bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rootstock Influences Yield, Nut Quality, and Leaf Analysis of Pecan Trees
Authors: Reid William
Published: February 2019

The nuts of 10 pecan cultivars were used to produce rootstock trees for the propagation of two scion cultivars—Posey and Pawnee. Seed sources included: `Chickasaw', `Colby', `Dooley', `Giles', `Greenriver', `Major', `Mohawk', `Peruque', `Posey', and `Shoshoni'. Leaf analysis performed in 1994 and 1996 revealed that rootstock influenced K and Zn concentrations. Scions propagated on `Posey' seedlings contained the greatest amount of K, while scions propagated on `Greenriver' seedlings contained the least. Zn levels were highest in trees with `Chickasaw' seedling rootstocks and the least in `Major' seedlings. Yield and nut quality was influenced by a major drought during the late summer and fall of 1995. Nuts produced by trees with `Chickasaw' and `Colby' rootstocks had the highest kernel percentage, while trees grown on `Major' and `Posey' had the lowest. The greatest yields, during the drought year, were produced from scion cultivars grafted on `Giles' and `Chickasaw' seedling rootstocks. `Major' and `Greenriver' seedlings produced trees with the smallest yields.
Floral Biology and Fruit Set of `Taifi' Pomegranate in Relation to Heat and Drought Stress
Authors: Shaheen Mohamed A. , El-Agamy Samir Z.
Published: February 2019

Floral biology of `Taifi' pomegranate was studied on trees grown in extreme high temperature and drought conditions. Measurement included flowering date, duration and type, pollen viability, diameter, intitial and horticultural fruit set percentage, and fruit drop percentage and fluctuation. Heat and drought stresses were found to greatly influence some floral characteristics in addition to fruit set and productivity of `Taifi' pomegranate.
Performance and Yield of Potato Grown in the Jordanian Desert
Authors: Donnelly D. , Leclerc Y. , Sawwan J.S. , Hadidi N.A.
Published: February 2019

The relative growth and yield performance (tuber number and fresh weight) of 13 North American and European potato cultivars were assessed at a site in the Jordanian desert near Zarqa. These cultivars included `Spunta', which has long been grown in Jordan, and `Minerva' and `Ellona', which are new to Jordan. The other 10 cultivars were selected from a population of 130 cultivars that were ranked for salinity (NaCl) tolerance, using an in vitro single-node cutting bioassay. They represented top (4), medium (4), and poor (2) performers in salinized medium, in vitro. The field performance of the 10 in vitro-ranked cultivars generally validated the in vitro rankings. `Spunta' was the worst-performing cultivar.
Propagation of `Guardian' Peach Rootstock by Rooted Cuttings and Seed
Authors: Myers S.C. , Savelle A.T.
Published: February 2019

`Guardian' peach rootstock has shown improved survivability in areas where root-knot nematode and peach tree short life are a problem. Many peach rootstocks are typically propagated from seed. Availability of seed may vary and the long-term genetic uniformity of rootstock material may be difficult to maintain due to out-crossing during seed production. A reliable, successful vegetative propagation method would potentially increase the rate at which material could be made available and more closely ensure genetic uniformity. Production of liners was compared between rooted cuttings and seed of mature `Guardian', `Lovell', and `Nemaguard' peach trees. Seed were stratified under uniform conditions, planted at initial germination, and seedling emergence recorded 30 days after planting. Terminal softwood and semi-hardwood cutting were treated with KIBA and rooted under intermittent mist in a greenhouse. Rooting percentage was equal to or greater than percent seedling emergence. Optimum results were obtained with semi-hardwood cuttings taken in July and August. Rooted cuttings transplanted to the field produced liners of equal or greater quality than liners produced from seed. Seedlings exhibited variability in growth in the nursery area. Rooted cuttings had fewer lateral branches in the lower 15 cm of rootstock where trees were T-budded with certified, virus-indexed buds of `Cresthaven' peach.
The Concept of “Foundation Clones” in Source Selection for Vegetative Propagation of Almond
Authors: Kester Dale E. , Kester Ale E.
Published: February 2019

