bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoption of Pest, Nutrient, and Conservation Vegetation Management Using Financial Incentives Provided by a U.S. Department of Agriculture Conservation Program
Authors: Hoard Robert J. , Brewer Michael J.
Published: December 2018

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) was developed to encourage producer adoption of practices that promote resource conservation on lands in agricultural production. Reviewing the 2002 Farm Bill, EQIP rules, and local EQIP structure using Michigan as a case study, producers had ample opportunity to participate in EQIP. Yet past EQIP support of pest, nutrient, and conservation vegetation management was low among six states from 1997 to 2002, averaging 1.1% to 2.7% of total EQIP funds allocated. The past funding pattern and analysis of local resource concern priorities and incentive rates suggested that program modifications were warranted. The Michigan case study showed that participation in the NRCS advisory process, in partnership with commodity representatives and university specialists, was an effective avenue to recommend and obtain local EQIP modifications. After modifications were accepted in Michigan, increases were seen in producer participation in EQIP and in funds committed (about 15%) to adoption of a variety of techniques with pest, nutrient, and conservation vegetation value. This approach of analysis and engagement in the EQIP process is likely to work in other states, given common EQIP structure and governance, past funding patterns, and availability of supporting extension, research, and commodity partners.
Field Evaluation of Pollen-free Sunflower Cultivars for Cut Flower Production
Authors: Sloan R. Crofton , Harkness Susan S.
Published: December 2018

Thirteen single-stem and 16 branching sunflower (Helianthus annuus) cultivars were evaluated in field trials at the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center in Verona for cut flower production. The objective of this study was to assess the production potential of field-grown, pollen-free sunflowers in the Mississippi environment. The stem length, stem diameter, and bloom diameter of the sunflower cultivars were assessed over six planting dates during the summer growing season to determine cultivar market potential. All the single-stem cultivars produced stem diameters greater than 1.4 cm and were too large for general florist usage. The stems and flowers of the branching cultivars were smaller than the single-stem cultivars, and were a better size for many floral arrangements. The yield of stems from the branching cultivars ranged from three to 13 stems per plant over six planting dates. In the branching group, the dark-flowered cultivars produced the greatest number and the longest stems in the trial. Yellow/gold-flowered branching sunflowers in this trial did not produce as many stems and the stem lengths were shorter compared to the dark-flowered sunflowers.
Copper Hydroxide Improved Root Quality of Palimara Alstonia in Plastic Containers
Authors: Chang Yu-Sen , Lin Chen-Yu
Published: December 2018

The effect of copper hydroxide [Cu(OH)2] applied to interior container surfaces on shoot and root responses was evaluated on palimara alstonia (Alstonia scholaris). The seedlings grown in Cu(OH)2-treated containers had greater plant height than those in untreated containers, and had no observable copper toxicity symptoms. Cu(OH)2-treated containers effectively reduced root circling on the surface of rootballs compared with untreated containers. The Cu(OH)2 treatment significantly increased the dry weight of fine roots (those with a diameter 0-2 mm) and small roots (>2-5 mm) but did not influence the dry weight of medium roots (>5-10 mm), large roots (>10 mm), or total roots. The Cu(OH)2 treatment also significantly increased total root length and surface, which was due principally to the increasing length and surface of the fine roots. The results indicated that the Cu(OH)2 treatment, which can improve the root quality of palimara alstonia seedlings and thereby increase the root-length-to-leaf-area ratio and the root-surface-to-leaf-area ratio, has the potential to produce high-quality plants.
The BMP Consensus Challenge
Authors: Yeager Thomas H.
Published: December 2018

The nursery industry in Broward County, Fla., had to choose between partaking in the resolution needed to achieve 10 ppb total phosphorus discharged to the Everglades or face regulation. The industry decided to pursue the proactive route and implement best management practices (BMPs). Teams of industry personnel were formed to develop the content of the Florida Container Nursery BMP Guide that contained the following chapters: 1) nursery layout, 2) container substrate and planting practices, 3) fertilization management, 4) container substrate nutrient monitoring, 5) irrigation water quality, 6) irrigation application, 7) irrigation uniformity, 8) erosion control and runoff water management, 9) pesticide management, and 10) waste management. Each team was to determine the content of their chapter, based on cultural practices producers were currently using, or could be using, which would minimize or reduce surface water movement of phosphorus from the nursery to adjacent water. Cultural practices, brought forth after a consensus was achieved by each team in concert with governmental agencies, associations, and allied industries, were meshed with research information, or the “best” information available from academic sources to ensure that the resolutions or BMPs that were written would contribute to resolving the confl ict (i.e., elevated total phosphorus in canal waters). Consensus development is a new challenge for most academicians but it is important because unbiased and science-based knowledge is needed to assist in BMP development. Furthermore, consensus of those directly and indirectly involved in the nursery industry helps facilitate the use of BMPs. Once the Florida Container Nursery BMP Guide is adopted by rule under the statutory authority of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, nursery operators voluntarily using the BMPs and keeping appropriate records will receive a waiver of liability from cleanup costs associated with contaminated ground or surface water, and be presumed to be in compliance with state water quality standards.
Curriculum Development for Organic Horticulture: Introduction
Authors: Ngouajio M. , Delate K. , Carey E. , Azarenko A.N. , Ferguson J.J. , Sciarappa W.J.
Published: December 2018

