bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONTAINER HOLE POSITION AFFECTS GROWTH OF WET-LAND SPECIES
Authors: Merritt P. A. , Eakes D. J. , Gilliam C. H. , Keever G. J.
Published: February 2019

Four wetland species, Canna flaccida (canna), Iris versicolor (iris), Spartinia alterniflora (smooth cord grass), and Juncus effusus (rush), were planted into five different trade gallon container types. The container types used were no hole pots, four holes at the bottom of the pot, four holes half way up the side wall of the pot, four holes three-quarters of the way up the side wall of the pot, and pot-in-pot which consisted of trade gallon growing pots with four holes at the bottom of the pot placed inside a full gallon socket pot with no holes. Canna visual shoot and root rating were highest for the pot-in-pot treatment. Rush pot-in-pot plants had the highest growth indices, visual shoot, and root ratings compared to the remaining four pot types. Shoot count for iris was highest for the pot-in-pot containers. Container hole position did influence growth of smooth cord grass.
RED MAPLE CULTIVARS DIFFER IN FOLIAGE CHARACTERISTICS
Authors: Sibley J. L. , Eakes D. J. , Gilliam C. H. , Keever G. J. , Dozier W. A.
Published: February 2019

Average leaf area (LA) and petiole length (PL) was determined for 13 red maple selections May–Sept. 1993. Bloom types were determined based on the predominate flower structures present in Spring 1993 and 1994. Leaves were collected from an existing field study installed in Mar. 1990. Trees were drip-irrigated throughout the study, thereby eliminating moisture stress concerns. Acer×freemanii `Scarsen' (LA = 131.5 cm2), `Morgan' (LA = 93.6 cm2), and `Autumn Blaze' (LA = 83.9 cm2) had the largest leaves. Acer rubrum `Autumn Flame' (LA = 40.0 cm2) had the smallest leaves. Acer rubrum `October Glory' (PL = 17.1 cm) had the longest petioles followed by `Fairview Flame' (PL = 15.4 cm). Shortest cultivar petioles were on A. rubrum `Franksred' (PL = 9.3 cm) and `Tilford' (PL = 9.3 cm). Flowers were predominately pistillate on `Autumn Flame', `Franksred', `Morgan', `October Glory', `Redskin', `Scarsen', and `Schlesingeri'. Flowers were predominately staminate on `Fairview Flame', `Karpick', `Northwood', and `Tilford'. `Autumn Blaze' did not exhibit flowers in 1993 or 1994. Some seedlings in the study were pistillate, and others were staminate.
CONTROL OF PHYTOPHTHORA BLIGHT IN BELL PEPPER
Authors: Bracy Regina P. , Hobbs H. , Dufresne D.
Published: February 2019

Field studies were conducted in 1993, 1994, and 1995 to evaluate chemical and biological agents for control of phytophthora blight in bell peppers grown on polyethylene-mulched raised beds. Treatments included Kocide 606 (foliar applied), Ridomil 2E (soil applied), Ridomil 2E (directed spray), Ridomil/Copper 70W (foliar), Ridomil 2E (soil) + Ridomil/Copper 70W (foliar), fluazinam (soil/foliar), and Actinovate bioconcentrate (seedling media applied). The experimental area was inoculated with Phytophthora 2 weeks after transplanting. All plants were rated for disease incidence (number of plants exhibiting visual symptoms) beginning at inoculation and continuing every week for 5–6 weeks. Disease incidence was severe in 1993 and 1995. None of the chemical or biological agents had an effect on total marketable yields or fruit weights during the three years. Disease ratings were highest in the control, Ridomil 2E (soil), and Actinovate plots. Yields did not reflect the severe disease infestation that occurred in some plots, possibly because greatest disease incidence occurred late in the season. Best Phytophthora control was obtained from chemical treatments containing copper compounds (Kocide and Ridomil/Copper 70W).
EFFECT OF PLANTING DATES AND VARIETIES ON YIELD OF SOUTHERNPEA [VIGNA UNGUICULATA (L.) WALP.]
Authors: Becker Chris H. , Morelock Teddy E.
Published: February 2019

Southernpea varieties have shown the ability to yield differently when planting dates are altered. Identification of yield potential based on planting date would allow producers to select varieties based on time of planting. Ten varieties of peas with three different maturities were selected. The ten varieties were planted on five dates over a 2-year period. Results indicate that relative days to maturity can be shortened or lengthened by time of planting. Varieties planted in early June or early August took longer to mature than when they were planted in late June or early July. Southernpeas planted between 15 June and 15 July will normally produce the highest yields. Some long-season, upright varieties can be planted as early as 1 June with no loss in yield. Indeterminate and short-season varieties in this experiment showed the ability to produce high yields when planted as late as 1 Aug. These results suggest that some southernpea varieties will respond dramatically to different environmental conditions created by altered planting dates.
WATERMELON FRUIT BLOTCH: HOST PLANT RESISTANCE AND SEED STERILIZATION EFFORTS
Authors: Rhodes Bill , Zhang Xingping , Garrett Tom , Platt Tom , Fang Chao
Published: February 2019

A selection of Congo produced fruit that were not infected by blotch (pathogen Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli) in a replicated trial interplanted with infected seedlings. Ninety percent of Congo fruit not infected with the bacterial pathogen had a darker green background than those infected. PI 295843 and PI 299318 selections were also not infected. Infection rates in susceptible checks ranged from 22.5% to 47.6% and from 0 to 13.9% among triploids. Both ploidy level and genotype significantly affected infection rates. Infestation rates in triploid seeds were reduced but not eliminated by dry heat up to 75C. Heat treatment necessary to kill the pathogen was detrimental to germination.
PATHOGENICITY AND VIRULENCE OF COLLETOTRICHUM SPECIES ON CUCURBIT FRUIT
Authors: Wasilwa Lusike , Morelock Teddy E. , Correll James C.
Published: February 2019