The term “clone” is a key biological term that designates a number of horticultural situations. In breeding, many cultivars are designated as clones, originating from consecutive vegetative propagation from individuals within a seedling population, from individual plants of a clone exhibiting “bud mutations,” and, more recently, from genetic engineering and biotechnology. Extensive vegetative propagation of a limited numbers of clones in modern horticultural systems has been accompanied by systemic incorporation by serious pathogens (viruses, viroids, phytoplasmas, etc.), and in some cases by horticultural deterioration (e.g., noninfectious bud-failure in almonds). Control of these problems in clonal propagation is achieved by 1) propagation source selection 2) maintenance of the source in a registered foundation block under protected conditions and 3)multipli-cation in controlled “mother blocks” or “increase blocks” from which commercial material is distributed after a minimum of consecutive generations of vegetative propagation. This system is the basis for Registration and Certification programs and “clean stock” in general. In many crops the selected propagation source is a single plant, its progeny constitutes a “clone,” and the new entity is given a unique name or number. To distinguish this “new” clone from the “original” clone, the designation of FOUNDATION CLONE is suggested. Biological and horticultural significance is illustrated in almond (Prunus dulcis).
Influence of Ethephon and a Surfactant on Ripening of Harvested Tomato Fruit
Authors: Moura M.A. , Zanin S.R. , Finger F.L.
Published: February 2019

The objective of the research was to determine the optimal concentration of ethephon treatment on anticipation of ripening in harvested tomato fruits. Mature-green fruits of cv. Santa Clara were sprayed with 0, 1000, 2000, and 3000 mg/L ethephon solution. In another set of experiments, the fruits were sprayed with 0, 500, and 1000 mg/L ethephon solution containing 1.0% surfactant (Dytrol) or not. The visual color and firmness changes during ripening at 24.1°C and 81.3% relative humidity were evaluated. Concentrations of 1000, 2000, and 3000 mg/L ethephon had similar effect on the anticipation of fruit ripening. The use of 500 mg/L ethephon delayed the fruit color changes when compared with the treatment of 1000 mg/L ethephon; however, firmness changes were nonsignificantly affected (P = 0.05). Treatment with 1000 mg/L ethephon hastened the color changes by 3 days when compared with control fruits, but no difference on color intensity was observed after 12 days. The use of 1.0% surfactant mixed to ethephon caused slight delay on color changes; therefore, 1000 mg/L ethephon solution in absence of surfactant was more efficient in hastening tomato ripening.
Postharvest Treatment of Easter Lily Bulbs Prior to Shipping
Authors: Lieth J. Heinrich , Giraud Deborah , Forister Glen , Fisher Paul , Oki Loren
Published: February 2019

Easter lily bulbs are harvested in fields in northern California and southern Oregon, packed in cases, and shipped to distributors and growers. The greenhouse forcer then cools the bulbs at 40–45°F for 6 weeks. This cold period is needed to vernalize the bulbs and to assure that the plants will later flower uniformly. Bulbs that have been cooled for longer or shorter lengths of time respond differently. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal storage temperature regime for the bulbs dug during the early part of the 3-week bulb-harvest period. Twelve groups of bulbs at various storage temperature regimes were evaluated as to their performance during greenhouse forcing. The variables that were considered were: 1) bud count, 2) variability of flowering date, 3) earliness of flowering date, 4) variability of Visible Bud date, and 5) variability of final plant height. An index was developed to evaluate the degree to which each variable impacted the production during the forcing phase. We found that the best protocol for bulb growers is to dig the bulbs and then hold them at cool (>45°F) ambient temperatures for a week. Temperatures higher than the high 65°F should be avoided. If the bulbs will be stored just 1 more week, then they can stay at this temperature; otherwise, the bulbs should be cooled down to, and held at, 42 to 45°F.
Geranium and Marigold Response to Fish Waste Compost as a Container Growth Medium and Nitrogen Source
Authors: Hummel Rita L. , Kuo Shiou , Winters Diane , Jellum Eric
Published: February 2019

