bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initiation and Maturation of Somatic Embryos of Squash (Cucurbito pepo)
Authors: Chee Paula P.
Published: February 2019

Plant regeneration from tissue cultures of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L. ev. YC60) has been observed. Embryogenic callus tissues were initiated when cotyledons of mature seeds were excised and cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with either 22.7 μm 2,4-D or a combination of 4.7 μm 2,4,5-T, 4 μm BA, and 0.5 μm kinetin. Clusters of somatic embryos were found in callus tissue. Maturation of these somatic embryos was effected by transfer of embryogenic callus tissues to MS supplemented with 0.5 μm NAA and 0.25 μm kinetin. Regenerated mature plants were morphologically normal and set fruits containing seeds that germinated normally. Chemical names used: 6-benzylaminopurine (BA); 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D); α - napthaleneacetic acid (NAA); 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T).
Somatic Embryogenesis in Carnation
Authors: Frey Les , Saranga Yehoshua , Janick Jules
Published: February 2019

Somatic embryogenesis was induced from internodal callus of `Scania', `Improved White Sim', and `Sandra' carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.). The optimum protocol for the induction of somatic embryogenesis included initiation of callus in liquid basal Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 3.0 μm 2,4-D followed by transfer to liquid basal medium lacking 2,4-D for embryo development. Somatic embryos originated from single cells and early embryonic development proceeded conventionally (i.e., via globular, heart-shaped, and torpedo stages), but clearly developed apical or root meristems were not always formed. A few embryos developed into seedlings and were acclimatized to ex vitro conditions. Chemical name used: 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D).
Sodium Chloride, Nitrogen Source, and Lime Influence Fusarium Crown Rot Severity in Tomato
Authors: Woltz S.S. , Jones J.P. , Scott J.W.
Published: February 2019

Media and nutrient variables were investigated to develop methods of reducing the incidence and severity of fusarium crown rot incited by Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht. f. sp. radicis-lycopersici Jarvis & Shoemaker (FORL), a disease problem of current importance with tomato Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Root-dip inoculated seedlings were transplanted into trays of a 1 Canadian peat: 1 vermiculite medium that had been prepared with factorial combinations of CaCO, (0.75 or 3.0 kg·m), Ca(NO) or (NH) SO (each at 225 mg N/liter), and NaCl at 0 or 2000 mg Na/liter as the experimental treatments. Crown rot was more severe with the lower CaCO rate, with (NH) SO, and supplemental NaCI. Data on fresh weight of seedlings expressed as percentage values relative to the noninoculated controls supported observations on disease severity.
Responses of Soil Insects to Mixed and Contiguous Plantings of Resistant and Susceptible Sweetpotato Cultivars
Authors: Schalk James M. , Jones Alfred , Dukes Philip D. , Burnham Kenneth P.
Published: February 2019

This study was designed to determine if the preference of soil insects for sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] cultivars is affected by the proximity of resistant or susceptible plant cultivars at various spacings. Comparisons were made for damage caused by wireworms (Conoderus spp.), Diabrotica spp., Systena spp., sweetpotato flea beetles (Chaetocnema confinis Crotch), and grubs (Plectris aliena Chapin; Phyllophaga ephilida Say) in previously reported resistant and susceptible cultivars. Field plots were planted with a resistant cultivar, a susceptible cultivar, or the two cultivars intermixed. Large roots exhibited more insect damage than medium and small roots. When plant spacing was increased, roots were larger and insect damage more severe. Mixed plantings of resistant and susceptible cultivars significantly reduced insect damage in the susceptible plants. Planting regime did not influence insect damage for the resistant cultivars.
Spring Dead Spot Occurrence in Bermudagrass following Fungicide and Nutrient Applications
Authors: McCarty Lambert B. , Lucas Leon T. , DiPaola Joseph M.
Published: February 2019

Spring dead spot (SDS) [Gaeumannomyces graminis (Sacc.) von Arx & D. Olivier var. graminis Walker] is a serious disease of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] throughout much of the southern United States and is believed to be at least partially influenced by the previous year's turfgrass management practices. Research was performed to: a) determine the efficacy of selected fungicide control measures; and b) determine the influence of N and K nutrient regimes on the expression of SDS symptoms in Tifway bermudagrass (C. dactylon x C. transvaalensis Burtt-Davy). Averaged over two sites in 2 years, a 72% reduction in SDS followed a fall application of benomyl at 12 kg·ha. Fenarimol applied at three rates (1.5, 2.3, and 3.0 kg·ha) on three fall dates reduced SDS by a combined average of 66%. A single application of propiconazole (2.5 kg·ha) reduced disease by an average of 56%. Application of N (98 kg·ha) in late fall increased SDS 128% in one test location. Application of potassium sulfate (269 kg K/ha) in late fall resulted in an average increase in SDS expression of 89% the following spring over all experiments. Turf managers with severe SDS should minimize heavy late-fall K applications and possibly use benomyl, fenarimol, or propiconazole for disease suppression. Chemical names used: α -(2-chlorophenyl)α -(4-chlorophenyl)-S-pyrimidinemethanol (fenarimol); [methyl 1(butylcarbamoyl)-2-benzimidazolecarbamate] (benomyl); 1-[[2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4propyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-yl]methyl]--1H-1,2,4-triazole (propiconazole).
An Analysis of Potential Structural Change in the Demand for South Atlantic Fresh Peaches
Authors: Epperson J.E. , Chien M.C. , Mizelle W.O.
Published: February 2019

