bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokinin-containing Seaweed Extract Does Not Reduce Damage by an Insect Herbivore
Authors: Reitz Stuart R. , Trumble John T.
Published: February 2019

We examined two aspects of treating plants with a cytokinin-containing seaweed extract (SWE). In the first series of experiments, we tested the hypothesis that immature lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants provided with exogenous cytokinins could recover from defoliation by a generalist insect herbivore, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), more rapidly than plants without cytokinin supplements. However, the SWE inhibited growth of lima beans at all levels of herbivore damage. The SWE neither inhibited nor stimulated growth of tomatoes following defoliation. Because SWE effects largely were neutral for tomato growth, we conducted a second series of experiments to test the hypothesis that SWE treatments alter the attractiveness of tomato foliage to S. exigua larvae. In these experiments, we determined consumption of, and preference for, SWE-treated tomato foliage by S. exigua larvae. Repeated root applications of SWE led to increased consumption and preference by S. exigua. Repeated foliar applications did not alter consumption or preference compared with controls. Spodoptera exigua larvae gained significantly more mass when feeding on SWE-treated foliage compared with controls. While these data indicate that plant responses to exogenous cytokinin-containing materials depend on taxa and application method, the practical uses of SWE appear limited given the negative effects on plant growth and increased attractiveness of treated foliage to herbivores.
Advancing the Tamarillo Harvest by Induced Postharvest Ripening
Authors: Prohens J. , Ruiz J.J. , Nuez F.
Published: February 2019

Tamarillo [Cyphomandra betacea (Cav.) Sendt., Solanaceae] dark-red-, red-, and yellow-type fruit were sorted into two maturity stages (green and turning); dipped in ethephon at 0, 250, 500, or 750 mg·liter–1; and kept at 18 or 28C. Seven days later, fruit dipped in ethephon at 500 or 750 mg·liter–1 and stored at 28C showed a color score, maturity index, and ascorbic acid content similar to those tree-ripened, thus making it possible for harvesting to be advanced 36 days. Under these conditions, weight loss was always lower than 8.5%, resulting in only slight symptoms of shriveling that did not affect commercial quality. Postharvest ripening reduces the risk of crop failure, increases earliness, and concentrates harvesting. Chemical name used: (2-chloroethyl)phosphonic acid (ethephon).
Translucent Flesh Disorder of Mangosteen Fruit (Garcinia mangostana L.)
Authors: Pankasemsuk Tanachai , Garner James O. , Matta Frank B. , Silva Juan L.
Published: February 2019

Characteristics of mangosteen fruit with normal and translucent flesh were determined. Fruit exhibiting translucent flesh disorder had significantly higher rind (65%) and flesh (82%) water content than fruit with normal flesh (63% and 80% in the rind and flesh, respectively). Specific gravity of translucent flesh fruit was >1 and that of normal flesh fruit was <1. Fruit specific gravity and natural transverse rind cracking were used to separate translucent-fleshed fruit from normal fruit. Translucent-fleshed fruit had a lower soluble solids concentration and titratable acid percentage than normal fruit. Translucent flesh was induced in normal fruit following water infiltration at 39 kPa for 5 minutes.
Sugars Prevent the Detrimental Effects of Gamma Irradiation on Cut Chrysanthemums
Authors: Hayashi Toru , Todoriki Setsuko
Published: February 2019

Aqueous solution (2%) of sucrose, glucose, fructose, or maltose delayed bloom wilting and foliage yellowing of cut chrysanthemums [Dendranthema ×grandiflorum (Ramat.) Kitamura] caused by gamma irradiation at 750 Gy. Solutions of silver thiosulfate, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, potassium sorbate, mannitol, sorbitol, glycerol, 6-benzylamino purine, and gibberellin did not reduce irradiation damage. Holding chrysanthemum cut flowers in a sucrose solution before and during irradiation did not influence the vase life, but holding the cut flowers in a sucrose solution following irradiation prolonged the vase life. The results suggest that sugars reduce radiation-induced physiological deterioration of chrysanthemums.
Using Polymerase Chain Reaction-based DNA Amplification to Fingerprint North American Potato Cultivars
Authors: Sosinski B. , Douches D.S.
Published: February 2019

DNA from 46 North American potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars was examined using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with 16 arbitrary primers of 10 nucleotide length (10 mers) to determine the efficiency of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) in delineating cultivars, both sexually derived and clonal variants. The 16 primers yielded 43 useful polymorphisms that were evaluated according to the presence or absence of fragments of equal size. All cultivars were discriminated with as few as 10 primers. The russet sport of Burbank was distinguished from a white-skinned clone by one band. More primers (29) were examined to identify a band polymorphism among six Russet Burbank clonal variants. When the cultivars were grouped by tuber type (excluding the russet clonal variants), three to four primers discriminated these commonly grown cultivars. Determination of cultivar integrity was accomplished with PCR amplification, regardless of tissue source (leaf vs. tuber) for DNA extraction. Cluster analysis based on RAPD markers was performed to examine pedigree relationships of the cultivars. Genetic relationships correlated with some pedigrees; however, many exceptions were noted.
Canopy Morphology of Pecan Cultivars
Authors: Wood Bruce W.
Published: February 2019

