bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Irrigation Levels Affect Plant Growth and Fruit Yield of Drip-Irrigated Bell Pepper
Authors: Diaz-Perez* Juan C. , Granberry Darbie , Seebold Kenneth , Giddings David , Bertrand Denne
Published: February 2019

Bell pepper (Capsicum annum L.) plants have a high demand for water and nutrients and are sensitive to water stress during the establishment period and fruit setting. High levels of irrigation are often applied in order to maximize yields. However, field observations suggest that excessive irrigations may negatively affect bell pepper plants. The objective was to evaluate the effects of irrigation rate on plant growth and fruit yield. The trial was conducted in Spring 2003 at the Coastal Plain Experiment Station, Tifton, Ga. Drip-irrigated bell pepper (`Stiletto') plants were grown on black plastic mulch in 1-m wide beds (1.8-m centers). Plants were irrigated with an amount of water that ranged from 33% to 167% the rate of evapotranspiration (ET), adjusted by crop stage of development. Soil moisture content (% by volume) over the season was continuously monitored with time domain reflectometry sensors connected to a datalogger. The results showed that the average soil moisture content for the season increased with increasing rates of irrigation. Vegetative top fresh wt. and marketable fruit yield were reduced at both, low (33% ET) and high (166% ET) rates of water application. However, irrigation rate had a stronger effect on fruit yield than on top fresh wt. Plants supplied with high irrigation rates appeared to be more chlorotic compared to plants irrigated at medium rates (100% ET). There was a tendency for higher incidences of soil borne diseases (Pythium sp., Phytophtora capsici) in plants receiving higher rates of irrigation. The conclusion is high irrigation rates (>166% ET) are not recommended since they waste water and may result in both, higher incidences of soil-borne diseases and reduced bell pepper yields.
Environmental Stressors That May Influence Internal Heat Necrosis in Potato Production in Northeast Florida
Authors: Worthington* Christine M. , Hutchinson Chad M.
Published: February 2019

`Atlantic' potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) are grown on approximately 8100 hectares with seepage irrigation in Northeast Florida's Tri-County Agricultural Area (St. Johns, Putnam, and Flagler counties). `Atlantic' is preferred for its chipping quality, high specific gravity and yield, but is susceptible to internal heat necrosis (IHN), a physiologic disorder that affects potato tuber quality. The relationships of environmental stressors (growing degree days, GDD and rainfall) to IHN were evaluated on two fields (fields 3 and 4) on a local producer's farm. IHN reduced marketable tuber yield by 100% in the 1995 and 2003 seasons, but not in 2001 and 2002 seasons. From 3 to 6 weeks after planting (WAP), GDD for 1995, 2001, 2002, and 2003 were 470, 325, 386, and 628 (45° F base), respectively. This is the only 4 week period during the 14 week season that GDD accumulation by week was different among treatments. Average rainfalls (cm) for the same periods were 1.60, 1.12, 2.23 and 7.91, respectively. Both warmer/dryer and warmer/wetter early season conditions occurred during seasons with higher rates of IHN. Although circumstantial, higher accumulated heat units and water stress within the first 6 weeks of the growing season resulted in higher percentages of tubers with IHN. These relationships should be evaluated further with other growers.
Effects of Compost Amended Container Media on Ornamental Plant Growth
Authors: Highland* Mark T.F. , Sclar Daniel C. , Ingham Elaine R. , Gartley Karen L. , Swasey James E.
Published: February 2019

Compost has great potential for use in horticulture; however, the relationship between compost feedstock materials and resultant compost characteristics must be well understood. Research examining plant growth response from the addition of compost to container growing media is limited. This research had two parts: the first part examined the relationship between compost feedstock materials and resultant mature compost characteristics. The second part investigated plant growth responses when compost replaced the peat component of container growing media. Two feedstock treatments were aerobically composted in turned windrows. Compost characteristics examined include pH, EC, C:N Ratio, Solvita Maturity, and several biological characteristics (total and active bacteria, total and active fungi, protozoa, spore forming bacteria, E. coli O157:H7, and total coliformic bacteria). To examine plant growth response, compost was substituted for peat (from 0%-40% by total volume) in container growing media. Crops tested were Antirrhinum majus `Rocket White', Viola × wittrockiana `Crown Azure', Oriental Hybrid Lilium `Siberia', and Chrysanthemum × grandiflorum `Yellow Kodiak'. Quantitative plant growth response measurements (shoot fresh and dry weight, percent root necrosis, flower number, and flower size) were recorded and compared by treatment. Despite initial feedstock differences between the two compost treatments, both resulted in similar compost biology and species richness. Coliformic bacteria and E. coli O157:H7 levels were below detection limits in final compost. Choice of compost feedstock materials had a significant effect on the chemical characteristics of the finished product. Compost replacement for peat resulted in plant growth greater than or equal to those of the control treatment.
Electroremediation Methods for Removal of Excessive Salts from “Spent” Mushroom Compost
Authors: Rao* Juluri
Published: February 2019

