bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcium Fertigation Ineffective at Increasing Fruit Yield and Quality of Muskmelon and Honeydew Melons in California
Authors: Johnstone P.R. , Hartz T.K. , May D.M.
Published: December 2018

California melon (Cucumis melo) growers commonly apply calcium (Ca) fertilizers during fruit development to increase fruit firmness and improve storage life. Drip-irrigated field trials were conducted in central California in 2005 and 2006 to evaluate the efficacy of this practice on honeydew (C. melo Inodorus group) and muskmelon (C. melo Reticulatus group). In the 2005 honeydew trial, three weekly applications of 10 lb/acre Ca from calcium nitrate (CN), calcium thiosulfate (CTS), or calcium chloride (CC) were injected into the irrigation system during early melon development. In the 2006 muskmelon trial, two applications of 15 lb/acre Ca from CTS or CC were made early, or two applications of CC late, in melon development. The effect of these Ca fertigation treatments on fruit yield, soluble solids concentration, flesh firmness, and Ca concentration were compared with an untreated control receiving no Ca fertigation. Calcium fertigation had no effect on marketable yield, quality, or Ca concentration of honeydew or muskmelon fruit regardless of application timing or Ca source applied. Loss of firmness during either 2 weeks (honeydew) or 1 week (muskmelon) of postharvest storage was unrelated to Ca fertigation treatment and was not correlated with Ca concentration in fruit tissue. We conclude that under conditions representative of the California melon industry, Ca fertigation at typical application rates is ineffective in improving honeydew or muskmelon yield or fruit quality.
Preharvest Lipophilic Coatings Reduce Lenticel Breakdown Disorder in ‘Gala’ Apples
Authors: Curry Eric A. , Torres Carolina , Neubauer Luis
Published: December 2018

Lenticel breakdown disorder (LB), most prevalent on ‘Gala’ (Malus × domestica) apples, especially in arid regions, has also been observed on other common cultivars. Depending on the preharvest environment, fruit maturity, and length of storage, LB usually appears as one or more round, darkened pits, centered on a lenticel, ranging in diameter from 1 to 8 mm. Symptoms are not visible at harvest nor are they usually apparent on unprocessed fruit after storage. However, following typical fruit processing and packing, symptoms are fully expressed after 12 to 48 h. Because the 3 to 4 weeks preceding ‘Gala’ harvest are usually the hottest and least humid, we theorized that desiccation stress was a main causative factor. Thus, several unique lipophilic formulations were developed that might reduce desiccation potential during this period of hot arid weather and rapid fruit enlargement. Emulsions of lipophilic formulations were applied to whole trees at various dosages and timings. In 2005, using a single handgun application 1 day before harvest, the best treatment reduced LB by about 20% in fruit stored 90 days at −1 °C. The following season, the best treatment from a single handgun application 7 days before harvest reduced LB by 35% after 90 days at −1 °C, whereas 3 weekly applications beginning 3 weeks before harvest reduced LB in similarly stored fruit by as much as 70%. In 2007, the best single treatment applied 1 week before harvest using a commercial airblast sprayer reduced LB by almost 50% after 90 days at −1 °C.
Drip-irrigation System Component and Design Considerations for Vegetable Crops
Authors: Sanders D.C.
Published: December 2018

The following should be considered when installing and maintaining a drip irrigation system for vegetable crops: water source (surface or ground water); water quality (salinity, particulate matter, contaminants); size of area to be irrigated; pump size; soil type; drip tape type; crop to be irrigated; management skill of the operator; automation needs; water meter and budget. Use a professional designer.
Drip Irrigation Management and Scheduling for Vegetable Production
Authors: Clark G.A.
Published: December 2018

Proper management of vegetable drip-irrigation systems requires knowledge of soil hydraulic characteristics, plant-growth and water-use characteristics, and evaporative demand. The resultant schedule must integrate these properties and conform to existing irrigation system and cultural constraints. Irrigation management must be coupled with the fertilizer management program to avoid excessive water applications that leach plant nutrients. Because drip irrigation applies water to discrete locations along the plant row, limited irrigated areas can result, and this is an important consideration for irrigation system design, cultural practices and management, and irrigation system operation and management.
On-farm Extension Demonstrations of Drip Irrigation Systems for Vegetable Growers
Authors: Lamont W.J.
Published: December 2018

On-farm extension demonstrations are one of the best participatory research and educational resources available to extension specialists and county extension staff for presentation of new technology to agricultural producers. On-farm extension demonstration programs for intensive vegetable production, of which drip irrigation is a major component, can range from a complete package [3/4-ton truck, a trailer for transporting equipment, a tractor in the 36 to 42 HP range (i.e., Ford 3910) a plastic-laying machine, a bed press pan, hillers, and drip/overhead irrigation systems] with a price tag of about $40,000 used in a multistate, statewide, or multicounty program, to a small demonstration package using a household well source with a cost of about $250. The demonstration package used will depend on the scope of the program, local conditions, and economic realities.
A Laboratory Exercise on Dilution Ratio and Water Flow of a Venturi-type Proportioner
Authors: Hershey David R. , Sand Susan
Published: December 2018

