bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Core Subsets in Maintenance and Use of Germplasm Collections
Authors: Stoner Allan K.
Published: February 2019

The National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) is responsible for the acquisition, maintenance, evaluation, and distribution of genetic diversity of crop plants important to U.S. agriculture. The NPGS collections currently include more than 425,000 accessions representing more than 8000 species. The curators of the individual active collections face many challenges, including preserving the maximum amount of genetic diversity in active collections, encouraging the use of the germplasm in the collections, and operating with limited resources. During the past 5 years, the NPGS curators and the 40 Germplasm Committees have been evaluating how core subsets can help in meeting these challenges. A set of general guidelines and procedures for developing core subsets has been developed.
Leaf Petiole NO3-N and K Analysis for Greenhouse-grown Flowering Potted and Bedding Plants
Authors: Biernbaum John A. , Argo William , Pumford Janet
Published: February 2019

Unlike vegetable and fruit crops, where petiole analysis has been used for many years, root media analysis is the primary method of checking fertility status of container-grown flowering greenhouse crops. With the emphasis on lower constant water-soluble fertilizer rates to prevent nutrient runoff, petiole analysis may be a better indicator of N and K status. During Fall 1993, samples were collected from 10 flowering pot plant species subirrigated with either 50, 100, or 200 mg·liter–1 N and K concentrations. During Spring 1995, samples were collected from major bedding plant species and Easter lilies. Sap was extracted using a hydraulic press and nitrate and potassium were measured with the Cardy flat electrode ion meters. Sampling methods and protocols will be presented with results of sampling technique experiments. Floriculture plant nutrition researchers were contacted to identify other research in progress, potential applications, and possible concerns with using this technique. Further research needed will be identified.
Population-based Models of Seed Viability Loss during Storage: What's the Use?
Authors: Bradford Kent J.
Published: February 2019

In 1981, R.H. Ellis and E.H. Roberts published a classic paper on the quantification of aging and survival in seeds (Seed Sci. & Technol. 9:373). This paper and subsequent refinements described a model of seed aging in storage that was based on the fact that to a good approximation, deaths over time in a seed population are normally distributed. The model provides a quantitative description of seed longevity across a wide range of storage temperatures and moisture contents. Despite its theoretical importance and practical success, the Ellis–Roberts approach has not been widely adopted by the seed industry to assess seed quality and predict longevity in storage. This may be due, in part, to the rather unfamiliar statistics (probit analysis) used in the model and the apparent complexity of the equations. It will be the argument of this presentation, however, that the precise quantification of seed longevity that this model affords is less significant than the insight that it provides into the nature of seed populations and how to think about them. The objective of this presentation will be to demystify the Ellis–Roberts model and illustrate with concrete examples how the application of population-based thinking is advantageous in many aspects of seed storage and quality assessment.
Citrus Situation in Iran
Authors: Hossain Sadeghi
Published: February 2019

Citrus was planted in about 50 countries and its world production in 1992 was >70 M t. Ninety percent of this production was in countries located at 20°–40° lat.N&S. Citrus history in Iran goes back 800 to 1000 years, and is planted in various regions, from the tropical south (28°) to the Mediterranean north (38°). Iran, with 3 million tons of production, is 7th in the world in production and is the first horticultural product in the country. Orange, mandarin, sweet lemon, and lime, with 1.8, 0.6, 0.25, and 0.25 million tons, respectively, are the main species. Processing industries are active, and produce 9000 t of concentrate. Exports to other countries was little, and, in 1993, was only 30,000. There is a good market in middle-Asian countries.
The Effect of Salinity on Strawberry Stress and Growth on Two Soil Types
Authors: Swearingin Patricia
Published: February 2019

Plants of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa cv. Tristar) of the same size were grown in 4-inch plastic plots either containing sand or organic soil mix. Plants were watered with solutions of 10, 25, and 50 mM of NaCl, and some with distilled water used as control. Under sunny conditions, the chlorophyll fluorescence measurements indicated that plants growing in sandy soil with 50 and 25 mM of NaCI with Fv/Fm values less than 0.40 tend to show salinity stress after 10 days with 50 mM NaCI, and after 15 days with 25 mM NaCI. Plants grown in organic soil mix do not show stress symptoms at any of the given NaCI concentrations. Plants growing under cloudy days do not show stress symptoms, whether or not the plants were grown in sandy soil or organic soil mix. No significant differences were detected on the total average shoot and root dry weights of plants grown in sandy soils and organic soil mix. However, highly significant differences was detected on the total average shoot dry weight growing under organic soil mix. These data indicate that organic matter reduces the effect of Na+ and Cl– on strawberry plant growth by decreasing the physiological stress during bright, sunny days. Plant tissue analysis shows that plants grown in organic soil mix absorb far less Na+ and Cl– than in sandy soil. Also, it does seem that strawberry plants can tolerate low concentrations of NaCI ions in the soil solution.
Transient Expression of β-Glucuronidase (GUS) Activity in Embryogenic Callus Tissue of Alkaligrass (Puccinellia distans) using Particle Bombardment
Authors: Brown Aaron , Hughes Harrison G.
Published: February 2019

Callus induction and regeneration of alkaligrass (Puccinellia distans) was developed in our laboratory for use in transformation studies of turfgrass. Particle bombardment of the embryogenic callus is being evaluated using a helium particle inflow gun constructed at Colorado State Univ., according to the design of Philippe et al. (Ohio State Univ., 1993). Its utility in delivering DNA to plant cells is being tested by measuring the frequency of transient gene expression of a reporter gene (GUS pBI121) in embryogenic callus of alkaligrass. Varying pressure of helium and the distance of the calli in the chamber are also being evaluated for efficiency in transformation.
Far-red at End of Day and Reduced Irradiance Affect Plant Height of Easter and Asiatic Hybrid Lilies
Authors: Blom T.J. , Tsujita M.J. , Roberts G.L.
Published: February 2019