There is world-wide interest in disposal technologies suitable for handling farm wastes. The Northern Ireland mushroom industry generates 200,000 tonnes/year of “spent” mushroom compost waste containing excess salts (P, K, Ca) and heavy metals. Its disposal by landspreading is restricted by EU, U.K. legislation. Farmers in Europe and the United States use this waste as a soil nutrient improver, but such operations are deleterious to the environment owing to microbial loading of soil and the release of human and animal pathogens. An ideal option is to reduce salt levels and pathogen content before granulating the waste into fertilizers. Electroremediation is a novel, in situ environmental technology which utilises low voltage electrical fields to remove salts or metals in contaminated soil sites. We developed electroremediation methods for the removal of excessive salts from `spent' mushroom compost or from soils contaminated with this waste. Electroremediation of excess salts / heavy metals from the horticultural waste was carried out in an anti-corrosive electrolysis tank with a built-in central holding bay for the waste material. A thin layer of charged fluid (rain water, pH 5.5; adjusted with 0.005 n HCl) maintained over the mushroom compost waste achieved the removal of salts when electrical fields ranged from 20 to 200 V were applied across electrodes (spacing 1.5 m apart) in our investigations. Electrode saturation by H+ or OH- and thermal/alkaline front build up were minimised by flushing with cooled (15 °C) fresh rainwater circulated via peristaltic pumps. The above prototype is useful for nutrient tailoring of spent compost waste in bagged compost prior to producing commercially viable granulated fertilizers from wastes.
Chromatographic Techniques to Purify Individual Limonoids from Seeds and Molasses of Citrus Fruits
Authors: Poulose* Shibu M. , Brodbelt Jennifer S. , Pike Leonard M. , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: February 2019

Limonoids, chemically related triterpinoids predominantly found in citrus and neem relatives, are known to play a pivotal role in the prevention of different types of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Since the concentrations of these compounds are low in the plant tissues, the isolation of pure compounds is the limiting factor for the individual activity studies in animal models. In this study, combinations of chromatographic techniques were used to isolate limonoid aglycones and limonoid glucosides from citrus byproducts such as seeds and molasses. The compounds were initially extracted with different polar solvents and the concentrated extracts were passed through a series of adsorbent resin (SP-70) and ion-exchange resins (WA-30, Dowex-50, Q-sepharose) to remove further impurities. The use of increasing ionic strength of NaCl from 0 to 800 mm to release the exchanged compounds from the ion exchange columns further separated the limonoids from flavonoids, which was confirmed through TLC, UV, and analytical HPLC methods. Individual compounds were further purified using flash chromatography and preparative HPLC methods and identified by using LC-MS analysis. Direct crystallization of limonin resulted in a 17% increase in the yield as compared to the previously reported methods. The results suggest that application of these purification methods are useful for the bulk purification of compounds in order to further investigate their biological activity.
Morphological and Phenological Variation in World Collections of Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti)
Authors: Sosnoskie* Lynn Marie , Cardina John , Sthapit Sajal , Francis David , Miller A. Raymond
Published: February 2019

Our lab characterized the growth and development of 83 velvetleaf accessions, collected from locations in Asia, India, Europe, Eastern Africa and North America, to test the hypothesis that two biotypes (“crop” and “weedy”) exist and are easily differentiated. Measurements taken to gauge morphological and phenological variability include: initial seed weight, stem height at 3, 7, and 11 weeks, leaf size at 3, 7, and 11 weeks, stem and petiole color, time to flowering, time to first capsule maturity, stem height at flowering, height to first mature capsule, basal stem diameter, number of capsules, and capsule size and color. Analyses indicate that accessions producing yellow-colored seed capsules were taller, produced fewer nodes, and were longer-lived than their brown-colored counterparts. This finding supports previous assertions that the yellow-colored varieties were originally selected for use as a fiber crop: i.e., increased stem yield resulted in longer lengths of lignified tissue. The accessions producing brown-colored capsules exhibited greater reproductive output, as measured by the number of capsules and the number of seed-containing valves per capsule, a desirable trait for weedy species. Using capsule color as an independent variable, Discriminant Analysis was able to correctly classify 96% of the observations by the remaining characters, further affirming that the yellow- and brown-capsuled accessions varied, significantly, with respect to their morphology and phenology. Velvetleaf is believed to have originated in China, where it was eventually domesticated. Early records suggest that velvetleaf, a noxious weed in modern agricultural production, was introduced to colonial America to serve as a fiber source for the burgeoning rope-making industry.
Host Plant Resistance in Valmaine Cos Lettuce to the Banded Cucumber Beetle
Authors: Nagata* Russell , Nuessly Gregg , McAuslane Heather
Published: February 2019

Host plant resistance is a key element in a viable integrated pest management plan. Resistance to plant feeding was observed on Valmaine cos lettuce, Lactuca sativa L. to the banded cucumber beetle (BCB), Diabotica balteata (LeConte). In no-choice feeding evaluations, adult BCB contained on three week old Valmaine plants gained less weight, died and fed less than individuals contained on susceptible Tall Guzmaine cos lettuce. Individual female BCB held on Valmaine plants also did not have egg development as in those individual held on Tall Guzmaine. Based on weight gain and feeding damage F1, F2, and F3 segregation data indicates that the resistance factor is recessive in inheritance and controlled by more that one gene.
Antioxidant Capacity of Selected Spinach Genotypes
Authors: Morelock* Teddy , Howard Luke , Murphy J. Brad
Published: February 2019

