bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inheritance of a New Trait—Twin Fused Fruit—in Cucumber
Authors: Klosinska Urszula , Kozik Elzbieta U. , Wehner Todd C.
Published: February 2019

A new trait, twin fused fruit, was discovered in gynoecious cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) line B 5263. Plants with the twin fused fruit trait had two fruit fused into a single unit. In addition to having the twin fused fruit trait, line B 5263 had fruit with necks, large tubercles (warts), and dark green skin. The inheritance of twin fused fruit was studied in populations resulting from crosses between gynoecious line B 5263 (twin fused fruit) and monoecious line B 5404 (single fruit). Research was done in 1999 to 2001 in the greenhouses of the Research Institute of Vegetable Crops, Skierniewice, Poland. The F1 progeny developed single fruit in all cases. The observed distribution of plant phenotypes in the F2 fitted the expected ratio of 3 with single fruit: 1 with twin fused fruit. The observed distribution of plant phenotypes in the BC1A fitted the expected ratio of 1 with single fruit: 1 with twin fused fruit. Twin fused fruit occurred only in gynoecious plants, and never in monoecious plants of the cross. In the F2 progeny, the ratio of twin fused fruit within gynoecious plants fitted the expected ratio but the gene was not expressed in monoecious plants. In the F2 generation, the observed distribution of plant phenotypes fitted the expected ratio of 9 gynoecious single: 4 monoecious single: 3 gynoecious twin fused: 0 monoecious twin fused, indicating that there was epistasis, with twin fused fruit hypostatic to monoecious. The new gene will be named tf (twin fused fruit).
Chromosomal Locations of Microsatellites in Onion
Authors: Masuzaki Shinichi , Araki Naoyuki , Yamauchi Naoki , Yamane Naoko , Wako Tadayuki , Kojima Akio , Shigyo Masayoshi
Published: February 2019

Bulb onion (Allium cepa L.) has a very large genome composed of a high proportion of repetitive DNAs. Genetic analyses of repetitive sequences may reveal microsatellites in order to increase the number of genetic markers in onion. Thirty microsatellites were previously isolated from an onion genomic library (Fischer and Bachmann, 2000). A complete set of Japanese bunching onion (A. fistulosum) – shallot (A. cepa Aggregatum group) monosomic addition lines were used to assign these microsatellites to the chromosomes of A. cepa. Simplified PCR conditions for each microsatellite were determined and 28 of the 30 primer pairs amplified DNA fragments, of which 21 microsatellite markers were assigned to chromosomes of A. cepa. Subsequent mapping of these microsatellites will enable us to establish the chromosomal distribution of these markers.
Effects of Honey Bee Pollination on Pumpkin Fruit and Seed Yield
Authors: Walters S. Alan , Taylor Bradley H.
Published: February 2019

The objective of this study was to measure honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) impact on seed set, fruit set, and yield of jack-o-lantern (Cucurbita pepo L.), large-sized (C. maxima Duch.), and processing pumpkins (C. moschata Duch. ex Poir.) under field conditions. There were sufficient natural pollinators [including bumblebees (Bombus spp.), carpenter bees (Xylocopa spp.), honey bees, and squash bees (Peponapis pruinosa Say)] provided under field conditions to induce fruit set of jack-o-lantern pumpkins as fruit number obtained per hectare was not affected by the addition of a honey bee colony. However, the addition of honey bees did increase fruit number per hectare of the C. moschata and C. maxima cultivars evaluated. Honey bee pollination resulted in larger-sized fruit, increasing individual fruit size of all but small-sized pumpkins (<0.5 kg). Individual pumpkin fruit weights of the Cucurbita pepo, C. moschata, and C. maxima cultivars evaluated increased by about, 26%, 70%, and 78%, respectively, when honey bee colonies were included. Natural pollination was insufficient to stimulate maximum fruit size development and seed number and seed weight per fruit. Although pumpkin fruit set will occur with natural pollinators, the addition of honey bee colonies will ensure the presence of pollinators to maximize fruit size. Since pumpkins are generally sold on a weight basis, growers may generate greater revenues with the addition of honey bee colonies in pumpkin fields.
In Vitro Adventitious Shoot Regeneration of Native Spearmint Using Internodal Explants
Authors: Poovaiah Charleson R , Weller Stephen C , Jenks Matthew A
Published: February 2019

An in vitro shoot regeneration procedure was developed for native spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) using internodal explants. Shoot regeneration from internodes was evaluated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media supplemented with individual cytokinins thidiazuron (TDZ), benzylaminopurine (BA), kinetin (KT), or zeatin (ZT) or various pair wise combinations of these. The highest regeneration was achieved by the second internode on a medium containing MS basal salts, B5 vitamins, 10% coconut water, 1.0 mg·L–1 TDZ, 2.5 mg·L–1 ZT, and solidified with 0.2% phytagel. Unlike previous protocols this medium does not need sub culturing and produces elongated shoots in 4 weeks, rather than 6 weeks. Maximum number of shoots (36 per explant after 4 weeks) was observed when internodes from 2-week-old stock plants were used as explant source. The shoots were removed and roots were initiated on medium containing MS basal salts, 0.4 mg·L–1 thiamine-HCL, 100 mg·L–1 myo-inositol, 7.5 g·L–1 agar and 0.01 mg·L–1 ∝-napthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and then plants were transferred to the greenhouse 2 weeks after root initiation, where 100% of the plantlets developed into healthy plants.
Dynamics and Distribution of Nutrients during the Development of Plantlets of Habanero Pepper
Authors: Martínez-Estévez Manuel , Ruiz-Lau Nancy , May-Uluac Rita Elena , Guzmán-Antonio Adolfo , Quintal-Tun Fausto , Pacheco-Arjona Ramón
Published: February 2019

