bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHANGES IN GLUTATHIONE AND CATALASE ACTIVITY ASSOCIATED WITH BREAKING OF DORMANCY IN CHERRY SEEDS.
Authors: Siller-Cepeda Jorge H. , Fuchigami Leslie , Chen Tony H. H.
Published: February 2019

Many seeds of woody plants require low temperature or other treatments to overcome dormancy. Changes in catalase activity and glutathione has been proposed to be associated with the breaking of dormancy. We examined the level of glutathione and catalase activity of cherry seeds (Prunus mahaleb cv. Lambert) exposed to several dormancy breaking agents. Seeds imbibed in water for 24 hrs. were either stratified at 4°C or at 25°C for up to 12 weeks, or exposed to other dormancy breaking agents. Germination test, glutathione and catalase activity were determined weekly and/or after treatment. Analysis of levels and state of glutathione were performed by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), and catalase activity was assayed spectrophotometrically. Total glutathione in dry and imbibed seeds were similar, but, ratio between the reduced and oxidized form were different. Low temperature stratification for 12 weeks increased the reduced form of glutathione six-fold, while percent germination increased up to 94%.
THE EFFICACY OF A SOAK TEST FOR PREDICTING THE PERFORMANCE OF IMPATIENS SEEDS IN PLUG PRODUCTION SYSTEMS.
Authors: Karlovich Paul T. , Koranski David S.
Published: February 2019

Fifteen lots of impatiens representing five cultivars were used to evaluate the potential of a soak test for predicting the performance of impatiens seeds in plug-production systems. This test would be valuable in breeding programs because it is non-destructive, seed-specific, inexpensive, fast, and does not require large numbers of seed. The soak test submerged individual seeds in one ml distilled water during germination. The results of this test were compared to standard blotter germination and to plug tray performance in the Iowa State University greenhouse and at two commercial greenhouses. Different responses to the soak test were found among lots and cultivars but the differences could not be correlated to the plug tray performance of the seeds. The responses to the soak test do not appear to be genetically related for these cultivars.
PRELIMINARY PERFORMANCE OF NEW GERMAN AND BELGIAN CHERRY ROOTSTOCKS IN MICHIGAN AND NEW YORK
Authors: Perry R.L , Cummins J. N.
Published: February 2019

In 1987, the NC 140 Regional Rootstock Testing Committee established sweet and sour cherry rootstock trials in 16 locations in North America. This paper will present preliminary results on the performance of Hedelfingen (sweet) and Montmoreney (sour) cherry cultivars at the New York and Michigan sites. The rootstock under test include 3 clones from Gembloux, Belgium, Colt, 4 MxM hybrids, and 9 to 13 interspecific hybrid clones from Giessen, West Germany. Clonal rootstock also under test for Montmorency include St. Lucie 64, 275 and, in New York, Holly Jolivette. Rootstock treatments differ slightly among sites and are replicated 7-8 times in a randomized complete block design. The Giessen rootstock 148/1 and 195/1 have, to date, demonstrated excellent influence on sweet cherry precocity. Sweet and sour cherry on Colt and the MxM hybrids have been most vigorous at both sites. Montmorency is most precocious on Mahaleb seedling followed by Giessen 148/1 at both locations. Data for 1990 on rootstock performance will be included in the oral presentation.
DETECTING PEACH WATER STRESS THROUGH CHANGES IN FOLIAGE TEMPERATURE
Authors: Kjelgren Roger , Taylor Bradley H.
Published: February 2019

The response of foliage-air temperature differential (Tl-Ta) to vapor-pressure deficit (VPD) as a means of detecting incipient water stress was investigated in the Illinois planting of the NC-140 Uniform Peach Rootstock Trial. Stomatal conductance, foliage temperature, leaf water potential, air temperature and VPD were followed diurnally on three dates in 1989 for mature `Redhaven' on six different rootstock. On two of three sampling dates where predawn leaf water potential was greater than -0.5 MPa there was no indication of midday stomatal closure and all rootstock exhibited an inverse relationship between T1-Ta and VPD. On the date with the most negative predawn leaf water potential, T1-Ta of two plum rootstock (GF-677 and GF-655-2) was observed to be significantly greater at VPD levels above 2 kPa than the remaining rootstock. All rootstock on this date exhibited greater T1-Ta than at similar VPD levels on the other two dates. These data suggest that transpirational cooling plays a large enough role in foliage temperature regulation of `Redhaven' peach such that incipient water stress and rootstock effects on water relations can be detected through increases in foliage temperature.
SALINITY AFFECTS GROWTH AND NET GAS EXCHANGE OF CARAMBOLA
Authors: Marler Thomas E.
Published: February 2019

Salinity effects on growth and net gas exchange of carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) examined in were greenhouse culture with ten-month-old seedlings in perlite: peat: sand: pine bark chip medium in 5.1 liter (21 cm top dia.) containers. Treatments of 0.05, 5.1, 9.5, or 13.9 dS·m-1 were obtained by dissolving ca. 0, 2.5, 5.0, or 7.5 g of dehydrated sea salt per liter of rain water and delivered from elevated tanks by gravity to dribble ring emitters in containers via polyethylene and q icro tubing. All plants except control plants received 5.1 dS·m-1 beginning 25 Nov., and concentration was gradually increased for the two highest salinity levels until reaching 9.5 dS·m-1 on 3 Dec. and 13.9 dS·m-1 on 7 Dec. Plants were watered twice weekly until 1 March 1990. Stomatal conductance was determined (LI-COR 1600 steady-state diffusion porometer) on 7 day intervals beginning 24 Nov. Growth was determined as leaf area (LI-COR 3000 area meter), plant dry weight, and trunk diameter. Stomatal conductance declined in all salinity levels to 50% or less of controls by day 12, with a gradual further decline thereafter. Leaf area, plant dry weight, and trunk diameter declined linearly with increased salinity.
LEAKAGE OF UV-ABSORBING SOLUTES FROM SALT-AFFECTED ROOT TIPS OF PISTACHIO ROOTSTOCKS
Authors: Picchioni G.A. , Miyamoto S. , Storey J.B.
Published: February 2019

