bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SURVEY OF RETAIL GARDEN CENTER EMPLOYEE TRAINING IN ALABAMA
Authors: Musgrove Mary B. , Williams J. David , Behe Bridget K. , Tilt Kenneth M.
Published: April 2024

A survey was conducted with 130 retail garden centers in Alabama to assess personnel training. The 59 item survey was mailed to 472 employees of these garden centers on 1 June 1992 requesting the amount, frequency, and methods of training they had received from their current employer. 176 surveys were returned for a 37% response rate. 69% of employees received verbal policies and standards from their employer when hired, whereas only 37% were given a written job description of responsibilities. 42% of the employees had received some kind of formal training with 56% received all of their training on an individual basis. Of the employees who received training in small groups, it was performed one to three times among 47% of employees and more than 10 times with 25% of employees. Significant decreases were shown in the amount of training received between the first week and the end of the first six months on the job. The results suggest not enough emphasis is being placed on employee training in the management and operation of retail garden centers in Alabama.
WITHIN-ROW SPACING EFFECTS ON TRAITS OF IMPORTANCE TO MECHANICAL HARVEST IN PAPRIKA PEPPER
Authors: Kahn Brian A. , Cooksey James R. , Motes James E.
Published: April 2024

Several within-row spacings (WRS) were tested on paprika peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) grown at a standard between-row spacing of 0.9 m. The objective was to maximize marketable yield per hectare while minimizing plant size and lodging to as to facilitate mechanical harvest. Total and marketable fruit dry weights per hectare decreased linearly as WRS increased from 5 to 25 cm in 1990. The 20 and 25 cm WRS produced undesirably massive plants with a high rate of lodging. Fruit yields were unaffected by WRS of 5, 10, and 15 cm in 1991, but lodging and stem dry weight data continued to favor the higher populations. Two experiments performed without thinning in 1992 produced WRS comparisons of about 4.5 vs. 8 cm and 7 vs. 11 cm, respectively. Stem dry weights were highest with the wider WRS, but marketable fruit dry weights per hectare and lodging percentages were unaffected by WRS in either 1992 study. A target WRS of 10 cm (about 11 plants/m2) is recommended for paprika intended for mechanical harvest. Net WRS <10 cm are preferable to those >10 cm.
EVALUATION OF THREE DISEASE FORECASTING SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING EARLY BLIGHT ON TOMATO IN NEW JERSEY
Authors: Cowgill W.P. , Maletta M. H. , Johnston S. A.
Published: April 2024

Three disease forecasting systems, FAST, CUFAST and TOM-CAST, were statistically evaluated at The Rutgers Snyder Research and Extension Farm in northwestern New Jersey for efficacy in the control of early blight (Alternarina solani) on tomato. All three forecasting systems have generated reduced fungicide application schedules that significantly reduced fungicide input and provided adequate control for early blight. In 1991, using FAST and CUFAST, and in 1992, using all three disease forecasting systems, six fungicide applications were eliminated from the standard weekly spray schedule. Eliminating six fungicide applications resulted in an average reduction of 9 lbs a.i./A of fungicide with a calculated average cost savings of $200/A. In 1992, a demonstration trial with the CUFAST disease forecasting system in a commercial tomato planting eliminated six fungicide applications, provided commercially acceptable disease control and resulted in a $552/A reduction in production costs calculated with actual production records.
THE GENETIC CONTROL OF HYPERSENSITIVITY TO CHERRY LEAF-ROLL VIRUS IN WALNUT AND THE IDENTIFICATION OF DNA MARKERS FOR THE RAPID IDENTIFICATION OF RESISTANT SEEDLINGS.
Authors: Woeste Keith , Bernatzky Robert , McGranahan Gale
Published: April 2024

Blackline disease of walnut, caused by the Cherry Leafroll virus (CLRV), causes fatal necrosis at the union between English walnut (Juglans regia) scions and hypersensitive rootstocks. `Paradox' hybrids between English walnut and Northern California black walnut (J. hindsii) are hypersensitive to CLRV. In 1983, `Paradox' trees were backcrossed to J. regia and J. hindsii. Patch graft inoculations of 111 backcrosses, the parent species and `Paradox' hybrids indicated that hypersensitivity to CLRV is inherited as a single dominant gene. Since breeding efficiency can be improved by the elimination of susceptible seedlings, we began a search for genetic markers tightly linked to CLRV resistance. DNA was sampled from the test population and from germplasm of both J. regia and J. hindsii. These samples were screened using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers and bulk segregant analysis. Over 360 random primers have been screened and two loci that are less than 10 map units from the hypersensitivity locus in this population identified. Efforts to find more closely linked markers that flank the hypersensitivity locus are continuing.
EXAMINATION OF VIRULENCE OF ISOLATES OF THE BITTER ROT PATHOGEN ON APPLE FRUIT
Authors: Shi Yan , Rom Curt , Correll J.C.
Published: April 2024

Virulence of morphologically diverse isolates of Glomerella cingulata (anamorph: Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) and Collectotrichum sp. was examined by inoculating apple fruit. Three morphologically distinct fungal pathogens were examined on Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, or Idared. Fruit were inoculated by either placing a 100 ul spore suspension (106 spores/ml) into wounds or spraying the inoculum onto wounded fruit. All fruit were incubated at 25C on 100% RH. Free moisture was maintained on spray inoculated fruit. Virulence was quantified by measuring both lesion diameter and depth every 2-5 days for 2-4 weeks after inoculation. Overall, all of the teleomorphic isolates (G. cingulata) were significantly (p=.05) more virulent than the nonchromogenic or chromogenic isolates on fruit of all three cultivars. Genetically and morphologically diverse isolates of the bitter rot pathogen(s) are being selected and used to evaluate cultivar resistance to fruit rot.
ISOZYME VARIABILITY IN THE JAPANESE PLUM
Authors: Byrne David H.
Published: April 2024