An analysis was conducted using time-series data to identify possible structural change in the farm-gate demand for South Atlantic fresh peaches [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch.]. Structural change was not found in the price-quantity relationship. However, a failing per capita consumption of South Atlantic fresh peaches was found to be associated with an increase in the per capita consumption of fresh fruits in general. Thus, measures such as promotion and advertising, uniform quality control, and cultivar development may increase the demand for South Atlantic fresh peaches.
Shiitake and Oyster Mushroom Production on Apple Pomace and Sawdust
Authors: Worrall J.J. , Yang C.S.
Published: February 2019

A mixture of apple pomace and sawdust was tested as a substrate for production of shiitake [Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegler] and oyster mushroom [Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. ex Fr.) Kummer and P. sajor-caju (Fr.) Sing.] on synthetic logs. MyCelia grew faster and more densely in logs containing apple pomace than in sawdust alone. Five shiitake isolates and two Pleurotus spp. produced higher fresh weights on a mixture of equal parts (by weight) of apple pomace and sawdust than on either substrate alone. An alternative substrate based on sawdust, millet (Panicum miliaceum L.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), bran gave almost identical overall yield as pomace-sawdust medium, but there was a significant differential effect of the substrates on yield of the two tested shiitake isolates. Analyses and experiments in vitro suggested that optimal N levels provided by apple pomace account in part for its effectiveness.
WILDFLOWER MEADOW ESTABLISHMENT IN MEDIA PREPARED FROM MINERAL ORE CO-PRODUCT AND COCOMPOSTED SOLID WASTE PLUS SEWAGE SLUDGE
Authors: Devenney David , Frett John , Pill Wallace , Smith. Gary
Published: February 2019

Ten 10 wildflower species grew satisfactorily in a 1:1 (vol.) mix of Ironrich (IR, mineral co-product of the titanium dioxide industry) and Fairgrow (FG, co-composted sewage sludge and solid waste). Shoot fresh weights in the low fertility IR and in the high fertility FG averaged 35% and 157%, respectively, those grown in IR+FG. Wildflower establishment in 10cm-deep outdoor seedbeds of IR, FG, or IR+FG were compared to those in soil (control) plots. Maximum percentage seedling emergence and emergence rate and synchrony were lower in FG than in IR, values in IR+FG being intermediate and similar to those for control plots. Shoot fresh weights, however, were greater from the IR+FG than from IR, FG or the control plots. Total shoot dry weights of wildflowers from 1 m2 subplots after 3 months were FG > IR = IR+FG > control, being respectively 8.4, 8.5, 5.1 and 1.1% those of total shoot dry weights of weeds.
PREHARVEST CONDITIONS, ENDOGENOUS ANTIOXIDANTS AND SCALD DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Barden Cynthia L. , Bramlage William J.
Published: February 2019

During the harvest season apples ripen and develop scald resistance. In the Northeast they usually are also exposed to cool temperatures as they mature and ripen. Experiments were conducted to study the effects of cool temperature, light and maturity on the endogenous antioxidants and subsequent scald development in Cortland and Delicious apples. Total lipid-soluble antioxidant activity in apple peel at harvest generally increased as scald incidence after storage decreased. Yet, α tocopherol, ascorbic acid and total water-soluble reducing capacity were not closely related to scald development. The absence of light (bagged fruit) decreased all measured antioxidants and increased scald development. However, ethephon applied in mid-August to induce ripening increased the levels of these antioxidants but had little effect on scald incidence in the absence of cool temperatures (hours <10°C). Cool temperatures, which decreased scald susceptibility, increased lipid-soluble antioxidant activity but had little influence on the other measured antioxidants. These data suggest that the endogenous antioxidants may be only partly responsible for natural scald resistance.
ESTIMATING FERTILIZER NEEDS FOR LOWBUSH BLUEBERRIES: LEAF OR SOIL SAMPLES?
Authors: Smagula John M.
Published: February 2019

Concentrations of nutrient elements in randomly selected soil samples taken at a 3-inch depth or the depth of the surface organic pad correlated poorly (R2= < 0.34) with leaf nutrient concentrations randomly selected from the same fields. Average leaf N concentrations in 74 of 79 fields sampled were above the 1.6% standard, while leaf P was below the 0.125% standard in 62 of the 79 fields. Leaf K, Ca, and Mg concentrations were above the standards 0.400%, 0.270%, and 0.130%, respectively in all fields. The average depth of the organic pad was 2.23 cm, ranging from 0 to 10.16 cm. Seventy five percent of the fields had organic pads 0.127-2.54 cm thick and 20% greater than 2.54 cm.

In an attempt to improve correlations, leaves within a 0.01M2 quadrat were sampled from 110 clones in 10 commercial blueberry fields and leaf nutrient concentrations compared with nutrient concentrations in 3-inch soil samples taken directly beneath the quadrat. The strongest correlation was between soil Mn and leaf Mn (r2= o.59). Leaf samples, although more expensive than soil samples, appear to be a better indicator of lowbush blueberry fertilizer requirements than soil samples.
PROMISING PROCESSING APPLE CULTIVARS FOR THE MID-ATLANTIC AREA
Authors: Greene George M.
Published: February 2019