Excised root tips from 3-year-old pistachio rootstock (Pistacia atlantica Desf., P. terebinthus L., and P. integerrima Stewart × atlantica) were exposed to laboratory saline solutions for 24 hr. Treatments simulated the compositions of soil solutions in a previous 2-year study made in outdoor lysimeters. Leakage of UV-absorbing solutes, an indication of cellular damage, occurred with 175 mM Na/12.5 mM Ca, which was comparable to soil salinity which increased leaf Na concentrations and decreased root growth of these species Up to. five times higher leakage occurred from roots of a P. terebinthus genotype having least Na exclusion potential during the lysimeter study. Use of isotonic levels of CaCl2, mannitol, and simulated Na/Ca solutions resulted in similar damage. However, isotonic Na (-Ca) caused highest leakage overall. Correlation between long-term observations in the lysimeters and leakage occurrence-in the laboratory indicates that solute leakage tests may aid in characterizing responses of Pistacia spp. roots cocks to saline conditions.
IN VITRO SHOOT REGENERATION OF RUBUS PLANTS USING PETIOLES AND INTERNODES.
Authors: Hassan Mahmoud A. , Swartz Harry Jan
Published: February 2019

An efficient protocol for plantlet regeneration using petioles and internodes of two blackberry cultivars has been developed for use in genetic transformation. Maximum shoot regeneration was induced on MS medium supplemented with 5 μM Thidiazuron (TDZ) and 0.5 μM IBA. Preconditioning the source shoots on 0.5 μM TDZ containing MS medium did increase the number of regenerated shoots/explant, but did not affect the regeneration percentage. The antibiotic, kanamycin, significantly reduced the growth and regeneration of explants at 10 mg/L or higher. In contrast, cefatoxime at 100-500 mg/L increased explant growth and percentage regeneration.
EFFECT OF PREHARVEST CULTURAL PRACTICES ON STORAGE LIFE OF GRAPE VARIETY `HIMROD'
Authors: Eboudwarej Albert F. , Herner Robert C.
Published: February 2019

The grape variety `Himrod' under conventional storage practices has a short storage life while it has an excellent quality character.

To modify berry size and cluster compactness, different treatments are being used. Application of these cultural practices has pronounced effect on storage life of grapes. The cultural practices consist of different combinations of gibberellin application (two different concentrations), girdling and cluster thjnning.

Biophysical and biochemical evaluation of the grapes under two different modified storage conditions showed that treated grapes react differently during storage. Our results suggest that grapes that were only treated with gibberellin (20 ppm at shatter and 50 ppm postshatter) were better than control slid any other combined treatments and the worst was the case of only girdling application. Combination of these two treatments were intermediate in terms of biophysical evaluation.
COLLECTION OF FRAGARIA IN CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN CHILE
Authors: Sjulin Thomas M. , Cameron J. Scott , Shanks Carl H. , Munoz Carlos E.
Published: February 2019

In January, 1990, a team of U.S. and Chilean scientists collected native and cultivated Fragaria from central and southern Chile. During the course of this expedition, 363 new accessions of Fragaria were collected. Approximately 2,500 plants of 250 clones were collected from 66 sites in 19 different areas, and 113 seedlots (estimated at over 100,000 seeds) were obtained.

Plants were collected from a wide range of habitats, and considerable variability was observed in vegetative and reproductive characteristics. Fruit were round to conical in shape, deep red to white in color, soft to moderately firm, with soluble solids ranging from 5-18%, dull to glossy skin, bland to strong flavor, low to very high aromatics, and difficult to moderately easy capping. Fruit size in situ approached 4 g, while fruit larger than 12 g were found under cultivated conditions. Strawberry aphids (Chaetosiphon fragaefolii) were found on plants in situ and under cultivation. Little or no evidence of other pests were observed on clones collected in situ.
FRAGARIA GERMPLASM FROM MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN
Authors: Stabler Margaret M. , Luby J. J. , Ascher P. D.
Published: February 2019

Introgression of Fragaria vesca, the diploid wild strawberry, and F. × ananassa, the octoploid cultivated strawberry, into octoploid F. virginiana collected from Minnesota and Wisconsin was suggested by gynodioecy and cluster analysis. Nine morphological traits separated collections into two main clusters, one associated with the northern hardwoods, and the other in the prairie-forest floristic province. Under field conditions, wild female clones were rated similarly to check cultivars for fruit set and plant productivity but always significantly higher than wild hermaphrodites, Increases in yield might be gained by selecting female clones for incorporation into a breeding program. Breeders anticipating rapid transfer of traits from the wild might concentrate on collections from the prairie-forest floristic province, since these materials contain F. × ananassa traits. Maximum genetic diversity would be gained using collection from both floristic provinces.
THE STATUS OF PYRUS GERMPLASM IN THE US
Authors: Hummer Kim
Published: February 2019

