bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacteriostatic Effect of Fresh-cut Spinach on Listeria spp.
Authors: Babic Isabelle , Watada Alley E.
Published: February 2019

Fresh-cut spinach has been shown to have a bacteriostatic effect on Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19111 (Babic et al., 1997). A study was undertaken to determine if this effect is noted on other species of Listeria and to determine if the spinach or the natural microorganisms on the spinach was the cause of the bacteriostatic effect. Six species of Listeria was cultivated in pure tryptic soy broth, tryptic soy broth containing freeze-dried spinach powder, or broth containing mesophilic aerobic microorganisms (MAM) isolated from spinach powder. The cultures were incubated at 10°C for 6 days and growth measured daily. Growth data were analyzed as four factor general linear repeated measures mixed model with species, treatment, and day as the fixed effects. The fixed effects showed a significant interaction between treatment × day and day × species. Results indicated that both the spinach and MAM had an inhibitory effect on Listeria as noted by the maximum population at 6 days, which was 8.8 Log10 cfu/ml in control, 6.4 in spinach powder cultures, and 7.4 in mixed cultures (P < 0.05). Of the six Listeria species, three L. monocytogenes were affected similarly whereas the remaining three, particularly L. innocua, were affected differently. In conclusion, the bacteriostatic effect of fresh-cut spinach differs with Listeria species and the native microorganisms play a major role as competitors.
Light Duration Alters Carbon Partitioning into Sorbitol in Leaves, Stems, and Roots of Apple
Authors: Wang Z. , Quebedeaux B.
Published: February 2019

Light duration alters carbon partitioning among carbohydrates (CHOs) in source leaves. The current experiments were designed to determine how light duration affected the metabolism of newly fixed and reserve CHOs in various organs of apple and whether longer durations favored sorbitol (sor) synthesis. One-year-old `Gala' apple plants that experienced a 1-, 4-, 7-, 10-, or 14-h photoperiod for 7 d were exposed to 14CO2 for 15 min. Individual CHO concentrations and the activity of newly-fi xed [14C]CHOs in leaves, stems, and roots were analyzed during different intervals after labeling. In source leaves, sor increased significantly, whereas sucrose (suc) did not change as light duration increased from 1 to 10 h, resulting in increased sor/suc ratios from 2.6 in the 1-h to 4.3 in the 10-h light duration. The increased sor/suc ratios may be due primarily to the preferential carbon partitioning into sor in longer light durations. Longer light durations enhanced the sor export rate from source leaves, resulting in higher sor in stems and sink tissues. In roots, starch increased significantly over increasing light durations. A major portion of starch in roots may be converted from newly fixed CHO. Our results suggest that light duration alters the metabolism of sor and other CHOs in source and sink tissues of apple and that the changes in CHO concentrations result from different rates of carbon synthesis, partitioning, and export.
The Effect of Weed Control Methods upon Soil Physical Properties and Plant Growth
Authors: Henry Paul H. , Chong She-Kong
Published: February 2019

There has been recent speculation in trade journals that landscape fabrics, while doing a excellent job of weed control, may have a detrimental effect upon ornamental plant growth. A study is in progress to investigate the manner in which applied landscape fabric affects soil aeration, soil temperature, and water infiltration rate over a period of 18 months. The experimental design is a split-plot with main plots identified as composted or non-composted areas. Within each main plot, the design is a randomized complete block with four blocks and three treatments per block (control, organic mulch, landscape fabric + organic mulch). Each plot has been planted with herbaceous perennials so as to allow analysis of treatment effects upon plant growth. Re-dox potential is measured on a weekly and infiltration rate is measured on a biweekly basis. Soil temperature within plots is monitored on a continuous basis. Preliminary results suggest that landscape fabrics have a detrimental effect on soil aeration and that this likely has a adverse effect upon plant growth. An attempt will be made in this study to contrast any adverse effects of landscape fabric use with the obvious benefits offered by increased weed control.
An Evaluation of Four Glyphosate Formulations on Dormant Conifers
Authors: Ahrens John F. , Kuhns Larry J. , Harpster Tracey L. , Mervosh Todd L.
Published: February 2019

In 1995, Monsanto Chemical Co. announced that they would replace Roundup herbicide with Roundup Pro for use in the ornamentals and turf markets. Both products contain 4 lb a.i./gal glyphosate, but Roundup Pro contains a more-active surfactant. Though Roundup was labeled as a nonselective herbicide, dormant conifers were found to have varying degrees of resistance to it. Directed sprays that hit the lower two-thirds of many dormant conifers became common practice in the industry. Because the surfactant in Roundup Pro increases the activity of the glyphosate, a series of trials were initiated in 1996 in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Vermont in which four glyphosate formulations were applied to a variety of dormant conifers. Roundup, Roundup Pro, Glyfos, and Accord (with and without surfactant) were applied either over-the-top or as directed sprays to the lower 18 inches of the plants at rates between 0.5 and 3 lb a.i./acre. Plants treated included globe arborvitae; upright yew; Canadian hemlock; Colorado, Norway and white spruce; Douglas fir; eastern white pine; and balsam, Canaan, and Fraser fir. In a preliminary study, injury to the spruces in the form of dwarfed and chlorotic new growth was primarily associated with fresh pruning wounds. Accord plus surfactant and Roundup Pro injured more spruces than Roundup, but injury was slight. No injury was observed in upright yew with any formulation at rates up to 0.75 lb a.i./acre. Injury to arborvitae was greatest with Accord plus surfactant, intermediate with Roundup Pro, and least with Roundup. Results are inconclusive at this time, but the results of additional studies available early in the next growing season.will be presented.
Inheritance of Alternaria Late Blight Resistance in Pistachio
Authors: Chao Chih-Cheng T. , Michailides Themis J. , Parfitt Dan E.
Published: February 2019