A fish waste/hemlock-fi r sawdust compost (FWC) was evaluated as a container growth medium and N source for the greenhouse production of marigold (Tagetes patula `Queen Sophia') and geranium (Pelargonium xhortorum `Sprinter Scarlet') in 10-cm containers. Treatments were a factorial set of three Douglasfir bark (B)/three FWC mixtures (100% FWC; 50% FWC/50% B; 100% B) and three rates of N fertilizer (0, 300 and 600 ppm N) applied every 2 weeks. After the initial irrigation, plants were drip-irrigated to negate leaching from the containers.

Weekly measurements of leachate conductivity, pH, and inorganic N were made on additional replications of the 0-ppm N plants in all growing media. Plant height and width were measured at 2-week intervals and, at the end of the production cycle, flower number, shoot fresh and dry weight, visual quality, and root dry weight were measured. The growing medium by N interaction was significant for all variables. Results indicated that plants receiving 0 ppm N in 100% FWC were larger and of higher quality than plants in 100% B receiving 600 ppm N. In 100% FWC, marigold shoot growth, dry weight, and quality were not influenced by N rate. The observed geranium and marigold growth response indicated that FWC was an effective N source and growing medium when leaching was minimized with drip irrigation.
Late-season Establishment of Annuals
Authors: Burney Lynn , Harkess Richard L.
Published: February 2019

Maintaining annual color throughout the long summer season in warm temperate regions has become an interest to landscapers and nursery operators. Some colorscaping companies have begun implementing a second summer planting season. There is little information available concerning suitable cultivars and species of bedding plants for establishment in late summer. This study examined plant establishment in two container sizes and three dates of transplanting to determine late season establishment in Starkville, Miss. (33°27' latitude, 88°49' longitude). Seeds of 27 different cultivars were grown in plug flats in the greenhouse and transplanted into jumbo 606 or 10-cm square containers. The plants were grown in the greenhouse until transplanting on 16 Aug., 30 Aug., or 13 Sept. 1996. The plants were transplanted into plots containing nine plants with three replications per planting date. The plants were spaced on 20-cm centers among and between plots. The earliest two plantings resulted in better plant establishment and floral display. Some of the cultivars and species were more tolerant of the late season temperature and humidity establishing and providing a good color display from 6 weeks after transplanting until frost, 2 Nov. 1996. Cultivars that performed well included: Impatiens wallerana `Deco Crystal', `Expo Lavender Blush', `Dazzler Salmon', Begonia semperflorens `Varsity Bronze Scarlet', Zinnia `White Pinwheel', Tagetes erecta `Marvel Gold', and Tagetes patula `Bonanza Harmony'. Cultivars that did not establish well under these conditions included: Verbena hybrida `Romance Pink' and Salvia splendens `Salsa Salmon'. The container size did not significantly affect plant establishment.
Uptake Patterns of 11 Elements of Orange Trees in Solution Culture
Authors: Wutscher H.K.
Published: February 2019

Three trees each of `Valencia' orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck) on rough lemon (C. limon L. Burm. f.) rootstocks that had been grown in solution culture since July 1989 were grown in two solutions from Oct. 1995 to Sept.1996. Solution 1 was a soil extract made by boiling field soil (1:2 soil:water) for 20 min and filtering. Solution 2 was a complete nutrient solution. The solutions were analyzed every 7 days and changed every 28 days. At each solution change, the newly prepared solutions were analyzed for 11 elements and their depletion was determined by weekly analysis. Nearly all the N, K, and Mn in Solution 1 was absorbed in the first 7 days after each solution change; in Solution 2, N and Mn were also absorbed in 7 days, but K absorption was variable; single trees sometimes needed 4 weeks to absorb all the potassium. Calcium and Mg were never completely absorbed and in contrast to Mn, traces of Fe, Zn, and Cu remained in both solutions after 4 weeks.
Nitrogen Partitioning of Field-grown `Arapaho' Thornless Blackberry
Authors: Naraguma J. , Clark J.R. , Norman R.J.
Published: February 2019

