bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potassium Affects Sodium Content in Tomato Plants Grown in Hydroponic Cultivation under Saline-sodic Stress
Authors: Botrini L. , Graifenberg A. , di Paola M. Lipucci
Published: February 2019

The tomato cultivars Edkawi and UC 82B (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) were grown hydroponically in a solution [electrical conductivity (EC) 2.4 dS·m-1] containing 150 mm Na (EC 11.4 dS·m-1), 37 mm of K (EC 14.1 dS·m-1), or 75 mm of K (EC 19.7 dS·m-1). The leaf Na content of `Edkawi' and `UC 82B' reached values of 1717 and 2022 mmol·kg-1 dry weight at EC 19.7 dS·m-1, respectively. The high levels of K in the hydroponic solution reduced the Na concentration in the roots, petioles, and stems, but not in the leaves. Potassium concentrations in the petioles of `Edkawi' and `UC 82 B' reached values of 2655 and 2966 mmol·kg-1 dry weight, respectively. At these elevated ECs, the Ca concentrations in the leaves of `Edkawi' and `UC 82B' were 30% and 40% lower than in the control, respectively. The elevated rates of K improved the fruit: flower ratio of `UC 82B', but the high salinity of the solution reduced yields significantly. Plant fresh weight and root dry weight of `UC 82B' were most affected by high EC levels. The elevated levels of K used in this study did not increase yield, but K ions can adjust to Na uptake.
Olive Floral Bud Growth and Starch Content During Winter Rest and Spring Budbreak
Authors: De la Rosa Raul , Rallo Luis , Rapoport Hava F.
Published: February 2019

In the olive (Olea europaea L.), inflorescence and flower differentiation occur in the early spring following a period of winter chilling and dormancy of the potentially reproductive buds. We examined the size, structure, and starch content of these buds during winter rest in the field and during forcing under standard growth-chamber conditions. Basic bud structure and dimensions remained unchanged during the rest period, but starch content increased in the bud's central axis. When cuttings were forced in the growth chamber, the buds followed a morphogenetic pattern similar to that observed in the field, but the sequence of developmental events could be timed more precisely. The first changes observed were the onset of axis growth and the differentiation of axillary primordia within 3 days of transfer to the growth chamber. This was followed by the initiation of new nodes, and, at 15 to 18 days, by the first signs of floral differentiation in the terminal and axillary bud apical meristems. Bud growth and differentiation were accompanied by a decrease in starch content.
Planting Systems Influence Growth Dynamics and Quality of Fresh Market Spinach
Authors: Leskovar Daniel I. , Stein Larry A. , Dainello Frank J.
Published: February 2019

The objective of this work was to determine the effect of within-row plant spacing and mulching on growth, quality, and yield of an experimental semi-savoy spinach (Spinacea oleracea L.) genotype `Ark-310' to produce a high quality fresh market product. Within-row spacings were 15 and 25 cm, and mulching treatments were bare-soil and black polyethylene mulch. Plants were destructively sampled weekly (1995-96) or bi-weekly (1997-98) for leaf area (LA), leaf number, leaf dry weight (LDW) and root dry weight (RDW) measurements. Plants grown on plastic mulch at 25-cm spacing had greater LA, LDW, and RDW than when grown at 15-cm spacing on mulch or bare-soil. Leaf number and specific leaf area (LA/LDW) were less affected by either spacing or mulching. The amount of soil on harvested leaves was lower on plants grown on plastic mulch in both years. In one year, total yields (MT/ha-1) were 42% higher at 15-cm than at 25-cm plant spacing, while mulch increased yields by 20%, independently of plant spacing. These effects were not evident in the year with higher rainfall (1997-98).
Transmission of Xylella fastidiosa to Oleander by the Glassywinged Sharpshooter, Homalodisca coagulata
Authors: Costa H.S. , Blua M.S. , Bethke J.A. , Redak R.A.
Published: February 2019

Studies were conducted to investigate the transmission of the oleander leaf scorch (OLS) pathogen to oleander (Nerium oleander L.) plants by sharpshooters. OLS is incited by a strain of the bacterial plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa Well. The glassywinged sharpshooter, Homalodisca coagulata (Say), is a principal vector of this pathogen in California. In these studies, three cultivars of oleander were exposed to sharpshooters that had previously fed upon OLS-infected oleander plants. Sharpshooters were subsequently caged on healthy oleander plants individually or in groups of three. Plants were observed for symptoms of disease, and ELISA was used to test for the presence of X. fastidiosa. The probability of infection did not differ significantly when plants were inoculated with one insect (83%) or with three (94%). However, higher plant mortality rates were observed on plants inoculated with three insects, indicating that a greater number of infection sites may hasten plant death. Although all oleander cultivars were equally susceptible to inoculation by sharpshooters, `Ruby Lace' plants were less symptomatic and had a higher level of survival after one year than `Hardy Pink' and `Hardy Red'. When given a choice of the three cultivars to feed on, the number of insects feeding did not differ among cultivars at 24 or 48 hours after exposure.
Combining Ability for Resistance to Sweetpotato Feathery Mottle Virus
Authors: Mihovilovich Elisa , Mendoza Humberto A. , Salazar Luis F.
Published: February 2019