The Mid-Atlantic area has a long, warm growing season and a reputation for grainy or firm, yellow apple products. There is interest in varieties that are large, firm, yellow-fleshed, that store and process well. The attributes of four NY selections, grown in PA, are described. NY 179 (Loop Red Rome X Yorking) fruit firmness (FF) dropped from 9 to 8.5 kg from 270 to 300 Julian days (JD). Over this same period, soluble solids (SS) rose from 13-15%. At 270 JD dropped fruit (DF) ranged from 0-5% while at 300 JD they ranged from 0-10%. Mean fruit weight was 285 g. NY 180 (Loop Red Rome X Yorking) averaged 351 g and FF was similar to NY 179. From 270 to 300 JD SS rose from 12-15%. Dropped fruit rose from 0-10% at 270 JD to 35% by 285 JD but to 95% by 300 JD. NY 88 (Melrose X Monroe) had a FF of 8.5 kg at 255 JD which decreased to about 7.5 kg at 300 JD. Over this same period SS rose from 13 -14.5%. At 255 JD DF were 0%; they ranged from 0-10% at 300 JD and never exceeded 10%. NY 151 (Red Spy X Yorking) averaged 171 g. At 270 JD FF was 12 kg falling to 11 kg at 330 JD. Over this period SS rose from 11-16%. Drops increased from 0% at 270 JD to 10-20% at 330 JD. These selections are undergoing regular and CA storage and processing tests.
CLONING AND EXPRESSION OF THE IPT GENE
Authors: Barbour Sandra L. , Schaff D.A. , Frett J.J.
Published: February 2019

Cytokinins are involved in in vitro shoot initiation, although little is known about their mode of action. As the first step in localizing cytokinin synthesis, we present a cloning and expression strategy for the isopentenyl transferase (ipt) gene. The source of the Agrobacterium tumefaciens ipt gene was a 7.2 kb Eco RI fragment isolated from pBREF7 (Dr. Ann Smigocki, USDA, Beltsville, MD). The ipt gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cloned into pMal-cRI (New England Biolabs, Beverly, MA). Using the pMAL-cRI expression and purification system, the isopentenyl transferase protein will be purified for antibody production. These antibodies will be used in future work to localize the isopentenyl transferase enzyme.
CHARACTERIZATION OF SEGREGATING POTATO PROGENIES FOR TUBERIZATION RESPONSE TO PHOTOPERIOD IN CONNECTION WITH GENETIC MAPPING.
Authors: van den Berg J.H. , Bonierbale M.W. , Ewing E.E. , Plaisted R.L. , Tanksley S.D.
Published: February 2019

Tuberization and stolonization of cuttings were used as a model system to assess response to photoperiod in segregating potato progenies. The progenies were from backcrosses of a diploid hybrid between Solanum tuberosum and the short day requiring S. berthaultii to both parent species. Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) analyses had been performed on these progenies as a part of other investigations. The RFLP maps were used to identify the loci controlling the photoperiod responses characterized by the cuttings. In the S. berthaultii backcross population, one locus appeared to control the response of cuttings only under long photoperiods, and coincided with a locus detected for stolonization on whole plants; a second locus was effective for tuberization under short photoperiods but was not detected with certainty under long photoperiods. Data analysis for the second backcross population is currently underway.
PREDICTING OPTIMUM PACKAGING CONDITIONS FOR MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGES OF TOMATOES
Authors: Gong Sannai , Corey Kenneth A.
Published: February 2019

Procedures for predicting optimum packaging conditions of modified atmosphere packages (MAP) of tomato (`Heinz 1370') were developed. The relationship between O2 consumption rate and O2 concn (RRo2) was determined using O2 depletion data collected by enclosing tomatoes in jars and sampling head space O2 concn over time. The fitted function was then used in conjunction with other input variables: (1) film permeability to O2 (PO2), (2) film surface area (A), and (3) fruit weight in packages (Wp) to develop the final predictive equation based on Fick's law of gas diffusion. Predictive power of the equation was tested by comparing the steady state O2 concn achieved experimentally with those predicted for a wide range of packaging conditions. Packaging conditions included film surface area, weight of fruit in packages, and O2 permeability of the film (0.0426 and 0.0620 ml/kg hr). Prediction curves showing steady state O2 concn vs. packaging ratio (A/Wp) closely resembled the best fit curves of data. The effect of temperature on steady state O2 concn in MA bags was also examined. Increasing temperature from 20°C to 28±2°C had little effect but decreasing temperature to 10°C led to higher in-package O2 concn. Results indicate that predictive equations can be used to select appropriate films and optimize packaging ratios to achieve desired steady state O2 concn for MAP of tomatoes.
EFFECT OF ANTI-GIBBERELLIN GROWTH RETARDANTS ON TUBERIZATION OF `KATAHDIN' POTATO LEAF BUD CUTTINGS.
Authors: Langille Alan R. , Hepler P.R.
Published: February 2019

Non-induced Katahdin potato plants were treated with three anti-gibberellins: CCC, BAS-106 and BAS-111. Other plants were sprayed with GA3 and placed in an inducing chamber. All treatments were repeated the following week. After final treatment, apical, sub-apical, medial and basal leaf bud-cuttings were taken from each plant and placed 1n a mist chamber. After two weeks, cuttings were examined for tuberization. BAS-111 and CCC were associated with 3.5 and 2 fold increase, respectively, in tuberization of cuttings over the non-induced control. Although induced control cuttings exhibited 100% tuberization, application of GA to plants grown under identical conditions, reduced tuberization 20 fold. In non-induced control cuttings and those treated with CCC, basal cuttings tuberized significantly better than those taken from higher on the stem. This pattern was reversed for plants treated with BAS-111. These results will be discussed in light of current understanding of the tuberization phenomenon.
EFFECTS OF SEVERAL GROWTH CONTROLLING TECHNIQUES ON APPLE TREES
Authors: Autio Wesley R. , Greene Duane W.
Published: February 2019

