bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trehalose Delays Senescence in Cut Gladiolus Spikes
Authors: Otsubo Mayuko , Iwaya-Inoue Mari
Published: February 2019

Florets of cut gladiolus (Gladiolus ×grandiflora hort. cv. Fujinoyuki) spikes kept at 25 °C under 14 h light/10 h dark condition showed severe wilting 4 days after flower opening. Treatment with 0.1 m trehalose prolonged vase-life 2 days, whereas inhibitors and other sugars had no effect. The upper florets also opened properly in trehalose-treated spikes, but not in cycloheximide-treated ones. After 4 days, the first florets of trehalose-treated spikes maintained water content more effectively than did controls or spikes treated with other sugars. The parenchyma adjacent to vascular bundles in the petals of trehalose-treated spikes maintained viability for 4 days. These results suggest that trehalose preserves cell viability in gladiolus spikes, thereby enhancing water uptake into petal tissues.
Inheritance of Resistance to Lettuce Infectious Yellows Virus in Melon
Authors: McCreight James D.
Published: February 2019

Lettuce infectious yellows virus (LIYV), transmitted by the sweetpotato whitefly, (Bemisia tabaci Genn.), seriously affected melon (Cucumis melo L.) production in the lower desert areas of the southwest United States from 1981 through 1990. Melon plant introduction (PI) 313970 was previously found resistant to LIYV in naturally infected field tests and controlled-inoculation greenhouse tests. Data from F1 and segregating generations from crosses of PI 313970 with LIYV-susceptible lines indicated that resistance in this accession is conditioned by a dominant allele at a single locus designated Lettuce infectious yellows (Liy).
Meiotic Behavior in a Tetraploid Rose and its Hybrid Progeny
Authors: Ma Yan , Crane Charles F. , Byrne David H.
Published: February 2019

The tetraploid (2n = 4x = 28) rose 86-7 (Rosa wichuraiana × R. rugosa rubra) and its hybrids with the thornless tetraploid rose cultivar Basye's Blueberry (2n = 28) were analyzed for meiotic configuration frequencies and meiotic abnormalities. Genomic relationships in these hybrids were interpreted with the aid of a model of meiotic chromosome association in tetraploids. The closest-fitting model solutions indicated a 2:2 (AABB) pattern of genomic relationships, with 65% to 90% of all association between most closely related genomes. Some of the optimal solutions were transitional to a “ring4” pattern, in which one of the possible pairing arrangements is suppressed. The same configuration frequencies could also reflect a “4:0” pattern of equally similar genomes with fractionally more than two independent pairing and chiasma-forming domains per chromosome. Observed meiotic abnormalities included chromosome stickiness and asynchronous chromosome contraction within cells. Pollen stainability varied independently of meiotic irregularity or multivalent frequency. The observed configuration frequencies are consistent with partially tetrasomic inheritance that retains considerable heterozygosity, but allows individual contributions from parental genomes to become homozygous.
Screening the Cucumber Germplasm Collection for Resistance to Gummy Stem Blight in North Carolina Field Tests
Authors: Wehner Todd C. , Shetty Nischit V.
Published: February 2019

Gummy stem blight (Didymella blight), caused by Didymella bryoniae (Auersw.) Rehm and its anamorph Phoma cucurbitacearum (Fr.:Fr.) Sacc., is the second most important disease of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in North Carolina after root knot nematodes Meloidogyne sp. Both Didymella blight and Phoma blight, caused by Phoma exigua Desm., have similar symptoms and control practices, and are generally referred to as gummy stem blight. In order to determine whether resistance existed to North Carolina isolates of D. bryoniae, 851 cultigens [cultivars, breeding lines, and plant introduction (PI) lines] were evaluated in the field. Plants were inoculated with one selected isolate (highly pathogenic in preliminary greenhouse tests) at the vine tip-over stage. They were rated for foliage lesion size and number on a 0 to 9 visual scale (0 = no disease, 9 = plant killed) and average ratings for 10 plants per plot were analyzed. The ratings ranged from 2.0 (highly resistant) to 8.5 (highly susceptible) with a mean of 6.2. The most resistant breeding lines and PI accessions were PI 200815, PI 390243, `LJ 90430', PI 279469, and PI 432855. The most resistant cultivars were `Homegreen #2', `Little John', `Transamerica', and `Poinsett 76'. The most susceptible cultigens in the study were PI 288238, PI 357843, PI 357865, and PI 167134. Two popular cultivars in North Carolina, `Calypso' and `Dasher II', were moderately resistant.
Method of Application of Uniconazol Affects Vegetative Growth of Pecan
Authors: Graham Charles J. , Storey J. Benton
Published: February 2019

Pollarded `Wichita' pecan [Carya illinoensis (Wang) K. Koch] trees received 2 g uniconazol (UCZ) per tree using four application methods (trunk band, canopy soil injection, crown soil injection, and crown drench). All application methods increased trunk diameter but reduced shoot length, number of lateral shoots per terminal, nodes per terminal, internode length, and leaflets per compound leaf. Only the crown drench reduced leaf area. Area and dry weight per leaflet, and leaflet chlorophyll concentration were not affected by UCZ application. Effectiveness in growth reduction, as assessed by shoot elongation, was crown soil drench > crown soil injection > canopy soil injection > trunk band > control. All application methods increased viviparity. However, total yield per tree, nut size, and percentage of kernel were not affected. Chemical name used: (E)-1-(p-chlorophenyl)-4,4-dimethyl-2-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)-1-penten-3-ol (uniconazol).
Inheritance of Resistance to Root-knot Nematodes (Meloidogyne sp.) in Prunus Rootstocks
Authors: Lu Zhen-Xiang , Reighard Gregory L. , Nyczepir Andrew P. , Beckman Thomas G. , Ramming David W.
Published: February 2019