Combining ability for resistance to Sweetpotato Feathery Mottle Virus (SPFMV) was evaluated in seven sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] clones. A diallel mating design was used, which resulted in 16 full-sib families. Families were evaluated for SPFMV resistance under greenhouse conditions in a randomized complete-block design. Resistance was tested by grafting Ipomoea nil `Scarlet O' Hara' infected with the russet crack strain of SPFMV (RC-SPFMV) onto individual plants of the families being evaluated. Symptomless plants were further indexed by cleft grafting virus-free Ipomoea setosa Ker plants onto the tested plants. Those plants in which the virus was not recovered by this test were considered resistant. Analysis of variance for SPFMV resistance revealed significant general combining abilities (GCA). Two clones, DLP-886 and TN90.300, exhibited significant positive GCA for SPFMV resistance. No significant specific combining abilities (SCA) were detected among the crosses. Breeding for resistance to SPFMV should focus on careful selection of resistant parents. In addition, results suggest that additive gene action is important in resistance to SPFMV.
Are `Oblonga' and `Frantoio' Olives the Same Cultivar?
Authors: Barranco Diego , Trujillo Isabel , Rallo Pilar
Published: February 2019

The cultivar Oblonga may have originated from a volunteer seedling at an orchard near Corning, Calif., about 1940. Its main virtue is its high degree of resistance to Verticillium dahliae. `Frantoio' is the main variety in Italy and has been planted worldwide because of its high content of top-quality oil. In the present study, we show that both cultivars have the same fifteen morphological and eight agronomical traits and both have amplified the same patterns for 22 RAPD primers and five SSRs. This indicates that `Oblonga' and `Frantoio' are probably the same cultivar.
Mummy Berry Blight Resistance in Rabbiteye Blueberry Cultivars
Authors: Ehlenfeldt M.K. , Stretch A.W.
Published: February 2019

The resistance of 26 rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei Reade) cultivars to the blighting phase of mummy berry disease was evaluated under controlled conditions. In 1997, blight levels ranged from 31% to 84%, and averaged 61.3% across all cultivars. In 1998, blight levels ranged from 71% to 99%, and averaged 89.9%. Several cultivars, including `Coastal', `Delite', `Centurion', `Walker', `Callaway', and `Garden Blue', exhibited significantly lower levels of mummy berry blight infection in both years. Blighting levels were significantly correlated with new shoot length in 1997, but not in 1998. Rabbiteye blueberry, in general, is less resistant to mummy berry blight than is highbush blueberry (V. corymbosum L.), but several options exist for potential improvement.
Yield Components of Triploid and Tetraploid Musa Genotypes in Nigeria
Authors: Baiyeri K.P. , Mbah B.N. , Tenkouano A.
Published: February 2019

The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model was used to evaluate the stability patterns of 36 Musa genotypes in four cropping environments for bunch weight, pulp weight, and dry matter content. Alleycropping generally induced higher means for all traits than did sole cropping. The triploid plantains produced smaller bunch weights and were less stable than dessert and cooking bananas. In this ploidy group, bunch weight was highest for the cooking bananas `Cardaba' and `Fougamou', but only `Fougamou' was stable across environments. Among the hybrids, only `FHIA23' (dessert banana) expressed high and stable bunch weights, while other high-yielding hybrids displayed specific adaptation to alleycropping. Pulp weight was lower but more stable in plantains than in other triploid genotypes. Among the hybrids, pulp weight was high and stable for one cooking banana (`FHIA3'), one dessert banana (`FHIA1'), and three plantains (`PITA1', `PITA2', and `PITA7'). Dry matter content was highest in plantains and lowest in dessert bananas at both triploid and tetraploid levels, and was also more stable than the other traits. Thus, the adaptation patterns of genotypes across environments varied according to the trait studied. When rank changes were not observed across traits for a given genotype, differences were still noted in the relative magnitude of the IPCA1 score. Hence, both farm gate traits and postharvest processing traits should be considered in selecting for broad or specific adaptation. Determination of the genetic relationships between processing traits and farm gate traits could allow Musa breeders to construct selection indices that would facilitate multiple trait selection and enhance breeding efficiency, with respect to cultivar stability and adaptation across environments.
Excess Moisture and Seedcoat Nicking Influence Germination of Triploid Watermelon
Authors: Grange S.L. , Leskovar D.I. , Pike L.M. , Cobb B.G.
Published: February 2019

Poor and inconsistent germination is a problem in triploid watermelon. Nicking was shown effective in improving germination in triploid cultivars. In this experiment, we examined the effects of high and low medium moisture, and nicking on diploid and triploid seed germination. Germination for the diploid cultivar was unaffected by any treatment. At high moisture conditions, triploid seed germination was severely reduced to less than 15%, while nicking significantly improved germination up to 40%. However, this increase is still not commercially acceptable. When seed morphological components were measured for each cultivar, triploid seeds had a larger and highly variable air space as compared to the diploid seed. The data confirm that seed germination is not inhibited by the seedcoat alone, but appears to be highly sensitive to excessive water conditions.
Field Testing Peach Rootstocks for Resistance to Armillaria Root Rot
Authors: Beckman T.G. , Pusey P.L.
Published: February 2019

Armillaria root rot is the second leading cause of peach tree mortality (after peach tree short life) in the southeastern United States. Currently, there are no commercially available rootstocks for peach with proven resistance to this pathogen in the United States. Since 1983, we have been screening rootstock candidates for resistance to Armillaria utilizing naturally infected field sites. Inoculation of peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch], plum (P. cerasifera J.F. Ehrh., P. munsoniana F.W. Wight & Hedr., P. salicina Lindl. or P. angustifolia Marsh.) × peach and plum × plum hybrid rootstocks with infected plant tissue (such as acorns, Quercus sp.) prior to planting has provided a significantly increased infection and mortality of candidate rootstock lines in comparison with sole reliance on natural inoculum on an infested site.
Pollination Biology of the Muscadine Grape
Authors: Sampson Blair , Noffsinger Steve , Gupton Creighton , Magee James
Published: February 2019