Three taxa, Colletotrichum orbiculare, the unconfirmed teleomorph of C. orbiculare (Glomerella cingulata var. orbiculare), and C. magna, have been reported to cause anthracnose of cucurbits. In a previous study, virulence, vegetative compatibility, and mtDNA RFLPs have been used to examine these taxa. The three taxa can be distinguished based on mtDNA RFLPs. Under controlled greenhouse inoculation tests, only isolates of C. orbiculare (CO) from cucurbit hosts were highly virulent on cucurbit foliage; isolates of G. cingulata (GC) and C. magna (CM), and CO from cocklebur hosts were weakly virulent or avirulent. The majority of CM and GC isolates were recovered from fruit, whereas most CO isolates were recovered from foliage. A study was conducted to evaluate the pathogenicity and virulence of anthracnose isolates on cucurbit fruit. Twenty-seven isolates of the three taxa were selected based on the host and geographic origin, mtDNA RFLP haplotype, vegetative compatibility group, and race. Mature fruit from cucumber cultivars Marketer (susceptible) and H19 (resistant) and watermelon cultivars Black Diamond (susceptible) and Charleston Gray (resistant) were used. Fruit were inoculated by placing Torula yeast agar inoculum plugs (8mm in diameter) into wounds. Following inoculation, the wounds were covered with Parafilm and incubated for 8 days at 25C at 100% RH. On the third day the Parafilm was removed from the wound. Disease symptoms were evaluated by measuring lesion diameter and depth and evaluating the presence or absence of sporulation. All three anthracnose taxa are capable of infecting cucurbit fruit. CM and GC isolates were more virulent than CO isolates on cucumber. In contrast, on `Black Diamond', CO isolates were more virulent than CM and GC isolates. No significant differences in virulence were observed on `Charleston Gray'. There were no significant differences in virulence between the races of CO except on `Charleston Gray', where race 2 isolates were significantly more virulent than race 1. CO isolates from cocklebur were only weakly virulent on cucurbit fruit.
A TISSUE CULTURE APPROACH FOR DEVELOPING TETRAPLOID WATERMELONS
Authors: Zhang Xingping , Rhodes Billy B.
Published: February 2019

Tetraploids are needed to synthesize triploid watermelons, which produce “seedless” fruit with improved quality. Traditionally, the tetraploids are induced by applying colchicine to the growing apex of seedlings or soaking the seeds with colchicine solution. This method often produces low frequency of tetraploids and high frequency of chimeras. Breeding tetraploids takes much longer time than breeding diploids because of the low female fertility. We developed a tissue culture approach that allows breeders to develop desirable tetraploids with commercially acceptable volume of seed in 2 years. This tissue culture approach includes: 1) regenerate plants via shoot organogenesis from cotyledon tissue; 2) screen tetraploids based on leaf morphology (more serrated leaf margin and wider leaf shape) before transplanting, and confirm tetraploids based on pollen morphology (larger pollen with four copi) and/or seed characteristics; 3) self-pollinate tetraploids or cross the tetraploids with diploids to accurately estimate the female fertility; 4) micropropagate the best tetraploid(s) using axillary buds during the off-season; and 5) produce tetraploid seed from the cloned tetraploids in an isolation plot and evaluate the triploids derived from the tetraploid(s) in the following season. This approach has been practiced on more than 20 genotypes over the past 4 years.
HOODED SPRAY APPLICATION OF POSTEMERGENCE HERBICIDES FOR SOUTHERNPEA PRODUCTION
Authors: Porter Wayne C. , Parish Richard L.
Published: February 2019

Concerns over ground water, nonpoint pollution, and soil erosion have indicated a need for reduced use of preemergent herbicides and reduced tillage. This study was initiated to determine the feasibility of using postemergent, burndown herbicides under hooded sprayers in the production of southernpeas. Two rates of paraquat, glufosinate, and glyphosate were applied at two application timings. All herbicides controlled rice flatsedge but not goosegrass. Since an untreated strip was left surrounding the drill, complete weed control did not occur in this system. In most cases, delaying application of the herbicides by 2 weeks tended to result in lower yields. However, no differences from a delay in cleaning the hoed check were noted. Plots treated with paraquat at 1.0 pt/A – timing 1 and glufosinate at 7.0 lb a.i./A – timing 2 had yields lower than the hoed check. Based on this study, southernpeas can be grown successfully without the use of a preemergent herbicide by proper timing of a hooded application of a burndown herbicide with proper timing.
HIGH-SPEED CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLE CROPS WITH FINGER-WHEEL CULTIVATORS
Authors: Parish R.L. , Bracy R.P. , Porter W.C.
Published: February 2019

The Precision Cultural System (PCS) developed by the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station allows simple and precise cultivation of vegetable crops; however, speed of the cultivators in small vegetable crops has been limited. The standard PCS sweep cultivator was limited to about 1.6–2.4 km·h–1 in small crops because it would throw soil over the crop plants at higher speed. The standard PCS rotary tiller cultivator could operate at 3.2–4.8 km·h–1 in small crops but could not be operated faster in larger crops, due to its tendency to “walk” out of the soil at higher speeds. The standard PCS sweep cultivator was modified by replacing the sweeps between the twin drills with two pairs of straight finger-wheel (“rolling cultivator”) spiders non-angled and in tandem. The finger-wheel gangs on the bed sides were also inactivated by raising them above the soil. The resulting PCS cultivator was successfully operated in very small crop plants (≤25 mm high) at speeds of 8–10 km·h–1 with no crop damage. The cultivator could then be easily refitted for standard sweep cultivation on subsequent passes. No reductions in weed control or yield of mustard, kale, turnip, or spinach were noted when using the high-speed system.
YIELD RESPONSE OF TOMATOES AND BEANS TO COVER CROPS OVER TIME
Authors: Davis Jeanine M. , Decoteau D.R. , Hoyt G.D. , Batal K.D. , Sanders D.C. , Garrett J.T. , Dufault R.J.
Published: February 2019