Dynamics and distribution of K, Ca, Mg, P, and Na were studied in leaves of three cultivars of habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) at the time of transplanting and 8 and 14 weeks afterward. Most nutrients analyzed were mobilized from younger to mature leaves, except for P, which occurred in the opposite direction, probably due to its role in the synthesis of nucleic acids, which is more active in young tissues. Information about mineral distribution in leaves during the first 14 weeks after transplantation could be used to indicate plant nutritional status and fertilizer requirements.
ETHYLENE IN STORAGE: AN EVALUATION OF THREE INFLUENTIAL FACTORS ON TULIP BULBS' SENSITIVITY TO ETHYLENE DURING POSTHARVEST SHIPPING AND STORAGE
Authors: Liou Susan S. , Watkins Chris B. , Miller William B.
Published: February 2019

During transport and the subsequent storage of tulip bulbs, inadvertent failure in ventilation and/or high contamination of Fusarium-infected bulbs may expose healthy bulbs to high concentrations of ethylene. Ethylene is known to cause many detrimental effects on forcing quality, including gummosis, increased respiration, flower bud abortion, bulb splitting and poor rooting. In this work, exposure duration and timing as well as the post-stress storage temperatures were evaluated for their potential effects on ethylene sensitivity in bulbs of four tulip cultivars. Degree of damage in sensitive cultivars `Apeldoorn' and `World's Favourite' increased with days at about 10 ppm ethylene starting at 9 and 16 days respectively. This effect strongly depended on timing of ethylene stress, as late treated bulbs showed more severe responses to ethylene treatment than early treated bulbs. Additionally, bulbs that were cooled immediately after ethylene stress, compared with those stored at 17 °C after stress, have significantly higher flowering quality in all attributes measured. This response was also strongly dependent on timing of ethylene stress and cultivar. Implications of the potential cold reversal of ethylene damage as well as effects of ethylene exposure duration and timing of stress on shipping and storage recommendations will be discussed.
STORAGE TEMPERATURE AND RELATIVE HUMIDITY EFFECTS ON QUALITY AND ANTIOXIDANT COMPOSITION OF STRAWBERRY FRUIT
Authors: Shin Youngjae , Nock Jackie F. , Liu Rui Hai , Watkins Christopher B.
Published: February 2019

The New York strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) industry is focused on sale of relatively short term storage cultivars that are ripe at harvest. Although storage of harvested fruit at low temperatures is generally recommended, growers have reported reduced fruit quality in the market after low temperature storage. Therefore we have explored the potential for using intermediate temperatures for strawberry storage. Physical qualities and antioxidant composition of the Jewel cultivar stored in 75%, 85%, or 95% RH at 0.5, 10, and 20 °C for 4 days have been studied. Overall quality declined more rapidly at 20 °C, especially at 95% RH, than at 10 °C and 0.5 °C. There was little change in weight loss at 0.5, 10, and 20 °C for 2 days but it increased at the lowest RH at 10 °C and increased rapidly from day 3 at 20 °C in lower RHs. Firmness was maintained, or even increased, at 0.5 or 10 °C than 20 °C, but soluble solids concentrations were lower at higher than lower storage temperatures. Red color development and anthocyanin concentrations were controlled more at 0.5 or 10 °C than at 20 °C. Total phenolic compounds were higher at 20 °C than at other temperatures at all RHs. The total antioxidant capacity of berries was higher at 10 °C than at 0.5 or 20 °C. However, total ascorbic acid concentrations, flavonoid contents, and were not affected by RH and temperature. In conclusion, while the best temperature for long term storage is 0.5 °C, quality can be maintained at 10 °C for acceptable periods of time. High RH environments increase the loss of quality at higher storage temperatures. Higher storage temperatures may cause faster ripening and accumulation of antioxidant compounds, but marketable quality of the fruit may be reduced.
GENE EXPRESSION AND ACTIVITIES OF CELL WALL-ASSOCIATED ENZYMES IN COLD-STORED TOMATO FRUIT
Authors: Rugkong Adirek , Rose Jocelyn K.C. , Watkins Chris B.
Published: February 2019

Tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum L.) can develop mealiness and enhanced softening when exposed to chilling temperatures during storage, but the involvement of cell wall-associated enzymes in chilling injury development is not well understood. To study this aspect of injury development, we have exposed breaker-stage `Trust' tomato fruit to a chilling temperature of 3 °C for 0, 7, 14, and 21 days followed by storage at 20 °C for 12 days. Ethylene production was not affected by storage except after 21 days where production was greater at 20 °C. Exposure of fruit to chilling temperatures delayed the ripening-related color change (chroma and hue) and initially increased compression values, but percent extractable juice was not affected consistently. Increased polygalacturonase (PG) activity during ripening was reduced by about 50% after 7 days at 3 °C, and further inhibited with increasing storage periods. In contrast, the activities of pectin methylesterase (PME) and α-galactosidase were not significantly affected by the cold treatments. β-Galactosidase activity was greater in all chilled fruit compared with fruit ripened at harvest, whereas endo-β-1,4-glucanase activity was lower after 21 days at 3 °C. In chilled fruits, transcript accumulations for PG, PME (PME1.9), and expansin (Expt.1) were lower during storage at 20 °C compared with those of nonchilled fruits. Transcript accumulation for β-galactosidase (TBG4) was affected only at 14 days of cold storage, when transcript accumulation decreased. Cold treatment increased transcript accumulation of endo-β-1,4-glucanase (Cel1) after 12 days at 20 °C and decreased transcript accumulation after 7 days and 21 days at 21 °C. Cell wall analyses to investigate relationships among enzyme activities and cell wall disassembly are ongoing.
A STUDY OF THE LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN NEW JERSEY IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM
Authors: DiNardo Madeline Flahive , Flagler Joel
Published: February 2019

