site with metal cations especially with divalent cations like Ca and Mg. In addition, it could give a possibility of regulation function of polyphosphate granules on element transfer from fungus to host plant root. Furthermore, the distribution of element within cortex cytoplasm, interfacial apoplast between plant root and fungus and arbuscular cytoplasm might give a clue on the element transfer mechanism between symbionts.
Nutrient Concentrations in Field-grown Lettuce Leaves and Roots
Authors: Jiang* Zhongchun
Published: February 2019

Nutrient concentrations in lettuce leaves are an important factor that affects lettuce quality, particularly the nutritional value of lettuce. When lettuce is grown hydroponically, tissue nutrient concentrations may be regulated through adjustments of the nutrients in the solution in which the lettuce is grown. However, when lettuce is grown in the field, the levels of tissue nutrients can be affected by many factors, such as soil conditions, fertilizer applications, and weather conditions. The objective of this study was to ascertain the variability of leaf and root tissue nutrients in loose-leaf lettuce grown in the field. An organic fertilizer that had an analysis of 4-6-6 as well as 3% Ca, 0.5% Mg, and 5% S derived from dehydrated manure, crab meal, cocoa meal, and other materials was applied at the time of planting and also side dressed after planting. There were significant differences in the concentrations of some elements between leaf tissues and root tissues. Leaf K, Ca, and Mg concentrations were significantly higher than those in the roots while leaf P concentration was lower than that in the roots. Leaf N concentration was similar to root N concentration. Micronutrients, such as Fe, MN Cu, Zn, and Mo, had lower concentrations in the leaves than in the roots. Leaf B concentration was similar to that in the roots. In addition, leaves accumulated lower concentrations of Al and Na than did the roots. No significant differences in the concentrations of these elements were observed between the fertilized plots and the unfertilized plots, which suggested that the field might have a sufficient fertility level and/or that the organic fertilizer might be slow in releasing its nutrients for the lettuce.
Lettuce Response to Phosphorus Fertilization in High P soils
Authors: Johnstone P.R. , Hartz* T.K.
Published: February 2019

Heavy P fertilization of vegetable crops in the Salinas Valley of California have increased soil P levels, with > 50 mg·kg-1 bicarbonate-extractable P (Pbc) now common. To evaluate the response of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to P fertilization in fields with elevated soil P levels, 12 trials were conducted in commercial fields during 2002-2003. Pbc at the trial sites varied from 53-171 mg·kg-1. In each trial four replicate plots receiving the growers' P application were compared with paired plots in which no P was applied. Leaf P was monitored at cupping stage and at harvest. At harvest mean whole plant mass and % of marketable plants were recorded. The correlation of Pbc to bioavailable P (Pba) was evaluated using 30 representative Salinas Valley soils; Pbc varied among these soils from 15-177 mg·kg-1. Pba was estimated by P adsorption on an anion resin membrane during a 16 h incubation. The effect of temperature on P bioavailability in 6 of these soils was estimated by conducting the Pba incubation at 5, 15 and 25 °C. A significant increase in lettuce yield with P fertilization was achieved at only one trial site, a spring planting where Pbc was 54 mg kg-1 ; at all other sites, including 3 with Pbc < 60 mg kg-1, P application resulted in no agronomic benefit. P application resulted in only a marginal increase in plant P uptake. Pba was highly correlated with Pbc (r = 0.89). Pba increased approximately 40% across soils with each 10 °C increase in soil temperature.
Effects of the Fall Foliar Urea Application on N Reserves and Fruiting Performance of Gala/M26 Apple Trees in Pot-in-Pot System
Authors: Ding* Pinghai , Cui Minggang , Fuchigami Leslie H.
Published: February 2019