Pyrus communis L. germplasm came to North America with early settlers. Pyrus cultivars have markedly declined since the turn of the century when more than 2700 unique Pyrus cultivars and 10,000 cultivar synonyms were noted. In 1956, 844 Pyrus cultivars and selections were widely available. Fireblight, Erwinia amylovora (Burril) Winslow et al. 1923, and lack of cold hardiness were main causes of cultivated germplasm loss. During June through December 1989, I resurveyed 37 State Agricultural Experiment Stations which had pear collections in 1956, to determine the present extent of their collections. Only four had more than 100 cultivars; 12 had 10 to 100 cultivars; 21 had less than 10. Experiment stations have decreased their collections because of funding cuts and program redirection. The National Clonal Germplasm Repository at Corvallis, established in 1981, has a collection of 811 unique cultivars and representatives of 26 Pyrus species. About 194 cultivars published in 1908 are in the NCGR collection. At least 424 of those listed in 1956 still exist. Oriental species and other foreign selections not previously available are actively being acquired. About 80% of the clones in the NCGR collection are virus negative; about 10 % reside in backup in vitro storage. Fireblight damage has not been observed thus far. With continued federal support, Pyrus germplasm availability should remain more stable than the decline seen in the last 90 years.
EFFECT OF COPPER SULFATE FILTERS ON GROWTH OF BEDDING PLANTS
Authors: Benson Jodi , Kelly John
Published: February 2019

Height control is a major concern when growing bedding plants. Growth regulating chemicals are often applied to regulate height of bedding plant species. However, reductions in plant height have been observed when plants were grown under light with a high ratio of red to far red light. Light passing through clear double walled, acrylic panels filled with copper sulfate solution has a high red to far red ratio. This work examined the effect of growing tomatoes, peppers, pansies, petunias, geraniums, and impatiens under panels filled with 4, 8, and 16 percent copper sulfate solution. Plants were grown for approximately 3 weeks in cell packs, then data were taken on plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh and dry weight, and chlorophyll content. Significant reductions in height (40-66%) were achieved by growing bedding plants under any of the copper sulfate concentrations.
IRRADIANCE AND TEMPERATURE EFFECTS ON DEVELOPMENT OF BEGONIA SEMPERFLORENS-CULTORUM
Authors: Shoemaker Candice A. , Carlson William H.
Published: February 2019

Effects of temperature (18-32C), irradiance (0-4.3 mol day-1m-2), and pH (4.5-7.5) on germination of begonia were evaluated. Germination of 90-93% occurred at 18-24C and 79-83% at greater than 24C. There was no difference in germination between seeds receiving ambient irradiance conditions and seeds receiving 24hr supplemental irradiance (4.3 mol day-1m-2). Begonia did not germinate in the dark. On filter paper, no germination occurred at pH 4.5 or 5.0 while germination of 84 and 94% occurred within the pH range 5.5-7.5. In a peatlite medium, germination ≥80% occurred across all pH levels evaluated.

Photosynthetic photon flux (PPF), day temperature (DT), and night temperature (NT) effects on vegetative development (3 true leaves to first flower) were determined. Plant height increased <2 cm as PPF level increased from 4.4 mol day-1m-2 to 12.15 mol day-1m-2. DT and NT influenced plant height, but as with PPF, the differences were only 1-2 cm. Neither average daily temperature (ADT) nor the difference between the DT and NT (DIF) affected plant height. Primary lateral shoot number increased as temperature and PPF increased.
PHOTOPERIODIC CONTROL OF DEVELOPMENTAL GROWTH IN BEGONIA × TUBERHYBRIDA
Authors: Karlsson Meriam G. , Werner Jeffrey W.
Published: February 2019

Plants of Begonia x tuberhybrida `NonStop Orange', `Clips Orange' and `Musical Orange' were exposed to 1, 2, 3 or 4 weeks of short days initiated at 4 stages of plant development (immediately upon germination, 5 weeks after germination, 10 weeks after germination and 15 weeks after germination). Prior to and succeeding short days, plants were exposed to a day length of 16 hours at 100 μmol·m-2s-1. Short days were 9 hours at an irradiance level of 180 μmol·m-2s-1 to give the same total daily irradiance (5.8 mol· m-2day-1) as long day conditions. The temperature was maintained at 21° ± 4°C during the day and 18° ± 2°C during night. The observed growth and development responses were similar among the studied cultivars. During the period of 4 to 8 weeks after germination, the seedling height increased at an average rate of 0.7 mm day-1 for plants grown under long days and 0.3 mm day-1 for short day plants. The photoperiodic conditions did not affect the number of emerging leaves. The root development was more proliferate on plants allowed to develop under long days compared to plants exposed to short days during early development.
THE EFFECTS OF VINE SPACING, SHOOT DENSITY AND FOLIAR KNO3 ON NUTRIENT CONTENT OF SEYVAL GRAPEVINES
Authors: Cahoon G.A. , Scurlock D.M. , Lehman J. D.
Published: February 2019

Factorial treatments of vine spacing, shoot density and foliar applications of KNO3 were imposed on 9-year-old Seyval grapevines during 1989. Rows were spaced 3.05 m apart; vines within the row were spaced 1.2, 1.8 or 2.4 m apart and trained to a bilateral cordon. Shoots were thinned to 10, 20 or 30/m of canopy. A solution containing 6 kg of KNO3/379 liters of water was applied as a foliar spray at 2-week intervals between June 1 and August 1, 1989 (5 applications). Each shoot was thinned to one cluster prior to full bloom. Vines spaced at 1.2, 1.8 and 2.4 m produced an average of 4.2, 5.9 and 7.3 kg/vine, respectively (11.3, 10.6 and 9.8 MT/ha). Cluster weight averaged .22 kg; fruit maturity averaged 19.7°Brix for all treatments. Applications of KNO3 increased foliar N, K, Fe, B, Cu and Na, but decreased P, Ca, Mg, Mn, and Zn. As vine spacing increased the concentration of foliar N, P, K decreased. As shoot density increased N, P, K, B, and Cu decreased, while Ca, Mg, Mn and Na increased. The experiment will be repeated in 1990.
SALT TOLERANCE IN TEN CULTIVARS OF EGGPLANT (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Abdal Mahdi S. , Sharma Jagan N.
Published: February 2019