Tomatoes and beans were grown in rotation for 4 years with three cover crop treatments (bareground, wheat, and crimson clover) and three nitrogen rates (0, 60, and 120 kg N/ha). Over the course of the study, when no additional N was provided, lowest yields of tomatoes and beans were obtained with the wheat cover crop. With the highest N rate, however, there was little difference in yields of beans or tomatoes with any of the cover crop treatments. Considering the benefits associated with the use of cover crops, it is encouraging to see that with proper N amendment, yields obtained with cover crop systems can be comparable to conventional bareground systems.
SOIL NITROGEN RESPONSE TO COVER CROPS IN A TOMATO–BEAN ROTATION
Authors: Decoteau Dennis R. , Davis J.M. , Hoyt G.D. , Batal K.M. , Sanders D.C. , Garrett J.T. , Dufault R.J.
Published: February 2019

A 5-year study using winter cover crops (wheat or rye, crimson clover, and fallow) in a tomato and bean rotation indicated several soil responses to the cover crops. Advantages of crimson clover winter cover crop to the soil in a tomato-bean rotation included adding organic matter to the soil, which resulted in an increase in the amount of inorganic nitrogen in the upper levels of the soil profile and an increase in the soil's water-holding capacity. An additional benefit of winter cover crops to the soil was the potential of reduced nitrogen leaching.
PERFORMANCE OF OWN-ROOTED `PREMIER' RABBITEYE BLUEBERRY VS. `PREMIER' GRAFTED ON V. ARBOREUM THROUGH THREE HARVEST SEASONS ON A FUQUAY SOIL
Authors: Ballington James R.
Published: February 2019

Own-rooted `Premier' blueberry (V. ashei Reade) was compared to `Premier' grafted on V. arboreum Marsh. (sparkleberry) for yield and fruit characteristics in a five-rep RCB design with three plants/rep. With grafted plants, three reps were on rootstock #17 and two on rootstock #10, and results were combined for statistical analyses. Production of suckers by rootstocks was also recorded. Plants wereestablished on an upland doughty mineral Fuquay soil, modified with sawdust, at Jackson Springs, N.C. Supplemental irrigation was applied only in the establishment year and the following year, and landscape fabric was installed in the rows for weed control also in the year following establishment. `Premier' grafted on V. arboreum yielded significantly higher than own-rooted `Premier' in all three harvest seasons. Fruit size on grafted plants was also significantly larger than on own-rooted plants in harvest years 2 and 3. There were no differences in fruit color, picking scar, firmness, or flavor in years 2 and 3, and only small differences in harvest year 1. The data for years 2 and 3 indicated that there were differences among stocks in yield; however, both graft combinations were higher-yielding than own-rooted plants. There were also differences among stock clones for the number of suckers produced in harvest years 2 and 3. The highest-yielding graft combination also had the lowest number of rootstock suckers.
NUTRITION MANAGEMENT OF APPLES: AN OVERVIEW
Authors: Rom Curt R.
Published: February 2019

Current practices of fertilizer management, potential problems, and paths for fertilizer management research were discussed. Apple nutrition management in the humid southern regions of the U.S. is typically challenged by several factors such as inherently low soil pH, variable soil chemistry, and irregular precipitation. Some literature and personal experiences with orchard replant conditions and fumigation, fertigation, fertilizer delivery system, and time of fertilizer application were reviewed. On replant sites, fumigation and liming significantly improved tree survival and growth in the first 5 years. Fertigation with ammonium nitrate significantly lowered soil pH in the root zone compared to top dress applications. Using calcium nitrate resulted in less pH reduction. Results of studies of autumn application of N fertilizers have been mixed, with reports of no, decreased, or increased effects on fruit set, yield, and growth. Studies with size-controlling rootstocks indicate additional need to study the uptake of Mn and related Mn toxicity. Precocious rootstocks with high early yields have resulted in foliar K levels approaching deficiency within the first 10 years of production. Indications are that high-density orchards may have additional requirements for K fertilizers.
PANSIES: AN ALTERNATIVE CROP FOR THE TOBACCO FLOAT BED SYSTEM
Authors: Neil Karen , Niedziela Carl , Kamp-Glass Marihelen
Published: February 2019

A study was conducted with pansies (Viola wittrockiana) on a tobacco float bed system to determine if plugs could successfully be grown into transplants and to determine nutrient levels that wouldprovide the best transplants. Transplants were grown in a soilless media in 72-cell polystyrene float trays, floating on four different nutrient concentrations: 25, 50, 100, or 200 ppm. Length of time needed to produce regular-size transplants is reduced by half. Only 3 weeks are needed using the floating bed system, while 6 to 9 weeks are needed for the conventional method. Transplants displayed vigorous growth with normal morphology. Plant height and weight are significantly enhanced by increasing the nutrient concentration.
SCREENING HERBICIDES FOR INJURY TO THREE CONTAINER-GROWN PANSY CULTIVARS
Authors: Kessler J. Raymond , Gilliam Charles H. , Wallace Beth M.
Published: February 2019