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is a highly nutritious leafy green vegetable that contains high levels of vitamins A, C, E and folate as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. Spinach is high in carotenoids, specifically lutein and β-carotene. Spinach has also been shown to have high ORAC (oxygen radical absorbency capacity) values and to have a high total flavonoids content (100 mg·kg-1). Leaves were collected from 11 commercial cultivars and 15 advanced breeding lines which were grown at the Univ. of Arkansas vegetable substation near Kibler, Arkansas. Samples were placed in polyethylene bags in ice chests and transported to the Univ. of Arkansas within 2 hours and samples were stored at -20 °C until analysis were performed. Both growing season and genotype had an effect on both ORAC and total phenolics. Over-winter spinach, which is planted in the fall and harvested in the spring, had higher total phenolics as well as higher ORAC than fall-planted fall-harvested spinach. Univ. of Arkansas breeding lines had higher average levels of total phenolics and ORAC than commercial cultivars. These data indicate that it should be possible to breed for higher antioxidant capacity in spinach. In a separate study involving the same cultivars wide variation in lutein content was observed with the cultivars F380 and Fallgreen having the highest levels. Data indicate wide variation in lutein and that breeding for increased lutein content is possible.
Effects of ZeoPro™ Incorporation in the Growing Medium on the Growth of Pansy
Authors: Fonda* Harold N.
Published: February 2019

Many strategies have been utilized by commercial growers to reduce leaching of nutrients from the growing medium during bedding plant production. Incorporation of controlled release fertilizers into the growing medium reduces the reliance on water-soluble fertilizers but nutrient release is usually temperature-dependent. One material that shows potential for this application is ZeoPro which combines a nutient-loaded zeolite with a synthetic apatite to supply the necessary nutrients for plant growth. Pansy (Viola × wittrockiana `Majestic Giant Yellow') seedlings were transplanted into 6-packs using a peat-perlite growing medium containing dolomitic lime but without a starter fertilizer charge. Two types of ZeoPro that differ in their nutrient-loading rates, regular ZeoPro (Hr) and ZeoPro Plus (H+), were added to the growing medium at rates of 0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20% by volume. One half of the plants in each treatment received clear water only while the other half were irrigated with a 20-10-20 fertilizer solution at the rate of 100 mg.L-1 N. Shoot dry weights were higher at all ZeoPro rates in H+ media compared to their respective Hr media for both fertilized and unfertilized treatments. The highest shoot dry weights were measured for fertilized plants in media with H+ at 5, 10, and 20%. Tissue analysis showed that leaf %N, P, and K increased with the rate of Hr and H+ for unfertilized treatments. However, for fertilized treatments, while leaf %N increased, %K decreased with increasing rate of H+.
Preliminary Observations on the Effect of Light Intensity and Time of Day on Mustard Greens Leaf Ascorbic Acid and Greenness at Harvest
Authors: Makus* Donald J. , Lester Gene E.
Published: February 2019

Field-grown mustard greens, Brassica juncea, were used to validate several observations of a greenhouse study which reported nutrient changes in mustard greens grown, in part, under ambient and reduced light. The cultivar Florida Broadleaf was transplanted into a Hildago sandy clay soil near Weslaco, Texas (26° 08' Lat.) on 6 Nov 2003. Greens were fertigated with 30 kg·ha-1 of N on 1 Dec. Plants 14 days before harvest were grown under the following four light regimes: (1) continuous ambient light; (2) 7 days of 50% shade then 7 days of ambient light; (3) 7 days of ambient light then 7 days of 50% shade; and (4) 14 days of 50% shade. Cumulative solar light was 28.9 and 19.4 kW/m2 during the first and second 7 days, respectively. Measured cumulative light, as PPFD, for treatments 1-4 were 108, 67, 78, and 44 mm·m-2·s-1, respectively. Plants were harvested at 0800, 1100, and 1400 h on 2 Jan. 2004. Shade during the last 7 days generally evoked the greatest responses. Increased shade duration did not significantly effect the agronomic performance, but did increase leaf total carotenoids, chlorophylls, water content, and reduced total ascorbate levels. As time of daylight progressed, sample plant weight and average leaf weight decreased in shaded plants only. Free ascorbic acid, chlorophyll a:b ratio, and the chlorophyll to carotenoid ratio decreased with time of day. Cumulative sunlight, as PPFD, was significantly correlated with total ascorbate (fresh weight basis), chlorophyll a:b ratio, and plant weight (P < 0.06) and negatively correlated with chlorophylls and total carotenoids (dry weight basis). Thus, cloudy weather prior to harvest can reduce leaf Vitamin C and alter leaf greenness
Water Relations, Growth, and Carbon Isotope Discrimination of Drought-stressed Bigtooth Maples Indigenous to New Mexico, Texas, and Utah
Authors: Bsoul* Emad , Hilaire Rolston St.
Published: February 2019