In a 1998-99 survey of the landscape service industry in northern New Jersey, professionals predicted an average growth rate of 41% for the years 1998–2003. How close did their prediction come to the growth rate experienced by the industry? In 1999, top issues facing the industry were labor, political recognition, access to capital and regulations. How did events during the early years of the new millennium effect the industry? Landscape professionals (159) participating in a 2005 study of the industry reported an average business growth rate of 38% from 1998–2003. The terrorist attacks of 11 Sept. 2001 had consequences for 45% of the businesses; 49 experienced an average decrease in sales of 17%. Drought conditions in 2002 with state mandated water use restrictions effected 100 of the participants' businesses; 51% of whom lost an average of 21% in sales. The drought was followed by a rainy spring season in 2003. The rains hindered 57 of the businesses, 22 reporting a 3% average decrease in sales. There were events that had positive impacts on 48% of the businesses. Low interest rates, building construction and renovation and expansion of services were cited as opportunities for growth. The participants ranked environmental regulations, pesticide regulations, the availability of labor, labor regulations and vehicles/equipment as the top issues/challenges facing the industry in 2005. The landscape professionals predict an average business growth rate of 26% for 2005–2010.
AS THE GROWERS SEE IT: A SURVEY OF HURRICANE KATRINA DAMAGE TO NURSERY CROPS AND STRUCTURES IN MIAMI-DADE, FLORIDA
Authors: Garofalo Joe
Published: February 2019

There are 1,240 certified nurseries producing ornamentals in 14,000 acres in Miami-Dade Co., Fla. About half the acreage is tropical foliage plants produced under shade. A small percentage, mainly bedding plants and specialty crops, is in structures which are enclosed and heated during the winter. Total annual sales are near $1 billion. Official damage estimates are made by local, state, and federal agencies within 24 hours. after an event. According to these estimates, Hurricane Katrina resulted in crop losses of $370,650,000 in August. With 6 weeks, Hurricanes Rita and Wilma caused additional crop losses of $195,475,000. Katrina caused extensive flooding, with many woody plants under water for several days. Most of the damage to tropical foliage was from exposure to the sun after shade structures were torn apart. Katrina destroyed 60% of the covered acreage, and Wilma destroyed another 20%. With assistance of the Miami–Dade chapter of the Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association, growers were asked to estimate their losses. On average they saw their losses as at least twice the official estimates.
SUITABLE REGIONS FOR BLUEBERRY GROWING IN CHINA
Authors: Hong Yu , Creech D. , Chuanyong Wang , Yin Gu , Shanan He
Published: February 2019

The native species of Vaccinium are distributed in both northeast and south of China but more species are in the South. Ecologically, there is a vast territory in the South with acidic soils and plenty of precipitation and warm weather. On the other hand in the northeast regions temperature in winter is usually a problem for cultivated blueberries and protection from freezing is necessary for young plantations. Based on the result of introduction of cultivars, including rabbiteye, southern highbush and lowbush blueberries, in both northern and southern parts in China during the last 2 decades authors suggested that the most prospective regions for blueberry growing could be mostly in south of China. In the between of the two regions the natural ecological conditions are not appropriate for blueberry growing but plantations under plastic film appeared relatively vigorous. 12 rabbiteye blueberry cultivars have been tested in the south and the performance of growth and fruiting are good. It is expected that the average of yield could reach about 15 t·ha–1. The quality of fruits is similar to that of the natives in North America. Up to now there are less insects and diseases damages. It seems that the regions in the south of Changjiang (Yangtze) River provide good conditions for blueberry commercial growing.
CURRENT RESEARCH PROGRAMS AT THE USDA–ARS CITRUS AND SUBTROPICAL PRODUCTS LABORATORY
Authors: Baldwin Elizabeth
Published: February 2019

The USDA–ARS Citrus and Subtropical Products Laboratory is a food science and postharvest facility for fresh and processed fruits and vegetables of tropical and subtropical origin. The term “tropical” is extended to vegetables grown during the summer of temperate climates like tomato. There are also projects involving strawberry and blueberry since these are important crops for Florida. The majority of the work, however, is on citrus (70%). There are four projects at the facility including quality and by-product research. The two quality projects involve work on juice (mainly citrus juices) and fresh fruit flavor. The other quality project includes work on edible coatings or other surface treatments to reduce decay, water loss and to improve of the appearance of fresh or fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. The two by-product projects aim to develop products from citrus processing waste. One project mines citrus waste for edible fiber, nutraceuticals and compounds in grapefruit that enhance uptake of certain drugs. The other by-product project seeks to develop industrial products from the carbohydrates in citrus peel such as suspension aids and fuel ethanol.
EFFECTS OF NITROGEN RATES ON SUMMER SQUASH GROWTH AND YIELD
Authors: Esmel Camille E. , Santos Bielinski M. , Gilreath James P.
Published: February 2019