The diploid cultivated plum, or the Japanese plum is a group of plants in which several plum species have been incorporated. Within the cultivated plum two germplasm pools are recognizable: the California and the Southeastern groups. A comparison of the isozyme variability at 11 loci between the two groups shows that the California germplasm is two to three fold less variable in terms of both percent of polymorphic loci and mean heterozygosity than the Southeastern germplasm. The greater isozyme variability within the Southeastern germplasm is due to the alleles derived from P. angustifolia and P. cerasifera which have been used as sources of disease resistance in the development of plums adapted to the humid plum growing areas of the southeastern United states.
ORGANIZATION OF GENETIC DIVERSITY IN CULTIVATED COMMON BEAN (Phaseolus vulgaris) AS REVEALED BY RAPD MARKER ANALYSIS
Authors: Skroch Paul , Nienhuis Jim , Beebe Steve , Meyers Jim , McClean Phil
Published: April 2024

More than 400 cultivars and breeding lines of Phaseolus vulgaris have been analyzed for 100 RAPD markers. The data set includes cultivars from all market classes of dry and snap beans, including entries from North America, Central America, and Europe. Genetic dissimilarities were calculated as the fraction of polymorphisms scored for each genotype pair. The distribution of genotypes revealed using principle components analysis and multi-dimensional scaling on the matrix of genetic dissimilarities agrees in general with phenotypic classification. We are currently studying the relationship of marker data to pedigree information. We are also examining individual marker and marker linkage distributions as they relate to the overall patterns of diversity.
MEDICINAL VEGETABLES IN GUIZHOU PROVINCE OF CHINA
Authors: Ma Guangsho
Published: April 2024

Guizhou, a mountainous province located in southwestern China, has a great diversity of species of wild plants due to its temperate climate and abundant rainfall. Since Guizhou is rich in wild vegetables, the mountaineers there tend to take wild vegetables as medicine instead of going to hospital when they are sick. For instance, they often use cochin-chinese asparagus to cure constipation, cudweed and britlethistle to cure cough with sputa, shortlobed wormwood to cure epistaxis and melena, hirsute shiny to cure irregular menstruation of women, common self-heal to cure high blood pressure, longtube ground to cure common cold, purslane and Japanese clover to cure dysentery, etc. For the mountaineers, the wild herbs are both edible greens and medicine. Eating medicinal herbs is an excellent way of retaining healthy for the mountaineers. These medicinal herbs can prevent diseases and supply vitamins, minerals, cellulose and other elements necessary for normal and healthy development of human body. As a result, the mountaineers have good health and live long life. There are more than 100 species of Mild plants which are both edible and medicinal in Guizhou province according to my research and investigation for 50 decades.
IMMUNOCYTOCHEMICAL LOCALIZATION OF 22-KILODALTON POTATO PROTEINASE INHIBITORS
Authors: Suh Sang-Gon , Cho Jun-Koo , Chung Hee-Don , Hannapel David J.
Published: April 2024

Twenty-two kilodalton potato proteinase inhibitor (22-kD PPI) is synthesized as a pre-protein with a hydrophobic signal sequence of 40 amino acids. Using immunogoldcytochemistry we determined the subcellular localization of the 22-kD PPI. Using 22-kD PPI specific antibodies and GAR-IgG colloidal gold for electron-microscopical immunocytochemistry, the 22-kD PPI was found to be localized mainly in the vacuole and cytoplasm of both tubers and wounded leaves of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L). Within the vacuole, label was found predominantly over the protein aggregates and protein cluster-like structure. Neither cell wall nor the intercellular space contained detectable levels of the 22-kD PPI. We found one basic residue with a hydrophobic core followed by a cleavage site for signal peptidase in the deduced amino acid sequence of the 22-kD PPI cDNA clone, p34021. A conserved glutamine, which is thought to be required for correct sorting in all vacuolar proteins sequenced to date, was also found in amino acid sequence derived from the 22-kD PPI cDNA clone, p34021.
SEED YIELD IN CULTIVATED NATIVE HERBACEOUS SPECIES
Authors: Bohnen J.L. , Hanchek A.M.
Published: April 2024

The Univ. of Minn. has undertaken a two year project to increase commercial production of native grass & forb seed. Spartina pectinata Link (prairie cordgrass), Tradescantia ohiensis Raf. (spiderwort), & Dalea purpurea Vent (purple prairie clover) were noted by producers as having low seed yield & often low germinability as well Field trials were conducted to compare yield of these three species in cultivation versus in a prairie matrix. Individuals were transplanted from a prairie into a cultivated plot in May 1992. The prairie plot was not modified, while the cultivated plot was fertilized, irrigated, weeded, & mulched. Yield components measured included number of inflorescences per plant, seed weight, & above-ground dry weight. T. ohiensis established readily & first season seed yield was significantly greater in cultivation than in the prairie. S. pectinata & D. purpurea in cultivation did not produce seed the first season; however, strong vegetative growth suggested that results similar to those achieved with T. ohiensis may be attained in subsequent growing seasons. Monocultural production of native species provides an opportunity to control inputs & competition & to utilize species-specific harvest practices.
CHANGES IN RIPENING THORNLESS ERECT BLACKBERRY FRUIT
Authors: Perkins-Veazie P. M. , Clark J. R. , Collins J. K.
Published: April 2024