Little information is available on phytotoxic effects to annual bedding plant species from herbicides commonly used on container-grown woody plant species. Viol×wittrockiana `Crystal Bowl True Blue', `Imperial Antique Shades', and `Maxim Orange' were grown in 2.54-liter (#1) containers using an amended 6 pine bark: 1 sand medium. Five days after containerizing, each cultivar was either hand-weeded or treated with one of 13 granular or spray, pre- or post-emergence herbicides, within recommended rates in two separate studies. Herbicide phytotoxicity ratings were made 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 d after treatment. Shoot dry weights were taken 120 d after treatment. Most injurious and persistently injurious herbicides were Rout 3G (oxyfluorfen + oryzalin), Pendulum 60 WDG (pendimethalin), and Ronstar 2G (oxadiazon). Low shoot dry weights closely correlated to injury rating. Least injurious herbicides included Pennant 7.8E (metolachlor), Surflan 4AS (oryzalin), Stakeout (dithiopyr), Pennant SG (metolachlor), and Derby SG (metolachlor + simazine). Southern Weedgrass Control, a granular formulation of pendimethalin, was among the least injurious, while Pendulum 60 WDG, a liquid formulation of pendimethalin, was most injurious. Evidence suggests that phytotoxic injury was greater on small, newly transplanted plants, though in some cases they were able to outgrow the injury.
GIBBERELLIN PHYSIOLOGY OF SPECTRAL FILTER-GROWN CHRYSANTHEMUM PLANTS
Authors: Maki Sonja L. , Rajapakse Nihal C.
Published: February 2019

Endogenous gibberellins of chrysanthemum [Dendrathema×grandiflorum (Ramat) cv. Bright Golden Anne] were characterized in preparation for quantification of endogenous gibberellins in apices under control and CuSO4 spectral filters. Expanding shoots were separated into young expanding leaves and apices. Methanolic extracts of young expanding leaves were purified by solvent partitioning, PVPP column chromatography, and reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Two bioactive regions corresponding to the HPLC retention times of GA and GA19 standards were detected in fractions using the recently developed non-dwarf rice bioassay. Dideuterated internal standards of GA12, GA53, GA19, GA20, and GA1 were added to similar extracts of shoot apices. The presence of endogenous GA53, GA19, GA20, and GA1 in chrysanthemum apices was confirmed by isotope dilution using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry-selected ion monitoring and Kovats retention indices. Ions for the deuterated internal standard of GA12 were detected, but not for endogenous GA12. The above results demonstrate that the early 13-hydroxylation pathway operates in chrysanthemum.
FORM OF NITROGEN AFFECTS GROWTH OF CATHARANTHUS ROSEUS
Authors: Thomas Paul A. , Latimer Joyce G.
Published: February 2019

Annual vinca [Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don] is intolerant of high fertility, cool temperatures, and wet soil conditions, making vinca difficult for growers to produce alongside other, more tolerant bedding plants. Our objective was to develop better recommendations for producers. Growth of `Grape Cooler' vinca was compared using different production inputs, including type of media (with or without bark), form of micronutrient source, and form of N. Optimal root and shoot dry weights occurred in peat-lite media with either sulfated or chelated micronutrients adjusted to pH 5.5. Root and shoot dry weights were greatest when high nitrate-N to ammonium-N ratio fertilizers were used. Root and shoot dry weights were negatively affected by high levels of ammonium-N in the fertilizer solution. Root development is the critical factor in the production of high-quality vinca. Our data suggest that root development may be optimized by using fertilizer products that have a high nitrate to ammoniacal nitrogen ratio. Micronutrients in the sulfate form also seem to enhance growth when medium pH is maintained near 5.5. Use of high-porosity, peat-based mixes appears to provide an optimal root growth environment.
APPLICATION TECHNIQUE INFLUENCES IMIDACLOPRID EFFICACY ON POINSETTIA
Authors: Bell Michelle L.
Published: February 2019

Rooted `Freedom' poinsettia cuttings were treated with imidacloprid by surface application (0.005 g a.i./16.5-cm container) and the following alternative application techniques: foliar spray, 10 s dip, and 1 h dip (0.028 g a.i./liter). Topdressed plants were either overhead- or bottom-watered to investigate effects of leaching on imidacloprid residual activity. Number of silverleaf whitefly nymphs/cm2 leaf were counted weekly, then biweekly, from 14 to 112 days after treatment. Spray and dip applications delayed establishment of heavy whitefly populations compared to the untreated control but did not prevent infestation. Single foliar and dip applications of imidacloprid proved not to be viable control alternatives. The two irrigation treatments using surface-applied imidacloprid provided whitefly control through 84 days after treatment. Beyond 84 days after treatment, topdressed, subirrigated plants had more whiteflies than topdressed, overhead-irrigated plants.
DEVELOPMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF AN ACIDIFICATION CALCULATOR FOR IRRIGATION WATER ALKALINITY REGULATION
Authors: Whipker Brian E. , Hammer P. Allen
Published: February 2019