Alternaria late blight of pistachio caused by Alternaria alternata, has become a serious problem in pistachio orchards in California. As part of the California pistachio improvement program, we evaluated the resistance/susceptibility of the breeding progenies to Alternaria late blight at two locations. The heritability of resistance ranged from 0.35 to 0.38 based on half-sib progenies analysis. Open-pollinated (OP) progenies from three cultivars showed moderate to high resistance. Greenhouse inoculation confirmed that OP progenies of cultivars Bronte and Trabonella had the greatest resistance. OP progenies of cultivar Red Aleppo were highly susceptible in greenhouse inoculations compared to moderate resistance found in field evaluations. OP progenies of the only commercial cultivar Kerman in California were susceptible in both field and greenhouse evaluation. The results show the potential for development of resistant cultivars is available in the breeding population of the California pistachio improvement program.
Evaluation of Squash Cultigens in North Carolina
Authors: Schultheis Jonathan R. , Walters S. Alan
Published: February 2019

Yellow and zucchini squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) cultivars/elite lines (cultigens) were evaluated over two seasons (fall 1995 and spring 1996) in North Carolina. Different cultigens were tested over the 2-year period for both yellow and zucchini squash, although some cultigens were tested both years. Cultigen recommendations are based on yield, quality, disease resistance, and season grown. Yellow squash cultigens that yielded well include: Destiny III, Freedom III, Multipik, TW 941141, Liberator III (fall 1995); and HMX 4716, Superpik, PSX 391, Monet, Dixie, Picasso, and XPH 1780 (spring 1996). Superior-yielding zucchini squash cultigens were: TW 940981, Tigress, TW 940982, ZS 19, Elite, and Noblesse (fall 1995); and Leonardo, Hurricane, Elite, HMX 4715, Noblesse, and Tigress (spring 1996). Virus ratings for fall 1995 indicated that some transgenic plants with virus resistance withstood virus infection better than those without resistance. These were Freedom III, Destiny III, Freedom II, Liberator III, Prelude II, and TW 941121 (yellow), and Tigress, TW 940982, TW 940981, TW 940866 (zucchini). Virus-infected plants were assayed and viruses were determined to be zucchini yellow mosaic, watermelon mosaic II, and papaya ringspot.
Germplasm Expedition to Collect Wild Cucurbits in the Republic of South Africa
Authors: Wehner Todd , McCreight James , Ellis Roger , Jooste Mariana
Published: February 2019

A germplasm expedition was organized to collect seeds in the Republic of South Africa. There was an abundance of wild cucurbits there in 1996 because of an unusually rainy summer. Southern Africa is a major center of diversity for melons of Cucumis and Citrullus, and there were many plants with mature fruits along roadsides, and in other areas that had been recently disturbed. The team met in Johannesburg on 25 Apr. 1996, and covered 4213 km (passing through 35 cities and towns) located in four provinces in the northern half of the country. The expedition passed through Pretoria, Potgietersrus, Elisras, Zeerust, Bray, Van Zylsrus, Kalahari Gemsbok Nat. Park, Upington, Postmasburg, Vryburg, and Derdepoort, and visited areas bordering Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia. In 9 days, 112 accessions were collected belonging to 10 species of six genera (Acanthosicyos, Citrullus, Coccinia, Cucumis, Momordica, and Zehneria). Plant, soil and geographic data were recorded for each accession. Data and seeds for the 112 accessions were added to the germplasm collections of the two countries, and can be obtained free from the USDA by interested researchers.
Peach Leaves Do Take Up Foliarly Applied Urea Nitrogen
Authors: Rosecrance Richard C. , Johnson Scott , Weinbaum Steven A.
Published: February 2019

The ability of peach leaves to absorbed and translocated foliarly applied 15N-urea in mature peach (Prunus persica) trees was determined. Urea uptake experiments were conducted in June, October, and November 1995. Peach leaves absorbed ≈80% of the urea within 48 hr of application in all three experiments based on urea rinsed from leaf surfaces. Similarly, leaf 15N content reached a peak 48 hr after application. Translocation of 15N out of leaves, however, was more rapid in October then November. In October, 24% of the 15N remained in the leaves 2 weeks after application, while, in November, 80% stayed in the leaves and fell to the orchard floor. Thus, applying urea in mid November did not allow enough time for the N to be transported out of the leaves before leaf abscission. Timing of foliar urea application is critical to maximize N transport into perennial tissues of peach trees. 15Nurea resorption out of leaves and into perennial tree parts (roots, trunk, current year wood, etc.) is discussed.
Arbitrary Signatures from Amplification Profiles (ASAP) Distinguishes Somatic and Radiation-induced Mutations in the `Charm' Series of Chrysanthemum
Authors: Trigiano R.N. , Scott M.C. , Caetano-Anollés G.
Published: February 2019