Eggplant is an important vegetable crop in Kuwait. Eggplant is considered to have moderately sensitive salt-tolerance, though no quantitative information is available on its salt sensitivity. Selecting salt-tolerant genotypes in eggplant is an ongoing project at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. Towards the goal of selecting salt-tolerant genotypes in eggplant a completely randomized experiment using 10 cultivars, replicated 3 times were tested against 2 levels of high salinity stress (EC MS.cm-1 at 25°C, 15.0 and 18.0) along with the control (EC MS.cm-1 at 25°C, 3.0). The experiment was conducted on 15 days old seedlings inside a greenhouse. Data on shoot length and visual observations on leaf necrosis, leaf collapse and root color was also recorded. There was a clear degree of variability as well as significant differences in growth and final survival, between cultivars at 2 levels of salinity stress. Those genotypes that showed significant higher growth rates and survival without any signs on leaf necrosis and root collapse formed the basis salt-tolerant genotypes.
SHOOT TIP CULTURE OF MUSCADINE GRAPE TO ELIMINATE PIERCE'S DISEASE BACTERIUM
Authors: Robacker Carol D. , Chang C.J.
Published: February 2019

Screening of muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia) plants in vineyards has revealed that many plants carry Xylella fastidiosa; under suitable conditions, this bacterium causes Pierce's disease which can result in considerable loss. To determine whether propagation of muscadine through shoot tips would eliminate X. fastidiosa, plants were injected with this bacterium. After demonstrating infection, shoot tips were collected and cultured. according to the technique of Barlass and Skene (1978). Plants which were regenerated were found to be free of the bacterium. To determine whether this shoot-tip culture technique would be effective for propagation of a diverse group of muscadines, 19 cultivars were tested. Three of the cultivars failed to produce any plants, and several others reproduced at a low rate of efficiency. In an attempt to improve the rate of regeneration, several modifications to the technique were tested. For most cultivars, better initiation occurred on liquid medium, more shoots were produced with BA than with 2iP, and the addition of adenine sulfate and sodium phosphate improved the regeneration frequency.
EFFECT OF CO2 ENRICHMENT AND LIGHTING ONSTAGE IV ROOTING AND ACCLIMATION OF MICROPROPAGATED KALMIA.
Authors: Mudge Kenneth W. , Lardner Joseph P. , Eckenrode Katherine L.
Published: February 2019

The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of CO2 enrichment and optimal radiation level for accelerating the rooting and growth of micropropagated Kalmia latifolia cuttings during the Stage IV acclimation period. Inch long microcuttings of the Kalmia cultivars `Elf' and `Carousel' shipped from a commercial micropropagation laboratory, were stuck in flats of peat, and place in a fogging chamber constructed to allow for the simultaneous experimental variation of CO2 level and either radiation level or photoperiod. Treatments consisted of a complete factorial arrangement of 2 levels of CO2 (ambient and 1200 ppm) and 3 levels of radiation (30, 98, and 158 μmoles/m2/sec). The experiment was repeated 6 times. For `Carousel' CO2 enrichment stimulated both shoot and root growth and either the high or medium light level was optimal depending on the experiment. CO2 enrichment also stimulated growth of `Elf' but results were less consistent from experiment to experiment. Similar experiments are in progress with Amelanchier and Lilac microcuttings.
GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT AND NITROGEN METABOLISM OF HYDROPONIC LETTUCE GROWN UNDER HPS SUPPLEMENTAL LIGHTING
Authors: Gaudreau Linda , Charbonneau Josée , Vézina Louis-P. , Gosselin André
Published: February 2019

Two cultivars (Karlo and Rosanna) of greenhouse lettuce were grown under different photosynthetic photon fluxes (PPF) and photoperiods provided by 400-W high–pressure sodium lamps. Natural light was compared to suppletmental lighting treatments providing either 50 or 100 μmol m-2-s-1 for photoperiods of 16, 20 or 24 h. Lettuce plants were grown in hydroponic gulleys using a standard nutrient solution. Plant fresh weights were measured every week for the duration of each culture grown between August 1989 and June 1990. The incidence of tipburn and the overall quality of the shoots were determined at the end of each crop. Leaf nitrate contents and nitrate reductase activity were measured for various lighting treatments. The highest fresh weight was obtained for the highest PPF and the longest photoperiod. However, these treatments were associated with a higher incidence of tipburn. Supplemental lighting reduced the leaf nitrate contents and affected the nitrate reductase activity.
INSULATING CONES PROVIDE MORE FREEZE PROTECTION TO YOUNG CITRUS TREES THAN TRADITIONAL WRAPS
Authors: Parsons Larry R. , Wheaton T. Adair
Published: February 2019

Wraps of fiberglass or other insulating material have frequently been used in Florida for cold protection of young citrus tree trunks. Traditional wraps were compared to a foil-covered plastic bubble material formed into cones. The base of the cone on the ground trapped soil heat and the apex was secured around the trunk at a height of 40 cm. Cones with base diameters of 15, 30, 45 and 60 cm were compared to a cylindrical wrap of the same material and other traditional wraps. A major freeze in Dec. 1989 killed unprotected control trees to the rootstock. Cones provided better freeze protection than other wraps. Temperatures inside the cones were generally warmer as cone diameter increased. By trapping soil heat, cones of this material can provide better freeze protection of young trees when irrigation or other heat sources are not available.
IN VITRO REGENERATION FROM CALLUS OF ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS
Authors: Tawfik Azza Abdel-Aziz , Read P. E.
Published: February 2019