Nitrogen (N) is the most growth-limiting for vegetable production in sandy soils. In Florida, current recommendations for preplanting N applications (100 lb/acre of N) in `Crookneck' summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) differ from those used by the growers (>200 lb/acre). Therefore, two field studies were conducted in Ruskin and Balm, Fla., to examine the effect of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 lb/acre of N on summer squash growth and yield. Variables collected during this study were plant vigor (0–10 scale, where 0 = dead plant) at 3 and 7 weeks after planting (WAP), petiole sap nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) at 4 and 8 WAS, and marketable yield starting on 4 WAS (13 and 10 harvests in Ruskin and Balm, respectively). In Ruskin, plant vigor increased linearly with N rates, whereas there was no significant N effect in Balm. No differences in petiole sap NO3-N were observed in either location. In Ruskin, there was a rapid marketable yield increase (§25%) between 50 and 100 lb/acre of N, followed by no change afterwards. In contrast, there was no yield response in Balm. In the latter location, no crop had been established in the previous 3 years, enabling the soil to maximize its organic N accumulation (>40 lb/acre organic-N), whereas in Ruskin the experimental location had been continuously planted during the last three seasons (§25 lb/acre organic-N). The data demonstrated that organic N is an important source of the nutrient to complement preplant applications in summer squash.
EARLY SEASON PRODUCTION OF TOMATOES AND STRAWBERRIES IN HIGH TUNNELS IN ALABAMA
Authors: Kemble J.M. , Sanders P. , Foshee W. , Fields D.
Published: February 2019

High tunnels (HT) can reduce negative environmental strains on crop production and have been shown to extend the growing season for many small fruits and vegetables. Because HTs require relatively low initial investment compared with standard greenhouse structures, they are well suited for the small to mid-size grower. HTs provide a practical means of entry into intensive crop production for farmers who direct market their produce. By using HTs, direct market farmers may create a special marketing niche which set's them apart by offering locally grown vegetables, cut flowers, small fruits, and herbs earlier in the growing season and into the fall after frost. This project examined 1) the potential use of HTs for the production of fresh-market tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and strawberries (Fragaria spp.) and 2) the seasonal market potential for these crops in Alabama. Viable markets were determined by conducting surveys at regional locations throughout Alabama, such as farmers markets, grocery stores, shopping centers, etc. Upscale restaurants were also surveyed to determine the demand for locally grown herbs. These surveys were used to determine target markets by asking demographic questions and determining spending habits. Justification for establishing a direct farmer-to-consumer market or a direct farmer to restaurant market for HT products was determined.
INFLUENCE OF COMPOST ON VEGETABLE CROP NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
Authors: Sanders D.C. , Reyes L.M. , Monks D.W. , Jennings K.M. , Louws F.J. , Driver J.G.
Published: February 2019

Tomato, pepper and cucumber were grown for consecutive years using compost from two North Carolina cities (Lexington and Edenton) and McGill Composts (CMC) sources and CMC amended with Tracoderma 382. Treatments included compost with an untreated control and Telone C-35 (Telone) with and without additional fertilizer. The objective was to evaluate compost influence on yield and pest management. Results showed significant differences between treatments and among years. Cucumber and pepper had higher total and marketable yields in 2005 than in 2004. Although tomato yield was lower in 2005 than in 2004 it was evident that CMC+Telone had a higher marketable and total plant dry weight in both years. Two year data showed that combinations of treatments with CMC and Telone (Telone+fertilizer, CMC+Telone, CMC+T382) produced higher yield for tomato and cucumber. Composts from Lexington and Edenton produced more number 2 grade peppers, but treatments did not differ in total and marketable yield. In general compost treatments with or without amendments showed better results in crop yields than the control. Weed counts by species were determined on all plots. Pepper had the greatest number of weeds relative to cucumber and tomato. Organic amendments seem to increase the action of the compost source in several crops. Combination of treatments may depend on the particular crop.
IR4 UPDATE: NEW PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS BEING RESEARCHED FOR THE VEGETABLE CROPS INDUSTRY
Authors: Meister Charles
Published: February 2019

The IR4 Specialty Crops Program was established to assist in the registration of pest control products for minor uses. The National program, headquartered at Rutgers University and operating through four regions with a network of scientists in every state, develops lists of grower needs, prioritizes projects and develops protocols to secure EPA tolerances that lead to labels. Every year IR4 works on pest control products needed by the vegetable industry. Pest control products being researched for 2006 include Club root and wire stem control in crucifers with Ranman and Moncut: Lep. Larvae control in beans with Avaunt and Rimon; Phytopthora capsici control in peppers and squash; weed control in tomatoes with Reflex, Goal, and Dual Magnum and powdery mildew control in cucurbits. Research Projects were discussed and updated.
CHILLING REQUIREMENTS OF SELECTED FLORICANE AND PRIMOCANE-FRUITING BLACKBERRIES
Authors: Clark Dr. John R. , Carter P. Manjula
Published: February 2019