Reserve nitrogen is an important factor for plant growth and fruiting performance in tree fruit crops. The fall foliar urea application appears to be an efficient method for increasing N reserves. The effect of fall foliar urea application on N reserves and fruiting performance were studied with four year old `Gala'/M26 trees grown in 20 gallon containers in a pot-in-pot system from 2001 to 2003 at the Lewis-Brown Horticulture Farm of Oregon State Univ.. The trees were either sprayed with 0 or 2 times 3% urea after harvest in October. Shoot and spur samples were taken at the dormant season for reserve N analysis. Fruit performance was recorded in the following growing season. The fall foliar application significantly increased spur N reserve and had the trend to increase shoot N reserve but not significantly. The fall foliar application significantly increased tree fruit set and cluster fruit set. With normal fruit thinning, fall foliar urea application has the trend to increase both tree yield and average fruit size; without fruit thinning, fall foliar urea application has the trend to increase tree yield. These results indicate that fall foliar urea application an effective method to increase reserve N for maintaining tree yield.
Nitrogen Storage and Its Interaction with Carbohydrates of Young Almond Trees in Response to Nitrogen Supply
Authors: Bi* Guihong , Scagel Carolyn , Cheng Lailiang , Fuchigami Leslie
Published: February 2019

June-budded `Nonpareil/Nemaguard' almond (Prunus dulcis (Mill) D.A. Webb) trees were fertigated with one of five nitrogen (N) concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15, or 20 mm) in a modified Hoagland's solution from July to September. In October, the trees were sprayed twice with either water or 3% urea, then harvested after natural leaf fall and stored at 2°C. Trees were destructively sampled during winter storage to determine their concentrations of amino acids, protein, and non-structural carbohydrates (TNC). Increasing N supply either via N fertigation during the growing season or with foliar urea applications in the fall increased the concentrations of both free and total amino acids, whereas decreased their C/N ratios. Moreover, as the N supply increased, the proportion of nitrogen stored as free amino acids also increased. However, protein was still the main form of N used for storage. The predominant amino acid in both the free and total amino-acid pools was arginine. Arginin N accounted for an increasing proportion of the total N in both the free and total amino acids as the N supply was increased. However, the proportion of arginine N was higher in the free amino acids than in the total amino acids. A negative relationship was found between total amino acid and non-structural carbohydrate concentrations, suggesting that TNC is increasingly used for N assimilation as the supply of N increases. Urea applications decreased the concentrations of glucose, fructose, and sucrose, but had little influence on concentrations of sorbitol and starch. We conclude that protein is the primary form of storage N, and that arginine is the predominant amino acid. Furthermore, the synthesis of amino acids and proteins comes at the expense of non-structural carbohydrates.
Soil Phosphorus Status and Environmental Risk
Authors: Johnstone P.R. , Hartz* T.K.
Published: February 2019

Heavy P fertilization in the Salinas Valley of California has increased soil P concentration to levels of environmental concern. To determine the correlation of various soil test procedures with P pollution potential from agricultural land in this region, soil was collected from 30 fields, most in long-term vegetable rotations. Soils were analyzed for bicarbonate-extractable P (Pbc), calcium chloride-extractable P (Pcc), bio-available P (Pba, by an anion-resin membrane technique), and %P saturation (Psat, by an enrichment technique). The soils were then exposed to a simulated irrigation event, and soluble P concentration in runoff determined. In a separate experiment the effect of cover cropping on sediment and soluble P concentration in runoff was investigated; containers of six soils were planted with oats (Horteum vulgare L.), and then compared to containers of fallow soil. Pcc, Pba and Psat were all highly correlated (r = 0.86, 0.89 and 0.90, respectively) with Pbc, which ranged from 15-177 mg·kg-1. Soluble P concentration in runoff was highly correlated with all measures of P status (r = 0.98, 0.93, 0.85 and 0.83 for Pcc, Pba, Psat and Pbc, respectively). These results suggest that while Pbc, the standard agronomic measure of soil P status, is a useful indicator of P pollution potential, Pcc (a simple laboratory procedure that could be adapted as an on-farm `quick test' technique) may be superior for that purpose. Across soils, cover cropping reduced soluble P concentration in run-off by 41%, and sediment in the runoff by 85%.
Response of `Nocellara del Belice' Olive Trees to Organic Foliar Fertilization
Authors: Policarpo Michelangelo , Bianco* Riccardo Lo
Published: February 2019