Regeneration from callus of rosemary has not been reported. Leaf segment, meristem-tip and shoot-tip explants of Rosmarinus officinalis were cultured on a Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with five concentrations of the cytokinin thidiazuron (TDZ) alone or in combination with 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA). Callus was formed on the base and leaves of the shoottips after 6 weeks when cultured under cool white fluorescent light (26 u mol·S-1 m-2) on MS containing 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 or 2.0 mg/l TDZ. Calti were transferred to fresh MS medium supplemented with 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 or 1.0 mg/l TDZ or 2.0, 4.0, 6.0 or 8.0 mg/l benzyladenine (BA) where shoot formation occurred. Essentiality of IAA was not clear from these experiments and further research is underway to refine regeneration protocol
SOMATIC HYBRIDIZATION BETWEEN CITRUS RETICULATA AND CITROPSIS GABUNENSIS THROUGH ELECTROFUSION
Authors: Ling Jinq-Tian , Nito N. , Iwamasa M.
Published: February 2019

Protoplasts were isolated from embryogenic calli of Citrus reticulata cv. Ponkan and Citropsis gabunensis, and fused in electric fields. The maximal fusion efficiency was obtained by application of AC at 75 V/cm (1.0 MHz) and DC square-wave pulse at 1.125 KV/cm for 40 usec. Fusion-treated protoplasts were cultured on MT medium without phytohormone, solidified with 0.6% agar. Colonies from the protoplasts were proliferated on MT medium with zeatin 1 mg/l and 0.9% agar. Selection of somatic hybrid callus was based on chromosome count and isoenzyme analysis. The somatic hybrids were tetraploid (2n=36). C. reticulata and C. gabunensis were both homozygous at Got-1 locus, but distinguishable easily because band of the latter migrated faster than that of the former. In zymogram of somatic hybrid, both parent bands were retained and a new hybrid band was also evident between them. Embryos from somatic-hybrid callus regenerated intact plant. The hybrid plants showed intermediate morphological characteristics of the parents.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE SEED COAT AND EMBRYO IN REGULATING THE EFFECT OF HEAT AND SALT STRESS ON LETTUCE SEED GERMINATION
Authors: Dunlap James , Scully Brian , Reyes Dawn
Published: February 2019

Poor germination of lettuce seeds exposed to heat and salinity is attributed to a reduction in the capacity for embryo expansion. Ethylene and kinetin are proposed to overcome these stresses by increasing the expansion force of the embryo which ruptures the seed coat barrier to growth. To better understand the physiological mechanism regulating thermodormancy in the embryo, germination was determined for intact and decoated seeds from thermosensitive and thermotolerant varieties subjected to a critical range of temperature and salt (NaCl) stress. Although more tolerant of stress, the response of decoated seeds to ACC and kinetin was similar to the response of intact seeds. No interaction between ACC and kinetin was detected in decoated seed except under the most severe stress and in the thermosensitive variety. Heat and salt tolerance appear to be governed by the same physiological mechanism. We propose that the seed coat plays no qualitative role in the expression of lettuce seed thermodormancy. The response occurs exclusively in the embryo and may result from an inability to generate sufficient turgor pressure at supraoptimal temperatures for cell expansion.
GERMINATION OF VERBENA SEED IN RESPONSE TO PLANT GROWTH REGULATORS
Authors: Kabbabe Gamil A. , Carpenter William J.
Published: February 2019

Verbena seed when harvested, has a natural dormancy that gradually dissipates during a 5 to 8 month period of dry storage. In this study, the gradual loss of the dormancy causing factor was correlated with germination percentage. Acetone treatment of verbena seeds was found to cause a slight, but non-significant, reduction in total germination. However, the infusion of gibberellic acid (GA4/7) and kinetin (KIN) with the acetone at various concentrations improved germination. The traditional method of seed osmoconditioning using Polyethylene Glycol (PEG 8000) at -1.0 MPa caused a non-significant reduction in percent germination, similar to that with acetone. When growth regulators were mixed with the osmoconditioning solution, at the concentrations used with acetone, a definite and significant improvement in terms of rate and percent of germination was observed.
REVISING THE SUPERVISORS INTERIOR?LANTSCAPE COURSE
Authors: Botacchi Allen C.
Published: February 2019

Prior to the fall of 1989, no Commercial Supervisory Pesticide Applicator Certification for the Interior Plantscape category existed in the State of Connecticut. The Cooperative Extension Educator for Commercial Horticulture and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection cooperated to establish the requirements for an Interior Plantscape Pest Control category.

The Extension Curriculum was revised to prepare individuals to take the Connecticut DEP examination. This course was taught during the summer of 1990.

Students were made more aware of the proper site and/or plant selection relationships. Emphasis was placed on careful and detailed inspection of newly purchased plant material. Additional cultural information was presented to reduce and/or eliminate the use of pesticides.

Course content and student survey results from this curriculum will be presented.
ON FARM TRIALS WORK
Authors: Nuland David S. , Schild Jim
Published: February 2019

We have looked at varieties and rates of added nitrogen in 56 cm farm trials over three years. Treatments in all trials are randomized and applied in planter width strips. For varieties, locations are used as replication with treatment numbers ranging from two to nine. For the nitrogen rate study, four treatments are replicated three times at each location. The treatments are hand harvested. Two forty foot samples are taken for plant population, biomass and grain yield from each treatment.