`Navaho' is a thornless erect tetraploid blackberry. Fruit were harvested at 6 color stages to characterize the changes occurring during ripening. Fresh and dry fruit weights indicated double sigmoidal growth while pyrene growth was single sigmoidal. Respiration was of a climacteric nature and ethylene production peaked at 0.4 nl/g-h at the dull black stage. Free ACC and ACC oxidase did not increase until the shiny black stage, corresponding with the first detectable ethylene production. Anthocyanin (cyanidin-3-glucoside) remained at low levels until fruit were 50% black (mottled). Skin and receptacle firmness decreased sharply between the mottled and black stages of ripeness. Soluble solids concentration continued to increase, and titratable acidity to decrease, into the dull black stage. These results indicate that most ripening aspects associated with edible quality occur late in `Navaho' fruit development, but prior to stimulated ethylene production.
POINSETTIAS GROWN IN MEDIA BLENDS OF COMPOSTED ORGANIC WASTE PRODUCTS
Authors: Keniston Andrew , Gouin Francis R.
Published: April 2024

Rooted cuttings of poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) were grown in Sunshine Mix and 12 blended media containing various proportions of: a) composted yard waste; b) co-compost (sewage sludge composted with municipal solid waste); c) peatmoss; d) perlite; e) pine bark. Amount of composted waste products per blend varied from 50% to 78% by volume. Three fertilizer regimes: 1) O; 2) Osmocote 18/6/12; 3) Osmocote 39/0/0. Osmocote was applied after potting to render equal amounts N. Sunshine Mix with 18/6/12 Osmocote produced greatest dry weight. The more successful compost blends produced 82-85% of this dry weight without Osmocote. Several compost blends achieved greater dry mass without fertilization. Plants grown in compost media blends showed little preference for Osmocote treatments. All plants grown in compost blended media exhibited marginal chlorosis and neurosis of leaves to varying degrees. Plants grown in compost blended media tended to produce greater average bract size than plant height. Leachate tests revealed poor infiltration of water in media with high proportions of co-compost.
ESTIMATION OF TALAROMYCES FLAVUS DISTRIBUTION IN ILLINOIS SOILS.
Authors: Unkraut Jean M. , Flott James T. , Kling Gary J.
Published: April 2024

Talaromyces flavus is a soil borne fungus which is antagonistic to the fungi which cause verticillium wilt. A study was conducted to determine the distribution of Talaromyces flavus in Illinois nursery soils and to isolate strains of T. flavus from widely separated geographic regions for potential biological control of Verticillium dahliae. The state of Illinois was divided into 10 regions and samples were taken at 0 to 15 cm depth from both cultivated nursery soils and uncultivated wooded areas in each region. T. flavus was isolated on a selective medium and determined after 7 to 10 days of growth. T. flavus was found in all the nurseries surveyed. The distribution of T. flavus within regions and nurseries varied but a higher percentage of samples from northern and central Illinois contained the fungus. Soils from nursery production fields were more likely to contain T. flavus than adjacent uncultivated woodlands.
PINCHING TREATMENTS FOR LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA MILL. CV. HIDCOTE BLUE GROWN AS A POTTED PLANT
Authors: Tucker Andrea L. , Starman Terri W. , MacKenzie Amy J.
Published: April 2024

Lavender is grown commercially for oil production, but could be grown as a flowering potted plant due to its attractive foliage, blue flowers, and distinct aroma. In our preliminary experiment, it was noted that lavender grown as a 0.4-liter potted plant had sparse, upright growth. Two experiments were conducted to optimize the appearance of lavender as a commercially viable crop. In one experiment, plants were pinched 8 or 10 weeks after sowing with either a chemical (dikegulac at 0, 780, 1560, or 3120 mg·liter-1) or manual (apical meristem removal) pinch. It was found that chemical applications of 780 and 1560 mg·liter-1 applied at 8 weeks improved the appearance of the plant, giving it a more rounded and compact form as compared to the control. The plants treated at 10 weeks had an abnormal appearance due to many small axillary shoots originating from the branches. Dikegulac applied at 3120 mg·liter-1 was phytotoxic at both stages of growth. Manual pinching alone was generally ineffective in promoting an attractive growth habit. In another experiment, it was found that lavender formed an aesthetically-pleasing, rounded canopy if both manual and chemical stimuli were applied simultaneously 6 weeks after sowing. In this treatment, concentrations of 780 and 1560 mg·liter-1 were equally effective, while 3120 was again detrimental.
LEAF REMOVAL INFLUENCES CANOPY STRUCTURE, BUNCH ROT AND YIELD WITH VITIS VINIFERA L. CVS. OPTIMA AND CABERNET FRANC.
Authors: Staff Sue-Ann E.
Published: April 2024

Leaf removal treatments were applied to Vitis vinifera L. cvs. Optima and Cabernet Franc in the Canadian Niagara Region in 1992. Treatments consisted of removing 0% (no leaves), 50% (every other leaf) and 100% (all leaves) from the shoot origin to the most distal cluster when berries were pea-sized. Data was collected on canopy structure, occurrence of bunch rot (Botrytis cinerea Pers.:Fr.), yield, must and wine quality. Application of the 50% and 100% leaf removal (LR) treatments reduced leaf layer number (LLN), percent interior leaves (PIL) and percent interior clusters (PIC) with both cultivars. The influence of LR on LLN, PIL and PIC was greatest for the 100% treatment compared to 50% and 0% This resulted in a reduction in the severity of bunch rot with Optima and a reduction in the incidence and severity with the disease tolerant cultivar Cabernet Franc. The 50% and 100% LR reduced yield per vine by 33% and 46% respectively with Optima and by 32% and 29% respectively with Cabernet Franc. Average berry weight of the 50% and 100% treatments was significantly lower for Cabernet Franc. Within both cultivars, there was no significant effect of treatment on the number of clusters and number of berries per cluster. Significant influence of the treatments on the must and wine quality was also noted.
FIRMNESS, STRENGTH, AND STIFFNESS OF APPLES MEASURED BY NONDESTRUCTIVE DYNAMIC METHODS.
Authors: Abbott Judith A.
Published: April 2024