The chilling requirements of the University of Arkansas blackberry cultivars Apache, Ouachita, and Prime-Jim*, and the primocane-fruiting selections APF-25, APF-27, APF-40, APF-42, APF-44, APF-46, APF-52, and APF-53 were investigated using stem cuttings from field-grown plants. A biophenometer was used to measure chilling (hours below 7 °C) in the field and 12-node cuttings of lateral shoots were taken from the cultivars every 100 hours up to 1000 hours below 7 °C. However, only 500 chilling hours had occurred at the time of this writing, and the response of budbreak to higher chilling levels could not be reported. The cuttings were placed in a mistchamber in the greenhouse with a daylength of 16 hours and air temperature of 26–29 °C. Percent budbreak was measured weekly. The cultivar × chilling interaction was significant (P = 0.05). `Apache' and `Ouachita' showed little or no budbreak up to 500 h, indicating a higher chilling requirement. The chilling requirement of Prime-Jim was determined to be between 300 h and 400 h, and that of the APF selections appeared to be between 300 h and 500 h. The chilling requirement of APF-53 could not be determined since budbreak was consistent at all levels of chilling up to 500 h. In general, the primocane-fruiting genotypes appeared to require less chilling than floricane-fruiting `Apache' and `Ouachita', and they would therefore be more suitable for low-chill locations.
NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES OF ALLAMANDA NERIFOLIA
Authors: Gibson James L. , Groninger Jude , Wombles Sharon , Campbell Kathryn
Published: February 2019

Elemental deficiencies of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, or B were induced in plants of Allamanda nerifolia. Rooted stem cuttings were planted in 4.87-L plastic containers and fertilized with a complete modified Hoagland's solution or this solution minus the element that was to be investigated. Plants were harvested to measure dry weights when initial foliar symptoms were expressed and later under advanced deficiency symptoms. Deficiency symptoms for all treatments were observed within 6 weeks. The most dramatic expression of foliar symptoms occurred with N (yellow-green young leaves with necrotic tips), K (downward bending medium-green mature leaves with splotchy chlorosis), S (greenish-yellow young and youngest leaves), and Zn (young leaves with interveinal chlorosis from base to tip). At the initial stage, all nutrient-deficient plants had similar dry weights, when compared to the control. Dry weights of plants treated with solutions not containing N or P were significantly lower when compared to the control under an advanced deficiency. To help prevent the development of deficiencies, minimal critical tissue levels have to be determined for adaptation by the greenhouse industry for nutritional monitoring.
2005 HERBACEOUS ORNAMENTAL TRIALS IN CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI
Authors: Paridon Keri L. , Winter Norman , Evans William B. , Bi Guihong
Published: February 2019

Landscape trials were conducted to evaluate 235 cultivars within 66 species in central Mississippi. All entries were grown from seed or vegetatively propagated material. Raised landscape beds were prepared using accepted regional methods. Planting into beds began on 4 April and was completed on 20 April. Plants were given an overall rating based on insect resistance, disease resistance, vigor, flowering, and foliage color. Each cultivar was rated bimonthly until early August when pruning or termination was necessary, depending on each cultivar, at which time rating frequency became once a month through the first freeze. The rating range was 0 to 5, where 5 is optimum and 0 is death. Height (cm) was measured for each cultivar at the same intervals as performance ratings. Heights were recorded to show the average height of each cultivar. No herbicides were applied; handweeding controlled weeds. No insecticides were applied to plants with the exception of the hibiscus where there was severe pressure from sawfly larva. In 2005 central Mississippi experienced a very hot and dry summer. Strong winds and heavy rains in late August and early September associated with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita took their toll on the trial, especially many of the taller cultivars. The top performing cultivars for 2005 were `Intensia Lilac Rose' phlox (Phlox ×), Proven Winners; `Intensia Neon Pink' phlox (Phlox ×), Proven Winners; `Elliottii Wind Dancer' grass (Eragrostis curvula), Pan American Seed; `Intensia Lavender Glow' phlox (Phlox ×), Proven Winners; `Dolce Licorice' heuchera (Heuchera ×), Proven Winners; `Diamond Frost' euphorbia (Euphorbia ×), Proven Winners; `Gold Flake' mecardonia (Mecardonia ×), Proven Winners; `Titan Polka Dot' annual vinca (Catharanthus roseus), Ball Seed; `Sun Fan' scaevola (Scaevola aemula), Proven Winners; `Golden Delicious' salvia (Salvia elegans), Proven Winners.
PRODUCTION OF DELPHINIUM IN A TOBACCO TRANSPLANT GREENHOUSE
Authors: Niedziela Carl E. , Emerson Stephen A. , Yang Guochen
Published: February 2019