Although valued for its fall foliage color, bigtooth maple (Acer grandidentatum Nutt.) is not widely used in managed landscapes. Furthermore, information on the tolerance of bigtooth maples to drought is scant. We studied water relations, plant development, and carbon isotope composition of bigtooth maples indigenous to New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. Plants were field grown in New Mexico using a pot-in-pot nursery production system. Plants were maintained as well-irrigated controls or irrigated after the weight of pots decreased by 35% due to evapotranspiration. Drought treatment lasted 71 days. Among the drought-stressed plants, plants native to Logan Canyon in Utah (designated UW2), had the greatest root: shoot dry weight ratio (3.0), while plants with the lowest root: shoot dry weight ratio (0.9) were half siblings from a tree native to the Lost Maples State Park in Texas (designated LMP5). Among the five sources we tested, LMP5 had the greatest (1242 cm2) leaf area, while UW2 plants had the smallest (216 cm2). Regardless of the treatment, plants from LMP5 had the highest shoot dry weight (25.7 g). Plants showed no differences neither among sources nor between treatments in relative water content, specific leaf weight, xylem diameter, root dry weight, plant dry weight, relative growth rate, and carbon isotope discrimination, which averaged - 26.53%. The lack of differences in these parameters might be due to selection of these sources from provenances we deemed to be the most drought tolerant. Our selection was based on the results of a previous greenhouse study of 15 bigtooth maple sources. We conclude that these sources, and in particular, plants from LMP5 in Texas, might hold promise for use in areas prone to drought.
Development of Genomic Tools for Cucumber, Cucumis sativus L.
Authors: Grumet* Rebecca , Wang Xiaofeng , Tawfik Mohamed , McGrath Mitch
Published: February 2019

Genomics tools have become increasingly varied and valuable for crop improvement. While several species have been targeted for concerted genomic efforts, the majority of horticultural species have received limited attention. Despite the wide variety of important cucurbit crop species, the Cucurbitaceae family has had minimal effort. We have initiated projects to develop genomic tools for cucumber, Cucumis sativus L. Efforts include production of cDNA, yeast two-hybrid, and genomic libraries, and development of an EST database and website for cucumber genomics. Sequences of cucumber leaf ESTs so far indicate that the cDNA library is of high quality and has modest redundancy. Distribution of sequences, as nominally predicted from GeneBank BLAST analysis, indicates that expressed genes fall in the following general categories: photosynthesis (21%), DNA/RNA/protein synthesis (20%), metabolism (15%), signaling (5%), other (16%), and unknown proteins (23%). Cucumber sequence data have been deposited into GenBank and are available on the Michigan State Univ. website (http://genomics.msu.edu/cucumberdb). The yeast two-hybrid library has been successfully used to identify and characterize several genes based on interaction with key proteins of interest, including genes interacting with viral replicases and poly(A) binding protein. The genomic library has been verified to be of high quality and has been used to identify clones of interest.
The Potential for Green Fluorescent Protein as a Screening Tool in the Production of Haploid Potato
Authors: Palumbo Rose E. , Veilleux* Richard E.
Published: February 2019

A hybrid between a highly regenerative diploid clone (BARD 1-3) of Solanum phureja and haploid inducer IVP 101 was transformed with Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain 4404 containing plasmid pHB2892 with genes for green florescent protein (GFP) and kanamycin resistance. Hemizygous primary transformants (To) were produced from three leaf discs: 17 diploid plants from one leaf disc, three and nine tetraploids from the other two leaf discs. GFP expression was observed qualitatively under fluorescence microscopes and quantitatively with a GFP meter. Segregation ratios for tetraploid T1 seedlings fit models for single duplex insertions (35 transgenic: 1 non) or double simplex insertions (15 transgenic: 1 non). Diploid T1 seedlings segregated for deleterious traits: dwarfed size and curled leaves, as well as the GFP transgene. Similar segregation patterns in diploid families implied that all diploids may have been from the same transformation event. The cumulative segregation showed the dwarfed and curled plants fit a single recessive gene ratio (3 normal: 1 mutant), and GFP fit a double-copy insertion ratio (15 transgenic: 1 non). Six T1 selections were free of deleterious traits, consistently high expressers of GFP, and produced fertile pollen.
Expression of Alpha-farnesene Synthase Gene AFS1 in Relation to Levels of Farnesene and Conjugated Trienols in Peel Tissue of Scald-susceptible `Law Rome' and Scald-resistant `Idared' Apple fruit
Authors: Pechous Steven W. , Whitaker* Bruce D. , Watkins Christopher B.
Published: February 2019

Fruit of different apple cultivars vary widely in susceptibility to superficial scald. The genetic and biochemical factors involved in this variation are unknown. Conjugated trienol (CTol) oxidation products of alpha-farnesene have been linked with scald induction, and a high rate of farnesene synthesis in peel tissue of scald-prone apples early in storage is often associated with development of the disorder. Pre-storage treatment of apple fruit with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) inhibits the early burst of farnesene production and prevents scald, suggesting that ethylene induces transcription of genes involved in farnesene synthesis. We recently cloned a gene from apple peel tissue, AFS1, which encodes alpha-farnesene synthase, the last enzyme in the farnesene biosynthetic pathway. In this study, expression of AFS1 was compared in scaldsusceptible Law Rome (LR) and scald-resistant Idared (IR) apples at harvest and over 20 weeks of storage at 0.5 C. AFS1 transcript levels were closely correlated with accumulation of farnesene and CTols. In fruit of both cultivars, a sharp increase in AFS1 mRNA during the first 4 to 8 weeks of storage preceded a proportional rise in farnesene and a subsequent increase in CTols. However, maximum levels of AFS1 transcript, farnesene, and CTols were, respectively, 2.5-, 4-, and 33-fold greater in LR than in IR apples. Treatment of fruit with 1-MCP at harvest suppressed the increases in AFS1 transcript and farnesene early in storage, but AFS1 expression and farnesene synthesis recovered in LR fruit after 20 weeks. Scald incidence in LR apples after 20 weeks at 0.5 °C plus 1 week at 20 °C averaged 86%, whereas IR fruit had no scald. 1-MCP treatment reduced scald incidence in LR to <1%.
Assessment of the Utility of ISSR Markers for Evaluating Genetic Relationships Among Members of Asimina and Annona
Authors: Rascoe Danielle , Pomper* Kirk W. , Lowe Jeremiah , Crabtree Sheri B. , Mahdeem Har , Kochhar Tejender S.
Published: February 2019