In 1991, experiments were conducted to assess the effects of several growth controlling techniques on tree growth and fruit set, abscision, ripening, and other qualities. The first two experiments assessed the effects of root pruning (4-8 days after petal fall, 1 m from the trunk, 30 cm deep) in commercial orchards. Compared to controls, root pruning reduced fruit abscision from mature `Cortland'/M.7A trees by 70% on 17 Sept. In another orchard, root pruning reduced fruit abscision from mature `McIntosh'/MM.106 trees by 47% on 24 Sept. The third experiment utilized vigorous `Gardiner Delicious'/MM.106 trees. Treatments included root pruning (as described above), trunk scoring (single, complete circle, approximately 40 cm from the soil), trunk ringing (single, complete circle, 1 mm wide, approximately 40 cm from the soil), ethrel spray treatment (500 ppm), and dormant-pruned and unpruned controls. Treatments were applied on 15 May, when terminal growth was 12-15 cm. No treatment affected fruit set. Trunk growth was less for ringed and scored trees than other treatments. Ringing and scoring advanced ripening compared to controls, and ethrel resulted in intermediate ripening. Treatments had no effect on fruit size, flesh firmness, or the development of bitter pit and cork spot. Fruit abscision was least from controls and root-pruned trees. Trees that were treated with ethrel in May had the most rapid abscision rate.
SOLUBLE SALTS BUILDUP AS A CAUSE OF EARLY GROWTH SUPPRESSION OF NEW GUINEA IMPATIENS
Authors: Judd Laura K. , Cox Douglas A.
Published: February 2019

To test the effect of soluble salts on the growth of New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens platypetala), `Selenia' was grown for 70 days in a soilless medium and irrigated with solutions of 20N-4.3P-16.6K at rates of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 g·liter-1. A fifth treatment was no fertilization for the first 14 days, 0.5 g·liter-1 for the next 14 days and 1.0 g·liter-1 till finish. At 14-day intervals shoot dry weight and growth medium soluble salts were measured. By 42 days after planting, differences between treatments were statistically significant with respect to dry weight. Over a 70-day period, growth was greatest with 0.5 g·liter-1. The 1.0 g·liter-1 treatment caused a similar growth response. Plants in delay treatment responded similarly to 0.5 and 1.0 g·liter-1. Higher rates, 1.5 and 2.0 g·liter-1, caused growth suppression and resulted in soluble salts buildup in the growth medium. Soluble salts levels of 1.5 dS·m-1 and above suppressed early growth. Results show that during the first 42-56 days of growth, New Guinea impatiens are sensitive to soluble salts and levels over 1.5 dS·m-1 are cause for concern.
EFFECT OF PAPER MULCH ON WINTER TEMPERATURES OF CONTAINER-GROWN NURSERY PLANTS
Authors: Pellett N. E. , Heleba D.
Published: February 2019

Five species of container-grown nursery plants were overwintered under treatments of no cover, 2 layers of microfoam, 15 or 30 cm of chopped newspaper and 15 cm newspaper or 22 cm straw between two layers of white copolymer. Temperatures were measured in the air under covers and in the center of the growing medium. Chopped newspaper moderated winter temperatures equal to or better than other cover treatments. All covers prevented winter injury. Baled chopped newspaper used by dairy farmers for livestock bedding is available at a reasonable cost.
METHODS TO IMPROVE SWEETPOTATO PLANT PRODUCTION
Authors: Hall Melvin R.
Published: February 2019

Most commercial sweetpotato acreage in the United States is grown from plants that have been produced from bedded roots. Development of new methods or new combinations of known methods to increase plant production helps to maximize the number of usable plants produced in a minimum amount of time and also reduces propagation costs while aiding early transplanting. Plant production is influenced greatly by genotype, and many efforts have been directed at improving plant production from sparse plant producing cultivars. Modifications of wounding or cutting treatments, exposure to chemical sprout inducers, presprouting by heat treatments and combinations of these treatments have enhanced plant production from large and small roots of sparse and profuse plant producing cultivars.
EVALUATION OF SEVERAL GROWING MEDIA FOR USE IN NITROGEN FIXATION RESEARCH
Authors: Rademan Stephanie , Marsh Dyremple
Published: February 2019

A wide range of methodologies, ranging from Leonard jar to growth pouch have been used to investigate the nitrogen fixation process in leguminous crops. The effectiveness of most of these research methods have been questioned. Problems encountered vary from difficulty in root separation to water log conditions. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of different growing media on nodule development and harvestability. Black and Red seed coat kidney bean were surface sterilized and inoculated with the Rhizobium phaseoli strain UMR 1899. Seeds were planted in 8.5 cm diameter sterile clay pots containing the respective growing medium. These growing media were sand, Promix GM, Promix BX, and fritted clay. The black seed coat kidney bean had higher germination rate under all media for all dates recorded. Black kidney bean grown in sand and fritted clay had plant heights significantly greater than ones grown in the other media on the third harvest date. Nodule activities as measured by shoot dry weight and nodule number were significantly higher in both beans grown in fritted clay than in other media. Promix GM plants with dry weight of .45g for the black bean and .32g for the red beans were the lowest. Nodule separation from the growing media was easiest when plants were grown in sand, however, this was not significantly different from that of plants grown in fritted clay.
GROWTH OF SELECT CONTAINER GROWN FLOWERING DOGWOODS AS INFLUENCED BY PRODUCTION PRACTICES
Authors: Montague D. Thayne , Eakes D. Joseph , Gilliam Charles H. , Tilt Kenneth M. , Ponder Harry G.
Published: February 2019