Potted bulbs of Lilium longiflorum Thunb. `Ace' and `Nellie White' and Lilium (Asiatic hybrid) `Enchantment' were grown in a greenhouse under ambient photoperiod (APP), 8-h photoperiod by removing twilight from ambient by blackout cloth (8PP), or 8PP extended with 1 hour of low-intensity far-red radiation (9PP). Height of `Ace', `Nellie White', and `Enchantment' increased by 24%, 18%, and 12%, respectively, under APP and by 118%, 100%, and 44%, respectively, under 9PP compared to 8PP. In a second experiment, the effects of reduced irradiance (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% shade) were determined on the same cultivars grown under APP or 8PP. The effects of APP on height were similar in magnitude for `Ace' and `Nellie White' but were insignificant for `Enchantment' compared to 8PP. Shading increased height linearly for all cultivars. The regression was greater under APP (2.8 mm/percent shade) than under 8PP (1.8 mm/percent shade) for `Ace' and `Nellie White' combined. Plant height of `Enchantment' was less affected by reduced irradiance. For all cultivars, APP or 9PP produced higher stem dry weight compared to 8PP. Shading decreased leaf and bulb dry weight of the Easter lily cultivars.
Market Quality of Sweetpotatoes after Gamma-irradiation for Weevil Control
Authors: McGuire Raymond G. , Sharp Jennifer L.
Published: February 2019

Roots of sweetpotatoes [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] were treated with 200 to 1000 Gy of ionizing radiation from a 60Co source. Within this range, radiation dosage had no effect on surface injury and decay when roots were evaluated after 1 month of storage at 13C and 90% relative humidity. During storage, weight loss by irradiated roots was 0.5% to 3.3% over that of nontreated roots, which, in some instances, affected root firmness. Changes in peel color were visually imperceptible, but raw medullar tissue of the staple-type, white-fleshed cultivar Picadito had a more intense yellow hue with increasing irradiation. The greatest differences were evident after roots had been baked. The hue of the cooked medullar tissue of the sweet, orange-fleshed cultivar Jewel was not changed by increasing irradiation, although roots were darker and had a lower color intensity. With baking, the medullar tissue of irradiated roots of `Picadito' lost some of its yellow tinge, but it also became darker with increased irradiation. Taste panelists reported that irradiated roots were sweeter, but these were not preferred to nonirradiated roots, due, in part, to the darkened appearance of treated samples.
Antibiosis to Caribbean Fruit Fly in Avocado Germplasm
Authors: Hennessey Michael K. , Knight Robert J. , Schnell Raymond J.
Published: February 2019

Seventeen avocado selections from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Miami National Clonal Germplasm Repository were bioassayed for antibiosis to Caribbean fruit fly eggs and larvae. Two colony-reared strains of flies were used. Fourteen of the selections did not support any development of immature stages to the adult stage. The results support the contention that highly resistant cultivars would not pose a high risk of spreading Caribbean fruit fly to foreign markets even without postharvest disinfestation treatment.
Spectral Changes in Metal Halide and High-pressure Sodium Lamps Equipped with Electronic Dimming
Authors: Bubenheim David L. , Sargis Raman , Wilson David
Published: February 2019

Electronic dimming of high-intensity discharge lamps offers control of photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) but is often characterized as causing significant spectral changes. Growth chambers with 400-W metal halide (MH) and high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps were equipped with a dimmer system using silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCR) as high-speed switches. Phase control operation turned the line power off for some period of the alternating current cycle. At full power, the electrical input to HPS and MH lamps was 480 W (root mean squared) and could be decreased to 267 W and 428 W, respectively, before the arc was extinguished. Concomitant with this decrease in input power, PPF decreased by 60% in HPS and 50% in MH. The HPS lamp has characteristic spectral peaks at 589 and 595 nm. As power to the HPS lamps was decreased, the 589-nm peak remained constant while the 595-nm peak decreased, equaling the 589-nm peak at 345-W input, and the 589-nm peak was almost absent at 270-W input. The MH lamp has a broader spectral output but also has a peak at 589 nm and another smaller peak at 545 nm. As input power to the MH lamps decreased, the peak at 589 diminished to equal the 545-nm peak. As input power approached 428 W, the 589-nm peak shifted to 570 nm. While the spectrum changed as input power was decreased in the MH and HPS lamps, the phytochrome equilibrium ratio (Pfr: Ptot) remains unchanged for both lamp types.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Microimaging of Strawberry Flower Buds and Fruit
Authors: Maas John L. , Line Michael J.
Published: February 2019

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) can be used to examine tissue structure and developmental changes during growth and maturation of plant organs nondestructively. Spin-lattice, relaxation time (T1)-weighted, inversion recovery, spin-echo images of strawberry (Fragaria×ananassa Duch.) flower buds were acquired at 3 and 1 day before anthesis and receptacles at 4, 10, 15, and 25 days after anthesis (DAA). The central pith and ovules of flower buds imaged intensely with inversion echo times between 0.1 and 0.5 seconds. Achenes and the vascular cylinder, composed of vascular bundles surrounding the pith, were prominent in receptacles at 4 and 10 DAA. Vascular bundles leading to achene positions, cortex and pith tissues, and the vascular cylinder were evident in receptacles at all developmental stages. A general trend to homogeneity of structure was observed in images of receptacles nearing full maturity (25 DAA). Inversion recovery, spin-echo NMR microimaging may be useful for studying internal physicochemical changes in flower buds and fruit of strawberry and of other fruit crops.
Weed Control in Pejibaye Heart of Palm Plantations in Hawaii
Authors: DeFrank Joseph , Clement Charles R.
Published: February 2019