Plug seedlings of delphinium (Delphinium elatum L. `Guardian') were planted on 19 Nov. 2004 in four production systems (harvest lugs, lay-flat bags, pots, and polystyrene trays). Production systems were randomized in a Latin-square design with four replications of each system. Each treatment plot was 0.7 × 1.1 m. Planting density was 31 plants/m2. The harvest lugs were 55 × 37 × 16 cm. The lay-flat bags were 114 × 30 × 3 cm. The pots were 25 cm bulb pans. The polystyrene trays were 67 × 34 × 5 cm and contained 32 square cells. All of the containers were filled with the same tobacco germination media. The plants in the harvest lugs, lay-flat bags and pots were irrigated daily with 150 mg N/kg from 20N–4.4P–16.6K. The plants in the polystyrene trays were floated on a solution of 150 mg N/kg from 20N–4.4P–16.6K. Float solutions were monitored and adjusted weekly for volume and fertilizer concentration. Individual stems were harvested at the one-third bloom stage of development. The final harvest was on 1 Apr. 2005. Fewer stems were harvested from float trays and lay-flat bags than from pots and harvest lugs. The stems harvested from float tray plots were shorter than those from the other three systems. Stem fresh weight from greatest to least was lay-flat bags, harvest lugs, pots, and float trays. Stem dry weight was less for float trays than the other three systems.
EVALUATION OF COMMERCIAL BANANA CULTIVARS IN SOUTHERN GEORGIA FOR ORNAMENTAL AND NURSERY PRODUCTION
Authors: Krewer Gerard , Fonsah Esendugue Greg , Rieger Mark , Wallace Richard , Linvill David , Mullinix Ben
Published: February 2019

Bananas are a popular ornamental plant in the southern U.S. However, normally only a few cultivars, such as `Lady Finger' and `Orinoco', are grown in Georgia. Thirty-three primarily commercial cultivars of bananas were grown for two years near Savannah, Georgia to determine their suitability for ornamental and nursery production. Most plants were grown from tissue culture plugs. They where given rates of fertilization used for commercial banana fruit production. Most cultivars produced 10 to 14 leaves and grew to heights of 1.5 to 2.0 m. Some displayed desirable ornamental characteristics such as pink tinted pseudostems, colorful flowers, and large graceful leaves. Many of the cultivars flowered and began producing fruit in late summer, although only `1780', `Raja Puri' and `Sweetheart' produced palatable fruit before frost in November in some years. Cultivars were also rated for their ability to produce suckers that can be used for nursery production. In year two, `1780' and `Manzano' produced the largest number of high quality suckers for nursery production. For the planting as a whole, sales of suckers at a field day averaged $7/per plant in year 2 and $17/per plant in year 3.
MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY'S RESEARCH AND EDUCATION EFFORTS TO INCREASE NURSERY MECHANIZATION ACROSS THE GULF SOUTH
Authors: Coker Christine , Knight Patricia , Posadas Ben , Langlois Scott , Coker Randy
Published: February 2019

The greenhouse and nursery industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of the region's agricultural economy; however, a major problem facing this industry is a shortage of workers, particularly skilled workers. A recent national survey of commercial nursery/landscape operations listed labor shortage as the number one limitation facing the industry at the end of 2001. The target population of this project is greenhouse and nursery workers in the Gulf South. The goal of this project is to develop and identify automated systems that can be adapted by the highly diverse greenhouse and nursery industry. Adoption of this technology will improve working conditions for greenhouse and nursery workers, increase worker retention, improve worker safety, increase worker productivity, improve skill levels, and create new jobs related to servicing the machinery and instrumentation. The Coastal Research and Extension Center, in cooperation with industry leaders representing the Gulf South, has identified several major areas of program focus. Together, we have developed a comprehensive set of production issues which will be addressed through the integration of applied mechanization technologies developed through this project.
SQUASH PRODUCTION AND ORGANIC WEED CONTROL
Authors: Webber Charles L. , Shrefler James W.
Published: February 2019

Although CGM has been identified as an organic herbicide for weed control in turf and established vegetable plants, direct contact with vegetable seeds can decrease crop seedling development and plant survival by inhibiting root and shoot development. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of banded corn gluten meal applications on squash plant survival and yields. This factorial field study was conducted during Summer 2005 on 81-cm-wide raised beds at Lane, Okla., with two application configurations (banded and solid), two CGM formulations (powdered and granulated), two incorporation treatments (incorporated and nonincorporated), and three application rates (250, 500, and 750 g·m–2). The two CGM formulations at three application rates were uniformly applied in both banded and solid patterns on 19 Aug. The banded application created a 7.6-cm wide CGM-free planting zone in the middle of the raised bed. The CGM applications were then either incorporated into the top 2.5 to 5.0 cm of the soil surface with a rolling cultivator or left undisturbed on the soil surface. `Lemondrop' summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) was then direct-seeded into the center of the raised beds. When averaged across the other factors, there was no significant difference between powdered and granulated CGM formulations or incorporating and nonincorporating the CGM for either squash plant survival or yields. As the CGM application rates increased the plant survival and yields decreased. Banded application resulted in significantly greater crop safety (90% plant survival) and yields (445 cartons/ha) than the broadcast (solid) applications (45% plant survival and 314 cartons/ha). The research demonstrated the potential usefulness of CGM in direct-seeded squash production, if used in banded application configuration.
YIELDS AND FRUIT PRODUCTION PATTERNS OF ELEVEN EGGPLANT CULTIVARS
Authors: Kahn Brian A. , Payton Mark E.
Published: February 2019