Two F1 hybrid Prunus rootstocks, K62-68 and P101-41, developed from a cross of `Lovell' [susceptible to both Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood and M. javanica (Treub) Chitwood] and `Nemared' (resistant to both root-knot nematode species), were selfed to produce two F2 seedling populations. Vegetative propagation by herbaceous stem cuttings was used to produce four or eight self-rooted plants of each F2 seedling for treatment replications. Eggs of M. incognita and M. javanica were inoculated into the potted media where plants were transplanted, and plants were harvested and roots examined for signs and symptoms associated with root-knot nematode infection ≈120 days later. Segregation ratios in both F2 families suggested that resistance to M. incognita in `Nemared' is controlled by two dominant genes (Mi and Mij) and that to M. javanica by a single dominant gene (Mij). Thus, Mij conveys resistance to both M. incognita and M. javanica.
Molecular Heterogeneity of the Chalcone Synthase Intron in Petunia
Authors: Griesbach R.J. , Beck R.M. , Stehmann J.R.
Published: February 2019

A method was developed to characterize the genetic heterogeneity of the chalcone synthase gene intron within the Petunia integrifolia (Hook.) Schinz & Thell. species complex. The DNA from wild species collected from known locations was used to amplify the chalcone synthase gene intron through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The resulting PCR product was then characterized by Rsa 1 restriction, revealing a degree of heterogeneity that could be used to characterize the species genetically. Of the four different species that were characterized, two could be placed in the same genetic grouping. This study shows that the variation in the intron of the Chs A gene may be species-specific.
Response of Several Transplanted Pepper Cultivars to Variable Rates and Methods of Application of Clomazone
Authors: Grey Timothy L. , Bridges David C. , NeSmith D. Scott
Published: February 2019

Field studies were conducted to evaluate the tolerance of several pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) cultivars to the herbicide clomazone. Peppers tested included the bell cultivars Yolo Wonder and Jupiter; the banana cultivar Sweet Banana; and the pungent cultivars Jalapeno and Red Chili. Treatments were clomazone at 0.56 or 1.12 kg·ha-1 a.i. applied either preplant incorporated (PPI), pretransplant (PRE-T), or posttransplant (POS-T) on the day of transplanting, plus a nontreated control. Clomazone at 1.12 kg·ha-1 a.i. PPI and PRE-T significantly injured (bleaching or chlorosis of foliage) `Sweet Banana' (40% and 20%, respectively) and `Red Chili' (30% and 18%, respectively) in 1993 in early-season evaluations, but this injury was transient and did not significantly affect total fruit number or yield. Injury to any cultivar from POS-T clomazone at 0.56 and 1.12 kg·ha-1 a.i. was nonsignificant. Overall, tolerance to clomazone was excellent for all treatments and across all cultivars. Yield was not reduced significantly by any treatment. Chemical names used: 2-[(2-chlorophenyl) methyl]-4, 4-dimethyl-3-isoxazolidinone (clomazone).
Harvest Date Affects Yield and Postharvest Quality of Nondried, Short-day Onions
Authors: Sargent Steven A. , Stoffella Peter J. , Maynard Donald N.
Published: February 2019

Short-day onions (Allium cepa L.) grown under humid, subtropical conditions at two locations were evaluated for bulb size and yield at five harvest dates (H1 to H5) ranging from 94 to 132 days after transplanting (DAT) for `Granex 33' and from 115 to 153 DAT for `Texas Grano 1015Y'. Maximum yields were attained by H4 for both cultivars and were attributed to increased bulb size rather than differences in plant (bulb) population. Nondried, large bulbs (>7.6 cm diameter) from each harvest were trimmed and stored at 1 or 10 °C and 80% relative humidity (RH) for 2 weeks plus 2 weeks at 20 °C and 80% RH to simulate commercial storage and handling. Initial respiration rates of bulbs of both cultivars decreased >60% between H1 and H4. Bulbs also retained higher fresh weight during storage as harvest was delayed. Storage for 2 weeks at 1 °C suppressed sprouting of immature (H1) `Texas Grano 1015Y' bulbs, but not of `Granex 33' bulbs from one location. Storage at 10 °C did not suppress sprouting of either cultivar. Decay became more prevalent with delayed harvest, but `Granex 33' was more resistant to decay than was `Texas Grano 1015Y', which developed up to 40% decay after 2 weeks at 20 °C. Harvest at 115 and 132 DAT resulted in acceptable yields for `Granex 33' and `Texas Grano 1015', respectively, and satisfactory postharvest quality of nondried bulbs following 2 weeks of storage at 1 °C and 80% RH plus 2 weeks at 20 °C.
Firmness and Drained Weight of Fruit of 19 Strawberry Clones
Authors: Moore Patrick P.
Published: February 2019