Pejibaye (Bactris gasipaes Kunth, Palmae) is being evaluated for production of fresh heart of palm in Hawaii. Precocity, yields, and weed control were evaluated in response to woven black polypropylene mat (control), oryzalin, oxyfluorfen, and paraquat. Control plots attained 100% of plants harvested by 26 months, followed by oxyfluorfen (97.5%), oryzalin (77.5%), and paraquat (60%). Estimated heart of palm yields (3731 plants/ha) were similar with oxyfluorfen 1.2 kg a.i./ha (707 kg·ha–1), polypropylene mat (612 kg·ha–1), oxyfluorfen 0.6 kg a.i./ha (600 kg·ha–1), and oryzalin 4.5 kg a.i./ha (478 kg·ha–1). Based on precocity, yields, and weed control efficiency, the performance rating of these weed control treatments was mat ≈ oxyfluorfen > oryzalin > paraquat. Chemical names used: 4-(dipropylamino)-3,5-dinitrobenzenesulfonamide (oryzalin); 2-chloro-1-(3-ethoxy-4-nitrophenoxy)-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzene (oxyfluorfen); 1,1′-dimethyl-4-4′-bibyridinium ion (paraquat).
Facilitating Anastomosis Grouping of Rhizoctonia solani Isolates from Cool-season Turfgrasses
Authors: Zhang Mei , Dernoeden Peter H.
Published: February 2019

Determining anastomosis groups (AGs) of Rhizoctonia solani Kühn isolates is tedious and time-consuming. Three previously described methods (i.e., cellophane strip, glass slide, petri dish) were compared to determine which was the most rapid and accurate. Colony characteristics also were assessed to tentatively identify AGs. All techniques were accurate. The cellophane strip method was most time-consuming, and the time required for hyphal overlap with the glass slide method was not generally predictable. Pairing isolates in a petri dish containing a thin layer of water agar was reliable and was the simplest technique. There was little variation in colony pigmentation or sclerotia color, shape, or formation patterns within AG-1 IA (n = 34), AG-2-2 IIIB (n = 46), and AG-4 (n = 5); the former two AGs are the ones most commonly isolated from cool-season turfgrasses. Accordingly, R. solani isolates from turfgrasses may be assigned tentatively to an AG based on colony pigmentation and sclerotial characteristics.
Somatic Embryogenesis and Regeneration from Cotyledon Explants of Six Squash Cultivars
Authors: Gonsalves Carol , Xue Baodi , Gonsalves Dennis
Published: February 2019

Six summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) cultivars were regenerated via somatic embryogenesis using cotyledons excised from germinated or nongerminated seeds. Genotypes included were zucchini, commercial F1 hybrids, `President', `Seneca Zucchini', `Jade'; the noncommercial inbred line `Caserta Inbred 557311'; and two yellow squash hybrids `Dixie' and `Seneca Butterbar'. Somatic embryogenesis was initiated in induction medium containing 22.62 μm 2, 4-D, and embryos were germinated in maturation medium containing 0.27 μm NAA and 0.23 μm kinetin. Plants were elongated and rooted on basal medium without hormones. All media contained carbenicillin at 500 mg·liter–1. Sixty-one percent of the `Seneca Butterbar' cotyledons produced somatic embryos when kept on induction medium for 10 weeks. Overall, 7% of the initial explants produced plantlets, and regeneration efficiency was calculated as 0.3 plantlets per initial explant. The relative production of plants from cotyledons that were kept on induction medium for different time periods were determined for `Caserta Inbred 557311' and `Seneca Zucchini'. All cotyledons produced somatic embryos after 11 to 17 weeks on induction medium. However, plantlet production was optimal with explants kept on induction medium for 13 weeks for `Seneca Zucchini' and for 15 weeks for `Caserta Inbred 557311', producing an average of 4.5 and 9.3 plants per explant, respectively, from 90% to 70% of the explants. We recovered plants from all six cultivars; thus, our regeneration protocol may be applicable to other genotypes. The high percentage of regenerants obtained indicates that the regeneration method is efficient enough to be adapted successfully to squash transformation experiments. Chemical names used: α-carboxybenzylpenicillin (carbenicillin); 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D); 6-furfurylaminopurine (kinetin); α-napthaleneacetic acid (NAA).
Postproduction Evaluations of Potted Asiatic and Oriental Hybrid Lilies
Authors: Nell Terril A. , Leonard Ria T. , De Hertogh A.A. , Barrett James E.
Published: February 2019