Canopy morphology of 83 pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] cultivars differed in structural, size, and form characteristics. Cluster analysis identified two to five distinct classes for canopy height and diameter and their ratio, inclination angles for both major limbs and young shoots with lower-order structures, branch types, and canopy form and volume. Cultivar-related variability in these traits may have the potential for the improvement of pecan cultivars for factors such as light interception, cooling, air movement, and fruiting; thus, there is potential for identifying the development of canopy characteristics adapted to specific site conditions or cultural/management strategies.
Variable Reaction of Tomato Lines to Bacterial Wilt Evaluated at Several Locations in Southeast Asia
Authors: Hanson Peter M. , Wang Jaw-Fen , Licardo Olivia , Hanudin  , Mah Shook Ying , Hartman Glen L. , Lin Yuan-Chuen , Chen Jen-tzu
Published: February 2019

Bacterial wilt (BW), caused by Pseudomonas solanacearum E.F. Smith, is one of the most destructive disease of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in the tropics. Twenty tomato lines/accessions previously identified as BW-resistant were evaluated for BW reaction in fields providing high disease pressure at Subang, Indonesia; Los Baños, Philippines; Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), Kuala Lumpur; Asian Vegetable Research and Development Center (AVRDC), Taiwan; and Taiwan Seed Improvement and Propagation Service (TSIPS). Entries also were tested in the greenhouse at the AVRDC with a P. solanacearum strain from Taiwan (Pss4) using a drench inoculation method. Objectives of the study were to identify stable sources of BW resistance for southeast Asian tomato breeding programs, and to determine the correlation between field and greenhouse reactions. Mean entry survival was 21.6% at Subang, 31.9% at Los Baños, 76.7% at the AVRDC, 93.6% at Malaysia, and 93.3% at TSIPS, indicating that most entries were resistant at MARDI and the Taiwan locations but susceptible at Subang and Los Baños. L285 (mean survival = 83.8%) and CRA 84-58-1 (mean survival = 79.4%) were the most resistant entries in the field trials. Mean survival (70.1%) of CRA 66-derived entries was significantly better than the mean of entries with resistance derived from UPCA 1169 or UPCA 1169 plus `Venus' or `Saturn'. Mean survival of AVRDC entries bred in the 1980s (59.4%) was significantly greater than mean survival of AVRDC lines bred in the 1970s (45.7%). The correlation between entry BW percent survival averaged over the five field trials and entry means from drench inoculation in the greenhouse was highly significant (r = 0.70), suggesting that the drench inoculation method is effective in selection for BW resistance.
Sensory Evaluation of Sweet Cherry Cultivars
Authors: Dever M.C. , MacDonald R.A. , Cliff M.A. , Lane W.D.
Published: February 2019

Cherry cultivars (Prunus avium L.) from the breeding program located at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Research Centre, Summerland, B.C., were profiled for their sensory characteristics. Judges scored six visual attributes, five flavor/texture attributes, and the degree of liking on 10-cm anchored line scales. There were significant differences (P ≤ 0.001) in external firmness, size, and color intensity as well as differences in flesh firmness, juiciness, sweetness, sourness, and intensity of cherry flavor among the cultivars. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed the relationships among the internal sensory attributes, including a calculated sum of perceived sweetness and sourness, and the analytical values (pH, soluble solids concentration, sugar: acid ratio). Factor scores located individual cultivars on the PCA plot and provided a graphic illustration of their sensory characteristics.
Regenerating Adventitious Shoots from in Vitro Culture of Liatris spicata (L.) Willd. Cotyledons
Authors: Stimart Dennis P. , Mather John C.
Published: February 2019

Cotyledons from developing 6- to 8-week-old embryos of Liatris spicata (L.) Willd. (blazing star) were cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium containing 0, 0.4, 4.4, or 44.4 μm BA or 0, 0.2, 2.2, or 22.2 μm TDZ to induce adventitious shoot formation. The highest percentage of cotyledons forming the most shoots was on medium containing 2.2 μm TDZ. Cotyledon-derived callus cultured on medium containing 4.4 μm BA formed ≈16 times more adventitious shoots than on 2.2 μm TDZ. Adventitious shoots derived from cotyledons or callus produced roots when placed on MS medium containing 5.0 μm IBA. Regenerated plants that flowered in the field appeared homogeneous. Chemical names used: N6-benzyladenine (BA), thidiazuron (TDZ), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA).
Protein Synthesis Inhibitors Block High-temperature Acclimation in Bell Pepper Leaves
Authors: Liu X. , Anderson J.A. , Maness N.O. , Martin B.
Published: February 2019

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L. `Early Calwonder') leaf disks were vacuum-infiltrated in distilled water (control), anisomycin, aurintricarboxylic acid, cycloheximide, ethionine, norvanine, or puromycin to determine whether protein synthesis inhibitors blocked high-temperature acclimation. After infiltration, one-half of the leaf disks were placed in an incubator at 24C as a control, and the other half were kept in a water bath at 38C for 2 h to induce acclimation. Test tubes containing the disks then were placed in a water bath at 50.5C for 0, 1, 5, 10, 15, 25, 35, or 50 minutes. Thermotolerance was evaluated using electrolyte leakage. High-temperature acclimation was blocked in all six protein synthesis-inhibitor treatments. Only control disks infiltrated with distilled water acclimated. It seems that protein synthesis is required for high-temperature acclimation in bell pepper leaves.
Clear Plastic Mulch Improved Seedling Emergence of Direct-seeded Pepper
Authors: Cavero J. , Ortega R. Gil , Zaragoza C.
Published: February 2019