The genus Asimina has the only temperate representatives of the tropical Annonaceae, or Custard Apple family, and includes eight species that are indigenous to North America. The North American pawpaw Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal has the largest edible fruit native to the United States and is the best-known of these species. The USDA National Clonal Germplasm Repository for Asimina species is located at Kentucky State Univ. (KSU); therefore, assessment of genetic diversity is an important research priority for KSU. The inter-simple sequence repeat PCR (ISSR-PCR) methodology has been used successfully to characterize genetic diversity within and among populations of many plant species. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of ISSR markers in evaluating genetic relationships in members of the Asimina genus, as well as closely related tropical relatives in the Annona genus. Leaf samples were collected from three plants each of Asimina longifolia, A. obovata, A. parviflora, A. reticulata, A. tetramera and A. triloba. Leaf samples were also collected from three plants each of Annona cherimola, A. squamosa, A. reticulata, A. muricata, A. glabra, A. diversifolia, and A. montana. DNA was extracted from leaf samples and subjected to ISSR-PCR using the REDExtract-N-Amp™ Plant PCR Kit. DNA samples were screened with ISSR primers using the Univ. of British Columbia microsatellite primer set #9. Three primers, UBC812, UBC841, and UBC873 were found to produce 84 scorable ISSR markers and allowed the determination of genetic relationships among Asimina and Annona members examined.
Storage of Flowering Dogwood (C. florida) Seed
Authors: Reed* Sandra
Published: February 2019

Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is a popular flowering tree that is a mainstay of the southeastern U.S. nursery industry. Because cultivars of this species are primarily propagated through budding onto seed-propagated rootstock, a reliable source of seeds is needed. Disease- and weather-related problems may sometimes result in a shortage of dogwood seed. The objective of this study was to develop a method of storing dogwood seed that would allow growers to save seed during years in which good flowering and seed set occur for use when insufficient seed is available. Open-pollinated seeds were collected in Fall 1999, dried to 6%, 10%, and 14% moisture, and stored at -20, 5, and 22 °C. After 1, 2 and 3 years of storage, seed was stratified for 3 months and then planted in the greenhouse. Percent germination was compared to that of a subsample of the seed lot that had been stratified and planted following collection in Fall 1999. After 1 year in storage, seed dried to 10% and 14% moisture and stored at 22 °C failed to germinate; germination of the other samples ranged from 55% to 97% of that of the control sample. After 2 or 3 years in storage, all seed stored at 22 °C and the seed dried to 14% moisture and stored at 5 °C failed to germinate. Germination of the remaining samples ranged from 76% to 97% of the control in year 2, and from 72% to 109% in year 3. After 3 years in storage, seed dried to 6% moisture and stored at 5 °C and seed dried to 10% moisture and stored at -20 °C had the highest germination percentage and best seedling vigor. Development of a seed storage method for dogwood will benefit both dogwood producers and germplasm preservation efforts.
Relationships Between Seed Biomass, Germination Time, and Seedling Growth in Olea europaea
Authors: Laura* Rinaldi
Published: February 2019

Olive plants for commercial production are vegetatively propagated by cutting and grafting. While genetic identity can be maintained by “own root”; plants by cutting, the grafted plants may show different growth characteristics due to the influence of the rootstock. The selection of mother plants, able to produce seeds with desirable characteristics and rootstocks that may control seedling growth in grafted stock, can be an objective of study to facilitate the development of olive breeding programmes. The relationship between seed biomass, mineral nutrient reserves, time to germination and seedling growth was analysed for six cultivars of Olea europaea. The cultivars, exhibiting initial differences in seed biomass, differed significantly with respect to germination capacity, germination time and mineral content. Significant variation among cultivars was also evident in the linear growth of seedlings, evaluated at different intervals from 2 to 30 weeks. The seeds from all six cultivars exhibited low germination. There is a significant effect of cultivar on the levels of single mineral nutrient content of seeds, high concentrations of N and significant concentrations of K, P, Mg, and Ca were detected. Seed biomass was not related to time to germination and the levels of single nutrients of the seeds themselves. For seed tissue, significantly positive correlations existed only between K, and Mg concentrations. Seed biomass was positively and significantly related to root biomass. The seedlings obtained from larger seeds showed a substantially greater proportion of biomass to roots. Some root traits may be important for survival and the establishment of the seedlings, not least under conditions of limited water availability.
Rooting Woody Stem Cuttings in Grape Pomace Media Amended with Composted Bark, Perlite or Peat
Authors: Chong* Calvin , Dale Adam
Published: February 2019