Plots of 19 clones of strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) were planted in 1996. Fruit of 16 clones were harvested in 1997 and fruit of 11 of the same clones plus three additional clones in 1998. Individual plots were harvested on three or four dates in 1997 and from three to seven dates in 1998. Fruit firmness was determined with a penetrometer at harvest, and additional samples were processed and frozen for subsequent determination of percentage of drained weight. Clones differed in firmness in both years and in drained weight in 1998, but not in 1997. Drained weight varied considerably from harvest-to-harvest. Correlations between firmness and drained weight were significant (P ≤ 0.01) in both years, but firmness was not a good predictor of drained weight. The correlation between drained weight of fruits in 1997 and those of fruits from the same plots in 1998 was nonsignificant, but that between firmness in 1997 and firmness in 1998 was significant at P ≤ 0.05.
Flow Cytometric Analysis of Ploidy in Rhododendron (subgenus Tsutsusi)
Authors: De Schepper S. , Leus L. , Mertens M. , Van Bockstaele E. , De Loose M. , Debergh P. , Heursel J.
Published: February 2019

Ploidy level was determined for six species and 88 cultivars of the Rhododendron subgenus Tsutsusi. High-resolution flow cytometry of nuclear DNA was performed on macerated plant tissue. All plants analyzed were diploid (2n = 26) with the exception of `Euratom', `Euratom Orange', and `Red Wing', which were triploid (3n = 39), and `Casablanca Tetra', which was found to be a cytochimera: mixoploid (2n + 4n) in the LI and LII, but tetraploid in the LIII. The described method has proven to be useful in screening a large population of rhododendrons. Analysis of different organs and plant tissues was easily accomplished through flow cytometry, and has proven useful in determining the ploidy of different histogenic layers.
Leachate from Earthworm Castings Breaks Seed Dormancy and Preferentially Promotes Radicle Growth in Jute
Authors: Ayanlaja S.A. , Owa S.O. , Adigun M.O. , Senjobi B.A. , Olaleye A.O.
Published: February 2019

Seeds of jute (Chorchorus olitorius L.) undergo a period of dormancy, which hitherto has been broken with the conventional method of steeping in boiling water. Another seed treatment procedure, which involves soaking seeds in earthworm cast leachate, was found superior to the conventional method of breaking dormancy. Furthermore, radicle growth was enhanced when seeds were irrigated with water that contained earthworm cast leachate instead of water without earthworm cast leachate. This possibly suggests that earthworms excrete substances that contain hormones or biochemically active ingredients that are capable of stimulating root growth.
Endo-β-mannanase Activity in Tomato and Other Ripening Fruits
Authors: Bourgault Richard , Bewley J. Derek , Alberici Aurelia , Decker Delphine
Published: February 2019

High amounts of endo-β-mannanase (EC 3.2.1.78) activity were extracted from tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruits when a high-salt-containing buffer was used. Two pI forms of the fruit enzyme were identified, one being much more basic than the many seed isoforms. The number of isoforms increased if a protease inhibitor was not used during extraction. The enzyme was found in the ripe fruits of many other species, and was particularly active in those of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L. Cantalupensis Group) and watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. and Nak.]. In most fruits, enzyme activity was localized in the skin and the epidermal and subepidermal regions. The enzyme in several fruits had a molecular weight of ≈40,000 and reacted immunologically with the tomato seed endo-β-mannanase antibody.
Leaf Epinasty Induced by Reflection of Light from Beneath Marigold Plants
Authors: Tibbitts Theodore W. , Mokwunye Uzoamaka B.
Published: February 2019

The cotyledons of marigold, Tagetes erecta L., developed epinasty when reflective surfaces were maintained under the seedlings. Plain aluminum foil or white-painted foil induced up to 360° curvature as the cotyledons extended, whereas no epinasty occurred over the exposed surface of potting mix or black-painted foil. A gray-painted foil induced intermediate epinasty. Dry-weight accumulation of the seedlings was not significantly affected by the epinasty.
Seed Coating Technologies and Treatments for Onion: Challenges and Progress
Authors: Taylor Alan G. , Eckenrode C.J. , Straub R.W.
Published: February 2019

Conventional methods to control the onion maggot or onion fly, Delia antiqua (Meigen), have relied on in-furrow applications of the toxicant pesticide, chlorpyrifos. The objective of this research was to develop an onion (Allium cepa L.) seed treatment that utilizes a new chemistry compound that is environmentally safe. Cyromazine is an insect growth regulator with a mode of action different from traditional pesticides used to control onion maggot. Cyromazine has low mammalian toxicity and is relatively nontoxic to other insects, including beneficials. High seed loading rates (50 g·kg-1 active ingredient) are required for optimal efficacy, and conventional slurry methods are inadequate to apply these high loading rates. Film coating and pelleting were performed at Cornell Univ. to apply cyromazine and a registered fungicide (a formulation of thiram and carboxin) to onion seeds. Results of field studies performed over several years revealed that stand losses due to the onion maggot ranged from ≈20% to 60%. Cyromazine applied by either film coating or pelleting decreased the loss by onion maggot from 1% to 8%, and efficacy was comparable to an in-furrow application of chlorpyrifos. Cyromazine was registered as a seed treatment and is commercially used in the northeastern and midwestern United States, where onion maggot is a serious pest. Field emergence was not negatively affected by cyromazine coated onto the seeds when onion seeds are sown in organic (muck) soils. There is other evidence, however, that cyromazine seed treatments may cause phytotoxicity to germination and seedling growth. Testing seed quality in sand or on roll towels revealed a high percentage of abnormal seedlings. Retarded root growth was observed in seeds treated with cyromazine, resulting in an increase in abnormal seedling classifications. A finely ground sphagnum peatmoss applied over the seeds in a roll towel test ameliorated the abnormal root growth symptoms, and seedlings had robust growth. Collectively, film coating and pelleting were effective delivery systems for the application of plant protectants required at time of sowing. Modification of the standard germination test was needed to accurately assess onion seed quality. Moreover, this project was successful due to a team effort of a university seed scientist and entomologists working with onion growers and industry. Future registrations on small acreage, high-value horticultural crops are envisioned to require similar multi-partner approaches. Chemical name used: N-cyclopropyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine (cyromazine).
Yield, Quality, and Water Use Efficiency of Muskmelon Are Affected by Irrigation and Transplanting Versus Direct Seeding
Authors: Leskovar Daniel I. , Ward J. Clark , Sprague Russell W. , Meiri Avraham
Published: February 2019

