bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INFO-U FAXBACK: DELIVERING CONSUMER INFORMATION WITH FAX-ON-DEMAND TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Whiting David E.
Published: February 2019

Consumers applaud the Minnesota Extension Service, INFO-U FAXBACK system that delivers consumer horticulture publications 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Consumers call the fax-on-demand system and, following voice instructions, use the phone key pad to enter their fax number and select a publication or a catalog of over 300 yard care and gardening titles. Documents selected are transmitted immediately to the fax number entered. Delivery cost runs $0.18 per document in the metro toll-free calling area, and $1.64 for long-distance calls. Compared to $2.75 for printing, postage, and handling per fact sheet sent by mail, the system saved $7000 in 1995 transmitting 2722 publications. Investment in system hardware and software runs $6000 to $8000. Documents can be stored as DOS text, which eliminates artwork and formatting, or scanned as graphic files that require 40 times more hard drive storage space. A document requires a one-time investment in staff time of 10–60 minutes to reformat for the fax-on-demand protocol.
EVALUATION OF HERBICIDE ABSORPTION AND RELEASE PROPERTIES OF FIVE HERBICIDE-COATED FERTILIZERS
Authors: Keel K. R. , Gilliam C. H. , Wehtje G. R. , Grey T. L. , Keever G. J. , Eakes D. J.
Published: February 2019

Several experiments were conducted to determine release rates of five oxadiazon-coated fertilizers. Five fertilizers and 4-mm glass beads (nonabsorbent control) were coated with 14C-oxadiazon + formulated oxadiazon, then placed in a separatory funnel and leached with 20 ml of water for 14 days. 14C-oxadiazon was quantified by use of liquid scintillation spectrometry. For glass beads, Nutricote, Meister, and Osmocote, 70% to 80% of the 14C-oxadiazon was recovered in the first two leaching events. Oxadiazon leached from Polyon was 47% during the first two events and remaining oxadiazon was slowly released over the next 12 leaching events. 14C-oxadiazon from the other fertilizers over the last 12 days of leaching was less than that recovered from Polyon. Evaluation of the total surface area of a 50-g sample revealed Polyon had the greatest total surface area of the five fertilizers. Scanning electron micrographs before and after leachingindicated potential erosion of the Polyon surface compared to little or no change in the surfaces of the other fertilizers.
CARBOHYDRATE STATUS OF CUSO4 SPECTRAL FILTER-GROWN CHRYSANTHEMUM PLANTS
Authors: Reddy Venkat K. , Rajapakse Nihal C.
Published: February 2019

The response of `Bright Golden Anne' chrysanthemum plants grown under CuSO4 spectral filters to exogenous GA3 application was evaluated to determine the relationship between gibberellins (GAs) and carbohydrate levels. The CuSO4 filters removed far red (FR) wavelengths of light and increased red: far red (R:FR), blue: far red (B:FR), blue: red (B:R) ratios, and phytochrome photoequilibrium (Ø) values of transmitted light compared to water (control) filter. Plant height, internode length, and leaf and stem dry weights were significantly reduced by light passing through CuSO4 filters in spring and summer seasons. Weekly applications of exogenous GA3 reversed the reduction in height and internode length induced by CuSO4 filters. Plants grown under CuSO4 filters responded more to exogenous GA3 application with respect to height and internode length, suggesting that the sensitivity to GA was not lowered. Light passing through CuSO4 filters reduced the carbohydrate levels, but the response varied with the season. Weekly GA3 application increased the carbohydrate levels, but did not totally reverse the reduction in carbohydrate levels under the CuSO4 filters. Although GA3 application increased the carbohydrate levels partially in CuSO4 filter-grown plants, the inhibition of GAs may not be solely responsible for reduction of carbohydrate levels under CuSO4 filters, showing that exogenous GAs and carbohydrate levels are not well correlated under CuSO4 spectral filters.
RECURRENT SELECTION FOR SPECIFIC COMBINING ABILITY FOR YIELD IN FOUR SLICING CUCUMBER POPULATIONS
Authors: Cramer Christopher S. , Wehner Todd C.
Published: February 2019

Plant breeders often measure selection progress for yield by measuring the hybrid performance (combining ability) of a breeding line. This information is used to develop breeding lines with higher combining ability. The objectives of this study were to measure the specific combining ability for yield traits over three selection cycles from four slicing cucumber populations with `Poinsett 76', a popular slicing cucumber cultivar; and to determine the change in specific combining ability for yield traits in four populations improved through recurrent selection. Four slicing cucumber populations, North Carolina wide base slicer (NCWBS), medium base slicer (NCMBS), elite slicer 1 (NCES 1), and Beit Alpha 1 (NCBA1), were developed and improved through modified half-sib selection from 1983 to 1992 to improve yield per se and fruit quality in each population. Eleven families were randomly selected from each of three selection cycles (early, intermediate, advanced) from each population and were hybridized to `Poinsett 76'. Twenty-three seeds from each cross were planted in 1.2-m plots in Spring and Summer 1995. When 10% of fruit were oversized (>50 mm in diameter), plants were sprayed with paraquat to defoliate them and to simulate once-over harvest. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with 22 replications per population arranged in a split plot with the four populations as whole plots and the three cycles as subplots. The combining ability for early and marketable yield of NCWBS and NCBA1 increased as the number of selection cycles increased. Conversely, selection for higher yield per se decreased the combining ability of the NCES 1 population for early and marketable yield. The NCBA1 population exhibited the largest gain (131.2%) from cycle 0 to 8 averaged over all traits. Early yield exhibited the largest gain (60.8%) averaged over all populations.
IDENTIFICATION OF A RAPD MARKER LINKED TO THE ROOT KNOT NEMATODE-RESISTANT GENE IN SWEETPOTATO
Authors: Ukoskit Kittipat , Thompson Paul G. , Lawrence Gary W. , Watson Clarence E.
Published: February 2019