Sonic transmission and dynamic force/deformation (F/D) tests are potential nondestructive measurements of firmness of fresh apples that could provide consumers with more uniform product and reduce losses to packers. Sonic vibrational spectra, dynamic F/D spectra, Magness-Taylor puncture (MT), and compression tests of excised tissue specimens were recorded during storage of `Delicious' and `Golden Delicious' apples. Sonic resonance frequencies decreased during storage and were closely related to MT firmness and to tissue strength and rigidity. Frequencies of dynamic F/D peaks were also correlated with MT firmness but not as highly as were sonic resonance frequencies.
DIETARY FIBER IN APPLE
Authors: Gheyas Ferdous , Blankenship Sylvia M. , Young Eric
Published: April 2024

Fiber composition of seven varieties of apple; Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, McIntosh, Stayman, Red Rome, and York were studied. Hydrolyzates of fiber fractions from fruit samples of these varieties were analyzed for rhamnose, fucose, arabinose, xylose, mannose, galactose, and glucose content. Fiber composition of Red Delicious and Golden Delicious apples at different developmental stages were also studied. Fruit were analyzed every 15 days starting from 30 days after fruit set through maturity. Marked varietal difference was observed in the rhamnose, fucose, galactose, and mannose content of apple fiber. The difference in arabinose, xylose, and glucose content was less prominent except for York apples which were found to have markedly lower xylose content than other varieties and McIntosh with lower glucose content than other varieties. Both Red and Golden Delicious apple fiber showed gradual increase in xylose and glucose content during fruit development. Other component sugars were also found to change during development.
OIL CONTENT, FATTY ACID COMPOSITION, AND VITAMIN E CONCENTRATION OF 17 HAZELNUT VARIETIES, COMPARED TO OTHER TYPES OF NUTS AND OIL SEEDS.
Authors: Ebrahem Kais S. , Richardson D. G. , Tetley R. M. , Mehlenbacher S. A.
Published: April 2024

Oil content, fatty acid and vitamin E composition of seventeen varieties of hazelnuts, thirteen types of nuts, and seven different oil seeds were determined as part of a larger study on Hazelnut kernel quality. Alpha-tocopherol was the predominant (90%) tocopherol in all hazelnut varieties. In other nuts α- and Γ-tocopherols were predominant Delta-tocopherol was found in some kinds of nuts but it was not found in hazelnuts. All four kinds of tocopherols were found in oil seeds and tocotrienols were found in some. Hazelnuts are a rich source of α-tocopherol. Oil concentration varied among hazelnut cultivars and ranged from a low of 57.9% in Hall's Giant to 67% in Tombul. Macadamias were the highest in oil content (76.9%). Oleic acid and linoleic acid comprised more than 90% of the fatty acid composition in most nuts.
CANNING PROPERTIES OF NINE LOQUAT VARIETIES
Authors: Xing-Qian YE.
Published: April 2024

The canning properties of 9 loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) were investigated. The chemical components of fresh and canned fruit analyzed. The changes of these chemical components during and their effects on canning are discussed. Cultivars `Glory,' `For Treasure,' and `Big Red Gown' are found most suitable for canning with their yellow to orange flesh color, good flavor and texture. `Small Red Flower,' a small fruit cultivar, and `White Flower,' a milk color cultivar, did not seem very good for direct canning, but they did not seem bad for producing canned fruit cocktails. There were no correlation between the chemical components, including titrable acidity, total soluble solids, sugar, total phenols, activity of polyphendoxidase, pectin, and the sensory scores of the canned loquat.
DEFICIT IRRIGATION AND SUMMER PRUNING INTEGRATED FOR HIGH-DENSITY SWEET CHERRY ORCHARDS
Authors: Southwick S.M. , Lampinen B. , Shackel K. , Yeager J.T.
Published: April 2024

A 2-ac block of `Bing'/Colt, Mahaleb or GM61/1 was planted 8×15′, Feb 1991 so that 7 treatments were arranged in 6 blocks. We imposed water stress during 2 distinct periods, June or July in 1992. Once trees had stopped growing water was added (estimated @ 50% ETc) to maintain leaf turgor, but not to initiate further shoot growth. Well-watered (100% ETc) trees were summer pruned to check growth. Water stress was monitored by measuring water potential of basal bagged leaves with a pressure chamber at midday. Shoot growth was stopped by water stress. Shoot growth ceased at a trunk water potential of approximately -17 bars in both Colt and Mahaleb rootstocks although Colt rootstock went into stress more rapidly than Mahaleb. Colt may be more sensitive to water deprivation at this site than Mahaleb rootstock. Well-watered GM 61/1 trees had tree sizes much like those of water stressed Colt trees. A combination of early season stress and summer pruning (heading) may be the best combination used to control growth. Flower bud formation was noticed by season's end in these 2nd leaf trees. Water stress can be used to control tree growth, save water and encourage fruitfulness when integrated into an appropriate orchard system.
TREE PERFORMANCE, FRUIT QUALITY, AND MINERAL NUTRITION OF `DELICIOUS' APPLE STRAINS.
Authors: Fallahi Esmaeil , Simons B.R. , Fellman J.K. , Longstroth M.A. , Colt W.M.
Published: April 2024