As organic agriculture continues to grow, pressure from students and the public to develop novel curricula to address specific needs of this sector of agriculture also will increase. More students from the cities and with limited background in production agriculture are enrolling in agricultural programs with special interest in organic production. This new student population is demanding new curricula based on a better understanding of agroecology principles and more experiential training. Several universities throughout the nation have engaged in a profound curriculum transformation to satisfy the emerging need of students in organic production. This workshop was organized to bring together experts that are working on different organic and sustainable agriculture curricula throughout the country to share their experiences and lessons learned. Most of these curricula include a traditional classroom teaching component, a major experiential component, a student farm for hands-on experience and internships, and in some cases a marketing—typically a community supported agriculture (CSA)—component. Others programs are more extension oriented, providing applied training to growers outside of the university teaching curriculum.
Nutsedge Control with Drip-applied 1,3-Dichloropropene plus Chloropicrin in a Sandy Soil
Authors: Chase Carlene A. , Stall William M. , Simonne Eric H. , Hochmuth Robert C. , Dukes Michael D. , Weiss Anthony W.
Published: December 2018

An evaluation of the effect of bed width (24, 28, 32, and 36 inches) on the control of a mixed population of nutsedge [yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) and purple nutsedge (C. rotundus)] was conducted with an emulsifiable concentrate formulation of a 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) and chloropicrin (CP) mixture (1,3-DCP) for application through drip irrigation systems. Beds were mulched with either 1.4-mil-thick virtually impermeable film (VIF) or 0.75-mil-thick high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and 1,3-DCP was applied at 35 gal/acre by surface chemigation or via subsurface chemigation 6 inches deep within the bed. HDPE was more permeable to gaseous 1,3-D than VIF so that 1 day after treatment (DAT), 1,3-D gas concentration at the bed centers under VIF was significantly higher than under HDPE. Dissipation of 1,3-D gas with HDPE occurred within 7 DAT, but dissipation with VIF took ∼10 days. In bed centers, 1,3-D concentrations 1 DAT were in the range of 2.3 to 2.9 mg·L–1 whereas in bed shoulders concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 0.55 mg·L–1. In 2002 and 2003, 1,3-D concentration in shoulders of narrower beds was significantly higher than in the wider beds, but dissipated more rapidly than in wider beds. Lower initial 1,3-D concentrations were observed with HDPE film in shoulders than with VIF and the rate of dissipation was lower with VIF. At 14 DAT, nutsedge plants were densely distributed along bed shoulders (19 to 27 plants/m2) with little or no emergence in the centers of beds (fewer than 5 plants/m2), but with no response to bed width. Nutsedge density increased with time, but the nature of the increase differed with bed width. The most effective nutsedge suppression was achieved with 36-inch beds, which had densities of 11–13 plants/m2 on bed centers and 53 plants/m2 on bed shoulders by 90 DAT. Nutsedge suppression was initially more effective with VIF than with HDPE film, so that no nutsedge emerged in the centers of beds mulched with VIF compared with 2–7 plants/ m2 with HDPE by 14 DAT. On bed shoulders there were 2–7 plants/m2 with VIF and 32–57 plants/m2 with HDPE. Increase in nutsedge density with time was greater with VIF so that by 90 DAT nutsedge densities on bed centers and shoulders were greater than with HDPE in 2002 and the same as with HDPE in 2003. Subsurface chemigation did not consistently improve suppression of nutsedge when compared with surface chemigation. Concentrations of 1,3-D in bed shoulders irrespective of bed width were nonlethal. Initial superior nutsedge suppression with VIF did not persist. Nutsedge control in a sandy soil with 1,3-DCP chemigation is unsatisfactory with one drip-tape per bed.
Survey of Container Nursery Irrigation Practices in West-central Florida: An Educational Opportunity
Authors: Schoene Gisele , Yeager Thomas , Haman Dorota
Published: December 2018

A survey was conducted of nursery operators participating in workshops in west-central Florida. The purpose of the survey was to identify the irrigation best management practices (BMPs) adopted by container nurseries in west-central Florida and obtain information regarding emphasis of future extension educational programs. Workshops were conducted in Hillsborough County, Fla., and Manatee County, Fla., and participation was voluntary. Respondents were asked about BMPs used in the nurseries according to the irrigation system used and it was found that the majority of the nurseries relied on well water as the primary source for irrigation. While 69% of the nurseries monitored uniformity of microirrigation systems, only 35% monitored uniformity of overhead irrigation systems. Thirty-four percent of the nurseries collected irrigation or rain runoff and 9% knew the water holding capacity of their substrate. Most of the nurseries grouped plants by irrigation requirements (74%) and grouped container sizes by irrigation requirements (69%). The survey indicates that many BMPs are not widely adopted by nurseries in west-central Florida. The information from this survey can be used as a guide to focus the efforts of university extension educational programs to achieve greater adoption of BMPs.
Bell Pepper Cultivar Performance under Short, Variable Growing Seasons
Authors: Hutton Mark G. , Handley David T.
Published: December 2018