A Venturi-type proportioner (VP), trade name Hozon, can be used for an inexpensive, hands-on laboratory exercise that demonstrates the effect of water pressure on dilution ratio and water flow. Using electrical conductivity (EC) meters to determine solution concentration allows students to discover that the dilution ratio increases with water pressure, from 1:10 at 15 psi to 1:15 at 55 psi. The greater dilution at higher pressure can be explained by measuring the water flow, which is 2.3 gal/min (8.7 litersžmin-1) at 15 psi but 3.5 gal/min (13.2 litersžmin-1) at 55 psi. Experiments relating water pressure to dilution ratio provide experience in use and calibration of VPs and EC meters, as well as graph preparation and interpretation.
Number of Stock Plant Shoot Nodes Influences Splitting of `Lilo' Poinsettia
Authors: Carver Stephen A. , Tayama Harry K.
Published: December 2018

The influence of poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima Wild. ex Klotzsch) stock plant shoot maturity on subsequent splitting of cuttings taken from the shoots was evaluated. Terminal cuttings (7.5 cm) taken from `Lilo' poinsettia stock plant axillary shoots that had 4, 8, or 12 nodes were rooted, planted, then observed for initial signs of splitting (conversion of the vegetative terminal buds into floral buds). The percentages of cuttings that split were 22, 77, and 100 for those taken from shoots with 4, 8, and 12 nodes, respectively. By implication, cuttings should be taken just as stock plant axillaries reach a size adequate for propagation to help reduce the incidence of splitting.
Fruit Cracking in Tomato
Authors: Peet M.M.
Published: December 2018

The environmental and physiological causes of cracking or splitting of soft fruits and citrus as they ripen are not well understood. This paper explores factors contributing to radial cracking in tomatoes, gives suggestions for prevention of cracking, and suggests directions for future research. Fruit cracking occurs when there is a rapid net influx of water and solutes into the fruit at the same time that ripening or other factors reduce the strength and elasticity of the tomato skin. In the field, high soil moisture tensions suddenly lowered by irrigation or rains are the most frequent cause of fruit cracking. Low soil moisture tensions reduce the tensile strength of the skin and increase root pressure. In addition, during rain or overhead irrigation, water penetrates into the fruit through minute cracks or through the corky tissue around the stem scar. Increases in fruit temperature raise gas and hydrostatic pressures of the pulp on the skin, resulting in immediate cracking in ripe fruit or delayed cracking in green fruit. The delayed cracking occurs later in the ripening process when minute cracks expand to become visible. High light intensity may have a role in increasing cracking apart from its association with high temperatures. Under high light conditions, fruit soluble solids and fruit growth rates are higher. Both of these factors are sometimes associated with increased cracking. Anatomical characteristics of crack-susceptible cultivars are: 1) large fruit size, 2) low skin tensile strength and/or low skin extensibility at the turning to the pink stage of ripeness, 3) thin skin, 4) thin pericarp, 5) shallow cutin penetration, 6) few fruits per plant, and 7) fruit not shaded by foliage. Following cultural practices that result in uniform and relatively slow fruit growth offers some protection against fruit cracking. These practices include maintenance of constant soil moisture and good Ca nutrition, along with keeping irrigation on the low side. Cultural practices that reduce diurnal fruit temperature changes also may reduce cracking. In the field, these practices include maintaining vegetative cover. Greenhouse growers should maintain minimal day/night temperature differences and increase temperatures gradually from nighttime to daytime levels. For both field and greenhouse tomato growers, harvesting before the pink stage of ripeness and selection of crack-resistant cultivars probably offers the best protection against cracking. Areas for future research include developing environmental models to predict cracking and exploring the use of Ca and gibberellic acid (GA) sprays to prevent cracking.
An Evaluation of Extension Programs to Enhance Water Quality through Nutrient Management in the Urban Landscape
Authors: Relf P. Diane , McKissack David
Published: December 2018

A mass media water-quality program aimed at changing lawn and garden fertilization practices of homeowners successfully elicited responses from individuals by using local cooperative extension offices and newsletters. Traditional extension media tools, such as radio and news releases, were less successful in eliciting requests for further information. In addition, the program reached more people by transmitting the information in the form of a calendar than it reached in the first year through videotapes and slide sets created for use in public and Master Gardener training.
History and Technological Significance of Hevea Rubber Production in Guatemala
Authors: Dawson Ray F. , Smith F.W. Owen
Published: December 2018