Four chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora) spontaneous and radiation-induced sports from the cultivar `Charm' and phenotypically differing only in flower color were individually characterized using arbitrary signatures from amplification profiles (ASAP). ASAP analysis is based on a two-step arbitrary primer amplification procedure that produces “fi ngerprints of fingerprints.” In the first step, `Charm', `Dark Charm', `Dark Bronze Charm', `Salmon Charm', and `Coral Charm' were fingerprinted by DNA amplification fingerprinting (DAF) with standard octamer arbitrary primers. Diluted products from three monomorphic fingerprints for each cultivar were subsequently reamplified using four minihairpin decamer primers. Each of the 12 ASAP profiles revealed polymorphic loci that were used to uniquely identify cultivars and estimate genetic relationships. The ASAP technique permits identification of previously genetically indistinguishable plant material and should facilitate marker assisted breeding and protection of ownership rights.
Predicting Variability in Flowering of Easter Lily Populations in Response to Temperature
Authors: Fisher P.R. , Lieth J.H. , Heins R.D.
Published: February 2019

The objective was to predict the distribution (mean and variance) of flower opening for an Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum Thunb.) population based on the variability in an earlier phenological stage and the expected average temperature from that state until flowering. The thermal time from the visible bud stage until anthesis was calculated using published data. `Nellie White' grade 8/9 Easter lilies were grown in five research and commercial greenhouse locations during 1995, 1996, and 1997 under a variety of temperature and bulb-cooling regimes. Distributions of visible bud and anthesis were normally distributed for a population growing in a greenhouse with spatially homogenous temperatures. The variance at anthesis was positively correlated with variance at visible bud. The mean and variance at visible bud could therefore be used to predict the distribution of the occurrence of anthesis in the crop. The relationship between bud elongation, harvest, and temperature was also incorporated into the model. After visible bud, flower bud length measurements from a random sample of plants could be used to predict the harvest distribution. A computer decision-support system was developed to package the model for grower use.
A Heat Unit Model for Tracking the Development of Geranium
Authors: Li L-Y. , Lieth J.H. , Merritt R.H. , Kohl H.C.
Published: February 2019

A heat-unit model was established for tracking the development of geranium, based on experimental data collected at UC Davis and Rutgers Univ. The temperature thresholds for initiating development and heat-unit benchmarks needed to accomplish each phenostage are parameters in this model. The methods of estimating these parameters were proposed and tested with the observed data. The model worked well during either vegetative or reproductive stages, but failed to predict the initiation of flowers, suggesting that factors other than only temperature drive the flower initiation process. With this model crop development characterized by a series of specific morphological events can be tracked and predicted under various temperature regimes, so that crop timing can be more precise.
Effect of Forcing Temperature on Flowering of Four Herbaceous Perennial Species
Authors: Wang Shi-Ying , Heins Royal D. , Carlson William H. , Cameron Arthur C.
Published: February 2019

Four herbaceous perennial species, Delphinium grandiflorum `Blue Mirror', Hibiscus xhybrida `Disco Belle Mix', Salvia xsuperba `Blue Queen', and Veronica longifolia `Sunny Border Blue' were forced in a glass greenhouse at 15, 18, 21, 24, or 27°C under long days. Before being forced, all tested species except H. xhybrida were exposed to 5°C for 12 weeks. Increasing forcing temperature generally promoted visible bud and flowering. However, visible bud and flowering of D. grandiflorum `Blue Mirror' and flowering of V. longifolia `Sunny Border Blue' were delayed at 27°C. Although the tested species tended to have more flower buds, bigger flowers, and greater height at lower forcing temperatures, the effect of forcing temperature on those characteristics was species-dependent. Temperatures as low as 15°C decreased bud number and flower size of H. xhybrida `Disco Belle Mix'. The base temperature (Tb) and cumulative thermal time (CTT) necessary to complete the indicated developmental stage were calculated from a linear regression: 1/f = a + bT. Based this equation, days to flowering (or visible bud) at certain temperatures or the temperature required for flowering within a certain number of days can be predicted.
Performance of Eight Apomitic Selections as Apple Rootstocks
Authors: Ferree David C.
Published: February 2019

In 1987, `Starkspur Supreme Delicious' and `Melrose' were planted on eight apomitic apple selections made in Germany by Dr. Hanna Schmidt for use as rootstocks and compared to trees on M.7. Selection 2, was the most precocious, followed by trees on M.7, with selections 1 and 7 being less precocious than M.7. Selections 2 and 8 were 25% larger than M.7, while 1, 3, 4, and 7 were similar in size and 5 was 15% smaller than trees on M.7. Selections 2 and 8 had the highest cumulative yields/tree, followed by trees on M.7, with all other selections having lower yields. Internal bark necrosis (IBN) developed on the `Delicious' trees, with the most-severe symptoms on selections 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, with less-severe symptoms on 8 and very little present on trees on M.7. IBN was correlated with leaf Mn levels. In 1995, the highest density of flowering spurs occurred on M.7 and selections 3 and 7, with lower densities in selections 2 and 5. Selection 2 had the highest density of non-fl owering spurs, followed by selection 5, with all others having lower densities similar to trees on M.7.
Lowest Survival Temperature (LST) Estimations in Kalmia, Viburnum, and Magnolia by Controlled Freezing
Authors: Wachter John F. , Cappiello Paul E.
Published: February 2019