Tree performance and fruit quality at harvest and after storage and leaf mineral nutrition in 28 strains of `Delicious' apple were studied over several years. `Classic Red', `Hi-Early`, `Nured Royal', `Rose Red', and `Sharp Red' had bigger trunk cross sectional area (TCSA), while `Starking`, 'August Red`, and `Apex' had both bigger TCSA and cumulative yields. `Red King Oregon Spur' and `Improved Ryan Spur' had a high yield efficiency. `Aomori' `Atwood', `Redchief`, and `Hardispur' had low cumulative yields and yield efficiencies. `Rose Red', `Red King Oregon Spur', `Ace', `Imperial', `Starking', and `Wellspur' had heavier fruit, while `August Red', `Hardispur' and `Starkrimson' had smaller fruit than most other strains. `Starkspur Supreme' had the highest L/D ratio and `Early Red One' and `Rose Red` had higher red color than those of all other strains. `Aomori', `Hardispur`, `Nured Royal', `Silverspur` and `Starkrimson' had high soluble solids concentrations. Differences were observed in the leaf mineral concentrations between different strains. `Apex', `Classic Red' and `Silverspur' had a high overall acceptability, while `Sturdeespur', `Hardispur' and `Aomori' were not acceptable.
THE FATE OF N FROM COMPOSTED POULTRY MANURE WHEN APPLIED TO FORSYTHIA AND CHRYSANTHEMUM
Authors: Klingaman Gerald , Wheeler G. L.
Published: April 2024

`Lynwood Gold' forsythia and `Jessica' chrysanthemum were grown for 12 weeks in a nursery mix consisting of 5 parts composted pine bark, 1 part composted hardwood bark and 1 part sand. Fertilization was by topdress applications of composted poultry manure at rates of 1, 2 and 3 g N per container, resin coated slow release fertilizer at 3 g N per container, or with constant liquid fertilization at 200 mg N per liter. Leachate samples were collected weekly and nitrate, nitrite, ammonium and total nitrogen determined. At 12 weeks, plant dry weight and the amount of nitrogen in the plant, media and leachate determined. Total nitrogen loss in the leachate for the compost was rapid during the first three weeks and then fell to low levels. The resin coated fertilizer released a higher and constant nitrogen flux during the study than the composted manure but total nitrogen loss over the 12 week period was lower than for compost. The leachate nitrogen in the constant liquid fertilization treatment increased during the study. The relative proportion of nitrogen in the medium, compost and leachate will be discussed.
GROUND KENAF STEM CORE CAN BE USED SUCCESSFULLY AS A CONTAINER MEDIUM AMENDMENT
Authors: Wang Yin-Tung
Published: April 2024

The woody stem core of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) was ground and used without composting as a container medium amendment for the production of several tropical foliage and nursery species. Media made of various proportions of kenaf and peat moss were amended with micronutrients, gypsum, dolomitic lime stone powder, superphosphate, Osmocote, a wetting agent and a fungicide. Plant growth in these media was compared to that in two widely used commercial media. Brassaia actinophylla in kenaf amended media grew taller and had more leaves, heavier weight, and better root grade than those produced in the two commercial media. Pittosporum tobira plants in kenaf media were taller, wider, and heavier than those grown in the commercial media. Other species tested also responded favorably to media amended with kenaf. Media containing the ground kenaf core tended to maintain the optimum pH better and their leachate samples had lower electrical conductivities than the commercial media. Shrinkage was a problem when 100% fine ground kenaf was used, but this was greatly reduced by adding peat moss or using a coarser grind. Media containing kenaf required more frequent watering than did the commercial media.
DISPOSAL METHODS FOR VEGETATIVE WASTES FROM HURRICANE ANDREW.
Authors: Ulmer D. , Townshend W. , Bryan H.
Published: April 2024

Hurricane Andrew created over 17 yrs. of wood debris in a few hrs. in Dade County on 8-24-92. The rush to burn debris contributed to respiratory health problems. Through meetings with FEMA, Army Corps of Engineers, Dade County and environmental groups, SCS and SDSWCD pushed the idea of recycling this waste. Mulching and eventual composting of wood debris and using farmland as reuse sites were promoted. A joint pilot project established a team of mobile chippers coordinated by representatives of each agency. FEMA funded the project and chippers began working in groves after trees were trimmed and branches were stacked in tree rows. Over 600 ha. ware chipped and mulched during the 10 wk. contract period. More than 800 ha. are to be done under a new contract. Mulched material from other sites were delivered free to landowners who covered exposed roots of trees and replaced soil blown away by high winds. Over 200,000 m3 of mulch were delivered 5 mos. after the hurricane and 1.2 million m3 more were requested. For final pickup of debris, central grinding sites ware established and mulch was hauled to growers for mulch or compost.
DISCOVERY OF UNREDUCED 2N POLLEN IN DIPLOID AND TETRAPLOID IPOMOEA RELATIVES OF SWEETPOTATO.
Authors: Bohac Janice R.
Published: April 2024