Terminal stem cuttings of seven woody nursery species [boxwood (Buxus sempervirens L. `Green Mountain'), coralberry (Symphoricarpus × chenaultii Rehd. `Hancock'), lilac (Syringa velutina Kom.), Peegee hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata Siebold. `Grandiflora'), purple-leaf sandcherry (Prunus × cistena N.E. Hansen), Rose-of-Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus L. `Lucy'), and winged spindle-tree (Euonymus alata Thunb.) Siebold. `Compacta')] were rooted under outdoor lath (50% shade) and mist in leached rooting media consisting of 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80% by volume of 2-year-old grape pomace amended in binary mixtures with sphagnum peat, perlite or composted bark. Rooting performance, expressed in terms of percent rooting, mean root number per rooted cutting, and length of the longest root per cutting, was regressed on level of pomace. When there were differences due to amendments, most species rooted better with perlite than with bark and peat, to a lesser degree, due in part to more favourable air-filled porosities with perlite (33% to 42%) than with bark (29% to 37%) or peat (24% to 35%). With boxwood, increasing level of pomace up to ≈60%, especially when mixed with perlite or peat, resulted in substantial increases in rooting percentage, root number and length. All three rooting parameters of winged spindle-tree decreased linearly with increasing level of pomace with perlite or bark. The effect of pomace level on other species varied between these extremes with little or no negative effect on rooting.
The Impact of Composted, Municipal Biosolid Amendments to Soil on the Growth and Nutrient Content of Rhododendron × `PJM'
Authors: Han Jae H. , Good* George L. , Van Es Harold M.
Published: February 2019

Field experiments were conducted in 1998 and 1999 to determine the effect of soil-incorporated, composted municipal biosolids on the growth and nutrient content of 30.8 cm-38.5 cm Rhododendron × `PJM' grown as containerized plants. Biosolid compost produced in Endicott, N.Y., was incorporated in May 1998 and 1999 at rates of 0, 9.8 Mg/ha and 19.7 megag/ha to a depth of 23 cm. Each treatment was replicated six times in a randomized block design. Plants were planted 10 June 1998 and 8 June 1999. Plants were harvested 10 June, 19 Aug., and 22 Oct. 1998 and 8 June and 22 Sept.1999 after which they were dried, weighed, and analyzed. During 1998, there was little difference in dry weight or nutrient content in plants harvested at the August harvest date, however, dry weight and most nutrient levels increased with increasing rates of compost application in plants harvested at the October harvest date. In 1999, no statistical differences were noted at the September harvest date in plant dry weight or nutrient content. In 1999, measured soil physical properties (water retention, bulk density, water content, and soil strength) did not differ significantly between treatments. Excellent soil structure and drainage, relatively low rates of compost application and a severe drought may have contributed to the lack of any conclusive results noted in 1999 though some positive plant responses to the treatments were evident in 1998.
Effects of Aquatic Extract from Chrysanthemum's Rhizospheric Soil on the Seed Germination and Root Enzymes
Authors: Zhou Kai , Guo Weiming , Jiang* Zhongchun
Published: February 2019

The autointoxication of chrysanthemum was studied using water extract of Dendranthema morifolium's rhizospheric soil. Results of bioassays showed that the water extract inhibited chrysanthemum seed germination and the activities of some important root enzymes. The seedling nitrate reductase activity was decreased linearly with increasing concentration of the extract. The activity of root dehydrogenase was inhibited only at the highest concentration tested [3.2 g·mL-1, dry weight (DW)], but was stimulated at a lower concentration tested (1.6 g·mL-1, DW). Malondialdehyde content increased at higher than 1.6 g·mL-1, DW concentrations of the extract. The autointoxication phenomenon might be related to the difficulties in continuous plantings of chrysanthemum at the same location.
Thinning York Imperial Apple with Chemical Combinations
Authors: Marini* Richard
Published: February 2019

Six-year-old York/M.9 trees were used to evaluate combinations of chemicals for fruit thinning. In one experiment a factorial combination of 2 levels of carbaryl (0 or 600 mg·L-1) and 5 levels of 6-BA (0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 mg·L-1) were sprayed when fruit diam. averaged 10.5 mm. Carbaryl significantly reduced fruit set, number of fruit/tree, yield efficiency, and crop density, and increased fruit weight. The main effect of 6-BA did not significantly influence any response variable. Two variables were significantly influenced by the carbaryl × 6-BA interaction. In the absence of carbaryl, fruit set was reduced and fruit weight was increased by 6-BA at concentrations less than 160 mg·L-1, but the addition of 6-BA to carbaryl was no more effective than carbaryl alone. In a second experiment, a factorial combination of 2 levels of carbaryl (0 vs. 600 mg·L-1), 2 levels of NAA (0 vs. 5 mg·L-1), and 2 levels of ethephon (0 vs. 450 mg·L-1) were sprayed when fruit when fruit diam. averaged 10.5 mm. Carbaryl and NAA reduced fruit set by about 30%, but ethephon overthinned and reduced set by 65%. When the other materials were combined with ethephon, thinning was similar to ethephon alone. The combination of carbaryl and NAA was no more effective than either material alone. The lowest values for yield, yield efficiency, and numbers of fruit per tree were associated with the combination of ethephon plus NAA. Ethephon was the only material that increased fruit weight.
Survey of Compost Use by South Florida Vegetable Growers
Authors: Ozores-Hampton* Monica
Published: February 2019