Stems of 38 varieties of Kalmia latifolia, 33 varieties of Viburnum, and 45 varieties of Magnolia were screened for low-temperature tolerance on eight dates during the winters of 1995–96 and 1996–97. Terminal 6- to 8-cm stem cuttings were shipped overnight on ice to Orono, Maine, and processed immediately upon arrival. Cuttings were subjected to a controlled freezing regime with a lowest test temperature ranging from –31°C to –42°C. Following freezing, stems were incubated for 5 to 14 days at 21°C and evaluated for injury. Lowest survival temperatures (LST) for each variety were estimated as the lowest temperature at which 100% of stems were undamaged. Varieties of Viburnum dentatum, V. lantana, V. opulus, and V. trilobum were rated as consistently very cold-tolerant, with LSTs of at least –36°C on all test dates. All V. plicatum var. tomentosum varieties showed inconsistent survival and LST estimations. Midwinter LST estimates in Kalmia latifolia showed 40% of the tested varieties remained undamaged at or below –36°C. Ten percent of K. latifolia varieties tested were damaged at –24°C or warmer, with the remaining varieties having LSTs somewhere between –24°C and –40°C. Varieties of Magnolia showed inconsistent survival with LSTs estimated for only 5% of those tested. Direct comparisons by variety, test date and source will be discussed with emphasis on consistent LST estimation. Varieties of K. latifolia, Viburnum, and Magnolia best suited for use in northern landscapes will also be discussed.
Long-term Evaluation of Cover Crop and Strip Tillage on Tomato Yield, Nematode Populations, and Foliar Diseases
Authors: McKeown Alan W. , Potter John W. , Cerkauskas R.F. , Van Driel L.
Published: February 2019

A long-term experiment in the same site was planted to evaluate potential yield, nematode, and disease problems with tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in a strip-till system. Treatments consisted of conventional tillage (CT) and strip tillage (ST), rye (Secale cereale L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) cover crops and a 2-year rye–tomato rotation. Results of the first 5 years indicate a decrease in tomato yield over time for both tillage treatments and cover crops. Tomato yields were lower following wheat and perennial ryegrass than rye. Strip-tillage reduced yield compared to conventional tillage in only 1 year out of 6. Yield increased overall for treatments in 1992, with highest yield in the rye–tomato rotation. Bacterial speck/spot symptoms on foliage, although minor, were significantly greater in ST than in CT plots during the last 3 years. No major consistent trends in incidence and severity of bacterial and fungal diseases and of disorders of fruit were evident during the 5-year period, and neither fruit yield nor quality were significantly affected by these factors. Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne hapla Chitwood) were numerically less numerous in the rye–tomato rotation than in other treatments; both root-knot and root lesion nematodes [Pratylenchus penetrans (Cobb)] tended to be less numerous under CT than under ST. Tomatoes grown under reduced tillage appear more sensitive to plant parasitic nematodes and preceding cover crops than in conventional tillage.
Induction of Adult Female Sweetpotato Weevil (Cylas fromicarius elegantulus Summers) Volatile Attractant Triggered by Root Periderm Feeding
Authors: Wang Yan , Kays Stanley J.
Published: February 2019

The sweetpotato weevil is the single most critical insect pest of the sweetpotato worldwide. While male weevils can be lured to traps using a synthetic female pheromone, crop losses are not adequately reduced since damage is caused by the larvae arrising from eggs laid by female weevils in the storage roots. Identification of a female attractant could greatly enhance the control of the insect. The leaves and storage roots are known to emit volatiles that attract the female and in the following tests, we demonstrate that feeding by female weevils stimulates the synthesis of a volatile attractant which attracts additional females to the root. Undamaged, artificially damaged, and female weevil feeding damaged periderm were tested in dual-choice and no-choice olfactometers. Volatiles from feeding damaged roots were significantly more attractive than undamaged and artificially damaged roots. To test whether the volatile attractant was of weevil or root origin, volatiles were collected in MeCl2 after removal of the weevils and fractionated on a megabore DB-1 capillary column using a GC fitted with a TC detector. Fractions were collected from the exit port and their activity index (AI) determined using dual choice and no choice olfactometry. The active fraction was ascertained and active components identified via GC-MS.
A Genetic Model and Molecular Markers for Meloidogyne javanica Resistance in Carrots
Authors: Simon P.W. , Roberts P.A. , Boiteux L.S.
Published: February 2019

Nematodes impart significant damage to carrot production worldwide. Genetic resistance was studied for Meloidogyne javanica, one of the three major nematodes affecting carrots in warmer climates. F2, F3, and backcross families of `Brasilia' × B6274 were evaluated for resistance in inoculated seedlings. Resistance was conditioned by one, or two linked, dominant loci. Molecular markers were also evaluated with bulked segregant analysis. Three RAPD markers and AFLPs were associated with resistance loci.
Development and Utilization of a Core Collection in Theobroma cacao based on RAPD Marker-based Estimates of Genetic Distance
Authors: Marita Jane M. , Pires José Luis , Aitken W. Martin , Nienhuis James
Published: February 2019