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L. `Piquillo de Lodosa') was seeded and then covered with clear plastic mulch, and various cultural practices to improve seedling emergence were compared. Planting dates (8, 12, and 25 Apr. 1991), seeding systems (raised bed vs. flat, 1991), and one or two rows per bed (1991 and 1992, respectively) were evaluated for their effects on stand establishment and yield. Plant stand was 60% when seed was under plastic mulch, compared to 0% when no mulch was used. Maximum plant stand was obtained 4 weeks after seeding in mulched soil. With plastic mulch, earlier (on or before 12 Apr.) season plantings were best because soil temperatures were so high (≥35C) later as to reduce plant stands. The risk of excessive high temperatures was greater when seeding was on a raised bed rather than flat ground; however, using plastic mulch, temperatures were higher, often resulting in acceptable plant stands regardless of bed arrangement. Higher yields were realized with raised beds compared to flat ground sowing. When two rows per bed were used, higher temperatures on the south side reduced emergence compared to the north side of the east–west-oriented beds. Direct seeding of pepper appears to be commercially acceptable in our Mediterranean conditions, provided seed is under plastic mulch and seeding is completed on or before 12 Apr.
Manual and Chemical Branch Inducement in Fall- and Spring-planted `Empire' Apple on Two Rootstocks
Authors: Ouellette David R. , Unrath C.R. , Young Eric
Published: February 2019

One-year-old unbranched `Empire' apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) trees on Malling 26 EMLA and Malling–Merton 111 EMLA rootstocks were planted in Nov. 1991 or Mar. 1992 at an eastern Piedmont or mountain site of North Carolina. In Mar. 1992 and 1993, trees were dormant-headed and then subjected to one of five branch-inducing techniques: 1) control—untouched, 2) notching—removing a thin band of bark above each lateral bud, 3) leaf removal—periodic removal of immature apical leaves, 4) bending—placing at horizontal and setting upright in summer, or 5) renewal—setting a lateral branch upright as the new leader. The second year (1993), half of the trees were periodically sprayed with Promalin (GA4+7 + BA). At the Piedmont site, notching, leaf removal, and bending resulted in more branching than the control after 1 year. At the mountain site, leaf removal was considerably less effective in inducing branches. Bending produced asymmetric trees and, at the mountain site, considerably reduced terminal shoot growth. Planting date had little influence on branching. Two years after planting, notched trees were significantly larger and had twice as many branches as other trees. Promalin increased branching on current-season growth and, when combined with leaf removal, resulted in the most uniform distribution of branches along the length of the central leader. Using notching or Promalin produced a tree structure suitable for high-density plantings. Chemical names used: N-(phenylmethyl)-1H-purin-6-amine (BA), gibberellins A4 + A7 (GA4+7).
Growth Responses of Hydroponically Grown Sweetpotato Tolerant and Intolerant of a Continuous Daily Light Period
Authors: Mortley D.G. , Loretan P.A. , Hill W.A. , Bonsi C.K. , Morris C.E.
Published: February 2019

Two sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] genotypes (`Georgia Jet' and the breeding clone TI-155) were grown at 12-, 15-, 18-, and 21-h light/12-, 9-, 6-, 3-h dark cycles, respectively, to evaluate their growth and elemental concentration responses to duration and amount of daily lighting. Vine cuttings (15 cm long) of both genotypes were grown in rectangular nutrient film technique channels for 120 days. Conditions were as follows: photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) mean 427 μmol·m–2·s–1, 28C day/22C night air cycle, and 70% ± 5% relative humidity. The nutrient solution used was a modified half-strength Hoagland's solution. Storage root count per plant and per unit area, yield (in grams per square meters per day), and harvest index increased, while production efficiency (in grams per mole) decreased with increased daily PPF. Stomatal conductance for both genotypes declined with increased daily PPF. Leaves were smallest for both genotypes at the 21-h light period, while storage root yield declined as leaf area index increased. Except for a linear decrease in leaf N and K with increased light period, elemental concentration was not significantly influenced.
Temperature and Light Influence Growth and Flower Production in Heliconia `Golden Torch'
Authors: Catley Jocelyn L. , Brooking Ian R.
Published: February 2019

Flowering responses of Heliconia psittacorum L.f. × H. spathocircinata Aristeguieta `Golden Torch' to temperature and photosynthetic photon flux (PPF) were determined in controlled-environment conditions using a 2 × 2 factorial combination of temperature (32C day/20C night and 24C day/20C night) and PPF (475 and 710 μmol·m–2·s–1). Temperature had no significant effect on new shoot production, with an average of 9.3 shoots per plant being produced over the 248 days of treatment. More shoots, however, were produced at the higher PPF level (10.1 compared with 8.3 shoots). The proportion of shoots that initiated flowers (85%) was similar in all treatments. The duration from shoot until inflorescence emergence was significantly less at 32C day/20C night than at 24C day/20C night (140 and 146 days, respectively) and was unaffected by PPF. This duration also was significantly affected by the interacting effects of order of shoot appearance and the number of leaves subtending the inflorescence. The second shoots to emerge had the shortest duration from shoot emergence to inflorescence emergence. The number of leaves subtending the inflorescence increased at the higher temperature and decreased as shoot order increased but was unaffected by PPF. Temperature and PPF levels influenced total leaf area at flowering, with highest areas being achieved in the high temperature–low PPF combination. Acceptable flower quality with at least two, opened, well-formed, well-colored bracts was obtained in all treatments, although flower stems were taller and thicker at 32C day/20C night and these dimensions increased further with increasing order of shoot appearance. Stem diameters tended to be thinner at the lower PPF level. Overall, temperature was more dominant than light in influencing production and quality of flowers, but developmental factors associated with the order of shoot appearance also played a significant role. Flower production of `Golden Torch' should be feasible in temperature-controlled glasshouses in temperate regions where mean air temperatures can be maintained at ≈20C.
Pollination and Pollen Source Influence Fruit of Oriental Persimmon `Fuyu' and `Tanenashi'
Authors: Woodburn K.R. , Andersen P.C.
Published: February 2019