Production of rubber from Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex A. Juss) Muell.-Arg. (Euphorbiaceae) is greatest in southeastern Asia where the South American leaf blight disease is absent. Except for the Pacific Piedmont of Guatemala, plantation production in the Americas is limited severely by the now widespread presence of the pathogen Microcyclus ulei (P. Henn.) Arx. Mean latex yields from trees growing on the Piedmont approximate those of Indonesia and Malaysia, with little evidence of damage from leaf blight. The scope and scale of the Guatemalan anomaly suggest that environmentally modulated escape rather than previously assumed disease resistance may be the key to successful production of natural rubber in this hemisphere. The Guatemalan industry is presently well-organized to service regional markets in Mexico and the Caribbean Basin. Given due attention to environmental analysis, it may serve also as a model for the development of regional production facilities in other parts of tropical America.
Quality Assurance Program to Ensure a Continuous Supply of High-quality Seed
Authors: Robani Hossein
Published: December 2018

Highly educated and demanding customers, complex business structures, rapidly changing technology, greater liability, and strong competition bring unprecedented pressures on the vegetable seed industry. An effective quality system involving all of the business functions (breeding, parent seed maintenance, production, processing, testing, seed treatment, packaging, marketing, and customer service) seems to be inevitable. The future of the seed business belongs to companies that can provide continuous supplies of high-quality seed with necessary support and technical services and can afford investment in a rapidly advancing technology.
Rose (Rosa dilecta) Response to Simulated Herbicide Drift
Authors: Al-Khatib Kassim , Parker Robert , Fuerst E. Patrick
Published: December 2018

This study evaluated the response of rose to different herbicides applied as simulated drift. Chlorsulfuron {2-chloro-N-[[(4-methoxy-6-methyl-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]carbonyl]benzenesulfonamide}, thifensulfuron {3[[[[(4-methoxy-6-methyl-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]-2-thiophenecarboxylic acid}, bromoxynil(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxybenzonitrile), 2,4-D[(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid], glyphosate [N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine], and a combination of 2,4-D and glyphosate were applied over the top of established rose plants at 1/3, 1/10,1/33, and 1/100 of the maximum labeled rate for grains. All herbicides injured rose. The greatest injury was from chlorsulfuron and 2,4-D, and the least injury was from bromoxynil and glyphosate. Plants recovered from the injury caused by all treatments except for the highest rates of chlorsulfuron and 2,4-D, which continued to show significant injury at the end of the growing season. Although all herbicides had characteristic symptoms, some of these were very similar to those caused by other stresses. Therefore, because of the potential ambiguity of visual symptoms, any allegation about herbicide drift should be based on a report of all symptoms and should be supported by residue analysis.
A Computer-controlled Drip Irrigation System for Container Plant Production
Authors: González Rico A. , Struve Daniel K. , Brown Larry C.
Published: December 2018

An irrigation control system has been developed and used to estimate evapotranspiration of contamer-grown plants by monitoring randomly selected plants within a container block and watering on an “as needed” basis. Sensor reliability and operational ease allows application of the system in a wide variety of field conditions. First-year tests, using red oak (Quercus rubra L.) seedlings, showed a reduction of 95% or better in both total irrigation and leachate rates with the computer-controlled treatment relative to a manually controlled, drip irrigation treatment without reducing plant growth.
Growth of Container-grown Trees Transplanted from the Field or Grow-bags
Authors: Tilt Ken , Gilliam Charles , Olive John , Carden Emmett
Published: December 2018

Crape myrtle (Lagerstroe-mia L. × `Natchez'), live oak (Quercus virginiana Mill.), and Chinese pistachio (Pistacia chinensis Bunge) were planted into a sandy loam soil directly in the field or in grow-bags. Root and top growth were measured in March and July of the second year. Some of the trees were transplanted to 20-gal (76-liter) containers in March or July and grown for 3 months. Chinese pistachio developed a poor root system in field soil and was not ready for harvest in March or July. There was no difference in height, caliper, or top fresh weight for crape myrtle. Caliper and top fresh weight were similar for live oak trees. However, live oaks grown by traditional field production methods were taller than trees produced in grow-bags. With March transplanting, both crape myrtle and live oak trees from traditional field plantings were taller than trees transplanted from grow-bags 3 months after transplanting into containers. Tree top weight, caliper, and root ratings were similar for March-transplanted crape myrtle. Live oak trees transplanted from grow-bags had similar caliper and top weight but a higher root rating. July-transplanted crape myrtle trees had similar values for all variables 3 months later. All live oaks died when transplanted from traditional field plantings to containers in July. All live oaks grown in grow-bags survived transplanting.
Comparison of Biological and Chemical Control of Greenhouse Whitefly on Poinsettia Stock Plants
Authors: McMahon R.W. , Lindquist R.K. , Casey M.L. , Witt A.C. , Kinnamon S.H.
Published: December 2018