Twenty-seven green bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) cultivars were evaluated over three growing seasons in Maine. Each year, plants started in a greenhouse were transplanted into double rows on raised beds covered with black plastic mulch. Overall yields were low compared with similar experiments in other regions of North America and varied considerably from year to year. ‘Ace’ and ‘New Ace’ consistently produced the largest crops by both weight and number of fruit. However, both of these cultivars had undesirable characteristics of small fruit size (<150 g), few lobes (two-three), and thin fruit walls (<6 mm), limiting their commercial market potential. Other cultivars, including ‘Vivaldi’, ‘Patriot’, and ‘Socrates’, had significantly better fruit quality but very low or inconsistent yield. The results of this study demonstrate the current limitations for growing economically viable crops of bell peppers in regions such as Maine that have short growing seasons and a wide range of seasonal temperatures. Further, the data underline the need for the development of cultivars better adapted to these growing conditions.
Comparisons of Water Content of Growing Media and Growth of Potted Kalanchoe Among Nutrient-flow Wick Culture and Other Irrigation Systems
Authors: Oh Myung Min , Cho Young Yeol , Kim Kee Sung , Son Jung Eek
Published: December 2018

To determine the adequate irrigation conditions in a nutrient-flow wick culture (NFW) system, the water contents of root media were analyzed with different wick lengths (2 and 3 cm), pot sizes (6-, 10-, and 15-cm diameter), and media compositions (mixtures of 5 peatmoss : 5 perlite and 7 peatmoss : 3 perlite). The growth of potted ‘New Alter’ kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) in the NFW system was also compared with that of plants grown in other irrigation systems, such as nutrient-stagnant wick culture and ebb-and-flow culture. All factors, such as wick length, pot size, and medium composition, influenced the water content of the medium in the NFW system. Pots that included more peatmoss with a shorter wick could easily take up the nutrient solution. The water content of the media increased by more than 8% and 5% in 2- and 3-cm wick lengths within 15 minutes respectively. The fluctuation of water content became greater with a decrease of pot size in the NFW system. Kalanchoe plants grew well in the NFW system with four irrigations for 15 min per day each. The dry weight and leaf area of the plants were higher in the NFW system (4×) and considerably lower in the NFW system with two irrigations for 15 min per day each. Therefore, more precise irrigation is required in the NFW system than in other systems.
Improving Growth of Calibrachoa in Hanging Flower Pouches
Authors: Frantz Jonathan M. , Locke James C. , Pitchay Dharmalingam S.
Published: December 2018

Unique growing containers and nontraditional types of plant presentation may lead to new production problems for growers. This study was conducted to evaluate the growth of a popular container plant, calibrachoa (Calibrachoa ×hybrida), produced in hanging flower pouches using different growing substrate compositions, polymer amendments, and the layering of substrate types of differing moisture holding capacity with the goal of achieving more uniform plant growth and improved after-sale maintenance. Plastic cylindrical hanging pouches were filled with one of nine hydrated substrate types or combinations. Rooted cuttings of ‘Colorburst Violet’ calibrachoa were planted as indicator plants to identify treatment effects because of their susceptibility to iron deficiency-induced chlorosis of new leaves. Daily measurements of substrate moisture were taken to determine the need for irrigation. Chlorophyll content was estimated nondestructively with a hand-held chlorophyll meter to determine the impact of moisture content. Light, porous substrates resulted in the most uniformly green plants and high numbers of flowers from top to bottom. A layered pouch with heavy, compost-amended substrate above a light, porous layer also produced high-quality, uniform plants. This enabled water to be distributed more uniformly throughout the container volume. This study provides fundamental information on how container geometry and soil moisture retention can influence water management decisions by the grower.
Efficacy of Three Calcium Products for Control of Peach Brown Rot
Authors: Thomidis Thomas , Sotiropoulos Thomas , Karagiannidis Nikitas , Tsipouridis Constantinos , Papadakis Ioannis , Almaliotis Dimitrios , Boulgarakis Nikolaos
Published: December 2018

The effectiveness of the calcium products Chelan, Power-Ca, and calcium chloride to reduce the development of Monilinia laxa on ‘Andross’ peach (Prunus persica) was investigated. The mycelium growth of M. laxa on potato dextrose agar modified with Chelan, Power-Ca, or calcium chloride compound at concentrations 1, 2, and 4 g·L−1 was significantly reduced in comparison with the water. Chelan, Power-Ca, and calcium chloride applied as foliar sprays did not significantly affect the development of the pathogen on inoculated immature and mature peaches. However, dipping peaches in solutions containing one of the calcium products tested reduced significantly the percentage of M. laxa infection on inoculated fruit.
Physical Properties of Processed Poultry Feather Fiber-containing Greenhouse Root Substrates
Authors: Evans Michael R. , Vance Leisha
Published: December 2018