An increased need to understand the genetic relationships among cacao (Theobroma cacao) germplasm exists to identify cultivars that possess resistance to witches' broom disease (caused by Crinipellis perniciosa). Loss of production due to witches' broom disease in important cacao-growing areas, such as Bahia, Brazil, has generated a strong demand for disease-resistant varieties. Varieties based on single sources of resistance have been released; however, other genotypes are needed to enlarge the genetic diversity of cultivars in breeding programs. A core collection has been created to represent the range of genetic diversity available among the more than 600 cacao accessions at Centro de Pesquisa do Cacau (CEPEC). The cacao core facilitates access to the collection and is intended to enhance its use. This core collection was created from RAPD marker-based estimates of genetic distance among a subset of 270 accessions from the entire collection. The subset was sampled based on 1) witches' broom disease resistance data, 2) random sampling of the collection, and 3) random sampling of recently acquired accessions. Differences in RAPD marker frequencies were used to identify accessions in a witches' broom disease breeding program that contribute to the genetic diversity of the collection as a whole. In addition, differences in RAPD marker frequency allowed the comparison between accessions in the original collection and those acquired from new geographic regions that may expand the collection's genetic diversity.
Salinity Tolerance Evaluations in Micropropagated Potato
Authors: Khrais T. , Leclerc Y. , Donnelly D.
Published: February 2019

The relative salinity tolerance of 130 North American and European potato cultivars were assessed in vitro using nodal cuttings micropropagated in salinized medium. Each cultivar was evaluated twice, using five single-node cuttings, at each salt level (0, 40, 80, and 120 mM NaCl). After 1 month in culture, plantlets were destructively harvested for shoot and root lengths, fresh and dry weights, and the data corrected for differences in cultivar vigor. Multivariate cluster analysis was used to partition this population, based on the six relative growth parameters. Six cultivars were top-ranked at all salinity levels.
Effect of Dormex on `Roomy Red' Grape Vines (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Wassel Abdel Hameed M.
Published: February 2019

The present investigation was carried out during 1994 and 1995 seasons on `Roomy Red' grape vines cultivated in Minia and Beni Suef governates to study the effect of Dormex and/or overcropping on `Roomy Red' grape vines. Bud opening, number of clusters per vine, as well as the yield and its physical and chemical properties, were studied. Results indicated that Dormex overcame the irregularity of bud opening. At the same time, bud opening preceded the control by about 4 weeks. The percentage of bud opening, fruit set, as well as the number of clusters per vine, were increased. On the other hand, over-cropping had a vice versa effect on the previous parameters as compared with the control. Results also indicated that onion was of less effect than berseem in this concern.
Nitrogen and Sulfur Effects on the Production and Postharvest Longevity of Pot Chrysanthemums
Authors: Macz Oswaldo , Paparozzi Ellen T. , Stroup Walter W. , Nell Terril A. , Leonard Ria
Published: February 2019

Research on hydroponically grown mums showed that nitrogen (N) levels applied can be reduced when adequate sulfur (S) is also applied. However, changes in stem length, leaf area, and time-to-fl ower can be affected. Our goal was to evaluate whether reduced N levels in combination with S would affect commercial production and post-harvest longevity of pot mums. `White Diamond' was grown in a peat:perlite:vermiculite medium following a commercial production schedule. N levels applied were 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg/L. S levels were 0, 5, 10, 20, and 80 mg/L. The treatment design was a complete factorial 4 × 5 with 20 treatment combinations. The experimental design was a split-plot with N levels as the whole-plot and S levels as the split-plot factor. Variables measured were plant height, leaf area, days to bud set, days to first color, and days to flower opening. Plants were ship to the Univ. of Florida for postharvest evaluation. Data were analyzed using SAS PROC MIXED AND PROC REG. N and S interactions were significant for all variables measured except flower longevity. Plants receiving 0 mg/L S did not produce inflorescences, had shorter stems, and less leaf area regardless of N levels. Plants receiving 50 mg/L N and some S produced inflorescences, but were of inferior quality to plants receiving 100, 150, and 200 mg/L N. Plants receiving 200 mg/L N and 80 mg/L S showed breakdown of plant architecture. Plants of commercial quality were obtained at 100, 150, and 200 mg/L N in combination with either 5, 10, or 20 mg/L S.
Microirrigation and Antitranspirant Rates and Cultivar Effects on Tomato Yields on Sand
Authors: Csizinszky A. A.
Published: February 2019

Two tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) cvs. Agriset 761 and Equinox, were grown in spring and fall 1996 with two microirrigation rates 1x (HI) and 0.75x (LO) of the open pan evaporation and sprayed either weekly or biweekly with Anti-Stress 2000 (acrylic polymer) at 2.33 L·ha–1 in 280 to 561 L·ha–1 H2O during the first 10 weeks of the season. Tomato yields were similar with HI or LO irrigation rate and with antitranspirant sprays or water control. In both seasons, `Equinox' had a higher early but lower seasonal total marketable yield than `Agriset 761' (P ≤ 0.05). Residual soil concentrations of NO3-N and K were higher (P ≤ 0.05) with the LO, than with HI irrigation rate.
Evaluation of Diagnostic Technologies for Assessing the N Nutritional Status of Lettuce
Authors: Sanchez C.A. , Wilcox M. , Aguiar J.L. , Mayberry K.S.
Published: February 2019