Potted Lilium Asiatic hybrids `Aristocrat', `Horizon', and `Polka' were evaluated following 3, 6, or 9 days of transport at 2, 7, or 13C. `Aristocrat' and `Horizon' withstood transport with little or no effect on floral bud opening. `Polka' was the most sensitive cultivar to transport, where bud opening decreased 33% when transported at 13C for 9 days. Most floral buds opened on `Aristocrat' (90% to 98%), while fewer buds opened on `Horizon' (37% to 56%) and `Polka' (52% to 90%). Individual flower longevity and diameters were largely unaffected by transport. Plant longevity was reduced 4 to 7 days when transported for 9 days at ≥7C or for >3 days at 13C. Plant longevity averaged 16 days for `Aristocrat' and `Polka' and 12 days for `Horizon'. `Aristocrat' and the Oriental potted hybrid lily `Star Gazer' were maintained at postproduction conditions of 18, 21, or 24C at 7 or 14 μmol·m–2·s–1 after being commercially transported for 4 days at 5 ± 2C. Postproduction conditions had no effect on floral bud opening of `Aristocrat' (98% to 99%), while bud opening of `Star Gazer' was reduced 17% at 24C compared to 18C. Plants lasted 4 and 9 days longer at 18C than at 21 or 24C, respectively. Foliar discoloration was greatest at 24C. Irradiance level had no effect on the variables evaluated.
Methods for ex Vitro Germination of Australian Terrestrial Orchids
Authors: Quay Letitia , McComb Jen A. , Dixon Kingsley W.
Published: February 2019

Seeds of two Australian terrestrial orchid species (Caladenia latifolia R.Br. and Diuris magnifica D. Jones) were germinated in a potting mix of Allocasuarina fraseriana (Miq.) L. Johnson leaf mulch and perlite (1:1). The potting mix was irradiated (7 Gy for 14 hours), steam pasteurized (70C for 30 minutes) or nontreated, and inoculated with the appropriate mycorrhizal fungus for each species, a sterile red fungus (SRF), or both. Protocorm formation and green shoots were evident at 8 and 10 weeks, respectively, after seed sowing. The highest mean number of seedlings was 84 for C. latifolia and 234 for D. magnifica per 270-ml container in pasteurized potting mix inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi and SRF. Shoots were longest after 20 weeks (28 mm for C. latifolia and 52 mm for D. magnifica, respectively) in pasteurized potting mix inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi only. Germination was absent in control treatments without mycorrhizal fungi; with SRF only; or in nonsterile potting mix with mycorrhizal fungi, SRF, or both.
Resistance to Blueberry Shoestring Virus in Southern Highbush and Rabbiteye Cultivars
Authors: Acquaah Theresa , Ramsdell D.C. , Hancock J.F.
Published: February 2019

To determine if blueberry shoestring virus (BBSSV) is absent in the southern United States due to resistance of cultivars, we mechanically and rub-inoculated 1-year-old rooted microshoots of nine cultivars representing southern rabbiteye (Vaccinium ashei Reade), southern highbush (hybrids of V. corymbosum and V. darrowi Camp), and northern highbush (V. corymbosum L.). Leaves were sampled from plants, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay screened for the presence of virus over 15 months. Only a few individuals were infected after aphid inoculation, but many northern and southern cultivars became infected after mechanical inoculation. Northern highbush `Elliot' (50%) and `Blueray' (46.3%) had the highest infection rates, followed by rabbiteye `Climax' (36.3%) and the southern highbush `O'Neal' (12.5%). The lowest rates of infection were found in southern highbush `Georgiagem' (2.5%), `Misty' (2.5%), rabbiteye `Brightwell' (0.0%), and northern highbush `Bluecrop' (2.5%). Since many southern cultivars were infected by the disease, resistance likely has not excluded BBSSV from the southern United States.
Logit Models for Estimating Lethal Temperatures in Apple
Authors: Lindén Leena , Rita Hannu , Suojala Terhi
Published: February 2019

Logit models were used to analyze freeze-survival data of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.). The effects of hardening and dehardening treatments and two treatment durations on lethal temperature were studied using two cultivars. The major benefits of logit models were 1) the form of the sampling variation in the qualitative response variable was taken into account, 2) the lethal temperatures could be estimated with confidence intervals, and 3) the effects of treatments could be interpreted and compared easily using odds ratios. The momentary frost resistance estimates for `Antonovka' and `Samo' were –46 and –43C, respectively. Dehardening at 14C raised the lethal temperature by 12 to 15C, whereas hardening at –15C did not affect the frost resistance of either cultivar.
Marigold Growth and Phosphorus Leaching in a Soilless Medium Amended with Phosphorus-charged Alumina
Authors: Lin Yuan-ling P. , Holcomb E. Jay , Lynch Jonathan P.
Published: February 2019

Alumina granules charged with P were used as an amendment to improve the ability of a soilless medium to retain P and provide it to plants. Commercially available alumina was acidified, saturated with P, and evenly distributed in a medium of peat, vermiculite, and sand to grow potted marigolds (Tagetes spp.) to a commercially salable stage. Marigolds grown in medium amended with P-charged alumina had adequate nutrition and similar or superior shoot growth (as measured by height, number of branches, and flower production) and fresh and dry weights compared to marigolds grown using commercial fertilizer. Phosphorus-charged alumina at 1% or 2% of total medium volume was sufficient to grow marigolds for at least 8 weeks and substantially reduced P leaching compared to conventionally fertilized controls. Alumina amendments in this range did not cause Al toxicity, as evidenced in root growth and leaf Al content.
Varying Plant Density and Harvest Time to Optimize Cowpea Leaf Yield and Nutrient Content
Authors: Ohler Tracy A. , Nielsen S. Suzanne , Mitchell Cary A.
Published: February 2019