The success of long-term vegetable production and maintenance of environmental quality is dependent on soil quality. Indicators of soil quality include cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic matter (OM), carbon (C), pH, and the number and community structure of soil organisms. The use of appropriate compost has been shown to improve soil quality and enhance the response to fertilizer, therefore improving growth and yield of vegetable crops. The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in the chemical and biological properties of soil in response to compost use in conventional vegetables production systems. A survey was conducted on 5 farms (three in Immokalee, and one each in Delray Beach, and Clewiston) growing tomato, pepper, and specialty vegetables. Most of the farms were applying composted yard trimming waste alone or in combination with biosolids or horse manure at application rates of between 7 to 112 Mg·ha-1 once a year. Soil samples were taken from composted and non-composted areas in each farm during Feb. and Mar. 2002. Soil pH, OM, C, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, MN and Zn were higher in the composted areas compared with the non-composted areas for each farm. CEC values in composted areas were double those in non-composted areas. Most importantly, application of compost enhanced the overall soil microbial activity as determined by total microorganism number, SRD (species richness diversity), and TSRD (total species richness diversity) of six functional groups including heterotrophic aerobic bacteria, anaerobic bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, pseudomonads, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria, in all the participating farms. The greatest soil quality improvement was seen in soils receiving the highest rates of compost for the longest time.
A Comparison Study of the Effects of M.9 and Seedling Rootstocks on Two Iranian Cultivars, Golab Kohanz and Shafiabadi
Authors: Talaie* Alireza , Falak Alireza Esmaili , Asgari Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2019

The main aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two apple rootstocks (M9 and Seedling) on the growth, total yield, fruit quality and mineral composition in leaves and fruits of two Iranian cultivars Golab Kohanz and Shafiabadi. The 10-year-old experimented trees were on stage of commercial cropping. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete-block design in split plot tests with two factors and four replications.The effects of rootstocks on trunk diameter, current seasonal shoot length, primary fruit set percentage, total yield/ha and individual fruit weight were significant (P < 0.01) in first year, but not significant on total yield and individual fruit weight in the second year. The effect of cultivar was only significant at current seasonal shoot length in the first year and total yield and individual fruit weight in both years. Fruit characters were also affected by rootstock, so fruit on M9 rootstock had more flesh firmness, most PH, TSS, and dry matter, but the effect of cultivars was not significant on fruit quality characters in both years. Cultivar Shafiabadi on M9 rootstock produced the highest yield/ha in all treatment combinations. The results of mineral analysis relieved the effects of rootstock on N and Zn concentration in leaves. Golab Kohanz/M9 rootstock showed the highest K content in leaves while the highest Zn amount was Golab Kohanz/Seedling rootstock. Other nutrient contents were affected neither by rootstocks nor cultivars. In fruit, rootstock effect on Mg and P concentration was significant; and the highest K content was found in fruit of Golab Kohanz/M9 and the highest Mg and Ca amount was also recorded in Golab Kohamz/Seedling rootstock.
The Effects of Four Clonal Rootstocks on Growth Indices, Yield, Fruit Quality, and Quantity of `Golden Smoothee' Apple in Iran's Climate Conditions
Authors: Talaie* Alireza , Gharaghani Ali , Asgari Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2019

In this research the effect of four clonal rootstocks (B9, M9, M26, and MM106) on growth characteristics, flowering and fruiting, and fruit quality and quantity of `Golden Smoothee' apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) were studied during 2001 and 2003. Trees were 8 years old at the beginning of study. Experiments were planned in randomized complete-block design with four treatments (four rootstocks) and four replications. Rootstocks had significant effects on all growth characteristics. The highest tree height, shoot growth, and tree cross-sectional area were found on MM106; with B9 was the least and M9 and M26 were intermediate. The effect of year, and interaction of year on rootstocks were nonsignificant. Rootstock has highly affected flowering and fruiting characteristics. The highest flowering efficiency related to M9 and B9. The highest primary and secondary fruit set and fruit set efficiency found with M9 and M26. The highest preharvest fruit abscission observed with M26. The M9 had the least preharvest fruit abscission. Yield of M9 was the highest and B9 was the least. The M9 has the most yield efficiency and MM106 had the least. Effect of year was significant in many characteristics related to flowering and fruiting. Generally, trees had better conditions in first year. Among fruit quantitative treatments, rootstock only affected fruit weight significantly. Fruit harvested from B9 had the least weight and other rootstocks had similar fruit weight. Generally rootstock had no noticeable effect on fruit quantity and quality.
Effects of Fruits Loading, Thinning Time, and Water Stress on Medium-size and Regular Shaped Fruit of `Niitaka' Pear
Authors: Kim* Wol-Soo , We Xiu-Yu
Published: February 2019