Coefficient of variations range from 3 to 7 percent with LSD at .05 for harvested grain of between three to four hundred weight. The growers are dependable, practical minded, realistic and appreciate the privilege of generating information that is useful to their profession. For most, seeing is believing. The information gained is willingly shared.
EXPLAINING INCREASES IN PER CAPITA CONSUMPTION OF FRESH FRUITS
Authors: Thompson Gary , Tronstad Russel , Kilby Michael
Published: February 2019

During the last two decades, per capita consumption of fresh fruit has increased markedly. Although many believe that this increase has been caused by a heightened concern in health and diet, economic analyses indicates that changes in retail prices and increasing per capita incomes adequately explain the increased consumption of fresh fruit. Also, with more single households and women entering the labor force, the convenience factor of focal preparation has likely caused an increase in the consumption of fresh fruit. Substantial substitution between fresh fruit products has occurred: grapes and strawberries have increasingly substituted for citrus fruit, particularly grapefruit. These results suggest that relative prices for fresh fruits, increasing disposable income, and the changing demographic composition of households have prompted observed increases in the per capita consumption of fresh fruit.
WINTER COVER CROPS IN LOW-INPUT VEGETABLE PRODUCTION
Authors: Brunson Kathryn E. , Phatak Sharad C.
Published: February 2019

Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L., cv. Hiline) were planted following over-wintering cover crops. In replicated field trials, stand development for 7 different cover crops and their effects on incidence of weeds, insects, diseases, and nematodes was assessed. Effects of cover crops on yield and quality of cantaloupe were evaluated. Cover crops evaluated were rye, crimson clover, lentils, subterranean clover, `Vantage' vetch, mustard, a polyculture of all cover crops and control-fallow. No insecticides were applied and only two applications of fungicides were made. Fertilizer applications were significantly reduced. No differences among cover crops for any of pest nematodes were observed. Significant differences in populations of beneficial and pest insects were observed. Polyculture had the highest plant vigor rating. The highest marketable yield occurred following crimson clover.
NITROGEN, LIME AND MULCH EFFECT ON TOMATO PRODUCTION
Authors: Paterson James W.
Published: February 2019

The effectiveness of nitrogen, lime and mulch on the production of tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) grown on a coastal plain sandy loam soil was investigated in 1989. Five rates of nitrogen, 0 to 180 kg h a-1 in 45 kg h a-1 increments, were applied to limed and unlimed soil. Each nitrogen treatment was split into bare ground and black plastic mulched plots. The highest total yield of quality tomatoes was produced with 90 kg ha-1 of nitrogen. At all nitrogen rates, total yields of quality tomatoes produced in the limed areas were significantly greater than the crop produced in the unlimed acid areas. Increasing nitrogen above the 90 kg ha-1 rate had no further significant increase on yields in the limed soil; however, the higher rates of nitrogen did significantly depress yields of quality tomatoes in the unlimed acid soil areas. The positive influence of liming was noted in the early, midseason and late harvests as well as in the total yields. Liming also had a positive influence on the size of the quality tomato while mulching had little to no effect on fruit size. Mulching also had only a modest effect on quality fruit yields. Soil test and tissue analysis results will also be discussed.
MINIMUM TILLAGE AND NITROGEN INTERACTIONS IN PRODUCTION OF FALL BROCCOLI
Authors: Roberts B. W. , Cartwright Bob
Published: February 2019

Raised beds approximately 20 cm tall by 76 cm wide were formed on 1.8 m centers in the spring of 1988 and 1989. Beds were either left bare or seeded with rye (Secale cereale) or hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) at 84 or 45 kg ha-1 respectively. All plots were sprayed with glyphosate in August of each year. In 1988, a 30 cm strip was tilled in the center of each bed. In 1989, there was no tillage or mowing.

The design was a randomized complete block with four levels of nitrogen (45, 90, 134, and 179 kg ha-1) at each soil cover. Broccoli seedlings were transplanted in double rows on 30 cm spacings into the plots each year in late August.

Height of the raised beds was maintained with both rye and vetch. Broccoli yields were highest in the bare soil treatments In 1988, the lowest yield was with vetch, and in 1989 the lowest yield was with rye. There was a positive linear yield response to nitrogen. The number of heads harvested did not differ significantly between soil covers
QUALITY AND YIELD OF WHITE ASPARAGUS USING OPAQUE ROW COVERS
Authors: Makus D. J. , Gonzalez A. R.
Published: February 2019

Black and white plastic row covers were established over field-grown `Jersey Giant' asparagus on 10 Mar 89. Season soil temps in uncovered, white, and black plastic treatments were 17.4, 15.9, and 16.8° C, respectively. Night air temp under plastics was about 1.4° C higher than no cover. Day temps under black plastic was about 10° C higher than no cover. Temps under white plastic were intermediate. Spears were cut for 7 weeks beginning on 27 March. Black plastic improved early yield only at the third cutting week. Marketable and total yield were improved with the use of plastics. Spear number/ha was not affected. Spear weight (after trimming to 15 cm length) was greater when grown under plastic, whereas spear length was reduced. There were no differences between treatments in spear fiber, but spears grown under plastic covers had higher soluble solids, sweetness rating, titratable acidity and nitrates and lower ascorbic acid, protein and phenolic levels than did uncovered spears. Very little chlorophyll and carotenoids were produced in the absence of light, but there was a color intensity difference between spears grown under the two different plastics.
VARIABILITY FOR RESTRICTION FRAGMENT LENGTH POLYMORPHISMS IN THE CHLOROPLAST AND NUCLEAR GENOME OF ALLIUM SPECIES.
Authors: Havey Michael J.
Published: February 2019

Restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) in the chloroplast and nuclear genome are useful for estimation of phylogenetic relationships. Fifteen mutations at restriction enzyme sites in the chloroplast DNA were discovered. The wild species A. oschaninii and A. vavilovii were identical to A. cepa for all mutations. These species represent sources of wild germplasm closely related to the bulb onion. Nuclear RFLPs are now being used to estimate the genetic distances between accessions of A. oschaninii A. vavilovii, and open-pollinated populations of the cultivated bulb onion.
THE EFFECTS OF CARBON DIOXIDE ENRICHMENT ON PRODUCTION AND POSTHARVEST CHARACTERISTICS OF POTTED ROSES (Rosa × hybrida `Meijikatar')
Authors: Clark D.G. , Kelly J.W.
Published: February 2019

Potted Rosa × hybrida `Meijikatar' plants were produced at 350, 700, and 1050 μl·liter-1 CO2. At a stage of development where half of the flowers showed color, plants were placed into simulated shipping incubators for 5 days at 4 or 16 C.