Fruit characteristics of Oriental persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) [`Fuyu' (Expts. 1 and 2) and `Tanenashi' (Expt. 3)] were assessed as a function of five pollination treatments: 1) hand-pollination (HP) with `Gailey' pollen (G); 2) HP with `Nishimura Wase' pollen (NW); 3) HP with `Turkeytown' pollen (T) (not used for `Tanenashi'); 4) open-pollination (OP), which did not necessarily result in pollination; and 5) nonpollination (NP) where pollination was prevented by covering the flower. Final fruit set of `Fuyu' and `Tanenashi' was higher for G and NW pollen than for NP. Differences in fruit set among the remaining treatments depended on the particular experiment. For example, fruit set for OP was higher than for NP in Expts. 1 and 3 but not Expt. 2. Fruit weight and soluble solids concentration (SSC) of `Fuyu' were not affected by treatment in Expts. 1 and 2; however, in Expt. 2, fruit height and diameter of G, NW, T, or OP were larger than for NP. Seed count per fruit was inversely related to fruit development period but did not influence fruit size or SSC. Fruit height, diameter, weight, and total soluble solids of `Tanenashi' for G, NW, and OP exceeded those for NP, although rarely were seeds present.
Timing and K-IBA Treatments Affect Rooting of Stem Cuttings of Cephalotaxus harringtonia
Authors: Southworth Andrea L. , Dirr Michael A.
Published: February 2019

Stem cuttings from a prostrate clone of Cephalotaxus harringtonia (Forbes) K. Koch (Japanese plum yew) were taken monthly from Sept. 1994 through Aug. 1995, treated with K-IBA at 0 or 10,000 mg·liter–1, placed in a greenhouse under intermittent mist, and evaluated after 16 weeks. Cuttings taken from December to February and treated with K-IBA averaged 85% rooting, 10 roots per cutting, and a total root length of 35 cm. The next highest rooting percentages were for cuttings taken from March to May; poorest rooting occurred for cuttings taken from June to August and September to November, regardless of K-IBA application. Chemical name used: K-indole-3-butyric acid (K-IBA).
Root-zone Sodium Chloride Influences Photosynthesis, Water Relations, and Mineral Content of Sapodilla Foliage
Authors: Mickelbart Michael V. , Marler Thomas E.
Published: February 2019

Sapodilla [Manilkara zapota (L.) Royen], reportedly tolerant of saline conditions relative to other tropical fruit species, was studied in sand culture under greenhouse conditions to examine the physiology of sapodilla trees exposed to NaCl and to aid in determining the basis for this apparent tolerance. Treatments, consisting of a complete nutrient solution of 1 dS·m–1 (control) or this solution amended to 12 or 20 dS·m–1 with NaCl, were administered from 16 Nov. 1991 until 29 Jan. 1992. Net CO2 assimilation (A) of plants receiving NaCl gradually decreased relative to that of the control plants. At the end of 8 weeks of salinity, A of plants receiving 12 or 20 dS·m–1 was 72% or 31% of control plants, respectively. Substrate NaCl reduced apparent quantum yield, photosynthetic CO2-use efficiency, leaf osmotic potential, and predawn xylem potential of sapodilla leaves. Dark respiration and the variable: maximal chlorophyll fluorescence ratio were not influenced by NaCl. Exposure to NaCl also increased leaf tissue Na+ and Cl– concentrations and the Na+: K+ ratio. These results indicate that gas exchange of sapodilla is relatively low for woody evergreen species. Moreover, sapodilla may not be as tolerant of salt stress as previously reported. The responses of sapodilla to root zone NaCl were consistent with other woody perennial glycophyte species. Photochemical efficiency of leaves on plants receiving NaCl was not different from that of leaves on control plants for >8 weeks after NaCl reduced gas exchange.
Irrigation Frequency Affects Zoysiagrass Rooting and Plant Water Status
Authors: Qian Y.L. , Fry J.D.
Published: February 2019

`Meyer' zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) was established on a silt loam soil in 27-cm-diameter × 92-cm-deep containers in a greenhouse to investigate the influence of irrigation frequency on turfgrass rooting and drought tolerance. Turf was irrigated daily or at the onset of leaf rolling with a water volume equal to the cumulative evapotranspiration of well-watered turf in small weighing lysimeters. After >90 days of irrigation treatments, a dry-down was imposed during which no additional water was applied for 55 days. A recovery period followed during which time turf was watered to maintain soil matric potential at greater than –30 kPa. Compared to turf irrigated daily, that watered at the onset of leaf rolling exhibited 1) 32% to 36% lower leaf water potential and 14% to 22% lower osmotic potential before the onset of drought; 2) 13% higher leaf water potential ≈40 days into dry-down; 3) more extensive rooting at 55- and 75-cm soil depths as indicated by 11% to 19% lower volumetric soil moisture content at the end of dry-down; 4) 25% to 40% lower shoot growth rate during irrigation and 13% to 33% higher shoot growth rate during dry-down; and 5) higher quality ratings during dry-down and recovery. Thus, deep, infrequent irrigation better prepares zoysiagrass for an oncoming drought than light, frequent irrigation.
Gibberellin Applications Influence the Scheduling and Flowering of Limonium × `Misty Blue'
Authors: Garner James M. , Armitage Allan M.
Published: February 2019