Restrictions on pumping water from underground aquifers are limiting vegetable production in Southwest Texas. To determine yield, quality, and water use efficiency (WUE) of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L. group Cantalupensis, `Caravelle'), six irrigation systems with varying input levels and their interactions with stand establishment (containerized transplants vs. direct seeding) were examined. Irrigation systems were: 1) pre-irrigated followed by dryland conditions; 2) furrow/no mulch; 3) furrow/mulch (40-μm-thick black polyethylene); 4) surface drip (0 cm depth)/mulch; 5) subsurface drip (10-cm depth)/mulch; and 6) subsurface drip (30-cm depth)/mulch. Field experiments were conducted on a silty clay loam soil during four seasons (1995-98). In 1995, marketable fruit yields were greater for subsurface drip systems at 30-cm depth than for furrow systems, with or without plastic mulch. Transplants grown with surface drip irrigation produced 75% greater yield in the 9-count fruit class size during early harvest than did those grown with subsurface drip (10- or 30-cm depth), but total yield was unaffected by drip tape depth placement. In 1996, the driest season of these studies, direct-seeded plants had higher total yields than did transplants; yield was greatest for direct-seeded plants on subsurface drip placed at 10- or 30-cm soil depth, and for transplants on subsurface drip at 10-cm depth. Soluble solids content was minimally affected by irrigation method, but was higher in fruit from transplants than in those from direct-seeded plants in 3 years. Across all seasons, the average water applied for drip systems was 53% lower than that for conventional furrow systems, and WUE was 2.3-fold as great.
Atypical Symptoms of Cold Damage to Pecan
Authors: Wood Bruce W. , Reilly Charles C.
Published: February 2019

Bearing pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] trees overly stressed by crop load and premature autumn defoliation either died or were severely damaged by -3°C in mid-November. Orchard damage was associated with death of tree roots during the dormant season. Exposure of stressed trees to -5°C in mid-March produced an atypical, but distinct, bottom-to-top-of-canopy gradient in bud death and reduced growth of shoots and foliage that was consistent with the pattern of reduced carbohydrate reserves of associated support shoots. Additionally, the foliage of damaged trees contained higher concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, and B. Trees did not exhibit traditional symptoms of cold damage, thus these findings extend cold injury diagnostic criteria to include both root and tree death during the dormant season and also a distinct gradient in shoot death during early spring. Damage by cold appears to be preventable by avoiding excessive tree stress due to overcropping and premature defoliation.
Plug Source and Growth Retardants Affect Finish Size of Bedding Plants
Authors: Kuehny Jeff S. , Painter Aaron , Branch Patricia C.
Published: February 2019

Eight bedding plant species were grown from plugs obtained from two sources. The plugs were transplanted into jumbo six packs and sprayed with a solution of chlormequat/daminozide with concentrations of 1000/800, 1250/1250, or 1500/5000 mg·L-1 when new growth was ≈5 cm in height or width. Three different species were grown in the fall (Dianthus chinensis L., `Telstar Mix', Petunia ×hybrida Hort. Vilm.-Andr., `Dreams Red', and Viola ×wittrockiana Gams., `Bingo Blue'), winter [Antirrhinum majus L., `Tahiti Mix', Matthiola incana (L.) R. Br., `Midget Red', and P. × hybrida, `Dreams Mix'], and spring [Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don, `Cooler Pink', Salvia splendens F. Sellow ex Roem. & Schult., `Empire Red', and Begonia ×semperflorens-cultorum Hort., `Cocktail Mix']. The treatments significantly reduced finished plant size of all species for each season. There was a significant difference in finish size between sources for Dianthus, Antirrhinum, Matthiola, Catharanthus, Salvia, and Begonia. The efficacy of chlormequat/daminozide also differed for each source of Dianthus, Matthiola, and Begonia, but the treatments minimized the differences in finish size between sources for Petunia and Viola. Chemical names used: (2-chlorethyl) trimethylammonium chloride (chlormequat); (N-dimethylaminosuccinamic acid) (daminozide).
Spanish Chestnut Cultivars
Authors: Pereira-Lorenzo Santiago , Ramos-Cabrer Ana M. , Díaz-Hernández Belén , Ascasíbar-Errasti Javier , Sau Federico , Ciordia-Ara Marta
Published: February 2019

Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) is an important crop in Spain. This inventory of chestnut cultivars complements previous studies. We have located 152 chestnut cultivars in 131 municipalities covering 108.6 ha, with 72 new cultivars in addition to the 80 previously found. Fewer than 50% of these cultivars are extensively cultivated. Chestnuts in Spain are grown from sea level to 1100 m, but are more frequent between 200 and 800 m on northern-facing slopes. Most of the chestnuts are harvested from 25 Oct. to 10 Nov.
In Vitro Propagation of Pandoreas
Authors: Kancherla S. Latha , Bhalla Prem L.
Published: February 2019

Pandoreas, Australian natives of horticultural significance, were successfully propagated using tissue culture. A protocol for rapid in vitro multiplication of commercial cultivars was developed using nodal segments cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium containing either BA or kinetin. Maximum shoot induction and number of shoots per explant for P. pandorana (Andrews) Steenis and P. jasminoides (Lindley) Schumann were on 8.8 μm BA and 4.6 μm kinetin. Higher levels of cytokinin in the medium inhibited shoot formation. Tissue-cultured shoots were rooted with IBA. This study demonstrates that Pandoreas can be successfully micropropagated. Chemical names used: 6-benzylaminopurine (BA); 3-indole butyric acid (IBA).
In Vitro Culture of Zygotic Embryos of Ilex Species
Authors: Sansberro Pedro A. , Rey Hebe Y. , Mroginski Luis A.
Published: February 2019

Plants of Ilex argentina L., I. brasiliensis (S.) L., I. brevicuspis R., I. dumosa R., I. integerrima (V.C.) L., I. microdonta R., I. pseudoboxus R., and I. theezans C.M. were obtained by immature embryo culture. Heart-stage zygotic embryos were removed from immature fruits and cultured aseptically on quarter-strength Murashige and Skoog medium with 3% sucrose, 0.65% agar, and 0.1 mg·L-1 zeatin. Cultures were incubated at 27±2°C for 4 weeks, in darkness and subsequently transferred to a culture room with a 14-hour photoperiod (116 μmol·m-2·s-1) for another 4 weeks. Seedlings with two leaves, derived from germinated embryos, were successfully transplanted to pots containing 1 peat: 1 perlite: 1 sand (v/v) and were maintained in greenhouse conditions. From 95% to 100% of transplanted seedlings survived. Chemical name used: 6-(4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enylamino) purine (zeatin).
Improving Spinach, Radish, and Lettuce Growth under Red Light-emitting Diodes (LEDs) with Blue Light Supplementation
Authors: Yorio Neil C. , Goins Gregory D. , Kagie Hollie R. , Wheeler Raymond M. , Sager John C.
Published: February 2019

Radish (Raphanus sativus L. cv. Cherriette), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Waldmann's Green), and spinach (Spinacea oleracea L. cv. Nordic IV) plants were grown under 660-nm red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and were compared at equal photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) with either plants grown under cool-white fluorescent lamps (CWF) or red LEDs supplemented with 10% (30 μmol·m-2·s-1) blue light (400-500 nm) from blue fluorescent (BF) lamps. At 21 days after planting (DAP), leaf photosynthetic rates and stomatal conductance were greater for plants grown under CWF light than for those grown under red LEDs, with or without supplemental blue light. At harvest (21 DAP), total dry-weight accumulation was significantly lower for all species tested when grown under red LEDs alone than when grown under CWF light or red LEDs + 10% BF light. Moreover, total dry weight for radish and spinach was significantly lower under red LEDs + 10% BF than under CWF light, suggesting that addition of blue light to the red LEDs was still insufficient for achieving maximal growth for these crops.
Location and Rootstock Affect Sheep-nosing in Grapefruit
Authors: Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: February 2019

Field studies were conducted for 2 years, at three sites in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas, to evaluate the effects of location, rootstock, and irrigation on sheepnosing (elongation of the apex) of `Rio Red' grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.). Based on the ratio of equatorial to polar diameter, grapefruit budded on sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.) rootstock grown at Weslaco had a significantly higher percentage of sheepnosed fruits (63%) than did fruit grown at Mission (57%), while the grove at Bayview produced a negligible percentage of sheepnosed fruit (4%). In a second study, `Rio Red' trees grown on `Carrizo' rootstock [C. sinensis (L.) Osbeck × Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.] produced a significantly higher percentage of sheepnosed fruit (59%) than did those on `Swingle' (C. paradisi × P. trifoliata) (48%). In a third experiment, trees irrigated by microjet had a significantly higher percentage of sheepnosed fruit (53%) than did those that were flood-irrigated (43%). Although sheepnosed fruit had significantly greater peel thickness and a lower juice content, fruit quality was better than that of normal fruit because of a higher soluble solids: titratable acidity ratio. In 1999, the significant irrigation and rootstock effects were less than that due to growing location. Effects of location, rootstock and irrigation varied between years. The interaction between factors and years was mainly due to a lack of low amount of sheepnosing in 1998.
High Temperature Inhibits Germination of Jalapeño and Cayenne Pepper
Authors: Carter Anne K. , Vavrina Charles S.
Published: February 2019

The germination of five commercial cultivars of jalapeño and cayenne pepper were tested to determine cultivar response of Capsicum annuum L. to supra-optimal temperatures. Two seedlots of `Cayenne, Large Red Thick', `Ole', `Jalapeño M', `Mitla', and `Tam Veracruz' were evaluated on a thermogradient table at temperatures of 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 °C. Percent germination and time to 50% of final germination (T50) were calculated. All cultivars exhibited thermodormancy, but the degree of inhibition varied within temperature and cultivar. No cultivar had >1.0% germination at 40 °C. Generally, the T50 varied among cultivars, but not among temperatures within a cultivar (T50 at 40 °C was not measured). Cultivar selection should be considered when growing fall transplants in Florida.
Benzyladenine and Gibberellins Improve Postharvest Quality of Cut Asiatic and Oriental Lilies
Authors: Han Susan S.
Published: February 2019