Increased CO2 levels resulted in shorter production time, increased root dry weight, increased plant height, and reduced total chlorophyll in the upper leaves of the plants. Upon removal from simulated shipping, the number of etiolated shoots per plant increased with increased CO2 concentration. After 5 days in a simulated interior environment, higher shipping temperatures induced more leaf chlorosis, but there were no differences in leaf chlorosis due to CO2 enrichment.
GROWTH RESPONSE OF SNAPDRAGON ANTIRRHINUM MAJUS TO NIGHT AIR TEMPERATURES AND ELEVATED ROOT-ZONE TEMPERATURES
Authors: Wai Khin San , Newman S.E.
Published: February 2019

The response of Antirrhinum majus (snapdragon) cultivars (`Tampicoi' and `Rainier White') to night air temperatures (10C and 20C) and elevated root-zone temperature (26C and ambient) was studied. Height of plants grown with a heated root-zone were greater, compared to unheated at both night temperatures for both cultivars. Shoot dry weight of `Tampico' plants was reduced by heated root-zone temperature at 20C night air temperature. Raceme length was greater with heated root-zone temperature compared to unheated at 10C night air temperature. Days to flower were shorter with heated compared to unheated root-zone at both night air temperatures for both cultivars. Stomatal diffusive resistance was greater on plants with unheated compared to heated root-zone temperature at 10C night air temperature for `Rainier White'.
PHOSPHATE FERTILIZER INFLUENCES PHYTOAVAILABILTY OF SOIL ARSENIC AND LEAD TO APRICOT (Prunus armeniaca)
Authors: Creger Timothy L. , Peryea Frank J.
Published: February 2019

Fruit trees grown in soils contaminated with lead arsenate (PbHAsO4) pesticide residues are subject to arsenic (As) phytotoxicity, a condition that may be exacerbated by use of phosphate fertilizers. A potted soil experiment was conducted to examine the influence of phosphate fertilizer on accumulation of As and lead (Pb) in apricot (Prunus armeniaca) seedlings grown in a lead arsenate-contaminated Burch loam coil. Treatments were fertilizer source (mono-ammonium phosphate [MAP], ammonium hydrogen sulfate [AHS]) and rate (0, 8.7, 17.4, and 26.1 -mmol/liter), and presence/absence of lead, arsenate contamination (231 -mg/kg coil). Plant biomass accumulation was reduced by lead arsenate presence and by high fertilizer rates, the latter due to soil salinization. Phytoaccumulation of As was enhanced by lead arsenate presence and by increasing MAP rate but was not influenced by AHS rate, salinity, or acidity of soil. Phytoaccumulation of Pb was enhanced by lead arsenate presence but was not influenced by fertilizer treatment.
VA MYCORRHIZAL INFLUENCE ON GROWTH AND MINERAL UPTAKE OF POTATO
Authors: McArthur D.A.J. , Knowles N.R.
Published: February 2019

The growth response of potato to infection by vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (VAM) (Glomus dimorphicum, G. intraradices, and G. mosseae), at increasing levels of soil phosphorus (P), was related to VAM-altered mineral status of the plant. In addition, the morphological development of the VAM was characterized using light and scanning electron microscopy.

Four weeks after inoculation, arbuscules and coiled hyphae were the predominate fungal structures within the roots, however, vesicle development increased steadily over the remainder of the 12 week growth period. As expected, the percent infection of roots by VAM decreased with increasing soil-P level. Leaf area, relative growth rate (RGR), lateral branching and root dry weight were increased by VAM, although the relative-response diminished with increasing soil-P level. A similar response to VAM-infection was evident for the concentration of and total shoot N, P and K. Examination of the shoot N status indicated that VAM influenced the rates at which the plant was partitioning N into various N pools. But again, differences between non-VAM and VAM plants tended to decrease with increasing soil-P level. These results indicate that VAM modification of dry matter accumulation and nutrient uptake is mostly a consequence of the alleviation of P-deficiency of the plant and the improved growth of roots, allowing increased mineral absorption.
CRANBERRY FERTILITY RESEARCH: ESTABLISHING THE DATABASE NEEDED TO SUPPORT EFFICIENT EXPERIMENTATION IN THE 90'S.
Authors: DeMoranville Carolyn
Published: February 2019

With dwindling funding for horticultural research, the need to conduct experiments which are the most efficient in terms of resource (including personnel) utilization becomes apparent. Research on minor crops such as cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon, Ait.) has been particularly hard-hit by the funding crunch. A study to generate a large database as the basis for future experimental design was initiated in 1986 for the variety `Early Black' (60% of MA commercial acreage). Seasonal nutrient levels for all tissues, patterns of biomass development, components of yield, and fruit development were included. In 1989, the study was expanded to include a comparison of 6 MA varieties grown under the same cultural and environmental condition. A portion of the database will be presented and its implementation to increase field experiment efficiency will be discussed.
RETENTION OF LEAF AREA INFLUENCES FIELD GRAFTING OF CONCORD GRAPEVINES
Authors: Zabadal Thomas J.
Published: February 2019