Twenty field experiments were conducted to evaluate the response of iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to N and evaluate various diagnostic technologies as tools for assessing the N nutritional status of lettuce. Lettuce yields showed a curvilinear response to N in most experiments. Generally, the dry midrib nitrate-N test and the sap nitrate-N test appear to be sensitive indicators of the N nutritional status of lettuce after the folding stage of growth. The chlorophyll meter was not a sensitive indicator of the N nutritional status of lettuce. Preliminary data also show that canopy reflectance, including digital analysis of aerial photographs, is correlated to N nutritional status of lettuce. However, reflectance technologies do not readily distinguish between N deficiencies and other factors (insects, diseases, water stress, etc.) that affect plant biomass and color. Because plant tests do not appear to be sensitive indicators of N nutrition during early growth stages (before folding), a post-thinning (and pre-sidedress) soil nitrate-N test is currently being evaluated.
Remobilization of Nitrogen from Storage Pools of Mature Apple Trees Depends on Nitrogen Status
Authors: Khemira H. , Righetti T. , Azarenko A.
Published: February 2019

Remobilization of reserve N and uptake of soil N in winter and spring were assessed in relation to the N status of trees. Ten-year-old `Newtown Pippin' apple trees on M.7A rootstock were fertilized to create moderately vigorous trees, trees with above-ground portions (tops) and roots relatively low in N (L/L), tops high in N and roots low in N (H/L), both tops and roots high in N (H/H), or tops low in N and roots high in N (L/H). Labeled (15N) fertilizers were used to tag the soil and frame and root N pools in the moderately vigorous trees prior to winter and spring remobilization. The level of 15N in the buds and new growth was monitored throughout winter and spring. Nitrogen stored in the aerial part of the tree was first to be remobilized to meet N requirements of the developing buds. Root and soil N reached the flower buds simultaneously. Trees of the L/H treatment transported labeled N upward to the bud as early as 9 Feb., even though average air temperature was close to 7°C, whereas L/L trees did not send any root-15N to the buds until 2.5 later. When trees received an abundance of N in the fall (H/H and L/H), their buds grew faster in the spring and they bloomed earlier compared with L/L and H/L trees. For root to shoot N translocation to start early (in winter), the bud needed to be low in N and the roots had to have adequate N reserves.
Relationship between Nitrogen Fertilization and Bacterial Canker in `French' Prune
Authors: Southwick S.M. , Rupert M.E. , Yeager J.T. , Weis K.G. , Kirkpatrick B.C. , Little E.L. , Westerdahl B.B.
Published: February 2019

Bacterial canker (BC), caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae van Hall, is a serious disease of stone fruits that occurs most commonly in young orchards. Many factors can predispose or increase the risk that trees develop BC such as sandy or compacted soils, low soil pH, inadequate tree nutrition, frost or cold injury, genetic susceptibility, and presence of ring nematode, Criconemella spp. However, questions still remain about how these factors influence disease incidence in `French' prune, Prunus domestica L. In 1991, we established a 3.64-ha plot in Winters, Calif., to determine the effects of nitrogen (N) fertigation on growth responses and yield of young prune trees. N was applied through a surface drip system at 0, 0.11, 0.23, and 0.45 kg actual N/tree per year as UN32 urea (Unocal, Sacramento Calif.) with 1/10th of the total amount delivered per application every other week from May through September starting in 1992. Two other treatments were also included: 0.064 kg N/tree per year through surface drip if % leaf N dropped below 2.3%, and 0.23 kg N/tree/year delivered in small amounts every irrigation via an automated buried drip system. Symptoms of BC began appearing primarily in the 0- and 0.064-N treatments in 1993. During 1995 and 1996, we demonstrated highly significant relationships between low N status measured in leaves and increased incidence of BC. Furthermore, we determined levels of N application via drip irrigation, which resulted in good yields, vigorous growth, and lack of BC in our test plots, but also minimized N use and potential for nitrate leaching into groundwater. These and additional results will be presented.
Internal Bruising Affects Chemical and Physical Composition of Tomato Fruit
Authors: Moretti Celso L. , Sargent Steven A. , Huber Donald J. , Puschmann Rolf
Published: February 2019

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) fruits, cv. Solarset, were harvested at the mature-green stage and treated with 50 μL/L ethylene at 20C. Breaker fruits (<10% red coloration) were dropped from 40 cm onto a smooth, solid surface and held along with undropped fruits at 20°C and 85% relative humidity. At table-ripe stage, pericarp, placental, and locular tissue were individually excised and analyzed for total carotenoids, total soluble sugars, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, density (locule tissue), polygalacturonase activity, and electrolyte efflux (pericarp tissue). Internal bruising caused by impact forces significantly affected pericarp and locule tissues, but not placental tissue. For bruised locule tissue, total carotenoids content decreased by 37.1%, vitamin C content by 15.6%, and titratable acidity by 15.3% as compared to control. However, density was increased by 3.0%. For bruised pericarp tissue, vitamin C content decreased by 16.5%, while polygalacturonase activity and electrolyte efflux increased by 33.3% and 24.8%, respectively. The development of abnormal ripening following an impact was confined to locule and pericarp tissues and appears to be related to the disruption of cellular structure and stimulation of enzymic activity.
Internship Opportunities Utilized to Enhance Horticultural Skills
Authors: McKenney C.B.
Published: February 2019

Horticulture requires knowledge, acquired skills, and practical experience. Knowledge and acquired skills are relatively easy to impart in the university setting; however, weekly laboratory sessions fall far short of providing students with the practical experience they need in the workplace. Internship programs provide students opportunities to reinforce the knowledge and skills they have acquired in the classroom and allow them to gain new experiences, techniques and ideas. At Texas Tech Univ., students are highly encouraged to take an internship after both their 2nd and 3rd years. During an average academic year, about 30% of horticulture students participate in an internship, while more than 50% complete an internship during their degree program. Arrangements are generally made to ensure the students will rotate through a wide variety of horticultural experiences. At the conclusion of their program, interns write a report summarizing their experiences and then give a short oral presentation to other students at a club meeting or in a class. These presentations peak the interest of the other students and serve to keep the program effective.
No-till Production of Irish Potato on Raised Beds
Authors: Morse Ronald D.
Published: February 2019