The effects of the duration of cold storage, as well as the concentration, timing, and means of application of a solution containing 25 mg·L-1 each of benzyladenine (BA) and gibberellins (GA4+7) on the postharvest quality of cut Asiatic and Oriental lilies (Lilium sp.) were evaluated. Depending on the cultivar, lower leaves began to turn yellow between 1 and 2 weeks after placing non-cold-stored stems in a 20 °C room illuminated 12 h·d-1 with 8 μmol·m-2·s-1 from cool-white fluorescent lamps. Leaf yellowing continued to progress upward until the end of the vase life. Cold storage (3.3 °C) worsened the leaf disorder, particularly, on the Oriental lily `Stargazer'. The longer the duration of cold storage, the earlier the development of leaf yellowing and the higher the percentage of leaves that were chlorotic. In addition, cold storage induced bud blasting, inhibited flowers from fully opening, and reduced the longevity and fresh weight of open flowers and the vase life of cut stems. Spraying leaves with a solution containing 25 mg·L-1 each of BA and GA4+7 significantly reduced cold-storage-induced leaf yellowing, bud blasting, and vase life of three of the four cultivars tested. The development of leaf yellowing declined with increasing concentration of BA+GA4+7. The susceptibility of `Stargazer' to cold-storage-induced leaf yellowing and bud blasting can be counteracted by a concentration of growth regulators higher than that which was effective for the other cultivars. Timing of the BA+GA4+7 application was not critical, as there were no differences in leaf yellowing or bud development when the solution was sprayed before or after the cold storage. Addition of BA+GA4+7 (0.5 or 2.5 mg·L-1 of each) to the preservative solution or a pulsed treatment in solutions containing 25 mg·L-1 each of BA and GA4+7 for 4 hours prevented leaf yellowing, but increased bud blasting. For practical applications, growth regulators can be sprayed prior to or after cold storage in order to improve the postharvest leaf and flower quality of cut lilies.
Variation in β-Carotene and Total Carotenoid Content in Fruits of Capsicum
Authors: Wall Marisa M. , Waddell Cynthia A. , Bosland Paul W.
Published: February 2019

The β-carotene and total carotenoid content of either fresh or dried tissue of fruits of a total of 57 cultivars of six Capsicum species were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). β-Carotene levels in ripe fruit varied from 0 to 166 μg·g-1 fresh weight, and carotenoid levels were from 1 to 896 μg·g-1 in ripe fruit in 1996. The range of values for β-carotene was similar in 1997, but that for total carotenoids was wider (4 to 1173 μg·g-1 fresh weight). Fresh fruit of the cultivars Greenleaf Tabasco, Pulla, Guajillo, NuMex Conquistador, Ring-O-Fire, and Thai Dragon contained greater amounts of β-carotene per 100 g fresh weight than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin A for the average adult. For dried Capsicum entries, New Mexican, aji, pasilla, and ancho types had the highest levels of β-carotene. In 1996, β-carotene levels among the dried Capsicum germplasm ranged from 2 to 739 μg·g-1 dry weight, and carotenoid levels from 111 to 6226 μg·g-1. Values were higher in 1997, ranging from 24 to 1198 μg·g-1 dry weight for β-carotene and from 187 to 10,121 μg·g-1 for total carotenoids. A pasilla type (C. annuum L.) had the highest total carotenoid content among the dried entries in both years.
Occurrence of Spontaneous Tetraploid Nucellar Mango Plants
Authors: Saúco Víctor Galán , Martín María José Grajal , Galván Domingo Fernández , Torres Águeda Coello , Juárez José , Navarro Luis
Published: February 2019

A putative polyploid seedling tree appeared among the polyembryonic mango (Mangifera indica L.) `Gomera-1', widely used as a rootstock in the Canary Islands. Initially detected because of its wider and more coriaceous leaves, further studies showed that fruit from this seedling are considerably larger than normal, although all other fruit characteristics (including polyembryony) were similar to those of standard `Gomera-1' (G-1) fruit. The progeny of this plant has, to date, proved to be morphologically identical to the mother plant. Studies of seedlings from normal G-1 trees growing in the same orchard showed that 10% of the plants had morphological characteristics similar to those of the putative polyploid seedling. Flow cytometry and chromosome count analyses confirmed that G-1 is diploid, whereas the putative polyploid is a stable tetraploid. The study also showed that the morphologically abnormal seedlings from diploid parent trees were spontaneous tetraploids.
Composted Biosolids Incorporation Improves Turfgrass Establishment on Disturbed Urban Soil and Reduces Leaf Rust Severity
Authors: Loschinkohl Cerinda , Boehm Michael J.
Published: February 2019