This study was conducted to determine the influence of production methods on the growth of container grown flowering dogwood (Cornus florida). The production practices were: full sun, 40% white shade cloth, 40% black shade cloth, and pot-in-pot. The cultivars studied were: cv. `Welch's Junior Miss', cv. `Barton's White', cv. `Weaver's White', and cv. `Welch's Bay Beauty'. The one variety used was pink. Height and caliper data was collected. Plants grown under white shade cloth had the highest overall height and caliper growth, followed by black shade cloth, full sun, and the pot-in-pot production method. The cultivar `Weaver's White' had the highest overall height and caliper growth and the variety pink had the least, regardless of treatment. The remaining cultivars had similar growth regardless of treatment.
ROOT REGENERATION OF SAWTOOTH OAK AFTER CHEMICAL ROOT PRUNING
Authors: Flanagan Phillip C. , Witte W.T.
Published: February 2019

Previous research at this facility has shown that copper sulfate, when incorporated with latex paint and applied to the interior surfaces of tube trays, was effective in chemically root pruning Quercus acutissima seedlings. Only 20% of deflected roots continued to grow after contacting Cu treated tube walls compared to controls. Treated plants showed a reduction of fibrous roots on the plug surface. Height and caliper were not affected by Cu treatments during chemical root pruning in the tube tray. Time required for regeneration of new roots was not affected by Cu treatments. Seedlings from each treatment were planted and grown two seasons under field conditions to observe effects on growth and root regeneration. No treatment effects occurred for height or caliper. Oak seedlings chemically root pruned with Cu exhibited more lateral growth and branching than control plants.
PROPAGATION OF BLACKBERRIES USING VARIOUS ROOTING COMPOUNDS
Authors: Busby A.L. , Himelrick D.G. , Eakes. D.J.
Published: February 2019

Two cultivars of blackberry (Rubus sp.) were propagated in July under intermittent mist by rooting 2-node softwood stem cuttings. Differences in root development among cultivars were evident with the thornless erect cultivar, `Navaho', producing a better root system than the thorny erect cultivar, `Cheyenne'. Treatment of `Navaho' with 3000 and 8000 ppm indolebutyric acid (IBA) in water and treatment of `Cheyenne' with 8000 ppm IBA in water and 3000 ppm IBA in talc improved rooting.
COMPARISON OF ZYGOTIC AND SOMATIC EMBRYOGENES1S IN CERCIS CANADENSIS
Authors: Buckley L.G. , Graham E.T. , Trigiano R.N.
Published: February 2019

Zygotic and somatic embryos are purported to follow similar developmental sequences, but few investigations have thoroughly compared the two processes. Developing pods of Cercis canadensis L. (redbud) were collected from trees on the Knoxville campus of the University of Tennessee once or twice per week from 28 March to 8 August 1991. At least 10 ovules/sample date were fixed in FAA to evaluate zygotic embryo ontogeny. A minimum of 40 ovules/sample date were aseptically excised and placed on SH medium supplemented with 9.0 μM 2,4-D and 5 mM ammonium ion to initate somatic embryogenesis. Zygotic and somatic embryos were prepared for histological examination using standard paraffin techniques. Somatic embryos developed primarily from cotyledons and epicotyls of zygotic embryos mat were cultured between 6 June and 19 July. Somatic and zygotic embryos were subtended by multiseriate suspensors and progressed through recognizable globular, cordate and cotyledonary stages of development. Cotyledon morphology was similar for both embryo types. However, many somatic embryos failed to differentiate dome-shaped shoot meristems exhibited by their zygotic counterparts.
FERTILIZATION, TOPPING, AND HOLE SIZE FOR PECAN TREES AT TRANSPLANTING
Authors: Worley Ray E.
Published: February 2019

Soil amendments of complete fertilizer, manure and limestone added to backfill soil at transplanting did not influence pecan tree appearance or growth. Removal of ⅓ or ½ of the top at transplanting was compared with no top removal. Removal of ½ the top improved tree vigor the first year but differences in vigor and growth had dissipated by the second year. With 60 cm diameter holes, vigor and growth increased as depth increased from 30 to 90 cm. Trees planted in a 20 cm diameter post hole had poorer vigor and growth the first two years than trees planted in 60 cm diameter × 90 cm depth hole. Differences in vigor and growth due to hole size also dissipated with time and were not significant at the end of the third year. Pecan trees apparently are resilient and can overcome a poor transplanting job.
PECAN FRUIT GROWTH AND EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Wetzstein Hazel Y. , Levi. Amnon
Published: February 2019

Embryogenesis in higher plants follows a standard developmental program with sequential stages of histodifferentiation, maturation (reserve deposition), and postabscission (desiccation and rapid decline in metabolic activity). In this study, morphological, physiological and anatomical characteristics were integrated to demarcate the developmental stages of pecan embryos. Fruit were collected, morphological characteristics were recorded, fresh and dry weights, and water content of embryos were determined, and embryos were prepared for microscopic study. The procedures used here can be a useful guide for characterizing embryo development in pecan and related species.
EXPERIENCES WITH SUMMER PRUNING CLINGSTONE PEACHES
Authors: Rom Curt R. , Bourne R. , Kupperman K. , Moran R.E.
Published: February 2019