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) yields in Virginia and other hot climates are considerably lower than in cooler areas, predominately because of high soil temperatures during set and bulking of the tubers. Although organic surface mulches conserve soil moisture and lower soil temperature, often resulting in increased tuber yields, applying organic mulches is commercially cost-prohibitive. Preliminary experiments were conducted in 1995 and 1996 at the VPI&SU Agricultural Research Farm to compare production of `Yukon Gold' potato in no-till (NT) raised-bed systems with standard conventionally tilled (CT) methods. No-till yields were higher than CT both years, although differences were not significant. Based on these data, the NT production system used in these experiments is a viable management option, at least in hot climates such as Virginia. Rainfall during tuber bulking in 1995 and 1996 was above average, even excessive at times, which possibly negated the beneficial soil-cooling and moisture-conserving effects of the in situ mulches on potato yield enhancement. Greater yield increases would be expected in NT plots in normal rainfall years.
Sorbitol Metabolism in Growing Tissues of Peach
Authors: Bianco Riccardo Lo , Rieger Mark , Sung She-Jean S.
Published: February 2019

Sorbitol is the major photosynthetic product in peach. In sink tissues, sorbitol is converted to fructose via the NAD-dependent enzyme sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH). A new assay is described that allows rapid, simple quantitation of SDH activity in growing shoot tips, root tips, and fruits. The activity was measured on the crude extract desalted with a Saphadex G-25 column to eliminate small molecules such as sugars and nucleotides. Optimum buffer type and pH for the enzyme as well as degradation by proteolytic enzymes and stability over time were determined in the present study. Inhibition by dithiothreitol (DTT) was detected at an inhibitor concentration as low as 2 mM, proving the similarity with mammalian SDH. Storage of samples at 4°C overnight resulted in significant loss of enzyme activity. Using this assay, we also correlated SDH activity with sink strength in peach.
Hydrogen Cyanamide Stimulates Early Foliation of `Misty' Southern Highbush Blueberry
Authors: Williamson J.G. , Darnell R.L.
Published: February 2019

Two-year-old, container-grown `Misty' southern highbush blueberry plants were sprayed to drip with two concentrations of hydrogen cyanamide (HCN) (20.4 g·L–1 and 10.2 g·L–1) after exposure to 0, 150, or 300 hr of continuous chilling at 5.6°C. All plants were sprayed immediately after chilling and placed in a greenhouse for several weeks. The plants were moved outdoors during flowering to increase cross-pollination from nearby `Sharpblue' blueberry plants. HCN sprays killed some of the more advanced flower buds on shoot terminals and on small-diameter wood from the previous spring growth flush. Significantly greater flower bud mortality occurred for the 20.4 g·L–1 HCN sprays than for the 10.2 g·L–1 sprays. Flower buds subjected to 0 hr of chilling were more susceptible to spray burn than flower buds receiving 150 or 300 hr of chilling. Very little flower bud death occurred with the 10.2 g·L–1 HCN rate on plants receiving 300 hr of chilling. Vegetative budbreak was advanced for both HCN treatments compared to controls, regardless of chilling treatment. HCN-treated plants were heavily foliated at full bloom, while non-treated plants had very few to no leaves during bloom. HCN may be useful for stimulating vegetative growth in some southern highbush blueberry cultivars that suffer from poor foliation during flowering and fruit set.
Cold Tolerance of Cranberry Flower Buds Differs by Cultivar and Developmental Stage
Authors: DeMoranville Carolyn , Demoranville Irving
Published: February 2019

Cold tolerance of cranberry flower buds from four cultivars was evaluated using potted sods collected from commercial cranberry beds. The plants were evaluated weekly beginning at the spring dormant stage and continuing until the buds had elongated to at least 2 cm. The potted plants were place in controlled temperature chambers at 5°C and the temperature was lowered 3°C/hr until the target temperature was reached. The plants were held at that temperature for 3 hr then slowly warmed. After 24 hr, damage was evaluated by microscopic examination of cross-sectioned buds. In the early spring, prior to leaf greening, all four cultivars were tolerant of –8°C. In the later part of the spring, cultivars with the smallest buds had greater cold tolerance than those with larger buds. Even when all cultivars appeared to be at the same developmental stage, e.g., bud swell, `Ben Lear' and `Stevens', were more sensitive than `Early Black' and `Howes'. At the 2-cm elongation stage, minimum cold tolerance of –1°C was reached for all four cultivars. New recommendations for protecting cranberry flower buds in the spring have been formulated based on this study.
Germination Characteristics of Thin-leaved Huckleberry (Vaccinium membranaceum)
Authors: Barney Danny L.
Published: February 2019