The effects of incorporation of compost to a disturbed urban soil on turfgrass establishment, growth, and rust severity were assessed in a replicated field study. A blend of two locally available composted biosolids (sewage sludge) was incorporated into a nutrient-deficient subsoil at a rate of 130 m3·ha-1, adding NO3-N, P, and K at 126, 546, and 182 kg·ha-1, respectively, to each compost-amended plot. Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), and a mixture of these two species were seeded into both compost-amended and nonamended plots and observed for 1 year. Turfgrass establishment estimated from visual assessments of percentage cover and growth measured by clipping yields were significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced by the incorporation of the composted biosolids. These effects were first observed and most pronounced on plots seeded with perennial ryegrass and were apparent for the duration of the study. The severity of leaf rust caused by Puccinia sp. was significantly (P < 0.05) less on perennial ryegrass seeded on the compost-amended plots. This study demonstrates the feasibility and potential benefits of amending disturbed urban soils with composted biosolids to enhance turfgrass establishment and is the first report of the suppression of a foliar turfgrass disease through the incorporation of compost into soil.
Greenhouse Tomato Limited Cluster Production Systems: Crop Management Practices Affect Yield
Authors: Logendra Logan S. , Gianfagna Thomas J. , Specca David R. , Janes Harry W.
Published: February 2019

Limited-cluster production systems may be a useful strategy to increase crop production and profitability for the greenhouse tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill). In this study, using an ebb-and-flood hydroponics system, we modified plant architecture and spacing and determined the effects on fruit yield and harvest index at two light levels. Single-cluster plants pruned to allow two leaves above the cluster had 25% higher fruit yields than did plants pruned directly above the cluster; this was due to an increase in fruit weight, not fruit number. Both fruit yield and harvest index were greater for all single-cluster plants at the higher light level because of increases in both fruit weight and fruit number. Fruit yield for two-cluster plants was 30% to 40% higher than for singlecluster plants, and there was little difference in the dates or length of the harvest period. Fruit yield for three-cluster plants was not significantly different from that of two-cluster plants; moreover, the harvest period was delayed by 5 days. Plant density (5.5, 7.4, 9.2 plants/m2) affected fruit yield/plant, but not fruit yield/unit area. Given the higher costs for materials and labor associated with higher plant densities, a two-cluster crop at 5.5 plants/m2 with two leaves above the cluster was the best of the production system strategies tested.
Auxin, Wounding, and Propagation Medium Affect Rooting Response of Stem Cuttings of Arbutus andrachne
Authors: Al-Salem Mohammed M. , Karam Nabila S.
Published: February 2019

Stem cuttings of Arbutus andrachne L. were taken from basal or terminal portions of branches in October and treated with acid or salt forms of IBA or NAA at several concentrations. Also, the effects of wounding and propagation medium were assessed. Auxin was necessary for root formation, IBA acid being most effective. In general, salt forms of IBA and NAA were less effective than acid forms. Concentration of auxin had a significant effect on rooting regardless of auxin type or chemical form. The greatest rooting percentage, root number, length, and fresh and dry weights were exhibited by basal cuttings treated with 24 mm IBA. Position of the cutting on the branch did not affect rooting except when the IBA acid form was used; basal cuttings were then superior to terminal ones. Wounding, by making two opposite longitudinal incisions at the base of the cutting, increased rooting. The propagation medium had a significant effect on adventitious root formation, which was enhanced with increasing perlite percentage in the medium up to 100%. Chemical names used:1H-indole-3-butyric acid (IBA); α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA).
Taxonomic Relevance of Calcium Oxalate Cuticular Deposits in Dracaena Vand. ex L.
Authors: Pennisi Svoboda V. , McConnell Dennis B.
Published: February 2019

Detection of cuticular crystals in the 14 species of Dracaena examined indicated that they are probably ubiquitous throughout the genus and may permit rapid separation of dracaenas from plants with similar leaves such as the cordylines (Cordyline sp.). Dracaena species of the dragon tree group deposit the greatest quantity of uniformly small cuticular crystals. However, the distinction between individual species within this grouping, based solely on crystal numbers and size, is not sufficient for taxonomic separation. All other species of Dracaena studied did display species-specific quantities and sizes of cuticular crystals. This, in combination with characteristics of the leaf epidermis, could serve as part of a taxonomic key to the genus.
Chemical Factors Enhancing Papaya Root Growth in a Tropical Volcanic Acid Subsoil
Authors: Marler Thomas E. , Cruz Ruben dela
Published: February 2019

Subsoil from an acid soil series was amended with CaSO4, MgO, or Ca(OH)2 to identify chemical factors that may enhance papaya (Carica papaya L.) root growth in these soils. Root length of `Red Lady' and `Waimanalo' seedlings at two stages of development was increased by the addition of each of the materials. The increase in root length was similar for CaSO4 or MgO amendments, and was greatest for Ca(OH)2 amendment. These amendments increased dry weight of new roots for `Red Lady' and increased root length per unit dry weight in one experiment for `Waimanalo'. The results indicate that both Ca deficiency and Al toxicity may be responsible for limiting papaya root growth in the subsoils of the acid soils of Guam. Correcting these chemical factors should improve rooting depth, thereby increasing the volume of soil from which resources are accessible and lessening the susceptibility to toppling during tropical cyclones.
Relationship of Silverleaf Whitefly Population Density to Severity of Irregular Ripening of Tomato
Authors: Schuster David J.
Published: February 2019