Summer pruning effects on processing peach on fruit quality, light penetration and interception, and % defects was studied in 2 trials. In study A, pillar-trained trees were pruned with the following treatments: a control, summer pruning at stage II fruit growth, summer pruning post-harvest or, pruning twice (all trees dormant pruned). In the first year, pruning prior to harvest significantly increased blush and flesh firmness but reduced soluble solids content (SSC). In the second year, summer pruning reduced yield per tree and fruit drop (weight and % of total) but did not affect fruit size, blush, or SSC. After 2 years, trees pruned post-harvest or twice had significantly smaller height, spread and trunk diameter.1 In study B, 2 cultivars of central leader trained trees were pruned at stage II fruit growth in the following treatments: a control, canopy thinning, and hedging. Thinning pruning improved light penetration and hedging reduced light interception. Thinning pruning reduced % of fungal rotted fruit but did not affect fruit quality.
THE EFFECT OF POST PLANT SOIL SOLARIZATION ON BLACK ROT OF 'CARLOS' MUSCADINE GRAPE
Authors: Stevens C. , Khan V. A. , Lu J. Y. , Wilson M. A. , Haung Z. , Brown J. E.
Published: February 2019

In 1988 and 1989 a muscadine vineyard at Tuskegeee, Alabama was treated by post plant soil solarization (PSS) (covering of moist soil around 'Carlos' muscadine plants (Vitis rotundifolia Michx.) with clear polyethylene plastic mulch to achieve high soil temperature for 30 and 75 days, respectively during PSS. Grape plants grown in solarized soils showed increases in growth response such as increased yield. Foliage of grape plants was evaluated for reaction to black rot incited by Guignardia bidwellii. A significant reduction of the foliage disease black rot was observed. The number of lesions per leaf, lesion size and percent leaves with lesions were significantly reduced by as much as 56% up to three years after solarization.
SWEET POTATO AS A CROP FOR SOIL CONSERVATION
Authors: Cole-Crosby Iris , Igbokwe Patrick , Harness Jesse , Ascough Lois
Published: February 2019

Most of the research on soil erosion has been done on traditional crops such as cotton, field corn and soybean and not vegetables. The USDA-ARS United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service had developed a process based erosion prediction program called Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP). Alcorn is providing data for the validation of this model for selected fruits and vegetables. WEPP was run for sweet potatoe and cotton using a 10 year simulation. Some input parameters were row width tillage sequences and depths, rainfall, temperature canopy width, canopy cover, vegetative dry matter and leaf area index. The results from WEPP is given as soil loss for 50M at increments of .5M. There was a significant difference in the amount of soil lost from sweet potato when grown as a single crop as compared with cotton.
EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE REGIMES ON TOMATO SEEDLING DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Yang Senshan , Logan Joanne , Coffey David L.
Published: February 2019

To investigate effects of temperatures in the preceding developmental stage on the following developmental stage, `Sunny' tomatoes were seeded in the greenhouse at six dates and three temperature levels. Plants were rotated among temperature levels so that all plants received approximately the same temperature accumulation at the time of field transplanting. Developmental stages defined were: emergence, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th leaf appearance. Temperature and solar radiation were recorded hourly. Results indicated a significant effect of temperature in the preceding stage on the following stage. Coefficients of variation (CV) in growing degree days (GDD) calculated from the 1st to the ith stage were significantly smaller than those calculated from the (i-1)th to ith stage. When Ri, defined as the reciprocal of the number of days from the 1st to the ith stage, was regressed to Ri-1 and the daily average temperature was regressed from the (i-1)th to the ith stage, all coefficients of Ri-1 were significant at the 1% level. This model was superior to one in which Ri was regressed to the daily average temperature from the 1st to the ith stage.
YIELD LOSSES FROM DELAYED HARVEST OF PAPRIKA PEPPER
Authors: Kahn Brian A.
Published: February 2019

Paprika pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) plants were subjected to a single destructive harvest in either October, November, or December to determine an optimal month for once-over harvest. Studies were conducted at two locations in Oklahoma each year for two years. Total and marketable fruit yields were highest with October harvest dates in three of the four experiments. Marketable fruit red color intensity decreased between the November and December harvest dates at both locations in the second year. It appears that paprika harvest should be completed during October in this region.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF POST HARVEST HANDLING METHODS FOR FRESH MARKET MIXED GREENS
Authors: Teague Paul W. , Teague Tina G.
Published: February 2019

Several common methods of post harvest handling and pre-cooling for fresh market bunched greens (turnips, smooth and curly mustard, and collards) were evaluated. Six treatments were evaluated where greens were rehydrated and precooled using different combinations of hydrocooling, slush ice, and shoveled ice with three rehydration methods (hydrocooling, water drench, and water floating). Product temperatures were monitored and overall quality ratings were made after seven days in cold storage. Product quality after seven days was best with hydrocooling and insignificant differences in quality were recorded whether in-box ice was shoveled or slush ice. Turnips were most sensitive to degradation if precooled inadequately. Collards were the least sensitive. Economic analysis was completed using labor and ice cost differentials of selected packing and cooling methods to calculate product volume levels required to amortize relatively high costs of the hydrocooler, slush icer, and ice machine. Extremely large volume is required to fully amortize equipment acquisition costs based on labor cost savings alone. Greater cost savings per box, when comparing the cost of purchased ice to homemade ice, resulted in much lower volume requirements for full amortization. The results indicate that a producer with limited capital would benefit the most economically from acquiring an ice machine. The greatest quality benefit is gained from precooling with the hydrocooler.
PATTERNS OF STORAGE AND FIBROUS ROOT DEVELOPMENT IN SEVERAL SWEETPOTATO CULTIVARS AND THEIR PROGENIES
Authors: Bidiaka N. , Khan V.A. , Bonsi C.K. , Stevens C. , Rhoden E. G. , Mortley D. , Ankhumah R.
Published: February 2019