Seeds of V. membranaceum germinated in petri dishes fresh (undried), airdried for 7 days, or cold-stored for 1 or 6 years exhibited similar germination vs. time curves. Dry storage at 0–4°C for 1 or 6 years did not reduce the percentage of germination compared to fresh seeds. Cold stratification at 0–4°C slowed germination by extending the initial lag phase compared to unstratified seed. Stratification for 28 to 56 days delayed germination by ≈2 weeks. This pattern held true for fresh (undried) seed, seed air-dried for 7 days, and seed cold-stored for 6 years. Surface sterilization for 20 or 30 minutes with a 0.5% aqueous solution of sodium hypochlorite reduced fungal and bacterial contamination of germinating seeds without adversely impacting germination. Treatment of V. membranaceum seeds with captan or mancozeb fungicide inhibited germination by extending the lag phase and reducing the germination vs. time slope of the exponential phase. Mancozeb-treated seeds exhibited a lower percentage of germination than did controls, and often developed necrotic radical tips.
Large Trees for Kentucky Landscapes—An Interactive Extension Publication Available on the World Wide Web
Authors: Oakley Kay , Witt Mary , Geneve Robert L.
Published: February 2019

An interactive computer version of a traditional Extension educational publication was developed for delivery over the Internet. Large Trees for Kentucky Landscapes is a 40-page publication describing suggested species adapted to Kentucky conditions. It is illustrated with numerous color photographs. This type of Extension publication has a limited distribution because it is relatively expensive to publish. The digital version of this publication allows for inclusion of additional information and illustrations. It was designed to be interactive with the user selecting the species and the information about that species from a screen menu. The user also has the option to print a one page informational sheet on that species. The initial audience for this digital version of the publication is the county Extension agent and Division of Forestry personnel, but it may also be useful at retail horticultural outlets.
Stomatal Density and Index of Five Species of Crop Plants Grown at Elevated and Super-elevated CO2
Authors: Yorio N.C. , Mackowiak C.L. , Wheeler R.M. , Stutte G.W.
Published: February 2019

The effects of elevated CO2 on stomatal density and index were investigated for five crop species currently being studied for NASA's Advanced Life Support program. Lettuce (cv. Waldmann's Green) and radish (cv. Giant White Globe) were grown at 400, 1000, 5000, or 10,000 μmol·mol–1 CO2, tomato (cvs. Red Robin and Reimann Philip 75/59) were grown at 400, 1200, 5000, or 10,000 μmol·mol–1 CO2, and wheat (cv. Yecora Rojo) and potato (cv. Denali) were grown at 400, 1000, or 10,000 μmol·mol–1 CO2 within controlled-environment growth chambers using nutrient film technique hydroponics. Leaf impressions were made by applying clear silicone-based RTV coating to the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces of three canopy leaves of each crop at each CO2 treatment. Impressions were examined using a light microscope, whereby the number of stomatal complexes and epidermal cells were counted to calculate stomatal density and stomatal index. Results indicate that stomatal density increased for lettuce and radish at 10,000 μmol·mol–1 CO2, whereas tomato density was highest at 1200 μmol·mol–1 CO2. Potato had the lowest density at 1000 μmol·mol–1 CO2, and there was no effect of CO2 on density for wheat. Stomatal index correlated with density for lettuce and tomato; however, stomatal index for radish, potato, and wheat was not influenced by CO2. This suggests that there may be a species-specific CO2 response to epidermal cell size that influences stomatal density and stomatal index.
Introgression of Fragaria Species using a Streamlined Synthetic Octoploid System
Authors: Bors Robert H. , Sullivan J. Alan
Published: February 2019

Fragaria species from the center of diversity have not been integrated into octoploid commercial strawberry cultivars because of ploidy level differences. Even though traits such as disease resistance, enhanced flavor, cold hardiness, and vigor are known to exist in the diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid species, they cannot be easily used for breeding. The synthetic octoploid method circumvented introgression difficulties by combining lower ploidy species and doubling to the octoploid level. Although easily crossed to cultivars, the use of synthetic octoploids has been minimal as it has been extremely difficult to create them. By working to improve bottlenecks of the original system, improved methodology has been developed and 170 synthetic octoploids have been produced. This represents more than a 100-fold increase in efficiency. The following factors played a major role in improving the system: wide germplasm base; use of F. vesca as a common genome; embryo rescue; 5% colchicine applied in vitro by dropper method for 24 hours followed by a quick rinse and continuous light in a 18C growth chamber. F. vesca, F. nilgerrensis, F. nubicola, F. viridis, F. orientalis, and F. moschata have been incorporated into synthetic octoploids in this study.
Leaf and Root Growth in Relation to Water Status
Authors: Hsiao Theodore C.
Published: February 2019

Of all the plant processes examined, leaf growth and canopy development is the most sensitive to water stress. The consequent reduction in cumulative radiation interception by the plant leads to a smaller biomass as well as reduced transpiration, usually without altering radiation-use efficiency or water-use efficiency of the canopy. Sensitivity of leaf growth to the growth medium or aerial environment of the plant will be illustrated. A way to quantify the consequent and often marked impact on productivity will be discussed. In contrast with the high sensitivity of leaf growth to water stress, root growth is more resistant. This allows at least the partial maintenance of root growth as the stress intensifies. The result is a more thorough extraction of soil water while transpiration is restricted by the smaller leaf area. The possible mechanisms for the differential sensitivity of leaf and root growth to water stress will be evaluated. Emphasis will be placed on processes underlying cell enlargement. Recent data, obtained with the pressure microprobe that measures turgor pressure in individual cells, will be presented to illustrate the contrasting responses in growth, cell wall extending ability, and solute transport to the growing cells when the plant adjusts and accommodates to changes in water status.