Fruit set in the muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia Michx.) depended on insect cross-pollination, although flowers were well adapted for selfing. Pollinizer cultivars produced about half of their optimal fruit set when selfed, but cross-pollination was needed to reach an optimal fruit set of 33.7%. Eighty-one percent of the overall fruit set in pistillate vines was attributed to insect cross-pollination; wind played only a small role. Diminished fruit set and fewer seeds per berry occurred in cultivars receiving no effective cross-pollination. Components of fruit quality were not profoundly affected by the pollination treatments, although seed set and berry weight in pistillate cultivars was lower in the absence of cross-pollination. Parthenocarpy was rare, except in `Fry Seedless'. Muscadine production throughout the southeastern United States depends on cross-pollination by indigenous insects, particularly bees. To ensure consistently high yields, bees must have safe access to flowers and their nesting sites must be preserved.
Characterization of Resistance to Pepper Huasteco Geminivirus in Chili Peppers from Yucatán, México
Authors: Godínez-Hernández Yolanda , Anaya-López José Luis , Díaz-Plaza Raúl , González-Chavira Mario , Torres-Pacheco Irineo , Rivera-Bustamante Rafael F. , Guevara-González Ramón G.
Published: February 2019

Seven pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) populations from the Yucatán Peninsula, México, that were selected from a field screening for viral diseases were tested for pepper huasteco geminivirus (PHV) resistance. Two populations (UX-SMH-1 and UX-SMH-24) displayed <50% of infection with PHV. Four plants did not show viral symptoms 3 months postinoculation using biolistic and grafting methods. When leaf tissue from these individuals was analyzed for PHV using quantitative PCR, it supported PHV replication, thus, the ineffective PHV infection in these symptomless individuals may be a result of restricted viral movement.
A Method for Assessing the Relationship Between Cropload and Crop Value Following Fruit Thinning
Authors: Stover Ed , Wirth Ferdinand , Robinson Terence
Published: February 2019

Analysis of apple (Malus×domestica Borkh.) and citrus thinning experiments indicates that the relationships between cropload, fruit size, and total yield can be used to assess optimal cropload for highest crop value. Mean fruit size increased and total yield declined as the cropload (number of fruit/cm2 trunk cross-sectional area) was reduced through the use of chemical thinners. Because crop value is influenced by fruit size and total yield, intermediate croploads gave the highest economic returns in all experiments evaluated. For `Empire' apple, croploads greater than those expected to provide good return bloom often produced the highest crop value for a single year. In citrus, optimal crop values resulted from a broad range of intermediate croploads. A method is described to analyze optimum cropload from thinning experiments.
Growth and Net Photosynthetic Rate of Tomato Plantlets during Photoautotrophic and Photomixotrophic Micropropagation
Authors: Kubota Chieri , Kakizaki Natsuko , Kozai Toyoki , Kasahara Koichi , Nemoto Jun
Published: February 2019

Nodal explants of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) were cultured in vitro to evaluate the effects of sugar concentration, photosynthetic photon flux (PPF), CO2 concentration, ventilation rate of the vessel, and leaf removal on growth and photosynthesis. After 20 days of culture, the dry weights of plantlets derived from explants with leaves and cultured photoautotrophically (without sugar in the medium) under high PPF, high CO2 concentration, and high ventilation rate were more than twice as great as those of plantlets derived conventionally from explants without leaves and cultured photomixotrophically (with sugar in the medium) under low PPF, low CO2 concentration, and low ventilation rate (107 and 45 mg per plantlet, respectively). Under photomixotrophic micropropagation conditions, the dry weights of plantlets from explants with leaves increased more than did those of plantlets from explants without leaves. High PPF, high CO2 concentration, and high ventilation rate increased net photosynthetic rate and promoted growth of the plantlets under photomixotrophic micropropagation conditions. Photomixotrophic conditions produced the greatest dry weight and the longest shoots, but photoautotrophic conditions produced the highest net photosynthetic rate. The number of leaves did not differ significantly between photoautotrophically and photomixotrophically cultured plantlets. Thus, photoautotrophic micropropagation is applicable to the production of high quality tomato transplants.
Fruit Set of Triploid Watermelons as a Function of Distance from a Diploid Pollinizer
Authors: NeSmith D. Scott , Duval John R.
Published: February 2019

During 1998 and 1999, `Genesis' triploid watermelons [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nak.] were grown in large blocks with a single row of the diploid `Ferarri' planted as a pollinizer in the middle. A once-over harvest each year was made in harvest lanes 0, 1.5, 3.0, 4.5, 6.0, 7.5, and 9.0 m perpendicular distances from the pollinizer row. Individual fruit were weighed and counted. Data from both years indicated a similar distribution of triploid fruit with respect to distance from the pollinizer row. The greatest number of triploid fruit per unit land area was in the harvest row 3.0 m from the pollinizer row. When distance from the pollinizer row was 6.0 m or greater, triploid fruit numbers diminished substantially. Yield estimates made each year using the fruit density data suggested that a 1 pollinizer: 4 triploid ratio gave the maximum total triploid fruit yield per hectare for 1.5-m row spacings. These results should prove useful in designing field planting strategies to optimize triploid watermelon production.
Nitrogen, Rootstocks, and Growth of Young 'Rhode Red' Valencia Orange Trees
Authors: Davies Frederick S. , Zalman Glenn R.
Published: February 2019