In 1991 leafless stem cuttings 7 nodes long from 4 maternal parents (`Carver', Carver ii', `TU-1892' and `Georgia-Jet') and their progenies (MP/P) were planted 3 nodes deep in greenhouse benches filled with Jiffy-Mix to determine if any similarity in storage (SR) or fibrous root (FR) patterns could be used to identify high yielding cultivars in a breeding program. The experiment was planted in a complete randomized block design with 7 replications for each treatment and the total number of SR and FR data were collected over a 9 wk period with weekly sampling. The results indicated that SR initiation was a continuos process and took from 5-9 wk before reaching a maximum level for some MP/P. There was a significant inverse relationship between SR and FR numbers, as SR increased FR decreased. SR for most MP/P were initiated at the underground node closest to the soil surface and FR at the lower two nodes. When regression equations were used on the greenhouse data to predict total number of SR that would be produced in a field trial, no significant differences were found between the number of SR initiated in the greenhouse and field trial 80 days after transplanting by some of these MP/P. However, cultivars with the highest number of storage roots in the field trial did not have the highest number of marketable roots or yield and this was probably due to differences among MP/P in the rate of root enlargement.
IMPROVEMENT AND CULTURE OF CALABAZA [CUCURBITA MOSCHATA (DUCHESNE), POIR.]
Authors: Maynard P. N. , Elmstrom G. W. , Wessel-Beaver L. , McCollum T. G.
Published: February 2019

Calabaza is a pumpkin-like fruit that is grown throughout the tropics and subtropics. In the Caribbean “calabaza” is used in soups and other traditional dishes. In Puerto Rico, the 1987-88 calabaza crop was worth $8 million and the value of the crop in Florida is estimated to exceed $5 million. Mainland production of tropical calabaza types of C. moschata is limited largely to Florida where it is used mostly by those of Cuban descent. Despite the popularity and commercial significance of calabaza, little effort has been directed toward the study of cultural practices or varietal improvement. Only two improved varieties, `Borinquen' introduced by the Puerto Rico Agricultural Experiment Station in the 1940s and `La Primera' introduced by the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station in 1979 are available. Approaches to calabaza improvement including development of plants with shorter vines, incorporation of powdery mildew resistance, and production of uniform, symmetrical, hard-shelled, medium-sized fruit with enhanced nutritional quality in relationship to management systems are discussed.
FRUITING CHARACTERISTICS OF OKRA
Authors: Marsh Lurline
Published: February 2019

Thirty-seven okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) plant introductions and 3 cultivars, `Clemson Spineless', `Clemson Spineless 80', and `Candelabra Branching' were evaluated for their fruiting characteristics during a three year field study. Harvesting at 3 to 4 day intervals produced inmature fruits which were approximately 4 to 7 days old. These immature fruits when graded according to fruit length, were primarily very small (<4.4 cm) or small (4.4-8.9 cm). There were few medium (>8.9 cm but <12.7) or large (>12.7 cm) fruits. Of the 40 genotypes, Clemson Spineless averaged 46 pods per plant over 17 harvests. Few other plant introductions were comparable in the number of pods produced. Except for one, all other genotypes produced predominantly green fruits. Many of the genotypes were early maturing.
PA-136 CAYENNE PEPPER: A UNIQUE HOST FOR PRODUCING ROOT-KNOT NEAMTODE EGGS
Authors: Dukes P. D. , Fery R. L.
Published: February 2019

A useful and novel cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) breeding line has been released by ARS, USDA, U. S. Vegetable Laboratory. This new Line, designated and tested as PA-136, has a high level of tolerance to massive infection by root-knot neamtodes (Meloidogyne spp.) to which it is susceptible. PA-136 has proven to be useful as a host for the abundant production of eggs for several Meloidogyne species, including all 4 races of M. incognita. Availability of large quantities of egg inoculum of these obligate parasites is a pre-requisite for successful and efficient breeding for root-knot resistance. PA-136 plants are vigorous, strong and uniformly branched, and reach a height of about 60 cm. The line has many good horticultural traits, including high yield, deep red fruit color, and high pungency. PA-136 is stable for all traits needed for the production of large numbers of viable eggs. Eggs are easily collected when needed from fresh roots using the Hussey-Barker extraction procedure (Plant Dis. Reptr. 57:1025-1028. 1973).
INTERACTION OF NITRAPYRIN, N FORM AND N CONCENTRATION ON TOMATO GROWTH, N CONTENT AND RESIDUAL N CONTENT OF SOIL:SAND MEDIUM
Authors: Sasseville David N. , Jones Rufus
Published: February 2019