Five different types/combinations of foliar fertilizers were tested on eight-year-old trees of `Nocellara del Belice' olive grown in central Sicily. Trees were sprayed four times during Summer and Fall 2002 with Floral 20-20-20 (mineral N, P, K, and microelements; FLO) in combination with Alga Cifo (extract of brown algae; ALG), Floral 20-20-20 alone, Alga Cifo alone, Azomin (organic N, amino acids and peptides; AZO), Supernat93 (organic N and K, distillation residue; SUP), and water (control). Yield and trunk circumference were measured during Fall 2002, whereas other vegetative and reproductive parameters were measured during Spring-Fall 2003. AZO and SUP trees produced more than control and ALG trees, whereas only AZO trees showed higher yield efficiency than control. The number of inflorescences per shoot was greatest in FLO and ALG trees and smallest in control trees. Percentage of ovary abortion and June drop were lowest in AZO trees and highest in FLO+ALG and ALG trees, whereas ALG was the only fertilizer that caused a greater fruit drop at harvest. Shoot growth was significantly reduced in ALG and FLO trees, and AZO trees presented leaves with reduced specific weight. Organic foliar fertilization with AZO and SUP generally improved yield and growth of `Nocellara del Belice' olive trees by reducing ovary abortion and June drop and increasing shoot growth.
Solution Characteristics Affect Pollen Germination and Growth, and Pistil Viability: Implications for Developing Chemical Blossom Thinners for Apple
Authors: Rom* Curt R. , Niu Zimian , Bajwa Vikramjit
Published: February 2019

A strategy of chemical crop load control has been to use chemical desiccants to prevent fertilization and cause fruitlet drop. However, little is known of the solution characteristics that reduce pollen viability, inhibit pollen germination and growth, and cause pistil damage. This project was established to determine the solution characteristics effecting those results. Apple pollen was dispersed on germination media mixed with PEG (MW 10,000) to attain osmotic tensions from 0 to -5.0 MPa to evaluate effect on pollen germination and growth. Similarly, apple pollen was dispersed on germination adjusted to a range of pH from 2.3 to 12.0 with acids and NaOH. Excised apple pistils were place on filter paper supports saturated with solutions with osmotic tension adjusted by PEG in the range of 0 to -5.0 M Pa, and pH from 3.0 to 12.0. Solutions of osmotic tension in the range of 0 to -5.0 M Pa were applied by brush to intact pistils on apple flowers in a greenhouse and under field conditions. Pollen germination decreased with increasing osmotic tension and no pollen germinated at tensions greater than 4.0. Pistils, either excised or intact, had significant desiccation and death when treated with solution osmotic tensions greater than 4.0. Fruit set of individual spurs of the cvs Jonagold, Gala, and Arkansas Black were highly related to pistil survival 48 h after treatment with PEG. When solution osmotic potential exceeded 4.0, fruit set was reduced by more than 80%. Pollen germination was reduced by more than 50% at solution pH below or equal to 4.0 and greater than 10.0 and completely inhibited at solution pH below or equal to 3.0 and greater than 11.0. Similar results were observed for excised pistil and intact viability.
Growing Olives in Texas
Authors: Malik* Nasir S.A. , Bradford Joe M. , Brockington Jim
Published: February 2019