In many crop species, unreduced 2n pollen has facilitated crossing wild species of a lower ploidy number to the polyploid crop species. Previous work in this laboratory identified high levels of 2n pollen in 4X Ipomoea batatas and low levels of 2n pollen in 6X (sweetpotato). The closest related species to sweetpotato are classed as the group Batatas of Ipomoea, and are a potential source of resistance genes. Before the 2X and 4X species can be used to improve 6X sweetpotato, the ploidy gap must be bridged. Several Ipomoea species were examined for 2n pollen to enable the 2X and 4X species to be crossed to sweetpotato. A minimum of three accessions per species were examined and regular and 2n pollen counted for a minimum of three flowers per plant. Six of the seven species in group Batatas and the other two species examined had high levels of 2n pollen, many over 50%. The 2n pollen trait appears to be very common in the Ipomoea genus and is proposed to play an important role in the evolution of the species. The common occurrence of very high levels of 2n pollen in all of the species examined indicated the feasibility of using these species in sweetpotato improvement despite ploidy differences.
PRE-FORCING ETHANOL TREATMENTS INFLUENCE BUD BREAK AND SHOOT ELONGATION OF FORCED WOODY PLANT SPECIES
Authors: Yang Guochen , Read Paul E.
Published: April 2024

Ethanol has been used as a disinfestation agent for in vitro studies and micropropagation purposes. A previous study indicated that ethanol may have effects similar to those of bleach solution on bud break of woody species (Yang and Read, 1992). Research was therefore conducted to determine ethanol effects on the breaking of bud dormancy. The basal one third of dormant lilac, privet and spirea stems was soaked in different concentrations of ethanol solution (0, 25, 50, 75 or 95%) for 15 minutes before placement in the forcing solution. The results demonstrated that the pre-forcing ethanol treatments hastened bud break for lilac and privet while delaying bud break for spirea. The percentage of bud break and shoot elongation for lilac and privet were also promoted. Generally speaking, 75% ethanol was the best treatment. Quality softwood growth was therefore produced in the off-season. Such new growth can then be used either as explant materials for micropropagation or as cuttings for rooting.
EFFECT OF ROOTSTOCK SHOOTS ON GROWTH OF CONTAINERIZED CITRUS NURSERY TREES
Authors: Williamson Jeffrey G. , Maust Brian E. , Al-Jaleel Ali
Published: April 2024

Two experiments were conducted with Swingle citrumelo [Citrus paradisi (L.) Osb. × Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.] and Cleopatra mandarin (C. reticulata Blanco) seedlings budded with `Hamlin' orange [C. sinensis (L.) Osb.] to determine the effects of rootstock shoots on nursery tree growth. All experiments were conducted in a greenhouse. Plants were forced by cutting off the rootstock above the bud union (C), or by bending the rootstock shoot above the bud union and tying it to the base of the plant (B). In one experiment, rootstock leaves for B plants were subjected to 4 levels of shade: (1) no shade; (2) 70% shade; (3) 90% shade; or 95% shade. In another experiment, rootstock shoots of B plants were subjected to 4 levels of defoliation: (1) no defoliation; (2) approximately 33% defoliation; (3) approximately 66% defoliation; and (4) complete defoliation. Scion stem and leaf dry weights, leaf area and number, and shoot length were less for plants with shaded rootstock tops than for nonshaded plants. Stem and leaf dry weights and leaf area of scion flush 1 were less at 90 and 95% shade than at 70% shade. Defoliation of rootstock tops reduced scion stem and leaf dry weights, leaf area and number, and shoot length compared to nondefoliated plants. Most scion growth measurements were reduced more by complete defoliation than by partial defoliation.
GROWTH RESPONSES OF CHERRY ROOTSTOCK CULTURES TO VARIED CARBON DIOXIDE, SUCROSE, AND LIGHT REGIMES
Authors: Ali Shaukat , Andersen R. L. , Mudge K. W.
Published: April 2024

Poor growth and high mortality of in vitro produced plants during acclimatization stage has troubled propagators. Studies were undertaken to improve growth and ex-vitro performance of `Gil48/1,' a new Prunus cerasus L. × P. canescens Bois (cherry) rootstock cultivar. Two experiments were conducted during the course of this study. In a specially designed apparatus growth reponses of shoot cultures to two CO2 levels (340ppm, 1200ppm) and five sucrose levels (0,2,5,10, and 20mg/l) were studied. Leaf area leaf dry weight, number of shoots and total plant dry weight were significantly increased with increase in sucrose concentration in the media regardless of the CO2enrichment.

In the other experiment Stage III shoots of the same cultivar were exposed to two CO2 (400-500ppm, 1200-1300ppm) and three different light levels (30-40, 60-75, and 85-100μmol.s-1.m-2) for 45 days. Significant increases in leaf area, leaf and shoot dry weight and total plant biomass were observed with CO2 enrichment and increased illumination intensity.
RAPID GRAFT PROPAGATION OF GRAPE ROOTSTOCKS IN TEXAS
Authors: McEachern George Ray , Roth Bryan G.
Published: April 2024

Dormant adult hardwood cutting of Vitis candicans (VC) grapes were grafted, callused and grown in 1990, 91, and 92 at College Station, TX. Four indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) treatments were evaluated with all four promoting callus and root formation significantly over a no IBA control. Nine callus treatments were evaluated with Outdoor Moist Sand being significantly superior. Ten VC seedlings from throughout Texas were compared, Smith Mustang being significantly superior.
EVALUATION OF SELECTED WARM-SEASON TURFGRASS SPECIES GROWN IN RIYADH REGION OF SAUDI ARABIA.
Authors: Al-Mana Fahed A. , El-Kiey Tariq M. , Al-Khalifa N.
Published: April 2024