The inheritance of root-knot nematode race 3 [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood] resistance was studied in 71 progenies of the F1 backcross population produced from the resistant parent `Regal' and the susceptible parent `Vardaman'. The distribution frequency of the progenies measured on total nematode number (eggs + juveniles) indicated a bimodal distribution with a ratio of 4 resistant: 1 susceptible. Based on this phenotypic ratio, the proposed genetic model was duplex polysomic inheritance (RRrrrr = resistant). Bulk segregant analysis in conjunction with the RAPD technique was employed to identify RAPD marker linked to the root knot nematode-resistant gene. Nine of 760 random decamer primers screened showed polymorphic bands. Primer OPI51500 produced a band in the resistant bulk, but not in the susceptible bulk. Estimated recombination frequency of 0.24 between the OPI51500 marker and the root-knot nematode-resistant gene indicated linkage.
`KIOWA' BLACKBERRY
Authors: Moore James N. , Clark John R.
Published: February 2019

`Kiowa' is the eighth in a series of erect-growing, high-quality, productive blackberry cultivars developed in the breeding program of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. Large fruit size is the most outstanding characteristic of `Kiowa', with fruit size usually 30% heavier than `Shawnee'. `Kiowa' has generally been less productive than `Shawnee' but similar in productivity to `Choctaw'. First picking of `Kiowa' is usually 3 days later than that of `Shawnee'. The harvest season for `Kiowa' is long, with fruit commonly ripening over a 6-week period. Fruits of `Kiowa' are firmer than `Shawnee' and `Choctaw'. Plants of `Kiowa' are not as vigorous or erect as are plants of `Shawnee', although row establishment has been good using either plants or root cuttings.
SCREENING PLANTS AS SUPPLEMENTAL FORAGES FOR POLLINATING BUMBLEBEES (BOMBUS SPP.)
Authors: Krewer G.W. , Delaplane K.S. , Thomas P.A.
Published: February 2019

Bumblebees (Bombus spp.) are important pollinators of mostly self-sterile rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei Reade). Annual bee colonies start from solitary overwintered queens who emerge in near-synchrony with rabbiteye blueberry bloom. Although colony populations may reach several hundred individuals by midsummer, in early spring most Bombus visiting rabbiteye blueberry are queens reared the previous season. Thus, practices that encourage production of queens in summer may increase populations of blueberry pollinators the next spring. In south Georgia, midsummer shortages of nectar-yielding plants may nutritionally limit queen production, and cultured bee forages may help overcome this deficiency. Candidate plants must not compete with the crop for pollinators, and they must be attractive to bees, easy to grow, vigorous, and non-invasive. In 3 years of trials, the following plants have shown promise as supplemental bumblebee forages in south Georgia: Althea (Hibiscus syriacus), abelia (Abelia ×grandifolia), vitex (Vitex agnuscastus), red clover (Trifolium pratense perenne), Mexican heather (Cuphea hyssopifolia), monkey grass (Liriope muscari), summer sweet (Clethra alnifolia), and giant sunflower (Helianthus giganteus).
FERTILIZING BLACKBERRIES: AN OVERVIEW
Authors: Clark John R.
Published: February 2019

Fertility and soil preparation practices for blackberries from numerous states were reviewed to determine common recommendations. Soil pH was uniformly suggested to be 6.0–6.5, with the use of dolomitic lime commonly preferred for pH adjustment. Organic matter additions were often recommended, using cover crops or animal manures the year before planting. Additionally, the incorporation of P and K the fall before planting was commonly suggested, with rates of application dependent on soil test levels. Nitrogen applications were recommended each year, with rates increasing to the maximum suggested in years 2 or 3. Ammonium nitrate was always the preferred N source. Rates ranged from 28 to 56 kg N/ha for the first year to 67 to 90 kg N/ha for mature plantings, with rates largely dependent on soil type, with sandy soils receiving the higher rates. Application of K was usually recommended for every other year, based on soil test levels.
EFFECTS OF A LONG-TERM BLUEBERRY FERTIGATION PROGRAM ON SOIL PH, CONDUCTIVITY, AND NUTRIENT LEVELS
Authors: Creech David , Bickerstaff Gene
Published: February 2019

Mill Creek Farms, a 52-acre rabbiteye blueberry field 6 miles west of Nacogdoches, Texas, represents a unique case history in terms of plant response to a nutrition and irrigation strategy. Since establishment in 1988, the field has received daily drip irrigation during the growing season (April through September) with nutrients delivered at each watering. Soil conductivity, pH, and nutrient values have been useful in determining fertilizer sources (ammonium sulfate, urea, and 25N–9P–17K + micronutrients) and rates (5 to 10 lb of fertilizer per week depending on source). A 1986–88 survey of East Texas rabbiteye blueberry fields is used as the basis for comparison of soil, leaf tissue, and irrigation water nutrient values. A study in Summer 1995 determined soil pH, conductivity, and nutrient values at 0–6, 12–18, and 18–24 inches below the drip line at distances 0, 12, 24, and 48 inches away from the drip line. Results indicate a narrow 2- to 3-foot band of irrigation influence on soil nutrient values. In general, soil nutrient values have been lower in the root zone than recommended by “sufficiency” guidelines, yet there has been no decline in plant vigor or productivity.
MONITORING AND CONTROLLING DENITRIFICATION OF IRRIGATION RUNOFF USING A PACKED COLUMN BIOREACTOR
Authors: Boyd Michael E.
Published: February 2019