Olives have not been commercially grown in Texas because earlier investigators considered Texas climate inappropriate for olive cultivation. No experimental investigations were conducted in Texas. Olives, however, grow in very diverse climatic conditions throughout the world. More than 2000 varieties of olives have been reported worldwide. Olive accessions have also shown adaptability to local climates. United States imports thousands of tons of olive oil each year. Some of these requirements could be fulfilled internally if vast lands available for cultivation in Texas could be utilized for olive production. We have started experimental research growing olives in Texas. Our initial surveys of olives groves established during the last 4-6 years have revealed the existence of at least two trees with remarkable adaptability to Texas conditions. One of these trees had flowered and fruited in the Rio Grande Valley where earlier workers had predicted that flowering in olives will not occur. Thus, there appears enough genetic diversity and clonal variations even among existing olive trees in Texas that there is a hope for viable cultivations of olives in Texas. Clones from these trees have now been produced for testing at various locations within the Texas Valley. Grafting experiments have shown that scions from flowering shoots could produce flowers even on juvenile rootstocks thus providing quicker methods for propagating and evaluating selected clones. Relatively inexpensive chilling chambers were developed to study chilling requirements for flower induction in selected olive varieties. Out initial data shows that Arbequina could flower under mild chilling conditions.
Early Performance of `Fuji' Apple Trees on Several Semidwarf Rootstocks in the 1999 NC-140 Rootstock Trial
Authors: Autio* Wesley , Anderson LaMar , Barritt Bruce , Crass-weller Robert , Ferree David , Greene George , Johnson Scott , Masabni Joseph , Parker Michael , Reighard Gregory
Published: February 2019

`Fuji' apple trees [Malus ×sylvestris (L.) Mill. Var domestica. (Borkh.)] on five semidwarfing rootstocks (CG.4814, CG.7707, G.30N, M.26 EMLA, and M.7 EMLA) were planted at nine locations (CA, KY MO NC OH PA SC UT and WA) under the direction of the NC-140 Multistate Research Project. After four growing seasons (through 2002), trees on CG.7707 and M.7 EMLA were the largest, and those on M.26 EMLA were the smallest. M.7 EMLA resulted in more cumulative root suckering per tree than did any other rootstock. Yield per tree in 2002 and cumulatively was greatest from trees on CG.4814, CG.7707, and G.30N and least from trees on M.26 EMLA and M.7 EMLA. The most yield efficient trees in 2002 and cumulatively were on CG.4814, and the least efficient trees were on M.26 EMLA and M.7 EMLA. Rootstock did not affect fruit weight in 2002; however, on average, CG.7707 resulted in the largest fruit, and CG.4814 resulted in the smallest. Limited data will be presented on CG.6210, G.30T, and Supporter 4, which are planted only at some locations. Data for the fifth season (2003) will be presented.
Peach Evaluation Website
Authors: Layne* Desmond R. , “Dick” Okie W.R. , Hitzler Eric J.
Published: February 2019

The evaluation of peach and nectarine cultivars and advanced selections for suitability of production in the southeastern U.S. has been conducted at Clemson Univ. since 2000. Currently, there are 240+ cultivars and advanced selections being tested at the university's Musser Fruit Farm in Seneca, S.C. The harvest season begins in early May and ends in the middle of September. Additionally, two on-farm grower trials were planted in the primary peach growing regions of the Piedmont (Cowpens, S.C.) and the Ridge (Monetta, S.C.). At the grower locations, advanced selections are compared with industry standard cultivars. Evaluation data collected includes bloom and ripe date, fruit set, shape, color, size, firmness, taste and disease susceptibility. Digital photos are taken to scale at commercial maturity. Evaluation information, photos, plus chill hours, variety descriptions and other valuable information are on the website. In 2004, substantial improvements were made to the site utilizing a database, search and compare tools. The website has been well received by the southeastern commercial peach growers and is utilized to assist them in cultivar selection and to learn more about peach culture in general.
Plant Arrangement and Cultivar Effects on Yield and Fruit Quality of Bell Pepper
Authors: Kahn* Brian A. , Leskovar Daniel I.
Published: February 2019