A spring application of 19 g CO(15NH2)2/plant at 2.49% atom percent enrichment was made in Mar. 1995 on 2-year old, field-grown `Arapaho' blackberry plants. Individual plants were harvested during the study at preharvest (late May), postharvest (mid-July), and early dormancy (late October). The following plant parts were separated for analysis: roots, primocanes, floricanes, primocane leaves, floricane leaves, fruits. Soil samples were also taken from within the drip line of the plants at each sample date. Plant tissues were washed, dry weights measured and ground for acid digestion, total N determination and 15N analysis. Samples were measured for 15N atom percent abundance by a isotope ratio spectrometer. The whole-plant dry matter in creased during the season from 53 g in May to 153 g in October. Plants sampled in October had a greater amount of dry matter in roots than in any other tissue. There was a decreased total N content in all vegetative tissues (leaves and canes) from May to October. The maximum fertilizer 15N percent recovery was 43% (October) and the minimum was 12% (May) from the total plant tissues. Compared to other plant tissues, floricane leaves and primocanes recovered significantly more fertilizer 15N in May, while roots and primocane leaves recovered more in October. Floricanes and fruits did not increase in 15N levels during the sampling period. Fertilizer 15N recovered in the soil amounted to 35.5% of the applied with 4.5% found in the inorganic fraction, 31% in the organic fraction. There were no statistical differences in percent recovery of the fertilizer 15N among sample dates in the topsoil. October 15N percent recovery was much lower than May in the subsoil, indicating a downward movement of N by leaching. Averaging all sample dates, 59.5% of the labeled fertilizer was accounted for in the plant and soil, with the remaining portion probably lost via volatilization, leaching, and/or denitrification.
The Beneficial Effects of Biofertilizers for `Red Roomy' Grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.): 2. The Effect of Berry Set, Yield, and Quality of Berries
Authors: Akl A.M. , Ahmed F.F. , El-Morsy F.M. , Ragab M.A.
Published: February 2019

The positive influence of fertilizing `Red Roomy' grapevines with four biofertilizers (active dry yeast, phosphorene, rhizobacterium, and nitrobein) on berry set and productivity was investigated during 1995 and 1996. The improvement occurred in berry set and yield, as well as physical and chemical properties in vines treated with the four biofertilizers in the following ascending order: active dry yeast, nitrobein, rhizobacterium, and phosphorene. Highly significant differences in characters were observed between treated and untreated vines. The best results with regard to yield and quality of berries was obtained in `Red Roomy' vines biofertilized with phosphorene or rhizobacterium.
Broiler Litter and Inorganic Nitrogen Fertilizer Influence on Yield and Earliness of June-bearing Strawberry
Authors: Rubeiz I.G. , Chehab A.M. , Freiwat M.M. , Farran M.T.
Published: February 2019

Short-term soil application of broiler litter (B) has had variable results when compared to inorganic nitrogen fertilizers (Ni). We grew `Oso Grande' strawberry on raised beds in the greenhouse and treated it with a preplant soil incorporation of B (N = 44, P = 15.3, H2O = 170 g·kg–1) at a N rate of 100 (B1) or 200 (B2) kg·ha–1, and Ni from ammonium nitrate (34.5N–0P–0K) [A] or fluid nitrogen with 10 g·kg-1 micro elements (30N–0P–0K) [F] applied in six equal monthly applications. Results show that fruit yield was increased under B-treated plots (P < 0.05), with B2 yielding the highest. Yield ranged between 172 to 324 g/plant. Fruit number per plant ranged from 14 to 24, with B2 yielding the highest (P < 0.05). Early flowering was enhanced by B2 (P < 0.05), which reflected in higher early yields under B2 (P < 0.05). Leaf tissue NO3-N, PO4-P and Fe were comparable among all treatments during the growing season. Soil NO3-N, available P, CaCO3, and pH at the end of the season were comparable among the treatments (P 0.05), whereas EC was reduced by B1 and F treatments (P < 0.05). We recommend B at 200 kg N/ha as a fertilizer for June-hearing strawberry, and as a good alternative to inorganic N fertilizers.
Replacement of Postharvest Moisture Loss by Recharging and Its Effect on Subsequent Moisture Loss during Short-term Storage of Carrots (Daucus carota L.)
Authors: Upadhyaya M.K. , Shibairo S.I. , Toivonen P.M.A.
Published: February 2019