Plant density and harvest time were manipulated to optimize vegetative (foliar) productivity of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] canopies for future dietary use in controlled ecological life-support systems as vegetables or salad greens. Productivity was measured as total shoot and edible dry weights (DW), edible yield rate [(EYR) grams DW per square meter per day], shoot harvest index [(SHI) grams DW per edible gram DW total shoot], and yield-efficiency rate [(YER) grams DW edible per square meter per day per grams DW nonedible]. Cowpeas were grown in a greenhouse for leaf-only harvest at 14, 28, 42, 56, 84, or 99 plants/m2 and were harvested 20, 30, 40, or 50 days after planting (DAP). Shoot and edible dry weights increased as plant density and time to harvest increased. A maximum of 1189 g shoot DW/m2 and 594 g edible DW/m2 were achieved at an estimated plant density of 85 plants/m2 and harvest 50 DAP. EYR also increased as plant density and time to harvest increased. An EYR of 11 g·m–2·day–1 was predicted to occur at 86 plants/m2 and harvest 50 DAP. SHI and YER were not affected by plant density. However, the highest values of SHI (64%) and YER (1.3 g·m–2·day–1·g–1) were attained when cowpeas were harvested 20 DAP. The average fat and ash contents [dry-weight basis (dwb)] of harvested leaves remained constant regardless of harvest time. Average protein content increased from 25% DW at 30 DAP to 45% DW at 50 DAP. Carbohydrate content declined from 50% DW at 30 DAP to 45% DW at 50 DAP. Total dietary fiber content (dwb) of the leaves increased from 19% to 26% as time to harvest increased from 20 to 50 days.
Pregermination Studies with Liquid Nitrogen and Sulfuric Acid on Several Rubus Species
Authors: Peacock Derek N. , Hummer Kim E.
Published: February 2019

We contrasted the effect of liquid nitrogen (LN2), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and a nontreated control on the germination of six Rubus species. We also were interested in determining if LN2 could be an effective mechanical scarifying agent for these species. Seeds of each species were treated with three 3-minute dips in LN2 with alternating 10-minute thaws, with H2SO4 for 30 minutes, or left untreated. The percent germination of R. multibracteatus A. Leveille & Vaniot, R. parviflorus Nutt., R. eustephanos Focke ex Diels, R. leucodermis Douglas ex Torrey & A. Gray, R. ursinus Cham. & Schldl., and R. chamaemorus L. treated with LN2 was not significantly different than the control. Germinated seedlings from the LN2 treatment of each species showed normal development upon planting, indicating that long-term cryogenic preservation of these Rubus species seeds may be possible. The H2SO4 treatment significantly increased the rate and percentage of germination in R. parviflorus, R. eustephanos, R. leucodermis, and R. ursinus over that of the control and the LN2 treatment. The alternative LN2 application techniques that have been attempted thus far have not significantly improved Rubus seed germination compared with that of the control.
Barriers to Intersubgeneric Crosses between Muscadinia and Euvitis
Authors: Lu Jiang , Lamikanra Olusola
Published: February 2019

Fluorescence microscopy was used to examine the unilateral intersubgeneric incongruity of muscadine grape (Muscadinia Planch.) × bunch grape (Euvitis Planch.). Pollen grains of bunch grape hydrated and germinated on the stigmas of muscadine grape. Healthy pollen tubes of the bunch grape also penetrated the stigma and entered into the style without obstacles. However, most bunch grape pollen tubes were arrested in the style near the stigma, and few bunch grape pollen tubes were found at the base of the style. Barriers to the intersubgeneric crosses apparently occurred before fertilization; abortion of pollen tubes in the style was the major cause of failure for the cross of V. rotundifolia Michx. × Euvitis.
NUCLEAR DNA CONTENT OF DENDROBIUM ORCHID SPECIES AS DETERMINED BY LASER FLOW CYTOMETRY
Authors: Jones W.E. , Kuehnle A.R. , Arumuganathan K.
Published: February 2019

Flow cytometry (FC) has proven to be an efficient and reliable method to estimate nuclear DNA content (genome size) in quantifiable units useful for genetic and molecular biology studies. This method also makes possible determination of the variation in nuclear DNA content between related taxa, which gives insights into the process of speciation. In this study, DNA content was determined in nuclei isolated from leaves of 21 Dendrobium species representing each of the major taxonomic groups used in the Univ. of Hawaii breeding program. Nuclei were mechanically isolated, stained with the nucleic acid-specific fluorochrom propidium iodide, and DNA content determined using a Coulter Epics 753 laser flow cytometer. Chicken erythrocyte nuclei (2C = 2.33 pg DNA) were used as an internal standard for direct comparative measurement. The mean diploid genome (2C) values for Dendrobium species ranged from 3.36 to 5.06 pg. Genome sizes were evaluated for possible use as discrete characters for taxonomic group assignment and compared to previous data on breeding compatibility and evolutionary relationship between species.
COMMUNITY-DERIVED GREEN WASTE COMPOST USED TO GROW WATERMELONS, SWEET CORN, AND TOMATOES
Authors: Valencia Jesús
Published: February 2019

Under heavy pressure to prolong the life of landfills, cities have been asked to reduce the amount of trash deposited in them. Yard grass clippings and prunings contribute greatly to filling up local land fills. Since green waste can be easily composted, municipalities are looking into agriculture as a potential candidate in disposing of composted material. It is common knowledge that compost is good for plants. However, most information seems to be anecdotal or testimonial. Therefore, the need for scientific-based information is highly needed if compost is to be used successfully in agricultural lands. To generate hard data, replicated test plots were conducted in watermelons, sweet corn, and tomatoes in which 10 and 20 tons per acre of community-derived, green waste, composted material was used in addition to a commercial fertilizer rate and nontreated check. Soil and tissue analyses were run three times during the season to check nutrients in plants(N, P, and K). Organic matter, electrical conductivity, and pH were analyzed from soil samples. Yields and quality determinations also were taken from all crops for comparisons. Organic matter from compost treatments increased significantly in corn and tomatoes. Electrical conductivity was lower in the composted treatments, and K increased as well. Trials are being funded by the California Integrated Waste Management Board, and it will continue for at lease 1 more year.
EVALUATION OF HUP+, HUP– AND A TRANSCONJUGANT RHIZOBIUM ON YIELD, NITROGEN FIXATION, AND UPTAKE HYDROGENASE ACTIVITY IN SELECTED CHICKPEA CULTIVARS
Authors: Sajid G.M. , Campbell W.F.
Published: February 2019