Several studies suggest that optimum N rate and application frequency differ among citrus rootstocks. `Rhode Red' valencia orange trees [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osb.] on three rootstocks, C. volkameriana Ten. and Pasq., `Carrizo' citrange [C. sinensis (L.) Osb. × Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.], and `Swingle' citrumelo [C. paradisi Macf. × P. trifoliata (L.) Raf.], were used to determine if N rate and application frequency should be adjusted, based on rootstock, during the first 3 years in the field. Treatments were arranged in a 3×3×3 (rootstock, N rates, N application frequency, respectively) factorial experiment. Annual N application rates ranged from 68 to 272 g/tree depending on tree age, and N was applied biweekly, weekly or monthly. Application frequency had no effect on trunk diameter or leaf N concentration in any year. Rootstock had a significant effect on growth in all 3 years, with trees on C. volkameriana being largest and having the greatest yields, followed by those on `Carrizo' and `Swingle', respectively. Trees on C. volkameriana were larger than those on the other rootstocks because they were larger at planting, grew over a longer period during the year, and often grew at a faster rate. Nitrogen rate had no effect on growth during the first 2 years in the field, but the highest N rate increased yields in year 3 for trees on C. volkameriana and `Swingle' rootstocks. Interaction between rootstock and N rate was nonsignificant for trunk diameter, but it was significant for yield, suggesting that trees on C. volkameriana responded more to increased N than did those on the other rootstocks.
Growth, Production, and Bean Quality of Coffea arabica as Affected by Interspecific Grafting: Consequences for Rootstock Breeding
Authors: Bertrand Benoît , Etienne Hervé , Eskes Albertus
Published: February 2019

In order to avoid nematode damage to roots of Coffea arabica L. in Latin America, a common practice is interspecific grafting on C. canephora var. Robusta (Pierre) rootstocks. The performance of two C. arabica cultivars, `Caturra' and `Catimor T5175', was evaluated on four rootstocks: C. canephora var. Robusta (`T3561' and `T3757') and C. liberica var. liberica (Hiern) and var. dewevrei (Lebrun), over 5 years in a trial at 1180 m elevation in Costa Rica. Nongrafted plants of the two Arabica cultivars were used as controls. Mortality of plants grafted on the two C. liberica cvs. was >20% vs. 6% to 13% for plants grafted on C. canephora, and 3% to 4% for the two controls. Analysis of accumulated yields over four harvests showed that the rootstocks limited stem girth and reduced yield 10% to 48%. Yield on the C. canephora rootstock was greater than that on the two C. liberica cultivars. However, grafting did not affect female fertility (peaberries, empty berries) or content of several chemicals, such as caffeine, fat, and sucrose. The two C. liberica rootstocks significantly reduced aroma and bean size. Histological studies revealed symptoms of incompatibility, characterized by more dilated and less distinct growth rings and appearance of plugged vascular connections. The poor performance of the rootstocks may therefore be explained by partial incompatibility. However, growth and productivity were also affected by poor adaptations of C. canephora, C. liberica, and C. dewevrei to the lower temperature at high altitudes and by morphological differences in the root systems. These results emphasize the need to develop better adapted rootstock cultivars from C. canephora var. Robusta.
Spacing and Genotype Affect Fruit Sugar Concentration, Yield, and Fruit Size of Muskmelon
Authors: Kultur F. , Harrison H.C. , Staub J.E.
Published: February 2019

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) genotypes, Birdsnest 1 [`Qalya' (BN1)], Birdsnest 2 (BN2), and `Mission' (V) were used to determine the effects of differing plant architecture and spacing on fruit sugar concentration and yield. The BN1 and BN2 genotypes possessed a highly branched growth habit specific to birdsnest melon types, but not characteristic of standard indeterminate vining types (e.g., `Mission'). Experiments were conducted at both the Hancock and Arlington Experimental Farms in Wisconsin, where plant response to two within-row spacings [35 cm (72,600 plants/ha) and 70 cm (36,300 plants/ha)] in rows on 210-cm centers was examined. Genotypes were grown in a randomized complete-block design with four replications at each location and evaluated for primary lateral branch number, fruit number per plant and per hectare, average fruit weight, yield per plant (g), yield per hectare (t), and fruit sugar concentration. Yield, fruit number, and sugar concentration were higher for all genotypes at Arlington than at Hancock. The main effect of genotype was significant for all traits examined. Genotypes BN1 and V had higher mean fruit weight, yield per plant and per hectare, and fruit quality (fruit sugar concentration) than did BN2. Spacing affected all traits, except primary branch number and fruit sugar concentration. Fruit number and yield per plant and average fruit weight were higher with wider spacing, but yield (t·ha-1) and fruit number per hectare were lower.
Temperature Affects Leaf Unfolding Rate and Flowering of Cyclamen
Authors: Karlsson Meriam , Werner Jeffrey
Published: February 2019