Denitrifying bioreactors are systems that need close monitoring and control. Data concerning several system parameters is updated secondly on a computer, using LabView software and a Lab-PC+ I/O card from National Instruments. The flow rate through a denitrifying bioreactor is possibly the most important variable to monitor and control. The flow sensor used is a low inertia paddle wheel type that generates a digital pulse output whose frequency is proportional to the flow rate. This digital pulse wave is read by the computer, which converts the frequency directly to the flow rate. The computer is capable of operating in either open loop or closed loop settings. The second most important variable in a denitrifying bioreactor is the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the influent water stream. Using standard on/off controls, nitrogen gas, and a turbulator, the oxygen concentration can be maintained at levels below 1.8 mg O2/liter. The dissolved oxygen concentration is monitored with a probe that generates a millivolt signal proportional to the amount of oxygen present in the water. The millivolt signal is read by the computer 1000 times per second, generating a graph of the dissolved oxygen over time. Another signal the computer could use to decide the flow rate is the influent nitrate concentration. The lower concentrations do not require as much residence time to remove all the nitrates. The influent nitrate concentration would also allow the computer to control the flow of substrate into the system.
WETTING AGENTS USED IN CONTAINER SUBSTRATES—ARE THEY BMP'S?
Authors: Bilderback Ted E. , Lorscheider Mary R.
Published: February 2019

Packaged commercial grower mixes routinely contain wetting agents. Studies report that dry components such as pine bark can be more thoroughly moistened if wetting agents are used. Under frequent leaching irrigations, wetting agents have been reported to enhance nutrient loss. Effective longevity is expected to be only 3 to 4 weeks. New products claim greater longevity and advertise that less water volume is required for optimum plant growth. One such product is Saturaid (Debco Pty, Victoria, Australia). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Saturaid on physical properties, nutrient levels, and growth under decreasing irrigation volume. The granular wetting agent was incorporated at 0, 1.0, and 2.0 g·liter–1 substrate volume. Cotoneaster dammeri `Skogholm' plants were potted into 2.8-liter pots and irrigated with 500 ml of water for 22 days, after which one-third of the containers received 425 ml (–15%) and one-third were irrigated with 350 ml (–30%) daily. Saturaid had little effect on moisture and air characteristics, and no effect on foliar nutrients or on leachates collected at 43, 64, or 84 days. When irrigation volume was decreased 15%, top dry weight was greatest at 2 g, followed by 1 g of Saturaid. When irrigation volume was decreased 30%, the same results occurred for top and root growth.
AN EVALUATION OF TREATED WASTE WATER FOR THE PRODUCTION OF NURSERY AND FLORAL CROPS
Authors: Wilkerson Don C. , Garza Tony M.
Published: February 2019

A survey of five different waste water treatment plants was conducted to identify potential variability in water quality factors. Salinity, pH, and alkalinity varied widely between sites. Mineral content did not differ significantly between sites. Syngonium spp. were subirrigated with four different combinations of treated waste water (TWW) and reverse osmosis (RO) water. Weekly measurements of EC and pH were taken and final height, width, and quality ratings were recorded. Based on these results, a 1 TWW: 1 RO water combination was then used to evaluate four different soluble fertility regimes. Salinity was the most limiting factor in the use of TWW on Syngonium spp. Growth and quality decreased as the percentage of treated waste water increased in each treatment combination. Salable plants were produced using a 1 TWW: 1 RO water combination and 100 ppm (N) fertilizer.
MOISTURE LOSS (%) DURING STORAGE OF INDIVIDUAL ONIONS AS AFFECTED BY HARVEST MATURITY, VARYING LENGTH OF CURING (HR), GRADE SIZE, AND LEVEL OF HUMIDITY
Authors: Mullinix Benjamin , Lahue Steve , Maw Bryan
Published: February 2019

Onions were harvested early, optimum, late (0%, 7%, 100% tops down). Onions were placed at random into one of twenty-four 30 × 30 × 30-cm boxes, which were stacked four high. Heated air was forced from bottom to top of each stack (curing). Curing lasted 24, 48, or 72 hours. Onions from each box were graded as to size and placed at random into one of four mesh bags for storage. Two bags each were put into either low- or high-humidity conditions. One of two bags were used for the individual onion study. Initially and every 2 weeks for 30 weeks, each onion was weighed and resized for effects of moisture loss. Moisture loss was correlated with harvest maturity: early 25%; optimum 28%; late 31%. Moisture loss rates were similar regardless of grade size. Lasting 30 weeks by size: J 1%; L 13%; M 25%; S 40%. Size reduction: J–>L 10%; L–>M 18%; M–>S 25%. Individual onions' moisture loss rate were highly variable.
USING A “STUDENT-ORIENTED LEARNING OUTLINE” (SOLO) TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE IN WRITING IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE DISCIPLINES
Authors: Garcia M.E. , Rom C.R.
Published: February 2019

AGRI 1203 “Introduction to Plant Sciences” is a college core requirement for students in the College of Agricultural, Food, and Life Sciences. One of the objectives is accomplished in part by writing a scientific research-review paper (term paper) on a subject of the student's interest. After several semesters of assigning the term paper, it was apparent that students had extensive variation in experience and skills in writing and documenting references. A SOLO was created so that students could develop and practice techniques in reading, understanding, summarizing, and documenting references in a research paper. The SOLO is a self-instructional exercise consisting of three parts: l) a statement of learning objectives, 2) activities on how to achieve the objectives; and 3) exercises to measure mastery level of the exercise's objectives. The SOLO and student and instructor evaluations of the SOLO will be presented and discussed in the poster.
HANK KEMBLE DOESN'T WORK HERE ANYMORE
Authors: Kelley W.T. , Granberry D.M. , Sanders D.C.
Published: February 2019