Limonium × `Misty Blue' plants were treated with directed sprays of gibberellic acid (GA3) at 400 mg·liter–1 at weekly intervals. All GA3 treatments accelerated flowering and increased yield of flowering stems compared to nontreated plants. Treatment at 4 weeks after planting resulted in the greatest acceleration of flowering and increase in stem yield.
Ultrastructural and Surface Features of Apple Leaves following White Apple Leafhopper Feeding
Authors: Welker Robert M. , Marini Richard P. , Pfeiffer Douglas G.
Published: February 2019

White apple leafhopper (WALH; Typhlocyba pomaria McAtee) feeding damage on apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) leaves was examined with scanning and transmission electron microscopy. WALH created feeding holes in the (lower) abaxial epidermis, with no visible exterior evidence of cell injury to the adaxial (upper) epidermis. Feeding holes were located in areas of the leaf with high stomatal density and were near stomata. Groups of cells in the palisade layers were empty or contained coagulated cell contents. Adjacent, apparently noninjured, palisade cells contained an abundance of starch granules, possibly indicating that photoassimilate export was impaired. Spongy mesophyll cells abaxial to the feeding area were left intact as were the epidermal cells adaxial to the feeding area. External views of either epidermis and internal leaf views of injured cells indicated no cell wall collapse.
Identification of Grape (Vitis) Rootstocks Using Sequence Characterized Amplified Region DNA Markers
Authors: Xu Hong , Bakalinsky Alan T.
Published: February 2019

Five sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) DNA markers were reevaluated at substantially higher annealing temperatures than originally reported; four were polymorphic among nine rootstocks tested. Four new informative SCAR markers also are reported, based on redesigning primers from previously cloned random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Based on the eight polymorphic markers, rootstocks MG 420A, MG101-14, Richter 99, Couderc 3309, and Kober 5BB were distinguishable. Riparia Gloire and Couderc 1616 could be distinguished from the others, but not from one another, and SO4 and 5C also could be distinguished from the others, but not from one another.
Metrical Analysis of a Putative Source for Semi-seedlessness in Rabbiteye Blueberry, Vaccinium ashei Reade.
Authors: Ehlenfeldt M.K. , Hall M.R.
Published: February 2019

T 286, a rabbiteye blueberry selection from a `Delite' × `Tifblue' cross, generally has been regarded as producing semi-seedless fruit. A comparison of nonpollinated flowers of T 286, `Delite', and `Tifblue' showed no differences in ovule count, and comparisons of ovules at 10, 20, and 40 days from manual cross-pollination showed no obvious evidence of embryo abortion. Manually cross-pollinated flowers contained 85, 60, and 38 seeds per fruit for `Delite', `Tifblue', and T 286, respectively. Open-pollinated fruit of T 286 had a seed count similar to that of open-pollinated `Tifblue' but possessed significantly heavier fruit. The number of seed in T 286 and `Tifblue' indicates a tendency toward parthenocarpy.
EFFECTS OF GAS COMPOSITION DURING PRIMING OF sh2 MAIZE SEEDS
Authors: Davidson K.G.V. , Moore F.D. , Roos E.E. , Vertucci C.W.
Published: February 2019

Sweet corn with the shrunken-2 (sh2) gene is characterized by poor seed emergence and low seedling vigor. Also, this variety is sensitive to flooded conditions. Our objective was to determine the effects of aeration, during priming treatment, on germination and vigor. Priming consisted of aerating sh2 maize seed during soaking then drying on a lab bench overnight under a fan. Fifty seeds at a time were soaked (25 ± 2C) in 100 ml deionized water. During this time they received either 75% O2: 25% N2, pure N2, pure CO2, or no gas (soak control) for up to 6 hours. The flow rates ranged from 0.35 to 2 standard liters per minute for 75% O2: 25% N2, 0.8 to 2.5 for N2, and 0.5 to 1.3 for CO2. Pressure was held constant at 1 psi. All samples were weighed before soaking, immediately after soaking, and again upon partial drying. Germination was counted after 7 days using the rolled paper towel method (25 ± 1C). Radicle lengths were measured after 72 hours. Oxygen (75%) increased vigor. Also, O2 permitted greater water absorption (P < 0.02). Carbon dioxide and N2 both decreased vigor. Data suggest that aeration conditions (75% O2) during the hydration treatment has beneficial effects.
IMPROVING SWEET CORN FERTILIZER-NITROGEN EFFICIENCY
Authors: Miles Carol A.
Published: February 2019

Improving sweet corn fertilizer-N efficiency promotes a more vigorous and healthy crop, rewards the grower with greater profits, and protects our water resources from nitrate-N pollution. Two areas of research that have the potential to improve the efficiency of fertilizer-N applications are the Minolta SPAD 502 chlorophyll meter and the presidedress soil N test. The SP meter is a rapid and nondestructive technique for assessing sweet corn leaf levels, and SP readings have been correlated to leaf N concentration. A presidedress soil N test measures the amount of soil N that will be available to the plant during the remainder of the growing season. SP meter readings combined with presidedress soil N analyses may be used to determine crop N needs and fertilizer-N sidedress application rates. Basing fertilizer-N sidedress application rates on actual crop N needs will reduce excess fertilizer-N applications and the resulting leaching of nitrates.
INHERITANCE OF PANSY-LIP IN DENDROBIUM
Authors: Kamemoto H. , Amore T.D.
Published: February 2019