A demonstration study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of biological and chemical control treatments on the greenhouse whitefly (GHWF) (Trialeurodes vaporariorum, Westwood) using poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima Wild.) stock plants. Two identical greenhouse compartments, each containing 84 stock plants, were used. In the biological control compartment, three biweekly releases of Encarsia formosa (EF) were made, while in the chemical control compartment eight weekly applications of resmethrin or acephate aerosol treatments were made. Results showed that overall greenhouse whitefly populations in the chemical control compartment were slightly lower than in the biological control compartment. Cuttings taken from stock plants in the biological control compartment at the end of the experiment were commercially acceptable with regard to the presence of GHWF adults. Chemical names used: O,S-dimethyl acetylphosphoramidothioate (acephate), [5-(phenylmethyl)-3-furanyl] methyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropane-carboxylate (resmethrin).
Comparison of Resin-coated and Soluble Fertilizer Formulations in the Production of Zonal Geranium, Potted Chrysanthemum, and Poinsettia
Authors: Tayama Harry K. , Carver Stephen A.
Published: December 2018

A series of crop-specific, resin-coated, controlled-release fertilizer formulations, including: Sierra Geranium Mix 13-12-11 Plus Minors, Sierra Chrysanthemum Mix 12-10-17 Plus Minors, and Sierra Poinsettia Mix 12-12-15 Plus Minors were preplant-incorporated into Metro Mix 350 growing medium for the production of potted zonal geraniums, chrysanthemum, and poinsettia. Plant growth and foliar nutritional responses were compared to those obtained from plants produced with a standard resin-coated, controlled-release Osmocote formulation (19N-6P-12K), water-soluble Peters 20N-10P-20K, and a combination of water-soluble and resin-coated treatments. Crops produced with specialty resin-coated mixes (at recommended rate = l×) were equal in growth and flowering characteristics to those produced with Osmocote (1×), water-soluble (200 ppm nitrogen), or a combination of water-soluble (200 ppm nitrogen) and resin-coated (0.5×) fertilizer treatments. Foliar analyses revealed elemental concentrations in resin-coated fertilizer-treated plants were below those in water-soluble or combination treatments, but were within a range to support satisfactory quality crop production.
Product and Service Attributes Related to Marketing Nursery Stock
Authors: Makus Larry D. , Foltz John C. , Guenthner Joseph F. , Tripepi Robert R.
Published: December 2018

Survey data from 3 11 garden centers, landscapers, and combined garden center/landscaping firms in selected western United States trade centers were analyzed. Results identified important product and service attributes used in respondent decisions to purchase nursery stock. In general, product characteristics were ranked higher than supplier services. The highest-ranked product characteristics included plants free of insects and disease, properly dug and handled container or balled and burlapped stock, properly dug and handled bare root stock, and plants available when needed. However, several additional product characteristics received high rankings. The highest-ranked service was supplier knowledgeable about plant materials. A χ2 analysis was conducted to segment this market on the basis of firm size, business type, and geographic location. Results indicated there were limited between-group differences to use in segmenting the market on the basis of size, business type, or location.
The Almond in Morocco
Authors: Mahhou Ahmed , Dennis Frank G.
Published: December 2018

Morocco ranks fifth among the nations of the world in almond (Prunus dulcis L.) production, and contains many zones where climatic conditions are ideal for this species. Seedling trees are responsible for more than half the total production, although grafted trees are usually much more productive per hectare. A large seedling population represents an important gene pool, both for a breeding program and for selection of superior genotypes adapted to Moroccan conditions.
Students as Research Partners at a 2-Year Agriculture College
Authors: McMahon Robert W. , Lindquist Richard K. , Hoitink Harry A.
Published: December 2018

Student involvement in two research projects at a 2-year agricultural college is described. The students assisted in the process of data collection, tabulation, and the preparation of publications. From participating in these research projects, the students earned academic credit and learned the concepts and processes of scientific methodology. Several student shills, including observation, making judgements, and cooperation among peers, were enhanced through hands-on experience. The research proved to be a very enjoyable learning experience for all of the participants.
Current Knowledge, Gaps, and Future Needs for Keeping Water and Nutrients in the Root Zone of Vegetables Grown in Florida
Authors: Simonne Eric , Hutchinson Chad , DeValerio Jim , Hochmuth Robert , Treadwell Danielle , Wright Allan , Santos Bielinski , Whidden Alicia , McAvoy Gene , Zhao Xin , Olczyk Teresa , Gazula Aparna , Ozores-Hampton Monica
Published: December 2018