Hank Kemble is the only county agent role ever cast in a network television series. On Green Acres, Mr. Kemble always had advice for novice farmer Oliver Douglas. Unfortunately, Mr. Kemble's advice was usually vague and uncertain. More unfortunate is that this is the only image many people have regarding Cooperative Extension. As the last segment of the land-grant system established, Extension personnel were the last recognized as equals among faculty. The mistaken image of the county agent as a book-trained farm boy with no common sense and a government job has been reinforced by declining respect for the farming community. In reality, county agents today deal with social and agricultural issues in urban and rural communities. Agents work with reduced staffs while being educators, scientists, and administrators in addition to routine duties. Extension specialists routinely teach and conduct research. National and international recognition and peer-reviewed publications are necessary for promotion while conducting traditional duties, too. As educational requirements of agents and specialists increased, numbers of undergraduates entering Extension dropped (<1% of Univ. of Georgia horticulture graduates in the last 5 years). Georgia specialists with a PhD increased from 60% (1979) to 89% (1996). Agents with MS degrees increased from 36% (1987) to 45% (1996). Image, salary, and job security determine if Extension can attract qualified personnel. Extension was never a Hank Kemble organization and graduates must be convinced that Extension is a viable and respectable career and Hank Kemble doesn't work here anymore.
SOURCES OF ADEQUACY OF INFORMATION ABOUT PESTICIDE APPLICATION IN THE ATLANTA LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AND LAWN CARE INDUSTRY
Authors: Florkowski Wojciech J. , Robacker Carol , Thomas Paul
Published: February 2019

Managers and employees of landscape maintenance and lawn care industry (LM/LC) applying pesticides can prevent pollution. Adequate information about application of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and nematicides is a prerequisite for proper application. A survey, prepared by an interdisciplinary research team “Ornamentals Working Group,” was implemented in 1994 to Atlanta metro area firms. The gross return rate was 25.4%. The majority of respondents had 10 or fewer years of experience in providing landscape services; had at least 13 years of schooling; and were in their thirties or forties. The categorical nature of dependent variables suggested ordered probit procedure as the statistical estimation method. Independent variables included characteristics of the respondent, firm characteristics, and information sources about the application of a specific pesticide. Extension and research personnel and commercial representatives were important information sources about insecticide and fungicide application. The use of all three sources of information by the LM/LC industry seems to depend on pesticide type, with commercial representatives, and extension and research personnel often acting as complementary information sources.
COMPARISON OF BAND AND BROADCAST APPLICATIONS OF PHOSPHORUS ON SWEET CORN YIELD
Authors: Kemble J.M. , Guertal E.A.
Published: February 2019

In 1994 and 1995, a study was conducted in Crossville, Ala., to determine if differences in leaf P concentration and crop yield occurred when P was broadcast or band-applied. Phosphorus (0, 34, 67, 101, and 134 kg P/ha) was banded (2 × 2) or broadcast and incorporated before planting. Other nutrients were applied based on current recommendations and soil testing. In 1994, as level of P increased from 0 to 150 kg P/ha, fresh weight of harvested ears increased quadratically. In 1995, fresh weight of harvested ears did not differ among broadcast treatments; however, there was a linear increase in yield among banded P treatments. There was no difference in fresh weight of harvested ears between banding and broadcasting in either year. Percent P in corn ear leaves did not differ among treatments. There was no difference in P leaf concentrations between the banded and broadcast treatments, indicating that yield response occurred because of rate of P application as opposed to method.
TRANSIENT EXPRESSION OF GUS IN ONION TRANSFORMANTS
Authors: Peffley E.B. , Hart M. , Xiang Z. , Hiang Z. , El-Sharif A. , Dong N. , Phillips G.C.
Published: February 2019

Particle bombardment using the Bio-Rad PDS-1000/HE system is being investigated as a means to develop a stable transformation system for the bulb onion. Donor materials for bombardments included sterile meristems and radicals from newly germinated seeds, callus of Allium cepa `TG1015', `Sunlite', and `Buffalo', A. fistulosum `Heshiko', and suspension-cultured cell lines with confirmed regeneration capability, as well as regenerated plants of an F1 interspecific hybrid. Transient expression assays using the B-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene system were used to optimize the conditions for transformation. Various promoters combined with the GUS coding sequence were tested. Results indicate genotype specificity for promoter expression. Some tissue continued to exhibit GUS activity after several months in culture, indicating potential for achieving stable transformation of onion.
NITROGEN FERTILIZER EFFECTS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF SWEETPOTATO
Authors: Jett Lewis W. , Mulkey W.A.
Published: February 2019