The silverleaf whitefly (Bemisia argentifolii Bellows & Perring) is an important pest of tomatoes in Florida and elsewhere. Associated with populations of the whitefly is an irregular ripening disorder of fruit characterized by inhibited or incomplete ripening of longitudinal sections of fruit and by an increase in the amount of interior white tissue. Experiments were conducted during the spring and fall tomato production seasons of 1995 and 1996 to elucidate the relationship of nymphal and pupal density with severity of the disorder. Insecticides or insecticide combinations were applied at predetermined densities of whitefly nymphs and pupae and the subsequent severity of the disorder was rated separately for external and internal symptoms on red ripe fruit harvested weekly. Expression of irregular ripening symptoms, especially external symptoms, were correlated positively to the density of whitefly nymphs and pupae (number·10-1 terminal leaflets on the seventh to eighth leaf from the top of a main or lateral stem) increased. Expression of external symptoms tended to be better correlated with whitefly density when symptom severity was rated 1 and 3 weeks after estimating whitefly density for the spring and fall seasons, respectively. Expression of internal symptoms tended to be more consistently correlated with whitefly density when symptom severity was rated 2 and 3 weeks after estimating whitefly density for the spring and fall seasons, respectively.
Pigment Accumulation and Micronutrient Concentration of Iron-deficient Chile Peppers in Hydroponics
Authors: Anchondo J.A. , Wall M.M. , Gutschick V.P. , Smith D.W.
Published: February 2019

Pigment and micronutrient concentrations of New Mexico 6-4 and NuMex R Naky chile pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) cultivars as affected by low Fe levels were studied under soilless culture. A custom-designed, balanced nutrient solution (total concentration <2 mm) was continuously recirculated to the plants potted in acid-washed sand (pot volume 15.6 L). Each set of plants from each cultivar received iron concentrations at 1, 3, 10, and 30 μm Fe as Fe-EDDHA. The pigments of leaves, green fruit, and red fruit were extracted with acetone and measured with a spectrophotometer. Surface color of green and red fruit was measured with a chromameter. Total concentrations of Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, P, and K of leaf blades and red fruit were measured by inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy (ICP). Ferrous iron in leaf blades, and NO3-N in petioles also were determined. Iron nutrition level affected total leaf chlorophyll and carotenoid content at early season, and the level of these pigments in green fruit at second harvest. No differences in extractable or surface color of red fruit were found among iron treatments in the nutrient solution, despite variations in red fruit iron content, total foliar iron, and foliar ferrous iron. Higher levels of iron in the nutrient solution increased both ferrous and total iron of the leaves, but depressed foliar Cu and P. High iron supply also increased fruit iron, and decreased fruit Cu content. High iron levels in the nutrient solution were associated with higher concentrations of leaf pigments at early season and higher pigment concentration in green fruit.
Brown Bead of Broccoli. II. Relationships of the Physiological Disorder with Nutritional and Meteorological Variables
Authors: Jenni Sylvie , Dutilleul Pierre , Yamasaki Stephen , Tremblay Nicolas
Published: February 2019

In order to investigate their relationships with brown bead, a data set composed of 48 variables characterizing the developmental rate, climate, and nutrients in the soil and in the tissues of heads of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L., Italica group) was collected from 328 plots (41 experimental fields over 3 year× 4 N fertilization level× 2 blocks). The four N treatments were 85-0-0, 85-54-0, 85-54-54, and 85-54-108, the first number indicating the N level (kg·ha-1) applied before planting; the second, N level applied 5 weeks after planting; and the last, N level applied 7 weeks after planting. Broccoli plants were either direct-seeded (26 experimental fields) or transplanted (15 experimental fields). Whether direct-seeded or transplanted, fast-developing broccoli plants showed a lower incidence of brown bead. More particularly, heads of transplanted broccoli plants experiencing warmer temperatures had a lower brown bead incidence and severity. A regular supply of water decreased the incidence and severity of the physiological disorder in both direct-seeded and transplanted broccoli plants. Low levels of Ca and high levels of Mg and K in mature broccoli head tissues were associated with a higher incidence of brown bead. Multiple-regression models were developed to predict the percentage of broccoli heads with brown bead for direct-seeded plants (R2 = 0.76; n = 104), and for transplanted plants (R2 = 0.69; n = 44). For direct-seeded broccoli, solar radiation between the button stage (head diameter of 2.5 cm) and maturity (head diameter of 10 cm), as well as soil and tissue Mg content, were among the first variables to enter the regression models. In general, more solar radiation and less precipitation translated into more heads showing brown bead symptoms. For transplanted broccoli plants, the minimum temperature from the button stage to maturity was a key variable in the prediction of the percentage of heads with brown bead and the corresponding index of severity.
Conservation Tillage Systems for Processing Tomato Production
Authors: Thomas R. , O'Sullivan J. , Hamill A. , Swanton C.J.
Published: February 2019

Processing tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) are grown on ≈6000 ha in southwestern Ontario. Field experiments were conducted in 1998 and 1999 at two locations to explore the potential of alternative tillage practices (conventional, disked, zone-till, and no-till) on growth, development, yield and quality of tomatoes. Growth measurements of leaf number, plant height, stem diameter, total aboveground dry weight, and LAI did not differ with tillage system. Rye (Secale cereale L.) used as a cover crop did not influence tomato growth or development. Yield differences (P < 0.05) were not observed for red and green tomato fruit harvested in the conventional, disked or zone-tillage treatments. Yield reductions (P < 0.05) were observed however, for both red and green fruit with no-tillage. The delay in crop maturity associated with no-till reduced the potential for the application of this tillage practice for tomato production. Tomato postharvest quality did not differ among tillage systems. Zone-tillage was found to be a viable alternative to the moldboard plow as a primary tillage practice for the production of processing tomatoes.