The rate of leaf unfolding for Cyclamen persicum Mill. was determined at 8 to 24 °C. Temperature treatments started 9 weeks from seeding and after 8 weeks all plants were moved to 16 °C. The cultivars Miracle Salmon, Miracle Scarlet, and Miracle White produced leaves at a similar rate. The relationship of (leaves/d) = - 0.01727 - 0.02284 * °C + 0.005238 * (°C)2 - 0.000162 * (°C)3 (R2 = 0.99) best described the leaf unfolding rate in response to temperature. The maximum leaf unfolding rate was estimated to 0.329 leaves/day at 19.1 °C. Flower buds (2 mm diameter) developed within 60 days from the start of temperature treatments except at 8 °C. Thirty-five additional days at 16 °C were required for cyclamen initially grown at 8 °C for 8 weeks to produce flower buds. Despite similar conditions during bud development, flowering was delayed 14 to 18 days for plants initially grown at 24 °C compared to those grown at 12 to 20 °C. Plants initially at 8 °C did not flower within 70 days at 16 °C. Leaf and flower numbers at first open flower increased as initial temperature increased from 12 to 24 °C while dry weight and height only increased to 20 °C. No correlation between leaf unfolding and rate of flowering or flower number was detected. Recommendations for 20 °C during early cyclamen growth can be expected to support rapid rates of leaf unfolding and development, and large flower numbers.
Reassessment of Seed Influence on Return Bloom and Fruit Growth in 'Bartlett' Pear
Authors: Weinbaum Steven A. , DeJong Theodore M. , Maki John
Published: February 2019

In a simple, yet elegant experiment conducted 30 years ago, Chan and Cain (1967) using 'Spencer Seedless', a facultatively parthenocarpic apple (Malus×domestica Borkh.) cultivar, proposed that seeds inhibited flowering and accentuated biennial bearing in apple. Their conclusions have been extrapolated widely to include apple and other species. We have tested the universality of their conclusions using 'Bartlett' pear (Pyrus communis L.), a commercially important, facultatively parthenocarpic cultivar. Unlike 'Spencer Seedless' apples and seedless 'Bartlett' pear grown in France, California-grown seedless 'Bartlett' pear fruit strongly inhibited flowering the following year. However, the presence of seeds increased 'Bartlett' pear fruit size relative to seedless fruit by 13% and 20% in nonthinned and heavily-thinned pear trees, respectively, indicating that seeds increased fruit sink strength.
Reactions of Rp-Resistant, Processing Sweet Corn Hybrids to Populations of Puccinia sorghi Virulent on Corn with the Rp1-D Gene
Authors: Pataky Jerald K. , Gonzalez Mirian , Brewbaker James L. , Kloppers Frederik J.
Published: February 2019

Resistance to Puccinia sorghi Schwein. based on the Rp1-D gene has been used successfully in North America for the past 15 years to control common rust on sweet corn (Zea mays L.). The objective of this preliminary research was to examine rust reactions of Rp-hybrids grown for processing in the midwestern United States against biotypes of P. sorghi virulent against Rp1-D. In Sept. 1999, isolates of P. sorghi virulent on corn with the Rp1-D gene were collected throughout the midwestern United States. Rust reactions of 41 Rp-resistant, processing sweet corn hybrids and nine non-Rp hybrids were evaluated during the 1999-2000 season in Argentina, Hawaii, Mexico, and South Africa, where populations of P. sorghi are virulent against Rp1-D. Sporulating uredinia were observed on all hybrids in all locations. Although rust reactions varied among locations, mean standardized scores of nine non-Rp hybrids that were included in the trial as controls ranked nearly the same as in previous trials. Thirteen hybrids with standardized scores above 0.25 were more susceptible than the hybrid with the lowest mean rust rating, `Green Giant Code 27'. Thirty-two hybrids were intermediate in reaction to P. sorghi virulent against Rp1-D. Reactions were moderately resistant for nine hybrids with mean standardized scores below -0.50, including two moderately resistant, non-Rp hybrids (`GG Code 27' and `GG Code 6') that were included as controls. Additional trials are necessary to confirm reactions of these hybrids. If the Rp-hybrids that were moderately susceptible or susceptible in this trial are infected by P. sorghi virulent against Rp1-D, secondary inoculum will be abundant and infection will be severe if the weather is wet.
In Vitro Colonization of Micropropagated Pieris floribunda by Ericoid Mycorrhizae. II. Effects on Acclimatization and Growth
Authors: Starrett Mark C. , Blazich Frank A. , Shafer Steven R. , Grand Larry F.
Published: February 2019

Inoculation of microshoots of Pieris floribunda (Pursh ex Sims) Benth. and Hook. (mountain andromeda) with isolates of Hymenoscyphus ericae (Read) Korf and Kernan ericoid mycorrhizal fungi stimulated growth during 1 month in vitro. However, no benefits were apparent after 3 months in a greenhouse. Acclimatization of plantlets of P. floribunda to greenhouse conditions following in vitro inoculation improved survival (42% vs. 16% for controls). The protocol reported herein is similar to procedures utilized currently for micropropagation of various ericaceous species and has potential to improve plantlet survival during acclimatization.
Micropropagation of Echinacea angustifolia, E. pallida, and E. purpurea from Stem and Seed Explants
Authors: Harbage James F.
Published: February 2019

Micropropagation of three Echinacea species, E. angustifolia DC., E. pallida Nutt., and E. purpurea Moench., was investigated as a potential means of germplasm preservation of species faced with overcollection in the wild and rapid clonal propagation of elite individuals with unique medicinal or ornamental properties. Very high contamination rates occurred with shoot-tip explants but not with nodal segments. Contamination rates for seed explants were inversely related to the number of seedcoat layers removed, ranging from 100% contamination from intact seeds to near 0% contamination from excised embryos. Dormancy of seed explants was also eliminated when the pericarp and integument were removed. Addition of benzyladenine (BA) to the culture medium induced shoot multiplication and inhibited root formation in all three species. Shoot multiplication rates were low (1-3 shoots per culture) when seed explants were placed on a medium with BA levels low enough to avoid adventitious shoot formation (0.45 μm). Shoot count was higher on half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) minerals, while leaf size was greater on full-strength MS minerals. Cultures did not perform well in Woody Plant Medium. Reducing subculture frequency from 4 to 2 weeks increased shoot multiplication from 1.4 to 1.8 shoots per subculture and total shoots produced per subculture after 12 weeks from 2.8 to 23.9. Rooting occurred readily on shoots isolated from E. purpurea cultures and was not promoted by addition of IBA to the rooting medium. Rooting was low and nil on shoots from cultures of E. angustifolia and E. pallida, respectively. Methods described in this study allow rapid multiplication of three Echinacea species and subsequent rooting of E. purpurea. Future improvements in root induction treatments will allow these methods to be used effectively for micropropagation and maintenance of disease-free germplasm of Echinacea species. Chemical names used: N-(phenylmethyl)-1H-purine-6-amine (BA); 1H-indole-3-butyric acid (IBA).
Root Weight, Nonstructural Carbohydrate Content, and Shoot Density of High-density Creeping Bentgrass Cultivars
Authors: Sweeney Patricia , Danneberger Karl , Wang Daijun , McBride Michael
Published: February 2019