Excessive alkalinity in greenhouse irrigation water can increase substrate solution pH, resulting in reduced micronutrient availability for plants. A spreadsheet was designed to offer a quick and practical method for calculating: 1) amount of nitric, phosphoric, and sulfuric acid required to achieve an endpoint alkalinity or pH in irrigation water; 2) the amount of nutrients added by the acid addition; and 3) acid costs. It calculates both pH and alkalinity of irrigation water after acidification, regardless of the endpoint selected. The spreadsheet accounts for the pH-dependent reaction that determines the relative percentage of each of the carbonate species—carbonates (CO 2–3), bicarbonates (HCO–3), and carbonic acid (H2CO3)—present in the solution. In addition, the acidification calculations account for the dissociation characteristics of the acid selected to neutralize the alkalinity. The spreadsheet was validated with six water sources from Indiana and North Carolina. Alkalinity neutralization was achieved within an acceptable range (greatest deviation from predicted pH was 0.16 units; greatest deviation from predicted residual alkalinity was 0.21 meq·liter–1) for both target endpoint pHs and endpoint alkalinity concentrations. The mathematical model used in the spreadsheet development provides a chemical basis for acidification and provides results useful for making grower recommendations for acid additions to irrigation water for alkalinity neutralization.
DENITRIFICATION OF IRRIGATION RUNOFF USING A PACKED COLUMN BIOREACTOR
Authors: Abrameit Brad , Boyd Michael , Wilkerson Don C.
Published: February 2019

Denitrification of irrigation runoff was achieved using a fixedcolony of facultative, heterotrophic bacteria in an anaerobic environment. Ammonium nitrate was used to create three influent nitrate concentrations of 50, 150, and 200 ppm NO–3, which were passed through two 17.5-gallon upflow bioreactors at 1.0 gallon/minute and yielded effluent concentrations of 1.9, 5.2, and 15.9 ppm NO–3, respectively. The fate of nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium as they passed up the columns was analyzed at an influent of 100 ppm NO–3, 29 ppm NH+4, 0 ppm NO–2, and 1.0 gpm at five sample regions along the columns. The majority of the nitrates (76.5%) were removed in the first region of the columns with subsequent regions reducing 4.8% to 7.6%. Nitrite was produced (1.0 ppm) within the first region of the columns, with the majority (21.12%) being removed in the final region. Intermediate regions reduced 5.2% to 16.5% of the nitrites. Ammonium concentrations remained mostly steady, with slight reductions (6.3% to 11.1%) occurring primarily in the first two regions of the columns. Colony equilibration (Transient Response Time) was also recorded at 1.0 gpm with NO–3 concentration steps from 150 to 100 ppm NO–3 and 100 to 50 ppm NO–3. About 2 days passed before the colony adjusted to the change.
DAIRY COW COMPOST AS A POTTING SUBSTRATE FOR GROWING HYBRID RHODODENDRONS
Authors: Bradley Garry J. , Glass Mari Helen , Bilderback Ted E.
Published: February 2019

With the rising cost of sphagnum peat, nurserymen are looking at alternatives for growing substrates. Daddy Pete's plant pleaser is a product of composted cow manure. This study was conducted to see if composted cow manure could be used to grow containerized plants and replace sphagnum peat. Research was conducted using two Rhododendron cultivars, `English Roseum' and `Scintillation'. Plants of each cultivar were potted into 3-gallon containers. Test substrates were tested against the grower's standard mix, 80 pine bark: 20 sphagnum peat (% by volume), amended with 20 lbs Scotts Prokoke, 8 lbs dolomitic limestone, and 1.5 lbs step minor element package/1.7 yard3. Test substrates were treated equally. Daddy Pete's plant pleaser can work as a substitute for peatmoss in a growing mix. The Daddy Pete compost grew just as good a plant as the Buds & Bloom standard. Watering management turns out to be a factor because the compost generally held more water, therefore not needing irrigation as frequently.
SHRUB ROSES: LOW MAINTENANCE?
Authors: Bir Richard E. , Ranney T. G. , Jones R. K.
Published: February 2019

Twelve shrub rose cultivars were evaluated for pest resistance in the southern Blue Ridge mountains under high humidity and rainfall (1.34 inches per week average during the 1994 and 1995 growing seasons). `Albo plena', `Blanc Double de Coubert', `Fru Dagmar Hastrup', `Roseraie de l'Hay', R. rugosa `Alba', `Sarah van Fleet', and `Topaz Jewel' were highly resistant to black spot and Cercospora sp. leaf spot. `Alba Meidiland', `Linda Campbell', `Pink Meidiland', and `Scarlet Meidiland' were susceptible, while `Bonica' displayed intermediate resistance to both diseases. `Sarah van Fleet' foliage and the flowers of `Albo plena', `Blanc Double de Coubert', and R. rugosa `Alba' were damaged by Japanese beetle feeding. No other cultivars were damaged by Japanese beetles.
YEASTS INHIBIT DEVELOPMENT OF LESIONS IN `GOLDEN DELICIOUS' APPLES INOCULATED WITH BOTRYTIS CINEREA
Authors: Anderson Jeff , Filonow Alexander B. , Vishniac Helen S.
Published: February 2019

Strategies to reduce postharvest losses of fruit to pathogens include low-temperature storage, fungicides, and use of organisms with biological control capabilities. Our objective was to determine the effectiveness of two yeast isolates in inhibiting lesion development caused by Botrytis cinerea (Bc) on freshly harvested apples of different maturity. `Golden Delicious' apples were harvested on 29 Aug., 23 Sept., and 10 Oct. 1995. Apples comprising the seven treatments [control, wound, Cryptococcus humicola (Ch), Sporobolomyces roseus (Sr), Bc, Bc + Ch, Bc + Sr] were placed in plastic boxes with damp paper towels. Each day for 7 days, ethylene and CO2 production and lesion diameter at the wound were recorded. Ethylene and CO2 production were not affected by treatment. Lesion diameter on apples treated with Bc was smaller on the first harvest, compared with the second and third harvests. Sr provided partial control on the second and third harvests, and Ch completely inhibited lesion development on all harvests.
IN VITRO CALLUS INITIATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MEDICAGO
Authors: Yang Guochen , Kamp-Glass Marihelen
Published: February 2019