A series of soilless root substrates was formulated to contain either 20% composted pine bark or perlite and 0%, 10%, 20%, or 30% feather fiber, with the remainder being sphagnum peat. The substrates containing bark or perlite with 0% feather fiber served as the controls for the bark- and perlite-containing substrates respectively. For root substrates containing perlite, the inclusion of feather fiber increased the total pore space compared with the control substrate. For substrates containing bark, the inclusion of 10% or 20% feather fiber increased total pore space, but the inclusion of 30% feather fiber reduced total pore space. For substrates containing perlite, the inclusion of feather fiber increased the air-filled pore space compared with the control, and as the percentage feather fiber increased, air-filled pore space increased. For substrates containing bark, the inclusion of 10% or 20% feather fiber increased air-filled pore space, but air-filled pore space of the substrate containing 30% feather fiber was not different from the control. For all substrates, the inclusion of feather fiber reduced the water-holding capacity, but water-holding capacities for all substrates remained within recommended ranges. The bulk density of feather fiber-containing substrates was not different from the control except for the substrate containing 30% feather fiber with bark, which had a higher bulk density than its control without feather fiber. The difference in physical properties of the 30% feather fiber substrate with bark from its control substrate was attributed to the aggregation of the feather fiber when formulated with composted bark. Aggregation of feather fiber when blended into substrates at levels of 30% or higher would create difficulties in achieving uniform substrates.
Evaluation of 125 Petunia Cultivars as Bedding Plants and Establishment of Class Standards
Authors: Kelly Richard O. , Deng Zhanao , Harbaugh Brent K.
Published: December 2018

Central Florida has a climate similar to many locations in the southeastern United States and parts of Asia, Europe, and Australia. Thus, Florida is an important testing ground for new bedding plant cultivars not only in the United States, but around the world. The authors evaluated 125 petunia (Petunia ×hybrida) cultivars in replicated class tests at Bradenton, Fla. (lat. 27º4′N, long. 82º5′W) in 2000–04 and at Balm, Fla. (lat. 27º8′N, long. 82º2′W) in 2005–06. In this report they establish petunia classes and cultivar standards for each class, and provide objective plant measurements of vegetative and floral characteristics, and subjective performance ratings. Petunia cultivars were grouped into 73 classes based on the distinguishing characteristics for petunia, which are plant type and height, and flower type, color, and color pattern. Comparisons were made within each class to determine performance and to select a cultivar as the standard for the class—a plant with the highest overall performance rating that can represent the class in future trials against new cultivars. During the initial trials, larger numbers of cultivars were evaluated and eliminated from future comparisons when each class standard was selected. Many flower colors and color combinations, as well as plant types and other distinctive characteristics have been developed for bedding plants. By creating class standards for each distinctive characteristic, better choices over a wider range of classes are available to growers and landscapers in this climate. Cultivars with an outstanding overall performance rating (combined foliage, flower, arthropod feeding symptom, and disease symptom ratings ≥5.5 points on a 1 to 7-point scale) for class standard selections were (floribunda, single mix class) ‘Madness Waterfall Mix’ and [single purple (dark), red-violet class] ‘Madness Magenta’; [grandiflora, single blue (dark) class] ‘Eagle Blue’, (single orange shades/tints class) ‘Ultra Salmon’, and [single purple (dark), red-violet class] ‘Storm Violet’; and [spreading, normal, orange (dark) shades/tints class] ‘Ramblin’ Salmon Capri’, [orange (light) shades/tints class] ‘Ramblin’ Peach Glo’, [pink (dark) class] ‘Wave Pink’, [purple (dark), blue-violet class] ‘Avalanche Lavender’, [purple (light) blue-violet class] ‘Ramblin’ Lavender’, (red class) ‘Avalanche Red Improved’, (rose class) ‘Avalanche Rose Improved’, (white class) ‘Plush White’, and [spreading, tall; blue (dark) class] ‘Wave Blue’. These cultivars would likely perform well in the southern United States or areas of the world with similar heat and cold hardiness zones.
Susceptibility of Evergreen Azalea Cultivars to Anthracnose Caused by Colletotrichum acutatum
Authors: Bertetti Domenico , Gullino M. Lodovica , Garibaldi Angelo
Published: December 2018

Colletotrichum acutatum is the causal agent of anthracnose on azalea (Rhododendron azalea). This disease was observed in Fall 2002 on ‘Palestrina’ azalea in Italy. Severe outbreaks of this disease were recently observed on several cultivars of azalea grown in nurseries located in the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Information on susceptibility to C. acutatum among azalea cultivars currently grown in Italy was unavailable. Artificial inoculations were performed to evaluate the susceptibility of 70 evergreen azalea cultivars produced in the Lake Maggiore area. Sixty of the cultivars evaluated failed to develop disease symptoms and were considered resistant to C. acutatum. Symptomatic cultivars were placed into three susceptibility classes. The cultivars Addy Wery, Fior di Pesco Cavadini, Geisha Orangerot, Kermesina, Orion, Palestrina, and Snow developed severe anthracnose symptoms. The cultivars Conversation Piece, Eikan, and Martha Hitchcock showed moderate susceptibility.
Landscape Growth and Aesthetic Quality of Coleus Managed with Irrigation Deficits
Authors: Scheiber S.M. , Beeson, Richard C.
Published: December 2018