Tomato cv. 'Show Me' were grown in the greenhouse for six weeks in a 50%;50% (v:v) soil:sand mixture and provided weekly with a quarter-strength Hoagland solution with nitrogen provided as 100%:0% 50%;50% 0%:100% nitrate:ammonium ratios at rates of 0, 10, 20, 40, 80 mg N/kg medium with and without 5 mg/kg nitrapyrin. Nitrapyrin induced plant phytotoxic symptoms of stunted growth, curled leaves and deformed terminal buds. These effects were reduced with increasing amount of applied nitrogen and greater percent of nitrate. A second similar experiment using 0, 80, 160, 240, 320 mg N/kg medium and 1 mg/kg nitrapyrin showed no phytotoxic effects and also induced no significant changes in dry weight, tissue nitrogen content or residual medium nitrogen content regardless of nitrogen treatment. N concentration and N form effects were similar to previously reported research with an accumulation of nitrates in tissues with higher nitrate nutrition.
ONION GROWTH AND NUTRIENT UPTAKE PATTERNS AS AFFECTED BY NITROGEN RATE AND TIMING OF APPLICATION
Authors: Wiedenfeld Robert
Published: February 2019

Onion production requires N fertilization, yet use efficiency of applied N is low. Improvements may be possible with a better understanding of plant growth and nutrient requirements over time. Onion growth and nutrient uptake was extremely slow during the winter months following planting, then increased substantially in the spring. Onion leaf N concentrations declined with age, while bulb N concentrations fluctuated with growing conditions but showed no longterm trend. Responses to N application were due primarily to timing and less to rate applied. Nitrogen uptake increased in some cases very quickly following N application, and in other situations was still evident after 6½ months. Yield increases, however, occurred only for preplant and winter fertilizer applications, not for spring application. Yield responses to both timing and rate varied by cultivar, with the later maturing cultivar doing best at the highest rate of preplant and the higher 2 rates of the winter applied N fertilizer.
CHLORINATION TO PREVENT CLOGGING IN MICRO-IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Authors: Kovach Steve , Curtis Larry , Allen Jim
Published: February 2019

Irrigating with a micro-irrigation (drip) system offers improved crop quality and yield with significant savings of energy and water. To deliver these benefits reliably, a grower's system must include chlorinations or some other effective water treatment program to prevent clogging, the most common problem of micro-irrigation. Step-by-step procedures of chlorination of micro-irrigation systems are discussed. Injected into micro-irrigation systems, chlorine kills the micro-organisms—bacteria, fungi and algae—that may be in a water source and are the most common system cloggers.
EFFECT OF PACLOBUTRAZOL FORMULATION ON THE GROWTH AND FLOWERING OF BUDDLEIA DAVIDII 'DUBONNET'
Authors: Ruter John M.
Published: February 2019

Granular and liquid formulations of paclobutrazol were tested to evaluate the growth and flowering response of butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii Franch. 'Dubonnet'). At the rates tested (5, 10, 20, and 40 mg ai·pot–1), the granular formulation reduced the growth index, plant height, shoot dry weight, total plant biomass, number of panicles and panicle length to a greater degree than the liquid formulation applied as a drench. Both formulations reduced total plant biomass and increased the root:shoot ratio compared to the control. All rates of the granular formulation above 5 mg ai · pot–1 produced non-marketable plants. Since no phytotoxicity was observed with any treatment, the application of paclobutrazol to control the growth of butterfly-bush may be useful if the correct formulation and rate of application are chosen.
SEVERAL NEW SPECIES OF MIRABILIS, THEIR MERIT AS ANNUAL OR PERENNIAL LANDSCAPE PLANTS,
Authors: Le Duc Alice (Jack)
Published: February 2019

Several collecting trips in Mexico, in association with a monographic revision of a portion of the genus Mirabilis, have produced several species which show promise as new perennial landscape plants. Mirabilis pringlei Weatherby, with its showy pink flowers, has potential as a striking summer blooming plant, particularly when used as a container accent plant. Equally promising are two as yet unnamed species, their fragrant white flowers opening in the evening, seem ideal as terrace or patio accents.
BETTERGREEN: A NEW, CREAM-TYPE SOUTHERNPEA WITH GREEN COTYLEDONS
Authors: Fery R. L. , Dukes P. D. , Maguire F. P.
Published: February 2019

The Agricultural Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture announced the release of `Bettergreen' southernpea on 30 April 1991. `Bettergreen' is a cream-type cultivar that is homozygous for a newly discovered gene(s) conditioning a unique green cotyledon trait. `Bettergreen' can be harvested at the near-dry seed stage of maturity without loss of the seed's fresh green color. The color of the peas harvested upon reaching “dry-stage” maturity is light olive, and the color is present in both the seed coat and the cotyledons. The fresh peas are small (22 g per 100 peas), ovate to reniform in shape, and have excellent culinary quality. The dried peas have a smooth seed coat. `Bettergreen' is recommended for use as a home garden and fresh market cultivar for spring, mid-season, and fall plantings throughout the southeastern United States. It is particularly recommended for trial as a commercial processing cultivar for the frozen food industry.
GROWTH RESPONSES OF WATERMELON ON WAVELENGTH SELECTIVE MULCHES AND VISPORE ROW COVER IN MISSOURI
Authors: Wilson Mack A. , Kahn Victor A.
Published: February 2019

The influence of VisPore row cover and four synthetic mulches on the growth and yield of watermelons were studied. Row cover and synthetic mulch treatments consisted of VisPore row cover, IRT-76 (green), AL-0R (brown), clear and black polyethylene mulches. VisPore was used with a combination of' four mulches and two controls (VisPore alone and bare soil). Significant differences were observed by orthogonal comparison when no row cover (NRC) was compared to row cover (RC) on the number '000/acre of marketable `Crimson Sweet' watermelons. Total, marketable and percent marketable yields were significantly different when orthogonal comparison were performed on NRC vs. RC. Yields were greater when RC vs. NRC treatments were used on `Crimson Sweet' watermelons.