An investigation was conducted to evaluate the growth and adaptability of ten selected warm-season turfgrass species under the environmental condition of Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia. The establishment rate, yield fresh weight and quality assessments, as evaluation parameters, showed that there were significant differences among these various turfgrass species. Adalyd seashore paspalum and Tifgreen bermudagrass showed the best adaptation, if properly managed. On the other hand, Tifway bermudagrass and Variegata St. Augustinegrass were poorly adapted. Although Egyptian crabgrass showed better growth and good quality, its use may be limited due to its low cold tolerance. Moreover, there were some observations that may limit the use of other turfgrasses, such as the cold stress effect on the common bermudagrass, the very low establishment rate of Korean velvetgrass and the vertical growth habit and low density cf local bermudagrass.
CHANGES IN WATER AND NUTRIENT USE EFFICIENCY DURING WHEAT GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT.
Authors: Berry Wade L. , Wheeler Raymond M. , Mackowiak Cheryl
Published: April 2024

Wheat (cv. Yecora Rojo) plants were grown in a closed chamber as part of NASA's Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) program. Plants were grown using a recirculating hydroponics with EC controlled at 0.12 S m-1 by automatic additions of a nutrient concentrate, and pH was controlled at 5.8 units with automatic additions of nitric acid. Daily CO2 exchange, water uptake, and nutrient uptake were monitored for the entire 20 m2 canopy throughout growth. Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) relative to water and CO2 uptake were determined, where NUE-W was defined as the amount of water taken up per unit of nutrient and NUE-C as the amount of carbon fixed per unit of nutrient. Water uptake remained relatively constant after canopy closure (25 DAP), where CO2 uptake peaked during rapid vegetative growth and then declined gradually with age and gain fill. Nutrient uptake also peaked during vegetative growth but declined sharply after anthesis. Water use efficiency (WUE) was high early in growth and then declined with age due to the decrease in CO2 exchange over time. In contrast NUE-C and NUE-W were low during vegetative growth and the increased nearly 10-fold during grain fill.
CONTROL OF LEAF CUPPING ON CUCUMBERS IN CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: Tibbitts T.W. , Staub J.E. , Peterson B.V.
Published: April 2024

Cucumber plants commonly are found to develop a marginal necrosis of leaves when grown in controlled environments. When occurring on developing leaves, it results in cupping of leaves. Studies in the University of Wisconsin Biotron have shown that the injury is initiated in the hydathodes and produces a chlorosis and necrosis of the 2-4 mm marginal area. Sepals become necrotic and fail to elongate. Petal size is reduced and flowers sometimes fail to open, yet tendrils are not affected. No injury occurs in certain rooms of the Biotron. Transfer of plants from `clean' rooms to `contaminated' rooms can produce injury within 48 hours. It can be eliminated by the use of activated charcoal or potassium permanganate filters on the incoming air or through use of water sprays in the air stream. Mineral analysis of tissues from the margins of the leaves provided no evidence of toxic or deficient levels of any nutrients. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis of air samples from the growing rooms are being undertaken to help identify the casual agent.
AN AXILLARY SHOOT PROLIFERATION LABORATORY EXERCISE--MICROPROPAGATING AJUGA REPTANS
Authors: Preece John E. , Huetteman Carl A.
Published: April 2024

This exercise was developed for a plant propagation course to demonstrate the 4 stages of micropropagation, the effects of cytokinin concentrations, and the differences between adventitious and axillary shoot proliferation in a short time. Greenhouse-grown stock plants were brought into the laboratory and 4-5 cm long nodal stem segments or shoot tips were surface disinfested for 15 min. in 0.5% NaClO with 1 ml/liter Tween 20 followed by 2 5-min. rinses in sterile water. Working in the open laboratory near the bases of pairs of lit Bunsen burners, students placed either single node or shoot tip explants (2 cm long, 5 reps) onto MS medium with 0, 1, or 10 μM BA in 150 × 25 mm culture tubes. Cultures were incubated on open laboratory benches. Axillary shoots grew with 0 or 1 μM BA and most callus and adventitious shoots grew with 10 μM BA. Microshoots were rooted and acclimatized under mist in the greenhouse.
NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR IRRADIATION OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
Authors: Nonnecke G.R. , Olson D.G. , Reitmeier C.A. , Gladon R.J. , Gleason M.L.
Published: April 2024

The fruit and vegetable industry attempts to deliver to the consumer products of the highest quality. Irradiation of fruits and vegetables may allow the industry to achieve this goal more efficiently. A new and developing technology for enhancing food quality and safety is irradiation by using an electron beam linear accelerator, a source of high-speed electrons and x-rays. Advantages provided by this method of irradiation, as compared with other forms of irradiation, are: the direct use of electrons or conversion to x-rays; increased flexibility for irradiating a variety of products; variation of the irradiation dosage and energy level; no requirement for specialized safety equipment for installation of the facility; minimum operating cost of the facility when not in use; an immediate electrical disconnection when the facility is not in use; and, the source of energy for irradiation is not radioactive. The technology associated with electron beam irradiation is dynamic and continues to improve as more research is completed. The electron beam linear accelerator facility at Iowa State University has been commissioned and is operational. The facility and the process for irradiation of several agricultural products will be described. Also, preliminary data on electron beam irradiation of strawberries will be presented.
BREEDING AND PATENTING OF DOUBLE NEW GUINEA IMPATIENS
Authors: Drewlow Lyndon W.
Published: April 2024

Development of the Twice As Nice series of double flowered New Guinea Impatiens will be discussed with emphasis on breeding methods used and problems encountered while developing an entirely new flower type in that species of plant. Patenting procedures for a Utility or 101 patent on the double flower characteristics will also be discussed.
SHRUB BREEDING ACTIVITIES AT THE U.S. NATIONAL ARBORETUM
Authors: Johnson Randy
Published: April 2024