Previous research indicated that bedding plants can be maintained in landscape soils allowed to dry to substantially less than field capacity before irrigation; however, canopy size and aesthetic quality were compromised. Continuing this research, ‘Yalaha’ coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides) were grown in drainage lysimeters in an open-sided clear polyethylene-covered shelter and a companion uncovered field plot to assess growth characteristics and landscape quality when irrigated at various managed allowable deficits. Using tensiometers, plants were irrigated back to field capacity when plant-available water within a soil was depleted to 70% or 50%. Deficits were evaluated against a control treatment of 0.5 inch daily irrigation. Total irrigation volume applied was significantly greater for the control treatments than deficit irrigation treatments. The net result was 78% and 90% average reductions in total volume applied to lysimeter and field-grown coleus respectively. On average, height was 20% and 15% greater for well-watered controls grown in lysimeters and field plots respectively than plants grown in deficit irrigations. Canopy size of nondeficit controls was 26% and 72% greater on average than deficit treatments in lysimeter and field plots respectively. However, shoot and root dry weights, total biomass, shoot-to-root ratios, and landscape quality were similar among treatments for both locations.
Factors Influencing Consumers' Selection of a Landscaping Service Provider
Authors: McCoy Michael S. , Kelley Kathleen M. , Stearns Dan T.
Published: December 2018

The Associated Landscape Contractors of America reported in 2004 that the lawn and landscape industry experienced considerable growth during the last 10 years: an increase of 31% from 2002 to 2003, and 126% from 1998 to 2003. An understanding by landscaping professionals of what factors influence consumers' evaluation and selection process when purchasing landscaping services is instrumental in formulating business and marketing plans that will more effectively target new customers, increase the customer base, and ultimately increase profits. To determine these factors, a questionnaire was developed and mailed to 5000 randomly selected households in the metro-Philadelphia area. Recipients were asked to consider factors deemed relevant to the selection and purchase of a landscaping service provider and rank them in order of importance. Questions pertaining to both the landscape industry, such as types of services purchased or how much was spent on these services, and the participants' demographic status were included. A total of 504 completed surveys were received, representing a 10% response rate. Results indicated that the “quality of work” factor was most important, followed by “cost,” and “types of services offered” when analyzed by both the frequency as well as by an average mean ranking of factors. Further analysis of results showed little or no influence on the ordering of factors by independent variables, such as types of service purchased, how much was spent on the service(s), household income, or education levels of the participants.
Development of a New Technique to Produce Winter Cherimoyas
Authors: Soler Laura , Cuevas Julián
Published: December 2018

This paper describes a novel technique to produce cherimoya (Annona cherimola) fruit during the winter season. In a controlled experiment the trees were encouraged to flower out of season by pruning them back severely in January, followed by tipping the newly emerged shoots together with the removal of apical leaves on either 1 or 15 June. Both dates were highly successful because all tipped shoots produce a second bloom in July. On average, four flowers per shoot were produced in the new growth in response to defoliation treatments. The second blooming lasted no more than 2 weeks. Late-forming flowers were hand pollinated and gave rise to fruit of high quality about 50 d later than an ordinary crop. A yield of 13 t·ha−1 was produced, with no significant differences between treatments. Postponing hand defoliation by 15 days delayed the harvest period 15 to 20 days, but no other effects on fruit set and quality were noted. Fruit harvested in December and January did not show chilling injury and reached full flavor. Number of seed per fruit, and consequently fruit size, was often increased in out-of-season cherimoyas. Late fruit suffered less preharvest drop than an ordinary crop. This work shows the possibility of producing high-quality cherimoyas during winter when the cherimoya fruit is in great demand.
Effect of Salt Spray Concentration on Growth and Appearance of ‘Gracillimus’ Maiden Grass and ‘Hamelin’ Fountain Grass
Authors: Scheiber S.M. , Sandrock David , Alvarez Erin , Brennan Meghan M.
Published: December 2018

Salt-tolerant landscape plants are important to ornamental growers, landscapers, and residents in coastal communities. Ornamental grasses are frequently recommended for low-maintenance landscape situations and may be candidates for coastal plantings after they are evaluated for their salt spray tolerance. ‘Gracillimus’ maiden grass (Miscanthus sinensis) and ‘Hamelin’ fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides) were subjected to four treatments [100% seawater salt spray, 50% seawater salt spray, 25% seawater salt spray, or 0% seawater salt spray (100% deionized water)] applied as a foliar spray. As seawater concentration increased, root, shoot, whole-plant biomass gain, height, inflorescence number, and visual quality decreased for both cultivars; however, fountain grass appears to be slightly more tolerant of salt spray than maiden grass.
Differential Watermelon Fruit Size Distribution in Response to Plastic Mulch and Spunbonded Polyester Rowcover
Authors: Arancibia Ramón A. , Motsenbocker Carl E.
Published: December 2018