Nitrogen effects on `Beauregard' sweetpotato were investigated from 1992 to 1995 at the LSU Sweet Potato Research Station to determine the optimal rate and timing of nitrogen application. Five rates of preplant nitrogen were applied: 0, 33.6, 50.4, 67.2, and 84 kg·ha–1. Increasing the rate of nitrogen to 50.4 kg·ha–1 significantly increased marketable yield. Five treatments of pretransplant/sidedress nitrogen (kg·ha–1) were applied: 0/0, 50.4/0, 0/50.4, 33.6/16.8, and 16.8/33.6. Withholding nitrogen resulted in significantly more storage root initiation 21 days after transplanting (DAT). Application of 50.4 kg N/ha 21 DAT resulted in significantly greater yields of US #1 sweetpotatoes in 1992 and 1995 and equaled the pretransplant nitrogen treatment in 1993 and 1994.
TOLERANCE OF RADISH (RAPHANUS SATIVUS L.) CULTIVARS CHERRY BELLE AND WHITE ICICLE TO BORON, MOLYBDENUM, AND ZINC SOIL APPLICATIONS
Authors: Santos Bielinski M. , Morales-Payan Jose Pablo
Published: February 2019

Greenhouse experiments were carried out to determine the tolerance of two radish cultivars to soil-applied B, Mo, and Zn. Sources used were boric acid (0, 54, 108, 216, 324, and 432 ppm), molybdic acid (0, 1.4, 2.8, 5.6, 8.5, and 11.3 ppm), and zinc sulfate (0, 40, 80, 160, 240, and 360 ppm) applied at planting in addition to the control. Plants were grown in plastic containers of 1.5 L, filled with a potting medium composed of 50% vermiculite, 30% sphagnum peat, and 20% perlite. Treatments were arranged within a randomized complete block design with six replications. Fresh weight of commercial roots was not affected by Mo or Zn applications in either cultivar. However, B applications decreased root fresh weight as rate increased. These results suggest that these radish cultivars perform well in a relatively wide range of Mo and Zn application rates, whereas tolerance to B appears to be low.
Anatomical Differences of Axillary Bud Development in Blind Nodes and Normal Nodes in Peach
Authors: Boonprakob Unaroj , Byrne David H. , Mueller Dale M.J.
Published: February 2019

Actively growing shoots of peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] were collected every 2 weeks throughout the 1989 growing season. The samples were sectioned longitudinally and transversely to observe axillary bud initiation, which occurred in all samples collected. Differentiation of axillary bud meristems from early season samples (mostly normal nodes) included apical and prophyll formation, with procambium connected to the stem procambium. Little to no differentiation of such structures occurred in the late-season samples (mostly blind nodes). Other results suggest that blind node formation is a consequence of a lack of bud differentiation rather than a failure of bud initiation.
Off-season Production of Primocane-fruiting Red Raspberry Using Summer Pruning and Polyethylene Tunnels
Authors: Oliveira Pedro B. , Oliveira Cristina M. , Lopes-da-Fonseca Luís , Monteiro António A.
Published: February 2019

The spring shoots of `Autumn Bliss' red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L. var. idaeus; primocane-fruiting type) were cut on 2, 16, 31 July and 15 and 30 Aug. with the objective of delaying fruit harvest into the off-season under mild winter climatic conditions. Cutting shoots in August delayed fruit harvest until February and April of the following year, but shoot growth was weak and fruit yield low (4.8 and 2.1 g/cane). July cuttings delayed harvest until October to January with acceptable fruit yield (63.5, 52.8, and 26.5 g/cane for 2, 16, and 31 July, respectively). The differences in cane height and total node and fruiting node count between the three cutting dates of July were small, but there was a constant decrease in leaf area per cane from the first to the third date and a sharp decrease in fruit yield from the second to the third date. Vegetative shoot growth was less affected than yield when summer cutting was delayed until the end of July to induce a later harvest. Fruit quality always reached acceptable standards. This study confirms the practicability of using summer-cutting of primocane-fruiting red raspberries to induce off-season fruit production under protected cultivation in mild winter climates.
Field Performance of June Yellows-affected Clones of `Blomidon' Strawberry
Authors: Jamieson Andrew R. , Sanford Katherine A.
Published: February 2019

Clones of `Blomidon' strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) exhibiting a range of June yellows symptoms were grown in field plots to measure effects on productivity and fruit characteristics. Self-pollinated seedlings grown from these clones were evaluated for symptom expression as an additional measure of severity of June yellows. Large differences in yields were recorded among clones, ranging from 1.9 to 14.7 t·ha–1 in 1994 and 8.4 to 28.3 t·ha–1 in 1995. Clones with severe symptoms produced smaller fruit than clones with slight symptoms in 1994 but not in 1995. Small differences existed for the titratable acidity of the fruit but not for soluble solids concentration. The frequency of normal green seedlings among selfed progeny ranged from 48% to 98% and was negatively correlated with symptom severity ratings of the parent clones. Severity ratings and selfed seedling abnormality rates were good predictors of fruit yield. No clones of `Blomidon' were free of June yellows.
Field Performance of Conventional vs. in Vitro Propagules of Plantain (Musa spp., AAB Group)
Authors: Vuylsteke Dirk R. , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: February 2019

In vitro-propagated plants of plantain (Musa spp., AAB group) did not manifest consistently superior horticultural performance compared to conventional propagules. Tissue culture plants grew vigorously and taller than sucker-propagated plants, but higher yield was not obtained, probably because of severe disease and suboptimal husbandry input. Phenotypic variation was higher in tissue culture plants, although this increase was not always statistically significant. There were no other detrimental effects of in vitro propagation on field performance. Botanical seed set rates for the two types of propagules were similar. The advantages of tissue-culture-derived plants as improved planting material would be most relevant for establishing field nurseries for further clean, conventional propagation of newly bred or selected genotypes.
Evaluation of Prunus Rootstocks for Root-lesion Nematode Resistance
Authors: Alcañiz Eduard , Pinochet Jorge , Fernández Carolina , Esmenjaud Daniel , Felipe Antonio
Published: February 2019