The success of the best management practices (BMPs) program for vegetables in Florida is measured by the level of BMP implementation and the improvement of water quality. Both require keeping water and fertilizer in the root zone of vegetables. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Vegetable Group has identified the fundamental principles of 1) basing UF/IFAS production recommendations on the rigors of science and the reality of field production; 2) replacing the out-of-date paradigm “pollute less by reducing nutrient application rates” with “improve water management and adjust fertilizer programs accordingly”; 3) engaging growers, consultants, educators, and regulators in open-channel discussions; and 4) regularly updating current fertilization and irrigation recommendations for vegetables grown in Florida to reflect current varieties used by the industry. The group identified 1) developing ultralow-flow drip irrigation; 2) assisting conversion from seepage to drip irrigation; 3) using recycled water; 4) developing controlled-release fertilizers for vegetables; 5) developing real-time management tools for continuous monitoring of soil water and chemical parameters; 6) developing yield mapping tools for vegetable crops; 7) developing and testing drainage lysimeter designs suitable for in-field load assessment; and 8) using grafting and breeding to develop commercially acceptable varieties with improved nutrient use efficiency by improving morphological, biochemical, and chemical traits as new strategies to keep nutrients in the root zone. These strategies should become funding priorities for state agencies to help the vegetable industry successfully transition into the BMP era.
Economic Analysis of an Isolated Product Obtained from Muscadine Grape Pomace
Authors: Cardona Jorge A. , Wysocki Allen F. , Talcott Stephen T.
Published: December 2018

The grape (Vitis vinifera) industry has long been a leader in the utilization of edible by-products to increase the revenue of the industry with products such as grape seed extract, dried pomace, and pigment extracts. However, the muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia) industry in the southeastern United States has lagged in the development of secondary products from wine and juice manufacture due to economic and processing limitations associated with this grape. Processing of pomaces rich in polyphenolics, such as muscadine grapes, can lead to an increase in economic value per ton of fruit and the decrease of waste material generated. Therefore, the profitability of two drying technologies (spray drying and vacuum concentration) was assessed as means to extract and concentrate polyphenolics from muscadine grape pomace. An economic analysis was conducted based on break-even point analysis, sensitivity analysis, and return on investment estimation. Assumptions were required to complete the analysis. Using initial production conditions (124 kg of extract at $140/kg, and 11,309 kg of dried skins at $3.00/kg), the profit generated from spray drying was higher than vacuum concentration. In addition, return of investment was 10% higher in spray drying (22.2%) compared with vacuum concentration (12.3%), which barely covered the net present value of the operation. Although spray drying proved to be a less expensive technology (with the actual characteristics and proper assumptions), the vacuum evaporator used for this situation had three times the capacity of the spray dryer, thus only vacuum concentration would support a potential growth in extract production if the volume processed was to be increased significantly. Sensitivity analysis illustrated that both technologies obtained positive results with initial production conditions with a 40% increase in production and prices. This study also illustrated various assumptions that could be changed to recalculate and readjust investment and costs of any processor.
Preharvest Ethephon Eliminates First Crop Figs
Authors: Crisosto Carlos H. , Bremer Vanessa , Norton Maxwell , Ferguson Louise , Einhorn Todd
Published: December 2018

Most fig (Ficus carica) cultivars have potentially two crops; fruit from the first crop are called brebas. This crop is commercially important in some Mediterranean area cultivars. The second or main crop, called figs, is the commercially important crop for most fig cultivars. Due to labor cost increases, harvest of the breba crop, with its low production and lower quality fruit, has become economically unviable in some cultivars. Unharvested brebas are potential sites for fungal pathogens and they attract insects. Spring ethephon applications of 250 to 500 ppm applied before full leaf expansion, when the largest fruit are about 1.5 to 2 cm in diameter reduced the breba crop load (≈92%) without adverse side effects. The use of early fall ethephon applications of 500 ppm also resulted in breba crop load reductions (≈30%), but with significantly lower efficacy than spring treatments. These fall and/or spring ethephon treatments did not affect the percentage of vegetative budbreak, breba weight, breba soluble solids concentration, fig crop load, fig weight, or ethephon residues. Thus, early spring ethephon application at 300 ppm (0.22–0.36 kg·ha−1), when breba fruit and leaves are just starting to develop and figs are not present, was a safe, effective and inexpensive way (about $16 per hectare) to reduce the breba crop. Currently, ethephon is included in the federal IR-4 program, and residue studies are ongoing as a protocol for future registration.
Effects of Preplant Nitrogen and Sulfur Fertilizer Sources on Strawberry
Authors: Santos Bielinski M.
Published: December 2018