Field grafting of the Concord variety (V. labruscana) when using t-bud, chip bud or sidewhip grafting is typically less successful than when these grafting methods are applied to several European (V. vinifera) and European-American hybrid varieties. Sap flooding is one cause of failure of field grafts. Although trunk slashing basal to field grafts is used to control such sap flooding, it was not effective on Concord vines. Therefore, a strategy to reduce sap flooding of graft unions on Concord vines by increasing transpiration was evaluated. Additional leaf area was retained at the time of field grafting by using the following approaches either alone or in combination: (a) delaying trunk decapitation until several weeks after grafting, (b) retaining a trunk renewal cane and (c) retention of a second, ungrafted trunk. All treatments significantly increased the success rate for the t-bud (88% vs. 63%), chip bud (85% vs. 36%) and sidewhip (90% vs. 48%) grafting methods. Concord vines develop modest leaf area from base buds at the time of field grafting when compared to many other grape varieties. These results suggest that this factor influences the application of certain field grafting methods to this variety.
ENHANCING BUDBREAK IN DESERT-GROWN TABLE GRAPES
Authors: Williams Larry E. , Neja Rudy , Yates Lori
Published: February 2019

A study was conducted to determine the effects of various cultural practices on enhancing earlier and more uniform budbreak of Perlette grapevines grown in the Coachella Valley of California. Post-harvest irrigation treatments were imposed approximately July 1 for three consecutive years. This included cut-off dates (Sept 15 and Nov 15) and various irrigation amounts based upon a standard treatment in which continued vegetative growth was inhibited. The application of hydrogen cyanamide or lack of also was included in the experimental design. In 1989 and 1990, the early irrigation cutoff date resulted in earlier dates of budbreak compared to the late cutoff. Vines irrigated with the most water had delayed budbreak compared with those irrigated with less. There were significant (p < 0.05) interactions between irrigation amounts and cyanamide applications. The results indicate that the amount and timing of post-harvest irrigations in conjunction with cyanamide will promote earlier and more uniform budbreak of vines grown in the desert.
EXPANDED SHALE AS A POTTING MEDIUM COMPONENT FOR BEDDING PLANTS
Authors: Nash Mark A. , Brubaker Tim P. , Hipp Billy W.
Published: February 2019

Expanded shale and peat moss were mixed in 5 ratios and evaluated as potting media for Petunia and Impatiens. Two grades of shale (coarse and fine) were used. Bulk density increased linearly with increasing shale whereas total pore space and container capacity increased linearly with increasing peat. Air space of peat-fine shale was consistently lower than that of peat-coarse shale when the peat/shale ratio was the same. Container capacity of peat-fine shale was consistently higher than that of peat-coarse shale when the peat/shale ratio was the same. Growth and quality of both bedding plants increased quadratically with increasing peat in peat-coarse shale and increased linearly with increasing peat in peat-fine shale. Highest growth and quality of both plants were found in peat-coarse shale media with at least 50% peat and in peat-fine shale media with at least 75% peat.
FERTILIZATION OF CHRISTMAS CACTUS
Authors: Poole Richard T. , Conover Charles A.
Published: February 2019

Three factorial experiments with various combinations of N, P or K were conducted over 3 years with Schlumbergera truncata (Haw.) Moran. Blooming was influenced by fertilization. Number of blooms was reduced by both low and high fertilization. Nitrogen appeared to be the most influential element, with high levels decreasing time to bloom and number of blooms. Potassium had no effect, and an increase in phosphorus decreased time to bloom and number of blooms.
EVALUATION OF SOMACLONAL VARIATION FOR RESISTANCE TO MYROTHECIUM RORIDUM IN REGENERANTS OF CUCUMIS MELO L. FROM COTYLEDONARY CALLUS
Authors: Mackay W.A. , Ng T.J , Hammerschlag F.A.
Published: February 2019

Cucumis melo L. (muskmelon) is susceptible to Myrothecium roridum at all stages of growth with no known source of resistance. Screening of regenerants from long-term cotyledonary-derived callus cultures of muskmelon cv. Hales Best (tolerant), Iroquois (susceptible), and Perlita (intermediate) was carried out to determine if novel plants with increased levels of resistance could be obtained. A detached-leaf bioassay was used to screen greenhouse-grown regenerants and seedlings of the three cultivars. Resistance was determined by measuring necrotic lesion diameter and chlorotic plus necrotic lesion diameter. No change in the level of resistance to M. roridum has thus far been observed. Thus, screening for somaclonal variation may not be aviable approach to recover resistance in muskmelon to M. roridum.
EFFECTS OF FRUIT AND GIRDLING ON GAS EXCHANGE, SPECIFIC LEAF WEIGHT, WATER POTENTIAL, AND CARBOHYDRATE CONTENT OF APPLE LEAVES
Authors: Elkner Timothy E. , Barden J. A. , Kushad M. M. , Wolf D. D.
Published: February 2019

Fruiting spurs (`Red Prince Delicious') (RD) and shoots (`Sundale Spur Golden Delicious') (CD) with three leaf:fruit ratios and comparable nonfruiting spurs and shoots were girdled on 7 September 1988. An interaction between fruiting status and time existed for most parameters measured on both cultivars while there was no effect of leaf:fruit ratio. At 1 day after treatment (DAT) few differences existed due to fruiting status on either cultivar. At 8 DAT with RD and at 4 and 8 DAT with GD, Pn, transpiration (Tr), leaf water potential (ψ L), and nonreducing sugars were greater on fruiting than nonfruiting spurs and shoots while leaf resistance (RL), SLW, and starch were lower on fruiting spurs. In nonfruiting spurs and shoots Pn, Tr, and ψL tended to decrease while RL and SLW increased with time whereas m fruiting spurs and shoots most parameters remained constant. Total nonstructural carbohydrates, reducing sugars, and starch were greater in nonfruiting than fruiting spurs and shoots.