The success of genetic transformation depends on the efficiency and rehability of in vitro shoot regeneration. This research was pursued to investigate how different plant growth regulators influence alfalfa callus initiation and development, thus to establish a foundation for further development of an efficient shoot organogenesis protocol for the genetic transformation system. BA, zeatin, and 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) were evaluated for callus initiation and development. BA at 1 or 5 mg·liter–1, or zeatin at 5 mg·liter–1 promoted callus regeneration and further development toward shoot organogenesis. However, 2,4,5-T at 1 mg·liter–1 enhanced only callus production. These results can and will be used for further development of a shoot regeneration protocol to assist alfalfa genetic transformation.
HEAT TOLERANCE OF SELECTED ANNUAL CULTIVARS IN ZONE 8
Authors: Quinn D.M. , Behe B.K. , Witt J.L. , Roark R.S.
Published: February 2019

Our objective was to determine heat tolerance and performance of 245 summer-flowering annual plant cultivars installed 16 Mar. 1995 in beds receiving full sun located at the E.V. Smith Research Center in Shorter, Ala. (lat. 32°30′N, long. 85°40′W). No maintenance, with the exception of one midseason pruning of petunias, was performed. Catharanthus roseus L. `Blush Cooler' had the highest mean rating (4.1 of 5.0). Salvia farinacea Benth. `Victoria Blue' and Petunia ×hybrida `Fantasy Pink' both performed well with 3.5 mean ratings. `Purple Wave', a compact spreading cultivar of P. ×hybrida, had a 3.1 mean rating, but had a 5.0 rating before pruning. We do not recommend pruning `Purple Wave'. Of the 34 marigold cultivars evaluated, Tagetes erecta L. `Antigua Mixed' had the highest mean rating. Tagetes erecta `Inca Yellow' and `Perfection Gold' tied with the second highest mean rating.
CROPPING SYSTEM AND POULTRY LITTER EFFECTS ON RESIDUAL SOIL NO3-N AND P
Authors: Earhart D.R. , Haby V.A. , Baker M.L. , Leonard A.T.
Published: February 2019

Primary environmental concerns regarding application of poultry litter (PL) for crop production are nitrate leaching into ground water and increased levels of P in the soil that can erode into surface water. This study was initiated to investigate use of warm- and cool-season annual forage crops to remove excess nutrients supplied by PL in rotational-cropping systems on a Bowie fine sandy loam (fine-loamy, siliceous, thermic, Plinthic Paleudults). PL was applied at one (1×) or two (2×) times the recommended rate in the spring, fall, or spring and fall. Rates were based on N requirement of the crop and percent N in the litter. Comparisons were made to fertilizer blends (FB) and control treatments with no PL or FB. After 3 years of treatments, NO3-N increased at the 122-cm depth by 30 and 50 mg·kg–1 from the 1× and 2× rate, respectively. The greatest accumulation was from FB (72 mg·kg–1). With PL applied in spring only, spring vegetables followed by a fall cover showed a significant reduction in NO3-N leaching and accumulation. Regardless of cropping system, rate, or time of application, P concentration increased by 40 mg·kg–1 in the surface 15 cm of soil when compared to FB. If applied in an environmentally sound manner, PL will be less of a threat to pollution of ground water than similar rates of FB. Applying PL rates sufficient to meet crop needs for N results in P accumulation that can lead to nonpoint source pollution of surface waters.
A PHOTOCATALYTIC REACTOR FOR THE REMOVAL OF ETHYLENE IN AIR: PERFORMANCE UNDER CONDITIONS RELEVANT TO HORTICULTURE
Authors: Cushman Kent , Tibbitts Ted , Anderson Marc , Zeltner Walt , Fu Xianzhi
Published: February 2019

A reactor designed to catalyze ethylene to carbon dioxide and water in the presence of UV radiation was tested under a wide range of conditions applicable to horticulture. The reactor was constructed of a hollow stainless steel housing into which a 4-W UV lamp was inserted. Fourteen grams of zirconia-titania catalyst crystals, particle size 0.50 to 0.75 mm, filled the space between lamp and housing. Polysulfone end caps sealed the unit on each end and provided fitting by which air was directed in one end and out the other. Increasing dewpoint temperature (5, 11, 17, and 22C) resulted in decreasing ethylene removal. Increasing reactor temperature (20, 30, 40, 60, and 80C) resulted in increasing ethylene removal. Increasing air flow (106, 255, 385, 665, 1000, and 2000 ml·min–1) resulted in a decreasing proportion of ethylene removed from the air stream but an increasing total amount of ethylene catalyzed per unit time (μl·day–1). Increasing ethylene concentration (65, 147, 260, and 1131 ppb) resulted in increasing ethylene removal. The reactor performed well under all these conditions, and these data will be used to design ethylene removal systems for a wide variety of horticultural applications.
EFFECT OF HARVESTING METHOD AND DRYING TREATMENT ON THE ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF SAGE
Authors: Robinson Pamela L. , Maness Niels , Solie John , Criner Byron
Published: February 2019

Sage contains the antioxidant thujone, which can be used to preserve foods in place of synthetic antioxidants. This study was conducted to determine if different harvesting methods would affect greater retention of antioxidant activity (AOA) of sage. The harvesting methods evaluated included sickle harvest, hand harvest, and flail harvest. Harvested samples were air-dried (temperature range 15 to 49C) and oven-dried (continuous 49C). Leaf area analysis indicated that flail harvesting induced substantial chopping and size reduction of the harvested material. AOA of sample extracts was measured using a carotinoid bleaching process against a standard BHT solution. Our results show a definite difference in retention of AOA between the harvesting methods (sickle 65%, hand 55%, flail 50% of BHT). This difference between harvesting methods was the same over the two drying treatments, although oven drying resulted in a decrease in AOA for all harvesting methods. Supported by USDA grant 93-34150-8409 and the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station.
QUALITY EVALUATION OF THREE NEWLY RELEASED SOUTHERN HIGHBUSH BLUEBERRY CULTIVARS
Authors: Magee J.B. , Smith B.J. , Gupton C.E. , Spiers J.M.
Published: February 2019