Evolution of hydrogen gas (H2) during N2 reduction in root nodules results in inefficient use of energy needed for N2 fixation. Cultivars of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) were inoculated with Rhizobium strains with and without genes for uptake hydrogenase (Hup) activity. H2 evolution, acetylene reduction activity, and uptake hydrogenase (Hup) activity were assayed on the resulting nodules. The Hup– strains produced higher plant yields than the Hup+ strains. The +N controls produced significantly higher yields than the –N controls and plants inoculated with Rhizobium strains. Hydrogen uptake activity by Rhizobium strains was influenced by the cultivar characteristics. Expression of the plasmid-borne hup genes (pHU52) of Bradyrhizobium japonicum was modified by the host cultivar. The average nodule fresh weight and shoot and root dry weights of the cultivars significantly increased following inoculation with the transconjugant Hup+ Rhizobium strain. Thus, biological N2 fixation may be enhanced by selecting Rhizobium strains that are appropriately matched to the particular cultivar. Incorporation of transconjugant Hup+ genes can increase rhizobial activity.
AVENUES OF DISTANCE EDUCATION: HIGHWAYS, BIWAYS, AND DEAD ENDS
Authors: Kjelgren Roger , Rupp Larry
Published: February 2019

In 1992 and 1993, we taught the course “Landscape Management in the Interior West” by satellite in four states in the mountain west. The broadcast originated from an on-campus studio without students present, but with a two-way audio link. About one-third of the students viewed the course for credit and were located both on and off campus, while the remainder were not on campus and took the course for personal knowledge. In 1992, the course was broadcast live, but in 1993 it was restructured in a modular format and videotaped before broadcast. In 1994, videotapes from the previous year were used to offer the course on a semi-independent study basis on the Utah State Univ. campus. Videotaping the course in discrete content modules substantially improved the quality of the course by eliminating production problems and creating better content flow. The videotapes in turn provided a readily usable off-the-shelf course. Student response, however, varied with location and degree of involvement. On-campus students were critical of a perceived lack of face-to-face contact with faculty. Positive responses came from viewers in remote locations where access to college-level courses is otherwise limited. Distance education through studio-produced, videotaped lectures provides a visually engaging format that is easily disseminated. Such courses will less likely succeed on client campuses, however, unless there is an onsite individual mediating between the tapes and students.
Survival of Water-stressed Rhododendron Subjected to Freezing at Fast or Slow Cooling Rates
Authors: Anisko Tomasz , Lindstrom Orville M.
Published: February 2019

The purpose of the present study was to determine whether water stress affects tolerance of Rhododendron L. `Catawbiense Boursault' to rapid freezing. Tolerance to freezing at cooling rates of 2 or 6C/hour in stems and leaves of plants subjected to continuous and periodic water deficit stresses was examined. Under continuous stress treatments, water content of the growing medium was maintained in a range of 0.60 to 0.75, 0.45 to 0.60, or 0.30 to 0.45 m3·m–3 between 24 Aug. 1992 and 11 Feb. 1994. Under periodic stress treatments, water content of the growing medium was maintained near field capacity, i.e., 0.6 to 0.8 m3·m–3, for the duration of the study or plants were subjected to the periodic stress at various times between 15 July and 19 Feb. during 2 years. Watering of water-stressed plants was delayed until water content reached below 0.4 m3·m–3, and then was resumed to maintain water content in the range of 0.3 to 0.4 m3·m–3. Cold hardiness was evaluated in the laboratory with freeze tolerance tests on detached leaves and stem sections. In most cases, cooling at 6C/hour caused injury at higher temperature than cooling at 2C/hour. The difference in lethal temperature between the two cooling rates depended on the level of the plant's cold hardiness. In plants cold hardy to about –25C, freezing at 6C/hour caused injury at a temperature ≈3C higher than freezing at 2C/hour. The effect of cooling rate was not evident in plants cold hardy to about –18C. Subjecting plants to continuous or periodic water stress did not have an effect on this relationship.
Integration of No Tillage and Overseeded Legume Living Mulches for Transplanted Broccoli Production
Authors: Infante Michelle L. , Morse Ronald D.
Published: February 2019

Experiments were conducted with `BigSur' broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) at two sites in Fall 1993 and at two sites in Spring 1994 on a Hayter loam in southwestern Virginia. Our objectives were to determine the effects of tillage main plots (conventional tillage = CT and no tillage = NT) and weed control subplots [no overseeding or preemergent herbicide, oxyfluorofen, red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), `Dutch' white clover (Trifolium repens L.), and hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth)] on broccoli yield and weed suppression. In all sites, weed suppression and marketable broccoli yield with NT were equal to or higher than with CT. Overseeded legume living mulches did not affect broccoli yield in any site compared to the control plots and suppressed weeds as well as the oxyfluorofen in three of the four sites. Thus, the NT systems used in these experiments can suppress weeds and produce high broccoli yields. Also, overseeded legume living mulches can be established effectively after transplanting to suppress weeds without reducing broccoli yield. Chemical name used: 2-choro-1-(3-ethoxy-4-nitrophenoxy)-4-(trifluoromethyl) benzene (oxyfluorofen).
Established and Seeded Buffalograss Tolerance to Herbicides Applied Preemergence
Authors: Dotray Peter A. , McKenney Cynthia B.
Published: February 2019