A peloric form of the labellum or lip of Dendrobium appeared in a hybrid registered by D'Bush Nursery of Australia as Dendrobium D'Bush Pansy in 1988. Unlike the typical lip of Dendrobium, the lip of D'Bush Pansy is similar to the two lateral sepals, and the flat petals and sepals resemble those of the pansy, hence the name D'Bush Pansy. A few seedlings of D'Bush Pansy were obtained from Australia through Bangkok Flowers in 1989. D'Bush Pansy crossed to several Dendrobium plants with normal lip produced offspring with normal lip, indicating that pansy-lip is recessive to normal-lip. Three F1 offspring backcrossed to the pansy-lip parent produced 1:1 ratios, and one F2 progeny segregated into 3 normal-lip: 1 pansy-lip. Thus, pansylip is controlled by a single recessive gene pair.
DNA FINGERPRINTING IN RHODODENDRONS USING RANDOM AMPLIFIED POLYMORPHIC DNA
Authors: Sakakibara Stacey M. , Carlson John E.
Published: February 2019

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were evaluated for use in DNA fingerprinting of commercial Rhododendron cultivars. DNA was isolated from Rhododendron leaves and subjected to PCR amplification with single primers, 10 nucleotides in length, and of arbitrary sequence. Amplification products were visualized by agarose gel electrophoresis and ethidium bromide staining. Fingerprints were readily identifiable for a number of cultivars, and a high level of polymorphism was observed among clones of 10 rhododendron varieties. The technique was consistently reproducible in different trials using the thermocycler, between different thermocyclers, and using different DNA isolation from the same plant. This method will be applied to large-scale fingerprinting of Rhododendron cultivars and for distinguishing material propagated in tissue culture.
SYSTEMATICS OF TRILLIUM OVATUM L FORMA HIBBERSONII TAYLOR & SZCZAWINSKI
Authors: O'Neill Darlene
Published: February 2019

The forma now known as Trillium ovatum L. forma hibbersonii Taylor & Szczawinski (Liliaceae) was first discovered on the west coast of Vancouver Island, B.C., in 1938 by Jack Arthur Hibberson (Holotype UBC 73131). The obvious morphological differences that characterize the forma hibbersonii from T. ovatum are the dwarfing of all its parts, pink not white flower color at anthesis, and narrow lanceolate leaves. Although it has gained popularity as a garden plant, it has received very little attention in the scientific community. A description and designation as a distinct species (T. hibbersonii) was published by L. Wiley in 1968 but was considered invalid. The 1975 valid publication by T.M.C. Taylor and A.F. Szczawinski designated this taxon at the intraspecific level of forma. The present study was initiated to provide a comprehensive reevaluation of the taxonomic status: forma, separate species, subspecies, or variety? A change in taxonomic status from forma to species would elevate the taxon from rare to endangered status. This study considers morphological differences and flavonoid analysis of samples from both natural populations and cultivated plants. Habitat, dormancy requirements, and breeding strategy also were considered. Initial investigation using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) indicates this method is another valuable tool for distinguishing between the taxa.
FRAGRANCE IN ANTHURIUM
Authors: Kuanprasert N. , Kuehnle A.R. , Tang C.S.
Published: February 2019

Flowers emit volatile compounds that attract pollinators. In ornamental plant breeding programs, fragrance is a significant character that adds value to flowers for its consumer appeal. In Hawaii, anthurium (Araceae) is an important crop used for cut flowers and flowering potted plants. Unlike other ornamentals, fragrance is not presently associated with commercial anthuriums. However, several anthurium species are known to have distinctive scents. To obtain the novelty trait of fragrance in anthurium, an understanding of anthurium scent genetics, physiology, and chemistry is required. Scented anthurium species and hybrids in the Univ. of Hawaii germplasm collection have been studied. Fragrance emission among species varies with time of day—some species being scented only in the morning, only at night, or all day long. Fragrance emission also varies with stage of spadix development, with some species having scent as pistillate and/or staminate flowers. The species sampled comprise five categories: A. amnicola, A. formosum, and A. lindenianum are minty; A. armeniense is sweet; A. gracile is floral; A. bicollectivum, A. cerrobaulense, A. folsomii, and A. harleyii are fruity; and A. supianum is fishy. Some of the chemical components are illustrated.
EFFECTS OF REGENERANT WASTEWATER IRRIGATION ON GROWTH AND ION UPTAKE OF LANDSCAPE PLANTS
Authors: Wu Lin , Chen Janquo , Lin Hong , Van Mantgem Phillip , Harivandi M. Ali , Harding James A.
Published: February 2019

The effects of regenerant wastewater irrigation and high concentrations of Ca2+, K+, Mg2+, and Cl– on growth and ion uptake of nine species of landscape plants were studied. Significant differences in chloride tolerance were detected among the species. Generally, the species that had greater uptake of chloride grew less than species that took up less amounts of chloride. Lace fern (Athyrium filix-femina Roth.) had the highest tissue Cl concentration and was the most affected. Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla Ser.) also had high tissue Cl concentration, but showed no growth reduction. Its tolerance was attributable to a high tissue Ca concentration. The data suggest that in the species tested, higher tissue Ca concentrations were positively correlated with plant tolerance to Cl. Overall, the Cl– concentration in the wastewater seems to be the factor most likely to create problems for the landscape plants. However, severe negative effects will probably be noticed only for very sensitive plant species, but it is important to determine this before applying regenerant irrigation water.
TRAINING LANDSCAPE MANAGERS VIA SATELLITE TELECONFERENCE
Authors: Rupp Larry A. , Sagers Larry
Published: February 2019