Single- and double-row arrangements of a fixed population (one plant every 0.285 m2) were compared in factorial combination with two (2002) or five (2003) cultivars for effects on yield and fruit quality of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Arrangements for 2002 were: (1) 1.9 m between centers of double-row beds, rows on beds 30 cm apart, plants within rows 30 cm apart; (2) single rows 0.95 m apart, plants within rows 30 cm apart; (3) 1.52 m between centers of double-row beds, rows on beds 24 cm apart, plants within rows 37.5 cm apart; and (4) single rows 0.76 m apart, plants within rows 37.5 cm apart. Only arrangements (1) and (2) were used in 2003. Row arrangement did not affect marketable fruit production in Oklahoma in 2002, but single rows resulted in a greater weight of fruit with blossom-end rot than double rows. Arrangement (2) resulted in both a greater weight of U.S. No. 1 fruit and a greater weight of sunburned fruit than arrangement (1) in Texas in 2002. `King Arthur' produced more marketable fruit than `X3R Wizard' in Oklahoma in 2002, but the opposite occurred in Texas. Arrangement (2) resulted in a greater weight of U.S. No. 1 fruit than arrangement (1) in both locations in 2003. Arrangement (2) also resulted in greater weights of sunburned (Oklahoma) or total cull (Texas) fruit than arrangement (1) in 2003. `Lafayette' and `X3R Wizard' produced a greater weight of marketable fruit than `Boynton Bell', `Karma', and `King Arthur' in Texas in 2003, but not in Oklahoma. Plant arrangement × cultivar interactions were not evident in Oklahoma and minimal in Texas. Given the tested population, a single row arrangement is likely to result in higher U.S. No. 1 fruit yields than a double-row arrangement, despite an increased potential for cull fruit production with single rows.
Yield and Quality of Onion Varieties Under Direct Seed and Transplant Seedling
Authors: Macias-Duarte Ruben , Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Robles-Contreras Fabian
Published: February 2019

The onion bulb production In Mexico is about 39,000 ha annually. Yield is variable according to the technological capacity and economic condition of the grower. However, The technology adoption (new varieties, efficient irrigation system and establishment methods) is increased during the last years. Traditionally in Mexico the grower use the manual transplant of seedling, that which increases the cost and time of this labor. The objective of the present Experiment was to evaluate Two establishment methods (direct seed and transplant seedling) and the effect on 24 bulb varieties. The evaluation was carried out in INIFAP-CIRNO Experimental Station in furrows with 1.00 m of separation among them, with double row of plants, the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus used were 180 and 80 kg·ha-1 respectively, we used the drip irrigation system. In this experiment we observed that the system of direct seed obtained better yield (18%), bulb weight (21%) and precocity (11 days) in comparing to the transplant methods, however in the first treatment the floral stem emission was greater (6.7% vs 1.1%) of the transplant methods. The white varieties with high yield were: White onion 214 and Cal 128 with 71.4 and 65.7 ton/ha. The purple varieties was F1 Cal 192 with 68.3 t·ha-1 and the yellow varieties was Ringer Cal 160 with 63.2 t·ha-1.
Influence of Plant Density on Yield and Quality in Tomatoes Under Greenhouse Conditions in the Northwest on Mexico
Authors: Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , Macias-Duarte Ruben , de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Robles-Contreras Fabian
Published: February 2019

Production of high value crops in greenhouse in the Northwest of Mexico is an efficient way to achieve high yield, and high quality and the some time vegetables with less pesticide residue. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of three different plant densities (1.89, 2.50, and 3.78 plants/m2) on yield and fruit quality on tomatoes. This experiment was carried out in the Experimental Station (INIFAP-CIRNO) inside polyethylene greenhouse. In this Trial we used soil medium and the variety used was `Matrix'. The date seedling establishment was on 26 Jan. 2003. Plant density did have an effect on yield, but did not affect the fruit size. Yield per square meter had a linear response a plant density. The yield obtained were 21.8, 16.1 and 14.7 kg/m2 using 3.78, 2.50 and 1.89 plants/m2, respectively. Weight fruit varied from 200.4 to 247.6 g/fruit for all densities. Also the density not affected the fruit color. None of the treatments evaluated had problems of insect pest and disease.