Plasticulture has been successfully used to enhance growth and yield of horticultural crops, and also for season extension in cooler climates. The effect of three plastic mulches (silver on black, photoselective thermal green, and black) in combination with spunbonded polyester rowcover (0.9 oz/yard2) on spring-planted watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) production was investigated. Two red-fleshed cultivars [Sangria (seeded) and Crimson Jewel (triploid)] were used. Plastic mulches increased early and total marketable yield in comparison with bare ground for both cultivars, but net benefit increased in ‘Crimson Jewel’ only. In contrast, yield and net benefit were the same among plastic mulches. Rowcover increased soil and air temperature, with the effect being greatest at lower ambient temperatures. During a near-freeze event, air temperature under the rowcover was about 7.2 °F higher than without a rowcover. Rowcover increased early and total marketable yield, but fruit weight decreased in both cultivars. Yield distribution into three fruit size categories was inconsistent between the cultivars. In ‘Sangria’, the large fruit category had the highest yield proportion for all treatments. In contrast, the highest yield proportion of ‘Crimson Jewel’, with exception of mulch without rowcover, corresponded to small fruit. Rowcover increased gross income at wholesale prices, but net benefit was not different from without rowcover. Protection of high-value plants, such as triploid watermelon, against light freezes, however, may still justify the use of rowcover in early plantings.
Performance of Methyl Bromide Alternatives in Strawberry
Authors: Gilreath James P. , Santos Bielinski M. , Motis Timothy N.
Published: December 2018

Field studies were conducted to compare the performance of several methyl bromide (MBr) alternative programs on sting nematode (Belonolaimus spp.) control and marketable yield of ‘Camarosa’ strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa). The tested fumigation programs were 1) MBr + chloropicrin (Pic; 67:33 v/v) at 350 lb/acre, 2) Pic + metam sodium (MNa) at 300 lb/acre and 37.5 gal/acre, 3) 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) + Pic at 35 gal/acre, 4) 1,3-D + Pic and dazomet at 35 gal/acre and 200 lb/acre, 5) propylene oxide at 45 gal/acre, 6) furfural + allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) at 600 lb/acre, 7) furfural and MNa at 56 and 50 gal/acre, 8) furfural + AITC at 400 lb/acre followed by four furfural applications of 6 gal/acre/injection, 9) furfural and MNa at 37 and 33 gal/acre followed by four furfural applications of 6 gal/acre/injection, 10) fosthiazate and Pic at 4.5 and 150 lb/acre, and 11) a nontreated control. The fumigation programs consisting of 1,3-D + Pic and dazomet, 1,3-D + Pic, Pic and MNa, and fosthiazate and Pic proved to be as valuable as the grower-standard MBr + Pic on strawberry plant vigor, sting nematode control, and early and total marketable yields.
Fuel Type and Releasing the Heated Air Near Plant Roots Reduced Production Cost of Greenhouse Tomatoes
Authors: Hanna Hanna Y. , Henderson Kenneth D.
Published: December 2018

A study was conducted to determine the effects of a constructed interplant bottom heating system using diesel fuel and an above-plant heating system using natural gas on heating and production cost of greenhouse tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum). Two identical greenhouses 30 × 96 ft were used for this study in the spring (January to July) of 2002 and 2003. The interplant bottom-heated greenhouse consumed an average of 195,790,000 btu during the heating period (January to March) to raise the air temperature 5 ft above the floor to the optimum level for greenhouse tomato production. The above-plant-heated greenhouse consumed an average of 208,100,000 btu to do the same. Using the interplant bottom heating system reduced energy consumption by 6%. Average cost was $6.22 and $9.10 per million btu from diesel fuel and natural gas, respectively. The difference is ≈32% reduction in fuel cost based on fuel type. The interplant bottom heating system raised root-media temperature to near the optimum level for tomato growth and increased total yield by 9.5%. Producing 1 lb of tomatoes in the interplant bottom-heated greenhouse required 13,266 btu at a heating cost of $0.08; however, it required 15,459 btu in the above-plant-heated greenhouse at a heating cost of $0.14. Less energy, cost-effective fuel, and increased yield reduced heating cost per production unit by 43% in the interplant bottom-heated greenhouse.
Direct Seeding Short-day Onions in Southeastern Georgia
Authors: Boyhan George E. , Diaz-Perez Juan Carlos , Hopkins Chris , Torrance Reid L. , Hill C. Randy
Published: December 2018