Consumers in the United States. and the European Union prefer to purchase medium-sized and symmetrical pears, while most Koreans prefer fruit that is as large as possible. This study was carried out to determine the effect of fruit loading, thinning time, and water management at full bloom stage on the number of seed and size and shape of fruit. As fruit loading increased and the time of fruit thinning was delayed, there was a decrease in fruit weight. The rate of fruit weight under 450 g was 41.7% in the treatment of 30% increase of fruit loading compared to control. There was an increasing tendency of symmetry fruits as the increase of fruit loading. By water stress treatment for 30 days after full bloom, a lot of medium sized fruit were harvested. The rate of symmetrical fruits was increased from the fruit, which held nine to ten seeds per fruit as well as uniformed seed development. Therefore, these results suggested that the number of seed s per fruit showed a close relationship to fruit shape, but water stress and fruit thinning time did not affect the fruit shape.
Evaluation of Adaptation and Yield of Commercial Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Hybrids under Mulching and Technified Fertilization and Irrigation
Authors: Radillo-Juárez* Francisco
Published: February 2019

In the world horticultural production, the tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) contributes with the 47% of the destined area. In Mexico, 10% of the area is cultivated under intensive systems, where is used one or more technologies for obtaining higher productivity and quality; however, the environmental conditions are determinant factors to produce red tomato in the dry tropic, influencing the adaptation and persistence in the market. The aim of this research was to evaluate the adaptation and yield performance of tomato hybrids in fresh production under mulching, fertilization and irrigation. The tomato cultivars used were: `Access', `Centurion', `Bishop', `Dean', and `Yaqui' (control). They were distributed under a Completely randomized blocks design with four replications. The experiment was carried out in Villa de Alvarez, Colima, México. `Yaqui' exhibited the highest plant height 98.8 cm, as web as the highest fruit diameter with 4.61 cm; `Bishop' produced the highest number with 154.5 fruits per plant, followed by `Yaqui', and `Centurion', with 91 fresh fruits. In the variable fruit weight, `Yaqui' showed 93.44 g. In total fresh fruit yield per plant, `Yaqui' produced the highest yield with 8.46 kg, followed by `Bishop' with 4.91 kg; and total yield of 117.5, and 68.2 t·ha-1, respectively. Yaqui' was the genotype with best adaptation and agronomic characteristics. We speculate that environment conditions in field are determinant factors in the introduction of new tomato introductions.
Carrot Cultivar Trials in Oklahoma
Authors: Brandenberger* Lynn P. , Wells Lynda K. , Bostian Bruce B.
Published: February 2019

The objectives of this trial were to collect yield and quality data on a fall planted carrot trial. Fifteen different carrot varieties were included in the trial. Plots were 20 feet by 2.5 feet and consisted of two rows of carrots with 15-inch row centers. Plots were replicated 4 times in a RBD. Carrots were direct seeded on 8 Aug. 2003 at 20 seeds per foot. Plots were fertilized with 90 lbs/acre of nitrogen and received overhead water as needed. Yield and quality data were recorded on 5 Dec. 2003. Data included exterior root color, interior root color, percentage of split and forked roots, overall yield, average root length and weight. Exterior root color did not vary significantly for any of the cultivars in the trial, but interior root color varied significantly for several cultivars. `First Class', `Bolero', and `C 7105' had the most distinct differences between the pith and out ring colors as indicated by the interior root color ratings and `Ingot' had the lowest. Interior root color ratings for these four cultivars were 3.8, 3.6, 3.1, and 1.4, respectively. Crispness did not vary for either the initial or second ratings that were recorded. Of potential defects only the percentage of forked roots varied significantly and of these four cultivars had less than 10% forked roots. `Florida', `Kamaran', `Pipeline', and `C 7105' had 5%, 7%, 9%, and 9% forked roots, respectively. `Samantha' had 31% forked roots, the highest percentage recorded in the trial. No differences were recorded for root weight, diameter or length. The three highest yielding cultivars in the trial were `Ingot', `Heritage', and `Neptune' that had overall yields of 24.9, 20.6, and 20.6 tons/acre. `Bremen' recorded the lowest yield in the trial with 13.7 tons/acre.
Influence of Colored Plastic Mulches on Soil Temperature and Muskmelon Root Respiration
Authors: Jifon* John
Published: February 2019

Use of plastic mulch to increase rhizosphere temperatures is a common practice in spring production of vegetable crops. However, supraoptimal soil temperatures during the fruit maturation period in early summer can impair root function and reduce produce quality. The effects of colored plastic mulch on rhizosphere temperature and `Primo' muskmelon root respiration were investigated in the field during Fall (Aug.-Nov. 2002) and Spring (Mar.-May 2003) seasons. Rhizosphere temperatures (measured at 0.1 m below the soil surface with thermo-couples) and respiration under four plastic mulches (black, silver, white, and clear), and a bare ground control were studied. The soil warming properties of the different mulches differed between Spring and Fall. Bare ground rhizosphere temperatures declined from ≈33 to 21°C in the Fall and increased from 14 to 26 °C in Spring. In both studies, black and clear plastic mulches had the highest rhizosphere warming effects (3-8 °C) compared to bare ground. In the Fall, average midday soil temperatures under the white and silver mulches were 2-3 °C cooler than the bare ground treatment. Canopy establishment was accelerated by plastic mulches in Spring but not in Fall. Root + soil respiration was positively correlated with measured rhizosphere temperatures (r = 0.69), with the highest respiration rates recorded under the clear and black plastic mulches. More than 80% of fruits from the clear plastic treatment were deformed and unmarketable. The number of marketable fruit was similar among the black, white and silver mulch treatments and significantly greater (32% in Spring & 12% in Fall) than in the bare ground treatments.