Fourteen Prunus rootstocks were evaluated against mixtures of several isolates of the root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus vulnus Allen and Jensen in three greenhouse experiments. Most of the tested rootstocks are new releases or materials in advanced stages of selection that also have incorporated root-knot nematode resistance. The plums Torinel (Prunusdomestica L.) and Redglow (P. salicina Lindl. P. munsoniana Wight and Hedrick cv. Jewel) showed a moderately resistant response; their final nematode population levels were lower or slightly higher than inoculation levels. Low nematode reproduction also was found in the peach–almond hybrid G N No 22 [P. persica (L.) Batsch P. dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] and the plum Bruce (P. salicina P. angustifolia Marsh.), and although these rootstocks did not perform as well as Torinel and Redglow, they also appear to be poor hosts for P. vulnus.
INHIBITION OF AMINOETHOXYVINYLGLYCINE ON FRUIT COLORATION OF `DELICIOUS' APPLES
Authors: Ju Zhiguo , Yuan Yongbing , Liu Chenglian
Published: February 2019

Aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), an ethylene synthesis inhibitor, is a potential chemical to prevent preharvest fruit drop and improve storage quality of apples. Since ethylene promotes anthocyanin synthesis, effects of AVG on fruit coloration is a concern of fruit growers. `Delicious' apple trees were treated with 250 ppm AVG on 6 and 26 Aug. and 15 Sept., respectively. Fruit were harvested for analysis on 5 Oct. The anthocyanin accumulation and chlorophyll degradation in treated fruit were significantly lower when AVG was applied in August, which resulted in a low percentage of red fruit compared with the control. However, AVG did not inhibit anthocyanin synthesis and chlorophyll degradation when applied on 15 Sept. UDPGalactose: flavonoid-3-o-glycosyl-transferase activity also was reduced by AVG treatment in August, but not in September.
THE ROLE OF WATER IN FLORICULTURAL CROP/INSECT INTERACTIONS
Authors: Schuch U.K. , Bethke J.A. , Redak R.A.
Published: February 2019

Water stress and N fertilization can have a profound effect on populations of phytophagous insects. While species and cultivar selection can identify plants that are resistant to common insect pests, cultural practices may further decrease the susceptibility to insect attacks. Six poinsettia and six chrysanthemum cultivars were grown under well-watered or water-deficient conditions, and three fertilizer regimes with low, medium, or high concentrations of N. Vegetative plant growth and longevity and fecundity of various insect pests on these plants were determined. Host plant suitability to insects was estimated by the quantity of foliar soluble protein. Low irrigation reduced leaf area and leaf and stem dry weights 36% to 41% in poinsettias and 26% to 28% in chrysanthemum. Leaf area and leaf dry weight increased linearly in response to increasing fertilizer concentrations in poinsettia and chrysanthemum. Cultivar-specific differences were found for all variables of vegetative growth in poinsettiasand chrysanthemum. Cultivar also strongly affected insect preference, development, and fecundity. Low irrigation significantly reduced insect survivorship of the silverleaf whitefly on poinsettias. On chrysanthemum, leafminers, thrips, and melon aphids were unaffected by irrigation or fertilizer treatments. Chrysanthemum cultivar choice strongly affected the number of insects or development time.
ADDRESSING LOCAL URBAN LANDSCAPING NEEDS THROUGH RESEARCH AND EXTENSION
Authors: Morris R.L. , Devitt D.A. , Crites A.
Published: February 2019

When comparing states with population percentages residing in major cities, Nevada is considered the third most urban state in the nation. It also has the distinction of being the driest, with less than 4 inches of precipitation annually in the Las Vegas Valley. Nevada is using 280,000 acre-feet of water from its 300,000 acre-feet allotment from the Colorado River annually. Approximately 60% of this is used for urban landscaping. With average water use at >300 gallons per person per day in the past, Las Vegans have been criticized as “water-wasters.” Rising water prices and an active research and extension education program begun in 1985 and supported by the local water utility has helped to contribute to changing water use patterns and a reduction in water use. Research, educational programs for commercial landscapers, and home horticulture programs conducted through Master Gardeners have helped to reduce water use in the Las Vegas Valley while providing information on sound horticultural practices.
THE EFFICACY AND COMPARISON OF TRAPS TO MONITOR ADULT WHITEFLY POPULATION DENSITIES IN CANTALOUPE
Authors: Umeda Kai , Fredman C. , Fredman R. , Chu C.C. , Henneberry T.J.
Published: February 2019

A whitefly trap recently developed by Chu and Henneberry was tested in a cantaloupe field at the University of Arizona Maricopa Agricultural Center in 1995. The trap was compared with a 3 × 5-inch yellow sticky card trap, a commercial dome trap, and the leaf-turn sampling method. Results showed that the new whitefly trap effectively caught adults in cantaloupes. Numbers of adults increased as whitefly adult population densities increased during the season. Numbers of adults caught by the new whitefly trap were comparable to numbers of adults caught with the commercial dome trap and to a lesser extent the counts of adults determined by leaf-turn sampling method. Results with the new trap were not comparable to adults caught with yellow sticky card traps.
HISTOCHEMICAL ASSESSMENT OF GROUND-BASED AND MIR-GROWN WHEAT
Authors: Strickland D.T. , Biesinger H. , Campbell W.F. , Salisbury F.B. , Hole P.S. , Gillespie L. , Levinskikh M. , Ivanova I.
Published: February 2019