Onions (Allium cepa) in southeastern Georgia are almost exclusively transplanted, with the associated high costs and labor requirements. This study was undertaken to evaluate direct-seeded onions as an alternative production method. This study evaluates variety, sowing date, and fertility on direct seeding short-day onions in southeastern Georgia. Sowing dates, early or mid-October (5 and 15 Oct. 2001 and 7 and 21 Oct. 2002), did not affect total, jumbo (≥3 inches diameter), or medium (≥2 inches and <3 inches diameter) yields. Late October sowing (29 Oct. 2001) did not produce sufficient stand or yield to warrant harvesting. Variety also had no affect on yield of direct-seeded onions. Seedstems (flowering), an undesirable characteristic, was significantly greater with the early October sowing date across all varieties compared with the mid- or late- October sowing dates. Neither variety nor sowing date significantly affected plant stand or plant spacing. Fertilization treatments of 150 or 195 lb/acre nitrogen (N) with various application timings and fertilizer sources did not affect total or medium yields. Jumbo yield was affected in only 1 year with calcium nitrate as the primary N source at 195 lb/acre total N having the highest yield, but did not differ from some treatments at 150 lb/acre N. In addition, fertilization treatments did not affect seedstems, plant stand, or plant spacing. Based on this study, we are recommending that growers should direct seed onions in southeastern Georgia in mid-October, plus or minus 1 week depending on field accessibility. In addition, current fertilizer recommendations for transplanted dry bulb onions should be followed, which includes 150 lb/acre N. This eliminates all of the cost and resources required for transplant production.
The Effect of the National Wildlife Federation's Schoolyard Habitat Program on Fourth Grade Students' Standardized Test Scores
Authors: Danforth P.E. , Waliczek T.M. , Macey S.M. , Zajicek J.M.
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine if participation in the National Wildlife Federation's Schoolyard Habitat Program (SYHP) had an effect on the standardized test scores of fourth grade primary school students in Houston, Texas. To conduct the study, three pairs of Houston elementary schools were matched by student demographics of ethnicity and economics. The treatment group included a total of 306 fourth grade students whose teachers were using the SYHP. The control group consisted of a total of 108 fourth grade students whose teachers used a more traditional curriculum. To measure academic achievement, changes in standardized test scores (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) were compared between students' third grade data and their fourth grade data. Results showed that those students participating in the SYHP had significantly increased math scores when compared with peers in schools that were taught using a more traditional curriculum. However, overall, few differences were found in comparisons of reading scores of those students taught with SYHP and those taught using a more traditional curriculum.
Saltgrass Clones' Spike Production Affected by Sampling Time, Nitrogen Fertilization, and Burning
Authors: Rukavina Hrvoje , Hughes Harrison G.
Published: December 2018

Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) has received increased attention as a result of its low input needs. A good understanding of the factors that influence greater flower production in saltgrass clones would facilitate seed production management and hybridization in the breeding program. Therefore, the influence of sampling time from the field, nitrogen (N) fertilization, and burning on flowering spike production of five saltgrass clones from three cold-hardiness zones were evaluated over 2 years. Clones were sampled from the field at two times (August and November) in the first and at three times (August, November, and January) in the second experimental year. After field sampling, clones were transferred to the greenhouse and received N and burning treatments. N fertilization increased number of spikes (flowering) for all saltgrass clones by ≈30% in both experimental years. In the second experimental year, the number of spikes was increased to a greater extent when N was applied in combination with burning treatment as compared with N without burning. The burning treatment had a greater effect on the number of spikes in plants sampled in August as compared with those sampled in November and January. Sampling in November increased flowering in three clones as compared with August sampling, but with the greatest effect in clone A1540. Sampling in January further increased the number of spikes in clones 1490 and A1610 but with no significant effect on the number of spikes in clone A1540. Environmental adaptation associated with origin of saltgrass clones is a major factor that influences flowering spike production.
Clean Chip Residual: A Substrate Component for Growing Annuals
Authors: Boyer Cheryl R. , Fain Glenn B. , Gilliam Charles H. , Gallagher Thomas V. , Torbert H. Allen , Sibley Jeff L.
Published: December 2018

A study was conducted at Auburn University in Auburn, AL, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Research Service, Southern Horticultural Laboratory in Poplarville, MS, to evaluate clean chip residual (CCR) as an alternative substrate component for annual bedding plant production. Clean chip residual used in this study was processed through a horizontal grinder with 4-inch screens at the site and was then processed again through a swinging hammer mill to pass a 3/4- or 1/2-inch screen. Two CCR particle sizes were used alone or blended with 10% (9:1) or 20% (4:1) peatmoss (PM) (by volume) and were compared with control treatments, pine bark (PB), and PB blends (10% and 20% PM). Three annual species, ‘Blue Hawaii’ ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum), ‘Vista Purple’ salvia (Salvia ×superba), and ‘Coral’ or ‘White’ impatiens (Impatiens walleriana), were transplanted from 36-cell (12.0-inch3) flats into 1-gal containers, placed on elevated benches in a greenhouse, and hand watered as needed. Ageratum plants grown at Auburn had leaf chlorophyll content similar or greater than that of plants grown in PB. There were no differences in salvia; however, impatiens plants grown in PB substrates at Auburn had less leaf chlorophyll content than those grown in CCR. There were no differences in ageratum, salvia, or impatiens leaf chlorophyll content at Poplarville. There were no differences in growth indices (GI) or shoot dry weight (SDW) of ageratum, while the largest salvia was in PB:PM and the largest impatiens were in PB-based substrates at Auburn. The GI of ageratum at Poplarville was similar among treatments, but plants grown in 4:1 1/2-inch CCR:PM were the largest. Salvia was largest in 4:1 CCR:PM and PB:PM, and although there were no differences in GI for impatiens at Poplarville, the greatest SDW occurred with PB:PM. Foliar nutrient content analysis indicated elevated levels of manganese and zinc in treatments containing CCR at Auburn and PB at Poplarville. At the study termination, two of three annual species tested at both locations had very similar growth when compared with standard PB substrates. This study demonstrates that CCR is a viable alternative substrate in greenhouse production of ageratum, salvia, and impatiens in large containers.
Smoke-water and a Smoke-isolated Butenolide Improve Growth and Yield of Tomatoes under Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Kulkarni Manoj G. , Ascough Glendon D. , Van Staden Johannes
Published: December 2018