Eggplants (Solanum melongena L.) were grown from transplants in a field study at Bixby, Okla., in 2005. Plants were harvested twice a week for 7 weeks. Data were taken from 3 individual plants per plot × 11 cultivars × 3 replications. The open-pollinated `Black Beauty' was inferior to the hybrids for yield and fruit quality. Patterns of cumulative percent marketable fruit number did not differ for 3 of the 4 cultivars producing the numerically highest (not always statistically highest) marketable fruit weights per plant (`Classic', `Nadia', and `Santana'). `Dusky' was the exception; fruit number peaked relatively early, but it still totaled among the highest for marketable fruit weight per plant. This might be considered an efficient fruiting pattern. Apart from `Dusky', a relatively high cumulative percent marketable fruit number throughout the season tended to be associated with an intermediate to low marketable fruit weight per plant. Two factors usually were responsible for this pattern: relatively low average marketable fruit weight, or high cull production. Despite significant differences in individual marketable fruiting patterns and average fruit weights, one relatively simple curvilinear model gave an excellent estimation of total and marketable eggplant fruit production (respectively) over time. The model was pct = 1/(1+exp(-(a+b*day))), where pct = estimated cumulative percent based on number of fruit, a = intercept, and b = slope.
RESPONSE OF COWPEA CULTIVARS TO RHIZOCTONIA SOLANI IN FIELD TESTS AT FOUR PLANTING DATES
Authors: Thies J. A. , Berland P. A. , Fery R. L.
Published: February 2019

Rhizoctonia solani is an important pathogen of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) in the southern U.S. and is the primary cause of seedling diseases in this crop. Stand losses caused by R. solani are especially severe when cowpea is planted in cold, spring soils. Three cowpea cultivars (Coronet, Knuckle Purple Hull, and Mississippi Silver) were evaluated in R. solani-inoculated field tests at four planting dates in Charleston, SC during 2005. The tests were planted on 25 Apr., 9 May, 27 May, and 13 June. The experimental design for each test was a split-plot with six replicates. Whole plots were cultivars, and sub-plots were inoculated with R. solani and an uninoculated control. Rhizoctonia solani caused significant seedling losses in all cultivars planted on the first three planting dates. Seed weight and seed numbers were reduced for `Mississippi Silver' in inoculated plots for all planting dates. In general, `Mississippi Silver' and `Coronet' had higher stand counts and heavier seed yields than `Knuckle Purple Hull', but all three cultivars were susceptible to R. solani. The development of resistant cowpea cultivars would reduce stand losses due to R. solani and improve seed yields of cowpea planted in cold, spring soils.
MISSISSIPPI HAND-HARVEST, FRESH-MARKET SOUTHERNPEA TRIAL: A THREE-YEAR REVIEW
Authors: Evans William B. , Hudson Peter M. , Paridon Keri L.
Published: February 2019

In 2005, fifteen southernpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Walp. subsp. unguiculata (L.) cultivars were evaluated for yield and quality at Crystal Springs, Miss. Pods were hand-harvested at the green-shell stage on three dates in August and early September 2005. In-shell fresh weights, shelled seed weight, and percent shell-out were recorded. Data was compared with that from similar trials in 2003 and 2004. Little disease or insect pressure has been seen in any year. Most peas evaluated have been in the pink-eye class. In 2005, all pink-eye types produced statistically similar fresh seed yield. Top Pick Brown Crowder produced higher seed yield than all other entries. Cream peas tested were generally lower yielding than the pink-eye types, with the lone black-eye cultivar tested, California Blackeye No. 5, intermediate in seed yield. Weighted average days to midharvest was not different among pink-eye cultivars evaluated but was slightly longer for several cream entries and for California Blackeye No. 5. Percent shell-out was highest in Top Pick Brown Crowder and lowest in Mississippi Cream. Over 3 years, more than thirty cultivars have been evaluated in the trials. Overall, most peas within a seed type have produced similar yields with few exceptions. Some lodging of the top-setting peas has been seen. The top-setting peas may offer advantages of ease of picking for hand-harvest in pick-your-own, small farm, and home garden situations. This trial does not address performance for machine harvest.
SWEETPOTATO VIRUS DISEASES RESEARCH IN EAST AFRICA
Authors: Miano D.W. , LaBonte D. R. , Clark C. A.
Published: February 2019

Sweetpotato is an important staple food crop in Sub-Saharan Africa, with production being concentrated in East Africa, particularly around Lake Victoria. Productivity of the crop is greatly constrained by viral diseases. Four main viruses have consistently been detected from various surveys done in the region viz. sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV), sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV), sweet potato mild mottle virus (SPMMV), and sweet potato chlorotic fleck virus (SPCFV). Sweet potato caulimo-like virus (SPCaLV), sweet potato latent virus (SPLV), and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) have also been detected though only in isolated cases. The most severe symptoms have been caused by co-infection with SPCSV and SPFMV, resulting in the synergistic Sweet potato virus disease (SPVD). Yield reductions due to virus infections have been estimated to be >90% in very severe cases. Virus detection has mainly been limited to the use of serological methods. Some plants have been observed with symptoms resembling those caused by viruses, but do not react with available antisera, indicating that the plants could be infected with viruses that have not been described, or not tested in the region. Use of other detection techniques such as PCR may result in identification of more viruses in the region. This report gives a summary of our research efforts towards detection of other viruses present in the region, and identification of resistant germplasm.
SUMMARY OF IRRIGATION STUDIES CONDUCTED AT THE SWEET POTATO RESEARCH STATION, 2000–2005
Authors: Villordon A.Q. , Franklin J.W. , McLemore W.
Published: February 2019