A primary mission of the research unit at the U.S. National Arboretum (USNA) is to develop landscape trees and shrubs which are pest resistant and tolerant of environmental stresses. These improved trees and shrubs will ultimately enhance environmental quality. Breeding, early screening, and evaluation activities are carried out at USNA. Superior selections are further evaluated through a cooperative evaluation program of private nurseries and public institutions located throughout the U.S. If the selection is deemed “superior” by the cooperators it is named, released through the USDA, registered with the appropriate International Registration Authority, and distributed to our stock increase cooperators. These cooperators are private nurseries which produce liners for the industry. All material is provided free of charge and is not patented or trademarked. The USNA provides some marketing support in the form of publishing the releases in scientific and trade journals.
FILM COATING OF HORTICULTURAL SEEDS, BENEFITS AND DIFFICULTIES.
Authors: Robani Hossein
Published: April 2024

Film coating is a process of depositing a thin but uniform coating material onto the surface of the seed. The film coating may contain polymers, pesticides, fungicides, biologicals, pigments or colorants, and other additives. Film coating will provide uniform placement of the seed treatment chemicals on the seed, is essentially dust free, safe to handle, improve flowability of the seed, and has bright color and nice appearance. However application process is slow and requires expensive machinery. The vegetable seed companies are an attractive market place for manufacturer of pharmaceutical coating polymers and film coating machinery, basic application methods, available film coating materials and machinery, and seed storage and viability will be discussed.
SAVING GERMPLASM BY UTILIZING IT
Authors: Brewbaker James L.
Published: April 2024

The genetic resources of most horticultural and forestry species often vastly exceed the limited germplasm entering cultivars in farmers' fields. The vulnerability of the narrow germplasm base of commercial cultivars is familiar to all vegetable breeders. It is most evident in the limited general resistance of commercial cultivars to diseases, pests, and environmental stresses. Nowhere is this more evident than in sweet corn. Development of supersweet corns for pesticide-free production in the tropics has led to the successful exploitation of tropical field-corn germplasm heretofore little used in breeding. New market flexibility in exploiting odd colors, shapes, sizes, flavors, and ecosystems (e.g., the tropics) is expanding the germplasm base of many vegetables. Saving germplasm by its utilization must involve the construct of broad-based composites and synthetics, and of core collections in gene banks. It must involve public fund commitment to long-range breeding as a means of germplasm preservation, and not only in international centers of agricultural research.
PHYSIOLOGY OF LIGHTLY PROCESSED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
Authors: Brecht Jeffrey K.
Published: April 2024

The physiology of lightly processed fruits and vegetables is essentially the physiology of wounded tissue. This type of processing involves slicing, chopping, peeling or abrasion. The wounded tissue responds with increased respiration and ethylene production, and, in some cases, induction of wound-healing processes. Other consequences of wounding include oxidative browning, membrane lipid degradation, and enhanced water loss. Appearance of new RNA and protein species in wounded tissue provides evidence for genomic control of the response. Factors affecting the wound response include species and cultivar, stage of physiological maturity, extent of wounding, temperature, O2 and CO2 concentrations, water vapor pressure, and various inhibitors. Immediate rinsing of the wounded tissue may minimize some wound responses by removing the contents of broken cells; adjusting the pH of the rinse solution and including various chemicals may inhibit related enzymatic processes.
COVER CROP AND NITROGEN MANAGEMENT INFLUENCE YIELDS OF SEQUENTIALLY PLANTED VEGETABLES
Authors: Bandele Owusu , Miller Thelma , Javius Marion , Udoh Oscar , Belvitt Byron
Published: April 2024

A three year study was conducted in which fall-planted cover crops of hairy vetch, Austrian winter pea and crimson clover were each followed by spring-planted `Sundance' summer squash and `Dasher' cucumber. Squash and cucumber crops were followed by fall `Florida Broadleaf' mustard green and `Vates' collard, respectively. The same vegetable sequences were also planted without benefit of cover crop. Three nitrogen (N) rates were applied to each vegetable crop. Biomass and resulting N contribution of Austrian winter pea were inconsistent when compared to the other covers. Spring vegetables following crimson clover generally outyielded vegetables in the other sequences. Effects of cover on fall crops were greatest during the third year when vegetable yields following clover again exceeded yields from other sequences. Elimination of N fertilizer resulted in reduced yields for all crops, but yields of crops receiving one-half the recommended N rate were generally comparable to those receiving the full rate.
ROOT-PRUNING EFFECTS ON PEACH TREES OVER 2 YEARS
Authors: Olien William C. , Williamson R.W. , Hood C.E. , Hardin M.E
Published: April 2024

Spring frosts frequently reduce peach crop load of in the SE, resulting in excessive shoot growth and shade, reduced fruit bud formation, and increased pruning costs. Root pruning (RP) has been an effective, nonchemical means to reduce excessive growth of apple trees, but response of peach is unknown. Two studies were conducted in 1991 & `92 on 8-year-old trees to determine: (A) effects of RP distance (Redhaven/and Jefferson/Lovell) and (B) effects of RP frequency (Redhaven/Lovell). In Study A, RP was imposed in 1991 at 30, 60, or 90 cm from the trunk (both sides of row, 45 cm depth), with unpruned controls. Shoot growth and canopy density (PAR absorbance) in `91 were more responsive than yield to RP. Optimum pruning distance was between 60 & 90 cm. There was no residual effect of `91 RP on `92 shoot growth (RP not repeated in `92), but yield was reduced more in `92 than in `91 by `91 RP. In Study B, RP frequency (75 cm from trunk) was imposed as a factorial: - & + RP in `91 × - & + RP in `92. `91 RP reduced shoot growth in `91 & `92, and reduced yield in `92 but not in `91. `91+`92 RP reduced `92 yield more than RP in `91 or '92 alone.