Field studies were conducted to determine effects of preplant nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) sources on ‘Strawberry Festival’ strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) growth and yield. Six treatments resulted from the preplant application of ammonium nitrate [AN (34% N)], ammonium sulfate [AS (21% N and 24% S)], ammonium sulfate nitrate [ASN (26% N and 14% S)], polymer-coated AS [PCAS (20% N and 23% S)], and elemental S (90% S). A nontreated control was added. The N was fixed at 50 lb/acre for AN, AS, ASN, and PCAS, which resulted in S rates of 0, 57, 27, and 57 lb/acre, respectively. The S rate of the elemental S treatment was set at 57 lb/acre. For early fruit number, the highest values were found in plots treated with AS and elemental S, while the highest total fruit numbers were obtained in plots treated with AS, ASN, PCAS, and elemental S. There was no difference in total fruit numbers between the nontreated control and AN. Plots treated with elemental S, PCAS, ASN, and AS had the highest early marketable fruit weights, whereas the lowest early marketable fruit weight was found in the nontreated plots. In comparison with the nontreated control plots, all the preplant fertilization programs improved early marketable fruit weight, with AN, AS, ASN, PCAS, and elemental S. Total marketable fruit weights were maximized in plots treated with preplant AS, ASN, PCAS, or elemental S. There was no difference between the total fruit weights obtained in the control and AN-treated plots. The data indicated that the strawberry total yield increases can be attributed to the use of preplant fertilizer sources containing S. This research may lead to a more appropriate use of N for strawberry production in Florida, minimizing the nitrate-leaching potential in high sandy soils by eliminating N sources from preplant fertilization programs.
Comparison of Time Investment in Common Teaching Practices among Three Instructional Methods
Authors: McKenney Cynthia B. , Peffley Ellen B. , Teolis Igino
Published: December 2018

Increasingly more collegiate courses are offered through a variety of distance formats. Course management platforms have reduced the faculty time required to create and deliver distance courses while enhancing asynchronous communication. In this study, the transactional distance theory was used to evaluate the different communication levels found between faculty and students in web-facilitated, online, and interactive video courses. A comparison of the online course sections to the web-facilitated course sections determined that there were significantly more asynchronous contacts with the online sections than with the web-facilitated sections. In addition, the total instructor time invested to administer the online course sections was significantly less than for the web-facilitated course sections. The interactive video conferencing sections could not be compared directly to the other teaching modes because the course content differed; however, mean time intervals for teaching and administrative activities are provided.
Florida Nursery Best Management Practices: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Yeager Tom , Million Jeff , Larsen Claudia , Stamps Bob
Published: December 2018

Florida container nurseries face the challenge of maintaining profitability while protecting the environment by improving the efficiency of water and fertilizer use. Best management practices (BMPs) provide irrigation and fertilization guidelines for meeting this challenge. BMPs are economically and technologically feasible to implement and they focus on the ground- and surface water quality issues of the state. However, increasing nursery participation in the statewide BMP program is crucial as the industry continues to expand and interface with urbanization.
North American Willow Cut-stem Growers: A Survey of the Business Identities, Production Practices, and Prospective for the Crop
Authors: Saska Margaret M. , Kuzovkina Yulia A. , Ricard Robert M.
Published: December 2018

To assess the current state of willow (Salix) cultivation for specialty cut flower production, a mail survey following the tailored design method polled willow growers in North America (n = 52). The instrument posed questions on business identity and cultural practices, including plant spacing, fertilization, irrigation, and pruning methods. A 69% response rate was achieved. The general grower profile was of a specialty cut flower producer with multiple years of experience growing willows. For the majority of respondents, willow was a supplemental source of income, complementing a larger product selection of woody and herbaceous species for cut flower production with annual sales for the crop of less than $25,000. The majority of producers had a generally positive outlook on this crop as growers expressed strong support for the importance of willow in their product selection, for customer satisfaction, as well as for future intentions to increase production acreage, and even to extend seasonal markets. However, the non-scientific nature of willow production was revealed by wide variations in basic cultural practices and by very limited use of scientific plant names by the growers and frequent inability to accurately identify their selections, as well as the identification of growers' own personal experience as a main source of knowledge. The results of this survey helped researchers to identify a set of questions to improve the understanding of the fundamentals of willow production through the development of precise commercial production practices, standardization of variety names, and stimulation of further development of this crop through market expansion.
Educational Needs and Perspectives on the Future of the Green Industry in Utah
Authors: Kratsch Heidi A. , Ward Ruby , Shao Margaret , Rupp Larry A.
Published: December 2018

The green industry in Utah is a large and diverse group that ranges from nursery/greenhouse growers and retailers to landscape maintenance and design professionals to irrigation and turf industry professionals. Because of the size and diverse membership of the Utah green industry, extension faculty are challenged to gauge the needs and attitudes of the industry as a clientele group. In 2007, we conducted a mail survey of the Utah green industry to identify the learning preferences of industry members, to better understand the structure and extent of Utah green industry businesses, and to elicit industry perceptions about present and future challenges to success. We found that the service sector is a significant component of Utah's green industry, and that extension-based short courses can be used to provide more advanced and targeted education to specific industry groups. Drought/water issues and labor shortages were viewed as significant challenges to the future of the green industry, and these could be used as a foundation for building strategic alliances between extension and the green industry in Utah. Results of our survey will be useful to green industry professionals and extension educators that deal with green industry education, particularly in states with service- rather than production-oriented businesses.
Green Roof Plant Responses to Different Substrate Types and Depths under Various Drought Conditions
Authors: Thuring Christine E. , Berghage Robert D. , Beattie David J.
Published: December 2018