This report summarizes the results of irrigation studies conducted from 2000 to 2005 at the Sweet Potato Research Station, Chase, La. These studies investigated the role of various scheduling methods, soil moisture measurement devices, and irrigation delivery methods in sweetpotato production. The studies indicate that 15 to 20 inches of total rainfall and supplemental irrigation is required to produce 400 to 525 bu/acre of US#1 storage roots in Beauregard. Supplemental irrigation can be scheduled based on this benchmark, potentially reducing over-irrigation during dry periods. We have also found that during dry periods, irrigating every furrow can bring about 50% difference in US#1 yield vs. supplying irrigation to alternate furrows. During growing seasons characterized by optimum rainfall patterns, we did not detect any response in US#1 yield to various irrigation treatments. We evaluated several moisture measurement devices including granular matrix sensors, evaporation pan, time domain reflectometry (TDR)-based instrument, and tensiometers. We found the TDR-based device easy to use and convenient in terms of its portability. Based on studies conducted in 2001 and 2002, this device demonstrated potential as a management tool in sweetpotato production. For instance, a management allowable deficit (MAD) of 25% available moisture as measured using the TDR-based device can potentially result in the same yield as weekly irrigation and a MAD of 50% available moisture. When used properly, irrigation scheduling can reduce over-irrigation and contribute to overall efficiency in the use of production inputs.
ECONOMICS OF GRAFTED VS CONVENTIONAL WATERMELON PLANTS
Authors: Taylor Merritt , Bruton Benny , Fish Wayne , Roberts Warren
Published: February 2019

Grafting of watermelons has been used in many countries to provide control of, or resistance to, certain soil borne diseases such as Fusarium wilt. The impact of grafting on postharvest quality has not been thoroughly examined. This report deals with the comparison of the costs of production between grafted versus conventional watermelons and the potential net revenue of the two. A 2-year study was conducted on the effects of grafting watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) onto rootstocks of squash and gourd at Lane, Okla., in both 2004 and 2005. Details of the research methodology are outlined in “Year Two: Effects of Grafting on Watermelon Yield and Quality” by Roberts et al. Costs of using grafted transplants increased the costs of production from $1,209 to $1,914 or $705/acre at 1,500 plants/acre. Results of the 2-year study indicated grafted watermelons had slightly lower yields per acre, similar sugar in some grafted combinations the first year but slightly lower the second year, similar lycopene content, and much higher firmness. Results of a 10-day storage study indicated that firmness of fresh-cut flesh for all watermelons declined after ten days on the shelf. However, the grafted watermelon flesh was firmer after ten days than the nongrafted fruit at the beginning of the ten days. This improved shelf life should interest the cut-fruit industry and should lead to contract price enhancement for the growers. A market price of $0.02/lb for grafted watermelons above the market price of nongrafted watermelons would be needed to provide similar net revenues at the same yield per acre.
A Five-year Study on the Effect of Cluster Thinning on Yield and Fruit Composition of `Chambourcin' Grapevines
Authors: Dami Imed , Ferree Dave , Prajitna Anton , Scurlock Dave
Published: February 2019

`Chambourcin' (Vitis sp.) is a French-American hybrid cultivar that has the propensity to overcrop, and its performance under cool climate and short growing season is not known. This study was conducted for five years (2000 to 2004) to evaluate the effect of three levels of cluster thinning (10, 20, and 30 clusters per vine) on yield and fruit composition of `Chambourcin' grown in northeastern Ohio. Cluster thinning reduced yield per vine and crop load, but increased pruning, cluster and berry weights. Cluster thinning also improved juice composition by increasing soluble solids and pH but not acidity. It was concluded that under the climatic conditions of this study, thinning to 10 clusters per vine (or 8 clusters per meter of row) produced the lowest yield but the highest vine size with the most optimum fruit composition. Therefore, vines from the 10-cluster treatment were considered the most balanced in the 5-year study. Additionally, due to the repeated coincidence of harvest with the first fall frost, it was suggested that the site in continental Northeast Ohio is risky for commercial production and longer and warmer seasons are thus preferred.
The Effect of Repeated Short-term Flooding on Mycorrhizal Survival in Snap Bean Roots
Authors: Sah Seema , Reed Stewart , Jayachandran Krishnaswamy , Dunn Christopher , Fisher Jack B.
Published: February 2019

Since arbuscular–mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are aerobic, symbiosis was not considered significant under flooded conditions. However, AM colonization of wetland plants is now believed more common than previously thought. In the humid tropics, storms that result in standing water for 24 hours or less are common. Short-term floods, especially on sandy soils, may leach banded fertilizer, reducing uptake efficiency. Crops planted in flood prone areas are not normally enhanced with mycorrhizal mixes. However, mycorrhizal associations tolerant to wet conditions may improve nutrient uptake as plants recover from short-term flooding. Greenhouse studies were initiated to determine the effects of frequent short-term floods (two to four events) on mycorrhizal colonization and subsequent development in snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris

Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plants. Flooding produced no obvious long-term physical effects on plant shoots. In the first study, flooding did not affect survival of colonies established before the first flood event. Percent root colonization in flooded vs. nonflooded treatments was not significantly different at either 31 or 50 days after planting (DAP). As root length increased there was a concomitant increase in colonization so that percent colonization remained approximately the same in both flooded and nonflooded treatments. In the second study, three weekly floods beginning 13 DAP (cotyledon leaf open only) did not inhibit initial mycorrhizal colonization. Mycorrhizal associations should form with snap bean under conditions subject to short-term flooding. Additional research is needed to determine the efficacy of different mycorrhizal mixes under short-term flooded conditions in the field.