The southern highbush (Vaccinium mostly corymbosum) blueberry cultivars Jubilee, Magnolia, and Pearl River, released by the USDA in 1994, were compared with `Premier' and `Climax', two widely planted rabbiteye (V. ashei) cultivars, on the basis of flowering and harvest dates, yield, and physical and chemical quality parameters. The southern highbush cultivars flowered later and ripened at least 1 week before `Climax', one of the earliest rabbiteyes. `Pearl River' berries had less waxy “bloom” and appeared almost black when fully ripe; they had significantly less anthocyanins than the other cultivars compared. `Premier' was lower in titratable acidity and higher in sugars than the southern highbush cultivars. Although data analysis indicated statistical differences in glucose and fructose concentrations among the other four cultivars, these differences were not pronounced. Based on the quality factors used in this study, the southern highbush cultivars compared acceptably to the rabbiteye cultivars.
THE EFFECT OF FUNGICIDE ON THE GROWTH OF APPLE BITTER ROT PATHOGENS
Authors: Shi Y. , Rom C.R. , Correll J.C.
Published: February 2019

Bitter rot, an economically important disease of apples in the southeastern U.S., is caused by a complex of plant pathogenic fungi. Fruit infection can result in large yield losses. Control of this disease is contingent upon the effectiveness of several commonly used fungicides. Two fungal species, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (C.g.) and C. acutatum (C.a.), cause bitter rot. Isolates of both species also show a large degree of genotypic variation. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of several fungicides: benomyl (Benlate), Captan, Mancozeb (a combination of zinc ion and manganese ethylene bisdithiocarbamate, Dithane), and zinc dimethyldithiocarbamate (Ziram). Four concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 ppm) of each fungicide were used. Fungal growth was quantified by measuring colony diameters 3 and 6 days after incubation. Among the fungicides tested, only Benlate and Ziram significantly reduced fungal growth. Average growth reductions of C. gloeosporioides with Benlate and Ziram were 87% and 29%, respectively. In contrast, average growth reductions of C.a. with Benlate and Ziram were 60% and 52%, respectively. In conclusion, Benlate was the most effective fungicide in reducing overall fungal growth, while Ziram was more effective in reducing the growth of C.a.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PESTICIDE RESIDUE IN VEGETABLES FOR CONSUMERS IN THE UNITED STATES AND GERMANY
Authors: Florkowski W.J. , Brückner B. , Huang C.L. , Schonhof I.
Published: February 2019

Chemicals used in fresh vegetable production leave residue. Although the typical residue amount is below allowable limits, producers must recognize consumer preference for less residue. Atlanta and Berlin consumer surveys showed difference in opinions about chemical residue in fresh vegetables, need for government testing, impact of residue on amount of consumed vegetables, and willingness to pay for vegetables with less residue. In general, Atlanta residents were more likely to agree about certifying vegetables as containing only allowable residue amount, while Berlin consumers were more willing to pay for government testing and vegetables with less residue. Two equations were estimated to identify factors influencing the preference for less residue. Respondents with higher incomes showed less preference for less chemical residue; similar preferences were demonstrated by older and single Berlin respondents. Growing vegetables with less chemical use offers opportunity to market fresh vegetables differentiating them from vegetables produced using traditional practices, especially given the willingness of overseas consumers to pay higher prices for vegetables with less residue.
DOUBLE-CROP FALL CABBAGE AS A SCAVENGER OF RESIDUAL FERTILIZER NITROGEN
Authors: Ditsch David C. , Jones Richard T.
Published: February 2019

High-value crops (tobacco and sweet corn) often receive high levels of N fertilizer during the growing season rather than risk yield and/or quality reductions. Following harvest, small-grain winter cover crops are sown to reduce soil erosion and recover residual fertilizer N. Fall cole crops, such as cabbage, grow rapidly in early fall, respond well to N fertilization, and have the potential to be sold for supplemental income. The objectives of this study were to 1) compare fall cabbage and winter rye as scavengers of residual fertilizer N and 2) determine if a relationship between fall soil mineral-N (NO–3 +) levels and fall cabbage yield response to N fertilization exists. Soil mineral N levels following sweet corn and tobacco ranged from 22 to 53 mg·kg–1 in the surface 30-cm and declined with depth. Fall cabbage appeared to be as effective as rye at reducing soil mineral N levels. No fall cabbage dry matter yield response to applied N was measured in 1993 and 1995. However, following sweet corn in 1994, a small cabbage yield response to N at 56 kg·ha–1 was measured when the soil mineral level, prior to fall fertilization, was 22 mg·kg–1.
EVALUATION OF THE RHIZOBIUM POPULATION OF PIGEONPEA AND COWPEA RHIZOSPHERE AFTER INOCULATION WITH SEVERAL RHIZOBIUM STRAINS
Authors: Marsh Lurline , Marsh Dyremple , Baptiste Raymond
Published: February 2019

Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] and cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] seeds were inoculated with broth cultures of Rhizobium strains 3278, 3458, and 3472 at a population of ≈9.5 × 10 g viable cells/ml. They were planted at three air temperature regimes: 20/10C, 30/20C, and 38/25C (day/night), which generated variable rhizosphere temperatures of 17/6C, 26/15C, and 33/20C, respectively. Seeds and/or seedling roots were sampled at 3, 7, 11, and 15 days after planting and Rhizobium survival was enumerated as viable cells on agar media. Only strain 3458 in association with pigeonpea genotype ICPL8304 had a higher population at day 15 than that at the earlier sample dates. The duration of the strains in the rhizosphere, rather than temperature, influenced population changes. No strain showed a consistent increase in cell numbers from inoculation to 15 days after planting. There was no clear pattern of population changes for any strain within or across temperatures, hence it was difficult to identify any strain as having superior growth habits over another.
`TENDER CREAM': A NEW MULTIPLE-PEST- AND DISEASE-RESISTANT CREAM-TYPE SOUTHERNPEA
Authors: Fery R.L. , Dukes P.D.
Published: February 2019

The USDA has released a new cream-type southernpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] cultivar that is well adapted for productionthroughout the southern United States. The new cultivar, named `Tender Cream', is the product of a backcross breeding procedure to transfer the dominant Rk gene for root-knot nematode resistance from `Floricream' into `Carolina Cream'. `Tender Cream' is resistant to cowpea curculio, root-knot nematodes, southern bean mosaic virus, cercospora leaf spot, southern blight, rust, and powdery mildew. `Tender Cream' outyielded the cream control in the 1992, 1993, and 1994 Regional Southernpea Cooperative Trials by 5.4%, 11.0%, and 18.8%, respectively. It outyielded its root-knot-nematode-susceptible `Carolina Cream' isoline by 22.3% in a replicated 1994 test conducted in a field infested with a natural population of the southern root-knot nematode. Canned samples of fresh `Tender Cream' peas scored well during 3 years of testing at the Univ. of Arkansas.
CREATING A RESPONSE SURFACE FOR FRUIT SET AND FRUIT PRODUCTION IN TOMATOES GROWN AT HIGH TEMPERATURE
Authors: Peet Mary M. , Sato Suguru
Published: February 2019

Global temperature increases are predicted over the next several decades. Earth surface temperatures in 1995 were the highest ever recorded. At day temperatures above 30C or night temperatures above 21C, tomato fruit production decreases. However, the temperature dependence of fruit production has not been described in terms of whether day temperatures, night temperatures, or mean temperatures are the most limiting. The process or tissue most sensitive to heat and most limiting to fruit production is also not known. The objectives of this experiment are to establish the temperature dependence of fruit set in tomatoes and to determine the importance of post-pollen production effects. We imposed a total of nine temperature treatments in a series of four separate experiments. Each experiment consisted of a 30/24C treatment and two other day/night temperature combinations with differing means and/or day/night temperature differentials. As mean daily temperature increased from 25 to 29C, fruit set, fruit number, total fruit weight, and seediness index (a quantitative rate of fruit seed content) declined. Temperature treatments did not affect average fruit weight. Higher mean temperatures promoted flowering except at the highest temperature. Mean temperature was more important than day/night temperature differentials or the specific daytime or nighttime temperature treatment.
BORON APPLICATION TIMING AND RATE ON BLISTER-LIKE SYMPTOMS IN `HERNANDEZ'
Authors: Schultheis Jonathan R. , Adams Dennis E.
Published: February 2019

Boron has been used to overcome the disorder blister in varieties such as `Jewel'. `Hernandez' is an attractive, good-yielding variety with uniform shape that will consistently pack out at 80% to 90%. Over time in storage, however, roots develop blister-like symptoms, rendering roots unmarketable for fresh market. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of different B rates and application times on the yield and quality of `Hernandez' roots. Rates were varied up to 2.24 kg actual B/ha 6 days after planting, while various soil and foliar application times (6, 34, and 69 days after planting) were evaluated at 1.12 kg·ha–1. In 1994, three row plots were arranged in a randomized complete block design and replicated four times. Planting was on a deep sand to maximize the effect of the B carrier Solubor. Roots were harvested, graded, and weighed 120 days after planting and storage roots evaluated for blister-like symptoms in Mar. 1995. No significant differences in yield were attributed to B rate or application method. Blister-like symptoms were more severe when no B was applied; however, application of B did not eliminate symptoms, as most roots had the blister-like appearance. Boron application did not solve the problem, but symptoms were less apparent when some B was applied.
RESPONSES OF SEVERAL SWEETPOTATO GENOTYPES TO SOLUTION REPLENISHMENT IN HYDROPONIC CULTURE
Authors: David P.P. , Bonsi C.K. , Douglas D.Z.
Published: February 2019

A study was initiated in an environmental growth room to examine the effects of container size on the growth of several sweetpotato genotypes grown under a nutrient replenishment protocol. Plants were grown from vine cuttings of 15 cm in length, planted in 0.15 × 0.15 × 1.2-m growth channels using a closed nutrient film technique system. Nutrient was supplied in a modified half-strength Hoagland's solution with a 1 N: 2.4 K ratio. Nutrient replenishment protocol consisted of daily water replenishment to a constant volume of 38.4 liters in the small reservoir and 345.6 liters in the large reservoir. Nutrients were replenished as needed when the EC of the nutrient solution fell below 1200 mhos/cm. The design used was a split-plot with the main plot being container size and genotypes the subplot. Nine genotypes were evaluated: J6/62, J6176, J8/1, PX/6, PX/10, PX/36, TU-82-155, TU-J1, NCC58. Results showed no effect of container size on storage root yield, foliage fresh and dry mass, leaf area, or vine length. However, plants grown in the large container accumulated more storage root dry mass than those in the small container. All genotypes evaluated showed variation in their responses for all parameters measured.