Plants suitable for extensive green roofs must tolerate extreme rooftop conditions, and the substrates in which they grow must fulfill horticultural and structural requirements. Deeper substrates may retain more water for plants during dry periods, but will also weigh more, especially when near saturation. A study in central Pennsylvania was conducted to evaluate the influence of substrate type and depth on establishment of five green roof plants. Two stonecrops [white stonecrop (Sedum album) and tasteless stonecrop (Sedum sexangulare)], one ice plant (Delosperma nubigenum), and two herbaceous perennials [maiden pink (Dianthus deltoides) and saxifrage pink (Petrorhagia saxifraga)] were planted in three depths (30, 60, and 120 mm) of two commercially available green roof substrates (expanded shale and expanded clay). Study flats inside a plasticulture tunnel received three drought treatments (no drought, 2 weeks early drought, and 2 weeks late drought). The two stonecrops performed well under most conditions, although tasteless stonecrop was stunted by early drought. Ice plant only grew well when provided with water. When subjected to any drought, the herbaceous perennials had the fewest survivors in the expanded shale. Saxifrage pink flowered profusely wherever it survived. The study plants were most affected by substrate depth, except for maiden pink, which responded solely to drought. When subjected to early drought conditions, the herbaceous perennials did not survive in 30 mm of either substrate, or in 60 mm of expanded shale. Although the stonecrops performed well in 60 mm of substrate when subjected to drought, their performance was superior in the expanded clay compared with shale.
Aesthetic and Economic Impacts Associated with Four Different Cool-season Lawn Fertility and Pesticide Programs
Authors: Caceres Victoria A. , Bigelow Cale A. , Richmond Douglas S.
Published: December 2018

Aesthetic and economic characteristics of different turfgrass fertility and pesticide programs were compared in an effort to provide a framework for lawn care professionals to evaluate, market, and implement alternative management strategies. Programs included a consumer program (CP), an integrated pest management program (IPMP), a natural organic program (NOP), and a no-input program (NIP). All programs significantly improved visual appearance compared with the NIP, and although the IPMP and CP consistently had the highest ratings, the NOP produced lawns of similar quality on the majority of rating dates. The NOP also resulted in canopy greenness levels similar to or significantly greater than those provided by the IPMP and CP on most dates. Aside from the NIP, the lowest total maintenance costs were associated with the IPMP during both study years. Although the NOP was the most expensive program when white grub (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) populations exceeded treatment thresholds, it was less expensive than the CP when white grubs were below thresholds. Incorporation of scouting into different fertility and pesticide programs resulted in short-term economic benefits without significantly compromising turfgrass aesthetic quality.
A Protocol for Preparing Preserved Flowers with Natural Color and Texture
Authors: Ito Hiroaki , Hayashi Takahiro , Hashimoto Masaki , Miyagawa Katsuro , Nakamura Saori , Mizuta Youichi , Yazawa Susumu
Published: December 2018

A protocol for the preparation of preserved flowers retaining natural color and texture of ‘Moondust Velvet Blue’ carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) was developed. This three-step process consists of soaking flowers in ethyl alcohol, then soaking them in polypropylene glycol, followed by a rinse with ethyl alcohol. Some kinds of flowers processed in this manner retained their natural color and texture for at least 6 months. The physicochemical properties of appropriate solvents used for retaining natural pigmentation and texture are discussed. This protocol is applicable to 13 kinds of flowers among 30 kinds of flowers tested and adds a new dimension to postharvest techniques for cut flowers.
Survey of Master Gardener Use of Native Plants in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Brzuszek Robert F. , Harkess Richard L. , Kelly Lelia
Published: December 2018

The Master Gardener program is a volunteer horticultural training and an educational outreach program developed and managed by state cooperative extension services. Previous research in the southeastern United States revealed that landscape architects and contractors are increasingly using native plant materials in their projects and this often exceeds regional plant availability. A survey of green industry in the region showed supply is driven by consumer demand and education. To determine if native plant demand is encountered by plant purchasers other than landscape architects, this study evaluates the interest level and market use of native plants by Master Gardeners of six southeastern states. A web-based survey was developed, and Master Gardeners were invited to participate by their state Master Gardener coordinators. The survey included questions on how Master Gardeners use native plants in their home landscape, how they best learn about them, the species they have purchased, and their interest level. A total of 979 Master Gardeners completed the survey. Results revealed that this particular consumer group is enthusiastic about native plants and supports the landscape professionals' claims that marketing for native plants could improve if plants were available at more retail outlets, by having more types (herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees) and species for sale, and by offering greater quantities of plants.
Teaching Sustainable Design: A Hands-on Interdisciplinary Model
Authors: Lamba Baldev , Chapman Grace
Published: December 2018