The fabled “wide open spaces” of the west make travel an integral, though expensive, part of most extension programs. As an alternative, Utah State Univ. has been successful in targeting a major extension audience for service via satellite teleconferences. The audience we have worked with consists primarily of landscape managers at institutional facilities, such as schools, cities, churches, hospitals, and parks, who do not have formal training in horticulture. The primary impetus and key to the success of this program is a collaboration between the university (provides content material and production) and an outside institution (provides satellite broadcasting and receives employee training). As a result, the program simultaneously reaches three main audiences: employees of the partnering institution, county extension audiences throughout the state, and any private party with a satellite who watches. Keys to the success of this program include a statewide system of satellite dishes at all county extension offices, close collaboration between content and distance-learning specialists, marketing assistance to county agents, endorsement of the program for employee training by employers, a workbook to supplement broadcast material, administrative support, and careful identification of the target audience. Concepts we are struggling with include bridging regional to national audiences and improved marketing.
SELF-LEARNING: CD-ROM INSTRUCTION AND AUTHORING
Authors: Poe Stephen E.
Published: February 2019

A fundamental concern of agricultural education is innovation within the teaching process. In dealing with high technology, increasing subject complexity, and rising costs, educators (including plant managers and training personnel) must look to alternative methods of training and teaching. Educational multimedia software can effectively present a new dimension to traditional computer-assisted instruction (CAI) by adding sound, animation, high-resolution graphics, and live-action video. Multimedia software is not difficult to program; however, the ease of programming depends on the authoring language or languages that are used. A traditional language such as C++ can take extended periods of time to program, possibly hours per minute of program. A program developed specifically for multimedia development can facilitate the interactions between sound, videos, and animation more readily, and reduce the programming time required significantly. The use and development of multimedia software using Toolbook (Asymetrix Corp.) will be presented with copies of the developed software available.
Modeling Flower Bud Elongation in Easter Lily (Lilium longiflorum Thunb.) in Response to Temperature
Authors: Fisher P.R. , Lieth J.H. , Heins R.D.
Published: February 2019

A model was developed to quantify the response of Easter lily (`Nellie White') flower bud elongation to average air temperature. Plants were grown in greenhouses set at 15, 18, 21, 24, or 27C after they had reached the visible bud stage. An exponential model fit the data with an R2 of 0.996. The number of days until open flowering could be predicted using the model because buds consistently opened when they were 16 cm long. The model was validated against data sets of plants grown under constant and varying greenhouse temperatures at three locations, and it was more accurate and mathematically simpler than a previous bud elongation model. Bud length can be used by lily growers to predict the average temperature required to achieve a target flowering date, or the flowering date at a given average temperature. The model can be implemented in a computer decision-support system or in a tool termed a bud development meter.
Modifying a Soilless Root Medium with Aluminum Influences Phosphorus Retention and Chrysanthemum Growth
Authors: Williams Kimberly A. , Nelson Paul V.
Published: February 2019

Soilless container root media have little capacity to retain P, and preplant amendments of triple superphosphate (TSP) and water-soluble fertilizer (WSF) P applications are readily leached from them. A soilless medium modified with Al2(SO4)3 was tested to reduce such P losses. Aluminum sulfate solutions were applied to a 70 sphagnum peat: 30 perlite (v/v) medium to result in 0.32, 0.96, and 1.92 kg Al/m3 and dried at 70C. Adsorption isotherms (25C, 0 to 500 mg P/liter) showed that P retention increased as the rate of Al addition increased. In a greenhouse study, plants of Dendranthema ×grandiflorum (Ramat.) Kitamura `Sunny Mandalay' were grown in Al-modified media and an unmodified medium in factorial combination with P from preplant amendment of 0.1 kg TSP-P/m3, or P applied at each watering as WSF at rates of 5.5 or 21.8 mg P/liter. The two highest rates of Al were excessive and resulted in low pH and excessive soluble Al levels in the root medium solution early in the cropping cycle, which were detrimental to plant growth. When the root medium was modified with 0.32 kg Al/m3, soluble Al levels in medium solution were not significantly different than in the unmodified control. TSP-P that leached was substantially reduced by the addition of Al, yet sufficient P was released throughout the cropping cycle for adequate plant growth. Plants grown in Al-modified medium with 0.1 kg TSP-P/m3 did not differ from control plants in unmodified medium + 0.27 kg TSP-P/m3 and were larger than plants grown in unmodified medium + 0.1 kg TSP-P/m3. Aluminum modification of the root medium substantially reduced P leaching when used with WSF containing P. In addition, growth of plants in unmodified medium fertilized with 5.5 vs. 21.8 mg P/liter was similar.
Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Analysis of Dry Turfgrass Seed
Authors: Sweeney Patricia , Golembiewski Robert , Danneberger Karl
Published: February 2019

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers from leaf tissue extractions are effective for discrimination of turfgrass varieties. The usefulness of RAPD markers for turfgrass variety identification can be enhanced by use of seed rather than leaf tissue for DNA extraction. To determine whether DNA extracted from turfgrass seed was suitable for amplification, DNA was extracted from bulk samples and individual seeds of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.], chewings fescue (Festuca rubra var. commutata Gaud.), Poa annua L., Poa supina Schrad., creeping bentgrass [Agrostis stolonifera L. var. palustrus (Huds.) Farw.], Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.). All samples were successfully amplified using an arbitrary primer. Amplification intensity varied among species. With an almost infinite number of arbitrary primers available, it is likely that suitable primers can be found to amplify DNA from most turfgrass species. Amplification of turfgrass seed DNA, whether bulk or individual seed, is possible and should prove more useful than amplification of leaf tissue DNA for discrimination of turfgrass varieties.
Modified-atmosphere Packaging of Grapes and Strawberries Fumigated with Acetic Acid
Authors: Moyls A.L. , Sholberg P.L. , Gaunce A.P.
Published: February 2019