Limited information is available on the performance under temperate conditions in the United States of recently released cultivars of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) with high shoot density for use on golf course putting greens. Fifteen cultivars were established in Aug. 1996 on a greens mix with high sand content to compare their seasonal weights and total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) contents. The cultivars were maintained at 3.1 mm height of cut. Shoot density counts were taken during Apr., July, and Oct. 1998. Root weights and nonstructural carbohydrate levels were assessed monthly from June 1997 through Nov. 1998. A cultivar group contrast between the high shoot density cultivars (`Penn A1', `Penn A2', `Penn A4', `Penn G1', `Penn G2', and `Penn G6') and the standard cultivars (`Penncross', `Crenshaw', `Southshore', `DF-1', `Procup', `Lopez', `SR1020', and `Providence') revealed that the former averaged 342.9 and 216.1 more shoots/dm2 on two of the three sampling dates. Root dry weights did not vary significantly (P ≤ 0.05) among the cultivars. Performing a contrast between new high shoot density cultivars and standard cultivars revealed greater root dry weight in the former during Mar. and May 1998. Differences (P ≤ 0.05) in TNC were observed on two of the 18 sampling dates, but no trends were evident.
Establishing Zoysia japonica from Sprigs: Effects of Topdressing and Nitrogen Fertility
Authors: Richardson M.D. , Boyd J.W.
Published: February 2019

Establishment of zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) from sprigs is often impractical for golf courses and sports fields because of the slow growth rate of the species and subsequent long establishment period. A study was conducted at two different sites in Arkansas to evaluate the effects of soil topdressing and post-plant fertility rates on establishment of zoysiagrass from vegetative sprigs. Each site was planted according to standard methods using freshly-harvested sprigs (18 m3/ha) and either top dressed with 1.0 cm of native soil or maintained without topdressing. Beginning immediately after establishment, N was applied monthly at rates of 0, 1.25, 2.50, 3.75, or 5.0 g·m-2 as urea. Rate of cover was monitored throughout the growing season and elemental analysis of plant tissues was determined 120 days after planting. Topdressing the sprigs with native soil significantly improved establishment compared to traditional sprigging at both sites, presumably because of enhanced sprig survival. Applications of N during the establishment period had little or no overall effect on establishment, although the 0 g·m-2 rate was slightly inferior to all other rates. This study indicates that methods that enhance sprig survival are more important than added fertility for the rapid establishment of zoysiagrass sprigs.
Economics of Pronamide and Pendimethalin Use in Weed Management during Artichoke Stand Establishment
Authors: Haar Milton J. , Fennimore Steven A. , Lambert Cheryl L.
Published: February 2019

Field studies were conducted to determine the potential economic impact of the loss of pronamide herbicide to artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) growers, and to evaluate pendimethalin as an alternative herbicide during establishment of artichoke. Two rates of pronamide and one rate of pendimethalin were applied to perennial and annual artichokes. With the exception of wild oat (Avena fatua L.), pendimethalin controlled weeds as well as or better than pronamide. Financial analysis of treatment effects was based on weed management expenses and value of yield. The financial effect of using pronamide in perennial artichoke ranged from a loss of $247 to a gain of $326 per ha, whereas its use in annual artichoke increased revenue $542 to $5499 per ha. The effects on revenue of using pendimethalin varied with weed species composition and density. For three sites, revenue increased from $267 to $5056 per ha, while a loss of $1034 per ha occurred at a site with a heavy infestation of wild oat. We conclude that pendimethalin has potential as a pronamide replacement, or as a complement to pronamide. Chemical names used: 3,5-dichloro (N-1,1-dimethyl-2-propynyl)benzamide (pronamide); N-(1-ethylpropyl)-3,4-dimethyl-2,6-dinitrobenzenamine (pendimethalin).
Temperature and Daily Light Integral Influence Plant Quality and Flower Development of Campanula carpatica 'Blue Clips', 'Deep Blue Clips', and Campanula 'Birch Hybrid'
Authors: Niu Genhua , Heins Royal D. , Cameron Arthur , Carlson Will
Published: February 2019