Experiments were conducted to evaluate established and seeded buffalograss [Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.] tolerance to herbicides applied preemergence at labeled use rates. Established buffalograss tolerated benefin, benefin plus oryzalin, benefin plus trifluralin, DCPA, dithiopyr, isoxaben, oryzalin, pendimethalin, and prodiamine. For established buffalograss treated with atrazine, diuron, or metolachlor, the injury rating was 27% to 71% at 6 weeks after treatment (WAT) and 22% to 84% at 15 WAT. Buffalograss tolerated cyanazine, metsulfuron, propazine, and pyrithiobac applied in the seedbed. Seeded buffalograss stands were reduced by alachlor, atrazine, dicamba, linuron, metolachlor, metribuzin, oryzalin, pendimethalin, and quinclorac. Stand reductions by dicamba (a preplant and postemergence herbicide), up to 100% at 4 WAT and up to 85% at 16 WAT, were those most severe. Seeded and established buffalograss showed excellent tolerance to a few preemergence herbicides that could be used effectively and safely to control weeds during establishment and maintenance of buffalograss. Chemical names used: 2-chloro-N-(2,6-diethylphenyl)-N-(methoxymethyl) acetamide (alachlor); 6-chloro-N-ethyl-N′-(1-methylethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine (atrazine); N-butyl-N-ethyl-2,6-dinitro-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzenamine (benefin); 2-[[4-chloro-6-(ethylamino)-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl]amino]-2-methylpropanenitrile (cyanazine); dimethyl 2,3,5,6-tetrachloro-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (DCPA); 3,6-dichloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid (dicamba); S,S-dimethyl 2-(difluoromethyl)-4-(2-methylpropyl)-6-(trifluoromethyl)-3,5-pyridinedicarbothioate (dithiopyr); N′-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-N,N-dimethylurea (diuron); N-[3-(1-ethyl-1-methylpropyl)-5-isoxazolyl]-2,6-dimethoxybenzamide (isoxaben); N′-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-N-methoxy-N-methylurea (linuron); 2-chloro-N-(2-ethyl-6-methylphenyl)-N-(2-methoxy-1-methylethyl)acetamide (metolachlor); 4-amino-6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-3-(methylthio)-1,2,4-triazin-5(4H)-one (metribuzin); 2-[[[[(4-methoxy-6-methyl-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]benzoic acid (metsulfuron); 4-(dipropylamino)-3,5-dinitrobenzenesulfonamide (oryzalin); N-(1-ethylpropyl)-3,4-dimethyl-2,6-dinitrobenzenamine (pendimethalin); N3,N3-di-n-propyl-2,4-dinitro-6-(trifluoromethyl)-m-phenylenediamine (prodiamine); 6-chloro-N,N′-bis(1-methylethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine (propazine); 2-chloro-6-[(4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrimidinyl) thio]benzoic acid (pyrithiobac); 3,7-dichloro-8-quinolinecarboxylic acid (quinclorac); Team™ [premix of 1.33% benefin and 0.67% 2,6-dinitro-N,N-dipropyl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzenamine] (trifluralin).
Low-temperature Storage of Micropropagated Plantlets under Selected Light Environments
Authors: Kubota Chieri , Rajapakse Nihal C. , Young Roy E.
Published: February 2019

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. Botrytis Group `Green Duke') and Hosta tokudama F. Maekawa `Newberry Gold' plantlets, which were ready for transplanting after photoautotrophic (sugar-free) culture, were stored 4 to 6 weeks at 5C under various light qualities and photosynthetic photon fluxes (PPF). Illumination during storage maintained quality, photosynthetic ability, and regrowth potential of plantlets stored at low temperature. PPF affected quality of broccoli and Hosta plantlets. Broccoli plantlets responded to storage light quality, while Hosta did not. White light maintained the quality of broccoli plantlets better during 6 weeks of storage than did red or blue light. Red and blue light caused an increase in internode length and reduction in chlorophyll concentrations compared to white light. Photosynthetic and regrowth potentials of plantlets were not affected by spectral quality during storage. Considering changes in dry weight, stem length, and leaf yellowing, the quality of broccoli plantlets was best maintained under white light at 2 μmol·m–2·s–1 PPF. PPF and light quality were shown to be important factors in the preservation of transplant quality and suppression of growth of the plantlets during low-temperature storage.
Propagation of GF677 Peach Rootstock by Stem Cuttings
Authors: AI-Tamimi Osama M. , QrunBeh Mostafa M.
Published: February 2019

The rooting ability of GF677 peach rootstock by hardwood (H), semihardwood (SH), and softwood (S) stem cuttings collected January, February, May, and November, treated with various IBA concentrations—0, 500, 1000, 2000, and 3000 ppm—was studied. H cuttings collected in January and treated with 2000 ppm IBA caused significant increase in rooting (62%–5%). In addition, the SH cuttings prepared February and treated with 1000 or 2000 ppm IBA gave 42.5%. The May experiment resulted in low rooting percentage where H cuttings treated with 500 ppm IBA gave 10% rooting. In October, SH cuttings with 1000 or 3000 ppm IBA gave the highest rooting percentage (60%), while in November 90% rooting was obtained in H cuttings treated with 3000 ppm. Regardless of type of cutting, IBA at 1000, 2000, or 3000 ppm was better for rooting the GF677 than at 500 ppm. However, irrespective of IBA concentration, H and SH cuttings gave significantly high rooting percentages. On the other hand, best rooting was obtained when the stem cuttings of GF677 (regardless of wood type) were collected in November. Wounding base of the cutting of GF677 improved rooting ability.
Surfactants Improve the Efficacy of Hydrogen Cyanamide Applied to Grapevines
Authors: Neja R.A. , Dokoozlian N.K. , Ebisuda N.C.
Published: February 2019