Smoke shows promising results in stimulating germination and vigor. The biologically active butenolide compound isolated from smoke has potential to become a valuable tool in horticulture. ‘Heinz-1370’ tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) seedlings showed a positive response to smoke and were therefore tested with smoke-water and butenolide for growth, yield, and nutritional composition. Smoke-water (1:500, by volume) treatment showed the maximum height, number of leaves, and stem thickness from 57 to 78 days after sowing. The percentage of plants with fruit from 85 to 95 days after sowing was much higher with the application of smoke-water and butenolide solution than in the control. The total number of marketable fruit was significantly greater (P ≤ 0.05) for smoke-water–treated (1:500, by volume) tomato plants (168) than for the control (124). Butenolide and the lower concentration of smoke-water (1:2000, by volume) yielded more fruit, but was not significantly (P ≥ 0.05) different from the control. In spite of achieving a greater number of fruit, smoke treatments did not significantly (P ≤ 0.05) change the size, weight, and nutritional composition (ascorbic acid, β-carotene, lycopene, and total soluble solids) of fruit. The harvest indices of smoke-water– and butenolide-treated plants significantly improved (P ≤ 0.05), suggesting the possible use of smoke technology for tomato cultivation.
Weed, Disease, and Nematode Management in Onions with Biofumigants and Metam Sodium
Authors: Geary Brad , Ransom Corey , Brown Brad , Atkinson Dennis , Hafez Saad
Published: December 2018

Onions (Allium cepa) are a high-value crop in the Treasure Valley of eastern Oregon and western Idaho. To grow quality bulbs, growers use fumigants and pesticides to control weed, pathogen, and nematode pests. Metam sodium and other commonly used pesticides are considered effective in controlling onion pests but also pose a wide range of problematic issues related to the environment, human health, and economic profitability. Biofumigant crops ‘Idagold’ mustard (Sinapis alba) and ‘Colonel’ oil seed radish (Raphanus sativus) were evaluated as substitutes for commercial fumigants in controlling soil-borne pests. During some years of this study, there was limited control of a few weed species based on visual and biomass data for metam sodium and biofumigant treatments, but the weed control was not consistent or acceptable. The severity of pink root (Phoma terrestris), a major fungal onion root pathogen, was significantly lower with metam sodium in most comparisons with other treatments. Biofumigants showed limited effects on pink root severity and are not a viable option for pink root control. Nematode damage or populations were not high enough to determine if the biofumigant and metam sodium treatments influenced their control. In some years, biofumigants reduced onion yield. The influence of these biofumigants on onion pest control was limited and their use in onion production is not warranted without significant nutrient recycling or soil quality benefits.
Phytotoxicity of Clove Oil to Vegetable Crop Seedlings and Nematotoxicity to Root-knot Nematodes
Authors: Meyer Susan L.F. , Lakshman Dilip K. , Zasada Inga A. , Vinyard Bryan T. , Chitwood David J.
Published: December 2018

Clove oil derived from the clove plant [Syzygium aromaticum (=Eugenia caryophyllata)] is active against various soil-borne plant pathogens and therefore has potential for use as a bio-based pesticide. A clove oil formulation previously found to be toxic to the southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in laboratory assays was investigated in greenhouse studies for nematode suppression and phytotoxicity on vegetable crops. Phytotoxicity studies were conducted with 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% clove oil applied to soil 0, 2, 5, and 7 days before transplant of cucumber (Cucumis sativus), muskmelon (Cucumis melo), pepper (Capsicum annuum), and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) seedlings. Tomato seedlings were the most sensitive to clove oil. The 0.2% and 0.3% clove oil concentrations applied as drenches at transplant (0 day) were the most phytotoxic to seedlings of all the tested vegetable species, with only 0% to 50% seedling survival. Most of the clove oil concentrations applied as drenches at transplant decreased shoot heights and fresh shoot weights of all seedlings. Some applications of clove oil at 0.2% and 0.3%, applied 2, 5, or 7 days before transplant also significantly reduced shoot growth, especially of pepper and tomato. Greenhouse experiments evaluating suppression of nematode populations on cucumber were conducted with 0.10%, 0.15%, and 0.20% clove oil applied 7 days before transplant. Overall, plants inoculated with nematodes tended to have smaller shoots and heavier roots than plants without nematodes. Effects of clove oil treatments on nematode population densities were inconsistent between the two trials. In Trial 1, 0.10% and 0.15% clove oil decreased population densities compared with the carrier control. In Trial 2, nematode population densities were lowest in the water and carrier control treatments. The results indicate that, with the tested clove oil formulation and application times, southern root-knot nematode populations would not be consistently reduced with clove oil concentrations that were not phytotoxic to one or more of the tested vegetable crops.