Our objectives were to ascertain whether wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. SuperDwarf) plants, grown aboard the Russian space station Mir in the microgravity of space, exhibited any plant structure and histochemical changes compared with those ground-based plants grown in Moscow, Russia, and Logan, Utah. Plants were harvested at stages of ontogeny corresponding to day 6, 14, 25, 35, and 55 post-emergence and placed in 4% formaldehyde: 1% glutaraldehyde (4F: 1G) fixative, adjusted to pH 7.2, and stored in Aclam plastic bags. Upon return to earth, samples were dehydrated and embedded in Spurr's resin. Use of differential chromophores on semi-thin sections (1 μm) suggests no major artifacts in cellular structure. Enzyme localizations for lignin, carbohydrate, starch, alkaline and acid phosphatase indicate that plants grown aboard Mir appeared to have less lignin than ground control plants. (Supported by NASA Grant NCC 2-831 and the Utah Agr. Expt. Station.)
Growth, Yield, and Postharvest Attributes of Glasshouse Tomatoes Produced under Deficit Irrigation
Authors: Pulupol Lucio U. , Behboudian M. Hossein , Fisher Keith J.
Published: February 2019

In glasshouse-grown tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. `Virosa'), deficit irrigation (DI), in which plant water potential was allowed to decrease from –0.5 to –1.2 MPa, reduced plant growth and fruit yield, size and count, and caused blossom-end rot. Deficit-irrigated fruit had higher color intensity, lower water content, and higher concentration of sucrose, glucose, and fructose than well-watered (control) fruit. Fruit concentrations of Ca, Mg, and K were the same for both treatments on a dry weight basis, but they were higher in DI fruit than in control fruit on a fresh weight basis. Fruit gas exchange was measured for two 30-day-apart harvests. For both harvests, DI fruit produced higher quantities of CO2 and ethylene than control fruit. Ethylene and CO2 production peaks coincided for the first harvest in both treatments. In the second harvest, the CO2 production peak preceded that of ethylene. Despite yield reduction, DI enhanced fruit desirability in terms of higher concentration of soluble sugars and higher color intensity.
Copper-treated Plug Flats Influence Root Growth and Flowering of Bedding Plants
Authors: Armitage A.M. , Gross P.M.
Published: February 2019

A copper hydroxide formulation (0%, 3.5%, 7%, 11% Cu) was applied to plug trays before sowing seeds of Impatiens ×hybrida L. `Accent Red', Pelargonium ×hortorum Bailey `Scarlet Elite', and Petunia ×hybrida Hort.Vilm.-Andr. `Ultra White' to investigate the influence of the formulations on ease of transplant, root growth, and shoot growth. These factors also were investigated in Cu-treated seedling plugs held past optimal transplanting stage. Root spiraling and seedling height at transplant were reduced for all taxa grown in Cu-treated trays, regardless of concentration, compared to seedlings from nontreated trays. Root weight and shoot weight responses to Cu treatments at transplant and at flowering varied among taxa. Mature heights of all taxa were unaffected by Cu treatment; however, flowering date was delayed for impatiens and geraniums transplanted at optimal time from Cu-treated trays. In general, petunias displayed little response to Cu treatment. Root spiraling was reduced and plugs were removed more easily from Cu-treated than from control trays stored for 2 weeks in the greenhouse, but flowering time was delayed for 12 days for impatiens and petunias and 21 days for geraniums, regardless of Cu concentration.
The Dew Component of Strawberry Evapotranspiration
Authors: Glenn D. Michael , Feldhake C. , Takeda F. , Peterson D.L.
Published: February 2019

The objectives of this lysimeter study were to 1) evaluate the amount of dewfall, 2) determine the contribution of dew to daily evapotranspiration (ET) in fall-grown strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.), and 3) determine the relationship between actual and potential ET (PET) of strawberry. Dewfall amounts averaged 0.8 mm·day–1 and accounted for 33% of the daily ET during the 27 Sept. to 6 Nov. period. Daily ET was linearly related to PET calculated from the Penman–Monteith equation, with an accuracy of ±3 mm based on lysimeter ET. Daily ET for 2- to 4-day periods was estimated with an accuracy of ±1 mm using the Penman–Monteith. We conclude that dewfall cannot be ignored in the ET of fall-grown strawberries in the mid-Atlantic section of the United States.
Nitrogen and Potassium Fertility Affects Jalapeño Pepper Plant Growth, Pod Yield, and Pungency
Authors: Johnson Charles D. , Decoteau Dennis R.
Published: February 2019

The influence of N and K rates in Hoagland's nutrient solution on Jalapeño pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) plant growth and pod production was determined on greenhouse-grown plants in sand culture. Varying the rates of N (1 to 30 mm) and K (1 to 12 mm) in Hoagland's solution identified optimum concentrations for Jalapeño plant growth and pod production. Two experiments were conducted to determine Jalapeño pepper sensitivity to differential fertilization. In the experiment seeded in April, nutrient treatments began at transplanting, and in the one seeded in May, treatments began after all plants had flower buds and half had flowered. Biomass and pod production per plant responded curvilinearly to N rate in both experiments. Optimum N rate for pod yield was 15 mm. Nitrogen rate affected pungency of pods only in the first experiment, with 1 mm N reducing capsaicin levels in fruit compared to other N rates. Biomass, fruit count, and fruit weight per plant increased linearly with increasing K rate in the first experiment and curvilinearly with K rate in the second experiment. The optimum K rate for pod yield was 6 mm. Potassium rates did not affect pod pungency. Jalapeño peppers grown in sand culture required 15 mm N and at least 3 mm K for optimum pod production.
Fall Transplanting Improves Establishment of Balled and Burlapped Fringe Tree (Chionanthus virginicus L.)
Authors: Harris J. Roger , Knight Patricia , Fanelli Jody
Published: February 2019