Field experiments conducted in 1994 (low-chill winter) and 1995 (high-chill winter) examined the effects of surfactants on the efficacy of hydrogen cyanamide (H2CN2) applied to `Perlette' grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) in the Coachella Valley of California. In 1994, when surfactants were not used, vines treated with 1% and 2% H2CN2 exhibited similar rates of budbreak and grew more rapidly than vines treated with 0.5% H2CN2. When 1% or more of the surfactant Armobreak was used, budbreak was generally similar among all H2CN2 concentrations. The number of days after treatment required for 70% budbreak declined as H2CN2 and Armobreak concentrations were increased. Results were similar in 1995, however, budbreak was inhibited when vines were treated with 2% H2CN2 + 2% Armobreak. A separate experiment conducted in 1995 revealed that two other surfactants, Activator 90 and Agridex, had similar effects on the efficacy of H2CN2 as Armobreak. The results indicate that, when 2% surfactant is used, the standard commercial H2CN2 concentration used in California may be reduced 75% while maintaining treatment efficacy. Chemical names used: hydroxypolyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene ethyl alkylamine (Armobreak); alkyl polyoxyetheylene ether (Activator 90); paraffin petroleum oil (Agridex).
Herbicide Tolerance Mechanisms in Eastern Black Nightshade (Solanum ptycanthum)
Authors: Kolasani Vamsgita , Masiunas John
Published: February 2019

Eastern black nightshade is one of the problematic weeds in vegetables and soybeans in the Midwest. It is representative of a rapidly growing complex of broadleaf weeds where herbicide resistance would be expected to occur. Eastern black nightshade calli lines that are resistant and susceptible to acifluorfen were maintained on the medium without the herbicide. After two years, these lines were tested for tolerance to acifluorfen and paraquat. Tolerance to acifluorfen was maintained in the previously selected lines. The lines were also cross tolerant to paraquat. Plants were regenerated from these calli lines and grown in the greenhouse. 14C-acifluorfen and 14C-paraquat uptake, translocation, and metabolism were studied.
Preemergent Herbicide Evaluation in Processing Pumpkin and Squash
Authors: Wahle Elizabeth A. , Masiunas John B.
Published: February 2019

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate processing pumpkin and processing squash tolerance to preemergence herbicides. The experiments were randomized complete block designs with three or four replications. The herbicides were applied after seeding the crop using a CO2-pressurized sprayer delivering 233 L/ha. We evaluated clomazone alone, and in combination with either halosulfuron or sulfentrazone. The first experiment was conducted in Morton, Ill., using `Libby's Select' processing pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata). None of the treatments caused any significant pumpkin phytotoxicity. On 7 July all treatments reduced the number of grass weeds compared to the untreated control. There were no differences in grass control between the herbicide treatments. Broadleaf control was best in sulfentrazone at 0.56 kg/ha or clomazone + halosulfuron at 0.56 + 0.13 kg/ha and worst in the untreated control. Weed control decreased by the 29 July rating; grass and broadleaf weed control was unacceptable in all treatments due to infestation with perennial weeds. Sulfentrazone alone or with clomazone was safe for use on pumpkins in heavier soils. The second experiment, conducted in Champaign, Ill., used `NK530' processing squash (Cucurbita maxima). None of the treatments caused any squash phytotoxicity. The best control on 14 July was with combinations of clomazone and sulfentrazone. On 10 Aug., all herbicide treatments were similar in their control of broadleaf weeds. Sulfentrazone and halosulfuron do not injure processing pumpkin or squash when applied either alone or in combination with clomazone.
A Comparison of Four Orchard Floor Management Strategies for Lemons in Southwestern Arizona
Authors: Wright G.C. , McCloskey W.B. , Taylor K.C.
Published: February 2019

Four orchard floor management strategies—disking, mowing, chemical mow, and clean culture using herbicides—were evaluated in a `Limoneira 8A Lisbon' lemon orchard in Southern Arizona, starting in the fall of 1993. Disking was the cultural practice used to manage the orchard floor before the start of the experiment. Although disking the orchard floor may have injured shallow tree roots, it provided satisfactory weed control except underneath the tree canopies where bermudagrass, purple nutsedge, and other weed species survived. Chemical mowing with Roundup at 1.168 L/ha did not provide satisfactory control of many weed species and required too many applications to be commercially feasible. This treatment was converted to a combination clean culture and disk treatment (clean and disk) in Summer 1995. Mowing the orchard suppressed broadleaf weed species, allowing the spread and establishment of grasses, primarily bermudagrass, and to a lesser extent, southern sandburr. A fall application of Solicam and Surflan followed by a summer spot treatment application of Roundup was used to control the weed flora in the clean culture treatment. Spot treatment applications of sethoxydim (Poast and Torpedo) were also made to control bermudagrass growing under the tree canopies in the clean culture treatment. Total 1995 yield of the mow, clean & disk, disk, and clean culture treatments were 4867, 5112, 5216, and 6042 kg of fruit, respectively. For the first harvest of 1995, the trees under clean culture also had significantly greater numbers of large fruit than did the trees under the other treatments.