Students and instructors from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture, located on the Temple University Ambler Campus, collaborated on the design and construction of an exhibit for the 2009 Bella Italia Philadelphia Flower Show. The design of the exhibit, inspired by Italian traditions, promoted sustainable principles and practices through the use of indigenous and recycled materials and conservation of natural resources. Temple University's exhibit received five awards, including the American Horticultural Society Environmental Award and the Garden Club Federation of Pennsylvania Award for Conservation. This article documents the interdisciplinary and hands-on teaching model used in creating and implementing a sustainable design, as well as the results of the follow-up student surveys about the lessons learned and public responses to the exhibit.
Coastal Roots: Connecting Students with Sustainability in Mississippi and Louisiana
Authors: Coker Christine E.H. , Bachman Gary , Boyd Chris , Blanchard Pamela B. , Bush Ed , Gu Mengmeng
Published: December 2018

The Coastal Roots School Seedling Nursery Program for Habitat Restoration was initiated by Louisiana State University in 2000 in cooperation with Louisiana Sea Grant. The program enhances learning areas such as plant growth, wetland issues, conservation, and hands-on habitat restoration, and includes the installation of a small container nursery for the production of coastal plants in schoolyards. The program was adopted by Mississippi State University's Coastal Research and Extension Center in 2008. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the program as well as Mississippi's plans to adapt the Louisiana model to demonstrate teaching by example through hands-on demonstration that will supply students with real-world conservation and stewardship experience.
The Scholarship of a University Garden Director
Authors: Albrecht Mary Lewnes
Published: December 2018

More universities are developing on-campus horticultural, landscape, or botanical gardens. Campus gardens often evolved from the life's work of one or a few dedicated faculty members during the second half of the 20th century. Today's faculty face different demands on their time, with pressure to conduct research funded through grants and contracts and resulting in peer-reviewed journal articles. The role of faculty as university garden directors does not blend well with the scholarship associated with fundamental research. The work of a university garden director does blend well within the context of Boyer's model of scholarship that has been modified by others not only to accept the scholarship of research, but also the scholarship of integration, teaching, and engagement as equally valued forms of scholarship.
University Garden Stakeholders: Student, Industry, and Community Connections
Authors: Scoggins Holly L.
Published: December 2018

University gardens have a rather unique set of stakeholders, internal and external, compared with non-academic public gardens. Undergraduate students spend a significant amount of time learning in, as well as assisting with, the garden. These students ideally become active alumni with continuing interests in the garden. Landscape and nursery industry professionals, many of whom are graduates, parents of graduates, or employ graduates from the program, are in a position to assist with in-kind donations of plant material, equipment, and expertise. Community stakeholders exist on two levels: The campus community is comprised of faculty, staff, and students who come to the garden to relax and reflect. The greater civic or regional community views the garden and staff as a source of creative inspiration, expertise, and education. The campus and civic community value the garden and in turn contribute by volunteering their time as well as fiscal support by attending garden workshops, seminars, and special events. Garden directors and staff should make every effort to strengthen these connections and bring to university administrators' attention the importance of active support from these stakeholders groups.
Leachate Volume Effects on pH and Electrical Conductivity Measurements in Containers Obtained Using the Pour-through Method
Authors: Torres Ariana P. , Mickelbart Michael V. , Lopez Roberto G.
Published: December 2018

Well-established protocols exist for using the pour-through extraction method to estimate substrate pH and electrical conductivity (EC) values for small root volumes. However, little work has been done to test the accuracy and consistency of these measurements in large containers. Our objective was to determine if the amount of distilled water applied to #1, #3, #5, and #10 (2-, 8-, 11-, and 27-L media volume, respectively) containers would affect leachate pH and EC values or consistency of measurements. Boxwood (Buxus ×koreana ‘Green Velvet’) was selected for this study because it is a common container-grown nursery crop. Distilled water was poured evenly over the media surface in each container 1 h after irrigation to obtain a leachate volume of either 50 mL or 2.5% of media volume and leachate EC and pH were measured. Media pH values were 0.1 to 0.3 points higher when 50 mL leachate was collected, but the difference was only significant during the first 2 weeks of measurements. There were no consistent differences in pH over container sizes or leachate volume. Leachate EC values were similar when measured in leachate collected as 50 mL total volume or 2.5% of media volume in 8- and 11-L containers. However, in 27-L containers, obtaining 50 mL leachate resulted in higher EC values than when 2.5% media volume was obtained. Both pH and EC values obtained from 50-mL leachate fractions over container sizes were more consistent than when 2.5% of the media volume was collected. Growers should collect 50 mL of leachate to test media pH and EC regardless of container size.