The effects of temperature on flower size and number of flower buds of Campanula carpatica Jacq. 'Blue Clips', 'Deep Blue Clips', and Campanula 'Birch Hybrid' were investigated in four temperature and light-transfer experiments. In year 1, 'Blue Clips' and 'Birch Hybrid' plants were grown initially at 20 °C and then transferred at visible flower bud (VB) to 14, 17, 20, 23, or 26 °C until flower (Expt. 1). In Expt. 2, 'Blue Clips' and 'Birch Hybrid' plants were transferred from 14 to 26 °C or from 26 to 14 °C at various intervals after flower induction. Flower size of both species was negatively correlated with average daily temperature (ADT) after VB; flowers on plants grown at 14 °C were 35% larger than those on plants grown at 26 °C. In contrast, temperature before VB had only a small effect on final flower size in both species, although flower diameter of 'Birch Hybrid' plants grown at constant 26 °C was 20% smaller than that of the plants grown initially at 20°C and then transferred to VB to 26 °C. For both species, the longer the exposure to high temperature after VB, the smaller the flowers. Number of flower buds at flower in 'Birch Hybrid' decreased as ADT after VB increased. In year 2, 'Deep Blue Clips' plants were grown at constant 20 °C under high or low daily light integral (DLI, 17 or 5.7 mol·m-2·d-1) until VB, and then transferred to 14, 17, 20, 23, or 26 °C under high or low DLI (Expt. 3). In Expt. 4, 'Deep Blue Clips' plants were grown at 14, 17, 20, 23, or 26 °C until VB, and then transferred to constant 20 °C under high or low DLI until flower. Flower size (petal length) was negatively correlated with ADT both before and after VB, while flower bud number was negatively correlated with the ADT only after VB, regardless of DLI. In both experiments, petal length decreased by 0.3 to 0.5 mm per 1 °C increase in ADT before or after VB. Flowers were larger and more numerous under high than under low DLIs after VB, regardless of the DLI before VB.
Crop Injury from Sublethal Rates of Herbicide. II. Cucumber
Authors: Gilreath James P. , Chase Carlene A. , Locascio Salvadore J.
Published: February 2019

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) growth and yield in response to application of sublethal rates of 2,4-D at several developmental stages were evaluated in field studies during two seasons. In Expt. 1, prebloom applications of 2,4-D amine reduced plant vigor and increased foliar epinasty as rates increased from 0 to 112 g·ha-1. Early and total fruit yields also declined linearly as 2,4-D rates increased; 112 g·ha-1 2,4-D reduced early yield by 25% and total yield by 20%. In Expt. 2, plant vigor declined with increasing rates of 2,4-D applied at all four stages of development from first true leaf to early fruit enlargement; however, response at stage 1 differed with time after application. Epinasty increased with 2,4-D rate when applied at all developmental stages; however the severity of the response varied with time after application for stages 1, 2, and 3, but not for stage 4. Averaged over all developmental stages, vine length, fresh weight, and yield decreased linearly as rates increased. Early and total yields with 112 g·ha-1 were 22% and 19% lower than those of nontreated plants, respectively. Growth inhibition and yield decline, pooled across 2,4-D rates, were greater when exposure occurred at the earlier stages of development. Chemical name used: (2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid (2,4-D).
Crop Injury from Sublethal Rates of Herbicide. III. Pepper
Authors: Gilreath James P. , Chase Carlene A. , Locascio Salvadore J.
Published: February 2019

Sublethal rates of 2,4-D and dicamba were applied to pepper to evaluate the possible effects of single or multiple exposures to drift from these herbicides. Dicamba induced more foliar injury than did 2,4-D and reduced vigor more as herbicide rates increased. Postbloom applications reduced vigor less than did earlier applications. Epinastic response was affected by stage of development at application and time after treatment. Postbloom applications did not affect yield, but dicamba and 2,4-D applied at earlier stages of development resulted in linear reduction of marketable and total yields as rates increased to 112 g·ha-1. Reductions in plant vigor with increased rates were greater and foliar epinasty was more pronounced with two sequential applications of 2,4-D or dicamba than with single applications. Marketable yields were unaffected by single prebloom applications but declined linearly with two applications. Cull and total yields were not affected by the number of applications. With prebloom and bloom applications of 2,4-D, flower abscission increased and fruit set decreased as rate increased. Chemical names used: 3,6-dichloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid (dicamba); 2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid (2,4-D).
Pruning Height and Selective Limb Removal Affect Yield of Large 'Hass' Avocado Trees
Authors: Thorp T.G. , Stowell B.
Published: February 2019

Avocado (Persea americana Mill. cv. Hass) trees were pruned over 3 years at either 4 or 6 m in height by removing or heading back selected limbs. Yields were compared with those from control trees with no pruning in the upper canopy. All trees had similar crop loads before pruning. Trees were at 9 × 10-m spacing and were 8 years old when first pruned. Fruit yields were recorded for 2 years before the first pruning and then in each year of pruning. In the final year, trees were harvested in four height zones: 0-2m; 2-4 m; 4-6 m; and >6 m. Cumulative yields over 3 years were similar on 6-m and control trees, but were less on 4-m trees due to the large volume of fruiting canopy removed in the first pruning. The height of the main fruiting zone was lowered on the 4-m trees, with yields in the 2-4-m zone similar to those in the 4-6-m zone of the control trees. Pruning to reduce the number and length of scaffold branches increased fruit yields on the remaining scaffolds without reducing fruit size. Results are discussed in terms of harvest efficiency and the benefits of small tree orchard systems.
Foliar Boron Application Improves Flower Fertility and Fruit Set of Olive
Authors: Perica Slavko , Brown Patrick H. , Connell Joseph H. , Nyomora Agnes M.S. , Dordas Christos , Hu Hening , Stangoulis James
Published: February 2019