A fumigation technique using brief exposure of fruit to a low concentration of acetic acid vapor was combined with modified-atmosphere packaging to reduce storage rots and increase shelf life of grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) and strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) by two or three times normal values. Both commodities were inoculated with spores of Botrytis cinerea Pers. before fumigation with acetic acid, packaging, and storage at lowered O2 levels. Fumigation with acetic acid at 8.0 mg·L–1 followed by modified-atmosphere packaging for 74 days at 0 °C reduced the percentage of rotted grapes from 94% to 2%. Strawberries fumigated with acetic acid at 5.4 mg·L–1 were free of decay compared to 89% rotted for the control fruit stored for 14 days at 5 °C.
Reaction of Select Tepary Bean to Bean Golden Mosaic Virus
Authors: Miklas Phillip N. , Santiago Jose
Published: February 2019

Cultivated tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray var. latifolius Freeman) has potential for production during the hot, dry seasons in the tropics. Bean golden mosaic virus (BGMV), however, seriously limits production of Phaseolus spp. in such environments. Twelve select tepary beans were evaluated for reaction to BGMV across four field nurseries near Isabela, Puerto Rico. Disease reaction was principally determined by measurement of seed yield (kg·ha–1) and weight (g 100/seeds). All tepary beans possessed some tolerance to BGMV, as they produced comparatively moderate seed yield despite expression of severe foliar yellow mosaic symptoms. On average, tepary bean yielded 133% of the BGMV-resistant dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) control `Dorado'. Four teparies, Neb-T-6-s, GN-610-s, Neb-T-8a-s, and PI 321637-s, expressed superior tolerance to BGMV as they yielded above the trial mean in at least three of four trials. Harvested seed quality was uniformly poor across all lines, averaging 18% less weight than in the non-BGMV trials. The combination of the observed tolerance with escape mechanisms and cultural disease control practices may enable production of tepary bean in regions and seasons that experience moderate to severe BGMV epidemics.
Field and Greenhouse Procedures to Evaluate Onions for Botrytis Leaf Blight Resistance
Authors: Walters Thomas W. , Ellerbrock LeRoy A. , van der Heide Jan J. , Lorbeer James W. , LoParco David P.
Published: February 2019

Greenhouse and field methods were developed to screen Allium spp. for resistance to botrytis leaf blight (causal agent Botrytis squamosa Walker). In greenhouse evaluations, plants were sprayed with laboratory-grown mycelial fragment inoculum and were incubated at 20C in a chamber with an atomizing fogger. For field inoculations, a portable fog system with windbreaks was erected around experimental plots, and the plants were sprayed with the inoculum on evenings when windless, temperate (18 to 22C) conditions were forecasted. The most effective mycelial fragment inoculum was <21 days old and had ≈45 to 50 colony-forming units/μl, resulting in an absorbance at 450 nm of 0.2 to 0.3. Rubbing the wax cuticle from leaves was essential to disease development in greenhouse but not in field experiments. Evaluations of eight Allium species, including 55 A. cepa L. accessions, were in agreement with previous studies.
Defoliation and Infestation of Cucurbita pepo Genotypes by Diabroticite Beetles
Authors: Hoffmann Michael P. , Robinson Richard W. , Kyle Margaret M. , Kirkwyland Jonathan J.
Published: February 2019

Seventy-six Cucurbita pepo L. cultivars and breeding lines were evaluated under field conditions for infestation levels and defoliation (leaf area consumed by beetles) by adult diabroticite beetles in 1992 and 1994. Striped and spotted cucumber beetles, Acalymma vittatum (F.) and Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi Barber, respectively, were most common, but some western and northern corn rootworms, D. virgifera virgifera LeConte and D. barberi Smith and Lawrence, respectively, also were present. In general, pumpkin, delicata, acorn winter squash, scallop, and yellow straightneck summer squash types were the least infested and defoliated. Caserta/yellow, zucchini, caserta/zucchini, caserta, and precocious yellow straightneck types were the most infested and defoliated. The number of beetles per plant was correlated (r ≥ 0.72) with leaf defoliation and proportion of plants infested, indicating that beetle infestation is a good predictor of damage. The cultivars and breeding lines that were the least infested and defoliated can be used in breeding programs to develop desirable genotypes with reduced beetle preference. Conversely, those genotypes that were highly preferred have potential as trap crops for these beetle pests.
Fruit Characteristics and Sensory Attributes of an Ideal Sweet Cherry
Authors: Kappel Frank , Fisher-Fleming Bob , Hogue Eugene
Published: February 2019

The relationship between the objective assessment of analytical measures of sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) fruit quality and the corresponding sensory panel rating was studied. The optimum size, based on average fruit weight, for sweet cherries was 11 to 12 g. A nine-row or 29- to 30-mm-diameter sweet cherry would be the equivalent industry standard. When two separate panels were conducted with overlapping samples, panelists had similar results for optimum fruit size. The optimum color is represented by the #6 color chip of the prototype of the Centre Technique Interprofessionnel des Fruits et Légumes (CTIFL) scale (#5 in new commercial CTIFL chart). A fruit firmness between 70 and 75 using a Shore Instrument durometer was considered optimum. Minimum soluble solids concentration (SSC) for sweet cherries was between 17% and 19% and optimum pH of the juice was 3.8. The optimum sweet–sour balance was between 1.5 and 2 (SSC/ml NaOH).