The effect of fall vs. spring transplanting was tested on landscape-sized Chionanthus virginicus L. at a research farm in Blacksburg, Va. Two fall transplanting dates (11 Nov. and 1 Dec. 1994) were selected so that soil temperatures were decreasing and near 10 °C for the earlier fall date (11 Nov.) and decreasing and near 5 °C for the later fall transplanting date (1 Dec.). The spring date (14 Mar. 1995) was selected so that soil temperatures were increasing and near 5 °C. All trees were transplanted with rootballs of native soil wrapped in burlap (B&B). Fringe tree was clearly tolerant of fall transplanting. Trees transplanted on 11 Nov. had a larger leaf area 1 month after bud set the next summer and had wider canopies and more dry mass of new roots at leaf drop than trees transplanted on the other dates. Trees transplanted on 14 Mar. had less total leaf area, leaf dry mass, and lower maximum root extension into the backfill soil than trees transplanted on 11 Nov. or 1 Dec. No root growth occurred beyond the original rootball until about early July (1 month after bud set) in any treatment, suggesting that first season posttransplant irrigation regimes need to focus on rootballs, not surrounding soil areas.
Cold Treatments, Photoperiod, and Forcing Temperature Influence Flowering of Lavandula angustifolia
Authors: Whitman Catherine M. , Heins Royal D. , Cameron Arthur C. , Carlson William H.
Published: February 2019

The influence of cold treatments and photoperiod on flowering of 8- to 11-node and 18- to 23-node Lavandula angustifolia Mill. `Munstead' plants from 128-cell (10-mL cell volume; P1) and 50-cell (85-mL cell volume; P2) trays, respectively, was determined. Plants were stored at 5 °C for 0, 5, 10, or 15 weeks, then forced under a 9-h photoperiod (SD), or under a 4-h night-interruption (NI) (2200 to 0200 hr) photoperiod at 20 °C. Percentage of plants flowering, time to flower, and plant appearance were evaluated. Increasing duration of cold treatment was associated with an increase in flowering percentage in plants from both cell sizes. More plants flowered under NI than SD except in P2 cooled for 15 weeks, where all plants flowered. Average time to visible bud (VB) and to opening of the first flower (FLW) generally decreased with increasing duration of cold treatment. Inflorescence count in P2 plants increased with increasing duration of cold treatment. To determine the relationship between forcing temperature and time to flower in L. angustifolia `Munstead', three sizes of plants were exposed to 5 °C for 13 weeks and then forced under a 4-h NI (2200 to 0200 hr) at 15, 18, 21, 24, or 27 °C. Plants generally flowered more quickly at higher temperatures, time to FLW decreasing from 77, 71, and 60 days at ≈15.6 °C to 46, 40, and 36 days at ≈26 °C for P1, P2, and 5.5-cm (190-mL pot volume) (P3) plants, respectively. Generally, P1 plants flowered 5 to 10 days later than P2, and P2 flowered 5 to 10 days later than P3.
Performance of `McIntosh' Apple Trees on Seven Rootstocks and a Comparison of Methods of Productivity Assessment
Authors: Autio Wesley R. , Greene Duane W. , Lord William J.
Published: February 2019

`Summerland Red McIntosh' apple trees (Malus domestica Borkh.) on M.9/A.2, O.3, M.7 EMLA, M.26 EMLA, M.7A, OAR1, and Mark were evaluated over 10 years. Trees on M.7 EMLA and OAR1 were the largest, and trees on Mark were the smallest. Trees on M.7 EMLA produced the highest yields per tree, and those on OAR1 and Mark produced the lowest. The most yield-efficient trees were on O.3 and Mark. The least efficient trees were on OAR1. Fruit from trees on O.3, M.26 EMLA, or M.9/A.2 generally were the largest, and fruit from trees on OAR1 generally were the smallest. Red pigment development was inversely proportional to canopy size, with Mark resulting generally in the most red pigmentation and M.7 EMLA and M.7A generally resulting in the least. Methods of presenting productivity were compared. Presentation of yield per land area occupied or projected yield per planted area were biased in experiments where only some trees naturally would exceed the allotted space and, therefore, were containment pruned and where tree-to-tree competition was directly proportional to tree size. Yield efficiency was a less biased estimate. Further, in single-row planting systems with trees spaced at optimal densities, small trees must be more efficient than large trees to obtain similar yields.
Characteristics of Internal Porosity of Cork Container Media
Authors: Ordovás J. , Carmona E. , Moreno M.T. , Ortega M.C.
Published: February 2019

The structure of cork (Quercus suber L.) bark presents a series of characteristics, suggesting that internal porosity is partly occluded. This study determined the porosity in the waste cork industry (C) and when such waste product had been composted during 4 (CC-4), 7 (CC-7), and 10.5 months (CC-10.5). The particle density of the intact and finely ground material differed significantly in all particle size ranges larger than 0.5 mm. The porosity of the cork substrates ranged from 80% to 94% of the total volume, according to granulometry and the degree of decomposition. However, large particles and less decomposed material with a high porosity had up to 10% of the total volume as occluded pores. The material's effective porosity varied slightly between the various particle sizes and degrees of decomposition, which ranged between 80% and 89%, having an average value of 85%. The ash content was highly correlated with the particle density of the finely ground material. Nevertheless, and due to occluded porosity, we cannot estimate the “effective porosity” from the ashes; therefore, we must resort to techniques that involve the displacement of a fluid, such as liquids or gas pycnometry or submersion.