A 2-year field study was conducted to determine if foliar B applications prior to flowering increased fruit set in olive (Olea europaea L.) cv. Manzanillo. Boron solutions were applied (935 L·ha-1) at four concentrations (0, 246, 491, and 737 mg·L-1) to trees exhibiting no vegetative symptoms of B deficiency. Foliar B application increased both the percentage of perfect flowers and fruit set, but no effect on pollen germination was observed in either year. The increase in fruit set was not accompanied by a reduction in fruit size. The beneficial effects of foliar B application varied between years and were greater when fruit set was low. The results obtained here are in agreement with those observed in other tree species, in which foliar B applications made immediately prior to flowering or during the period of floral bud initiation significantly increased fruit set and yield. The physiological basis for this effect, however, remains unclear.
Amending Sand with Isolite and Zeolite under Saline Conditions: Leachate Composition and Salt Deposition
Authors: Qian Y.L. , Koski A.J. , Welton R.
Published: February 2019

Understanding the possible influence of inorganic soil amendments on salt leaching and deposition is helpful in selecting soil amendments when salinity is a problem. Greenhouse experiments were conducted to: 1) evaluate the effects of isolite and zeolite on turf quality of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) under three salinity levels; and 2) determine if soil amendments affected leachate composition, salt deposition, and soil sodium absorption ratio (SAR). `Challenger' Kentucky bluegrass was grown in columns filled with 100% sand, 50 sand: 50 isolite, and 50 sand: 50 zeolite (v/v). Irrigation waters with three levels of salinity [0.25 (control), 3.5, or 6.5 dS·m-1] were applied daily for 3 months in Study I and for 6 months in Study II. Saline water reduced turf quality compared with control. Amendment of sand with isolite increased turf quality only during the third month of treatment with the most saline water in Study I. However, zeolite increased turf quality during both the second and third months at both salinity levels in both studies. The beneficial effects of zeolite on turf quality diminished 5 and 6 months after salinity treatments. Amending sand with zeolite reduced leaching of Na+ and K+, but increased the leaching of Ca2+ and Mg2+. Amending sand with zeolite increased SAR values by 0.9, 1.6, and 6.3 units in Study I and 0.9, 3.6, and 10.9 units in Study II, under control, 3.5, and 6.5 dS·m-1 salinity treatments, respectively. Isolite increased SAR by 1.1-1.6 units with 3.5 dS·m-1 and by 2.5-3.5 units with 6.5 dS·m-1 salinity treatments. Results indicate that amending with zeolite may buffer soil solution Na+ concentration in the short-term. In the long-term, however, a substantial amount of Na+ may be retained concurrent with Ca2+ and Mg2+ exchange, thereby increasing sodicity and salinity problems.
Surfactants Increase Toxicity of Glyphosate and 2,4-D to Brazil Pusley
Authors: Sharma Shiv D. , Singh M.
Published: February 2019

Various combinations of glyphosate and 2,4-D (± surfactant) were evaluated for control of Brazil pusley [Richardia brasiliensis (Moq.) Gomez]. Typical 2,4-D symptoms on plants were manifested within 2 to 3 days after treatment. Application of glyphosate alone had only marginal effects (14%) on Brazil pusley, but the addition of Induce® (nonionic surfactant) significantly increased control to 83% and reduced the fresh weight by 68%. Application of Landmaster®II or a tank-mix of glyphosate + 2,4-D (± surfactants) resulted in 96% to 100% control. Treatment with 2,4-D alone, or with Induce®, or L-77® (organosilicone surfactant) resulted in 84%, 90%, or 100% control, respectively. Very low fresh weights of Brazil pusley were recorded when 2,4-D +Induce® or L-77®, Landmaster®II (± surfactants), or the tank-mix (± surfactants) were applied. In the regrowth studies, shoot weight was greater following application of glyphosate with or without L-77® or Kinetic® (a blend of nonionic and organosilicone) than following other treatments. The fresh weight of the shoots in the regrowth study, recorded following the application of 2,4-D or Landmaster®II (± surfactants), was very low except when Kinetic® was added to Landmaster®II. No regrowth of shoots occurred following the tank-mix treatment. Similar observations were recorded for roots. Plants treated with 2,4-D did not regrow. The presence of 2,4-D in either formulation accelerated synergistic effect of the glyphosate to the target site. Therefore, 2,4-D could be used either as a component of a formulation or in a tank-mix with glyphosate to control Brazil pusley. Chemical names used: N-(phosphonomethyl glycine) (glyphosate); 2,4-dicholorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D).
Early Season Weed Competition Reduces Yield of Newly Planted Matted Row Strawberries
Authors: Pritts Marvin P. , Kelly Mary Jo
Published: February 2019

Competition from weeds and an interplanted sudangrass [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moensch, formerly S. sudanense (Piper) Stapf.] cover crop was allowed to occur in newly-planted strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) for varying lengths of time, and at different times during the growing season. Newly planted strawberries were most susceptible to weed and cover crop competition during the first 2 months after planting, as both runnering (stolon formation) and subsequent yield were impacted. In 1994-95, 1 month of weed competition in June reduced yield by 20%, whereas 2 months of weed competition reduced yield by 65%. However, 1 month of uncontrolled weed growth later in the growing season had little to no impact on yield, although weed biomass was much less then. Herbicide (napropamide) use alone was insufficient to prevent weed competition and yield reduction. In our study, yield was reduced 0.67 t·ha-1 or 5.5% for each 100 g·m-2 of weed biomass. The data suggest that it is critical for growers to minimize weed competition early in the planting year when weed growth is greatest. Since an interplanted sudangrass cover crop displaced a portion of the weeds, it could be seeded later in the year to provide some weed suppression without a negative impact on yield. Chemical names used: N, N, Diethyl-2-(1-naphthalenyloxy)-propionamide (napropamide); N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine (glyphosate).