The replacement of postharvest moisture loss in carrots (cv. Caro-choice) by single and repeated recharging (i.e., rehydration in water) treatments, interaction between the duration of recharging and temperature during recharging, and the effects of these treatments on moisture loss during subsequent short-term storage were studied. Carrot weight gain increased with increase in the duration of single recharging treatments. Carrots that had lost 2.96% of their weight, during storage at 13°C and 35% relative humidity, regained as much as 2.45% of the weight during recharging for 12 h. Longer rechargings had little additional effect. Recharging at 13°C and 26°C was more effective at replacing water than at 0°C. The rate of moisture loss (%/day) during subsequent storage was not affected by recharging duration and the temperature. With repeated recharging (every 3.5 d), increase in recharging duration up to 9 h increased carrot weight gain. Most of the weight gain occurred following 0 to 7 d of storage. These treatments, however, did not affect the rate of moisture loss during subsequent storage. These results suggest that the beneficial effect of recharging on carrot quality is due to replacement of the lost moisture and not to a decrease in moisture loss during storage following recharging. It is suggested that recharging be explored as an option to improve the shelf life of carrots.
Physicochemical Characterization of Hybrid Honeydew Muskmelon Fruit (Cucumis melo L. var. inodorus Naud.) Following Maturation, Abscission, and Postharvest Storage
Authors: Lester Gene
Published: February 2019

Hybrid, non-netted, green-fl esh, honeydew muskmelon fruit physiological maturity occurred by 40 days after anthesis (DAA). Fruit maturity was determined by major increases in quality attributes: moisture content, firmness, soluble solids concentration, weight, volume, and qualitative and quantitative changes in glucose, fructose, and sucrose content. Fruit ripening occurred between 40 and 50 DAA as determined by maximized changes in the aforementioned quality attributes, and by fruit abscission at 50 DAA. Fruit senescence begins with decreases in: quality attributes, hypodermal-mesocarp plasma membrane H+-ATPase (E.C. 3.6.1.3) activity, and protein content, and by increases in: the total free sterol: total phospholipid ratio, and hypodermal-mesocarp lipoxygenase (E.C. 1.13.11.12) activity. Delineated growth and maturation physicochemical data of hybrid honeydew muskmelon fruit should be beneficial to the commercial harvest of mature fruits, which is necessary for maximizing honeydew fruit quality, extending shelf-life, and enhancing consumer satisfaction.
Vitalization of Spinach
Authors: Smith D.A. , Fitzgerald J.B. , Meyer G.E.
Published: February 2019

Vitalization is a process whereby senescence is retarded and refrigerated storage can be extended. The process involves hyperhydration of plant materials with selected aqueous solution, thereby flooding interstitial spaces and vascular tissues. Microscopic examination revealed increased size of interstitial spaces and expansion and increased roundness to cells. No disruption of tissues was detected. Turgidity was measured with an Instron Universal Testing Machine equipped with a Kramer Shear Cell. Color was measured with a Minolta color difference meter. Leaves were evaluated for color and turgidity changes during storage. Vitalized leaves did not change significantly in color or turgidity during a 10-week storage period. Untreated leaves lost turgidity and yellowed in storage.
The Alternative Oxidase Limits Superoxide Production by Plant Mitochondria
Authors: Purvis A.C.
Published: February 2019

Mitochondria isolated from the pericarp tissue of green bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) fruit and purified on a Percoll gradient produced superoxide in buffers aerated with oxygen. ADP and uncouplers of the electron transport chain reduced superoxide production. Disulfiram, an inhibitor of the alternative oxidase, enhanced superoxide production. Inhibitors of the ubiquinone-cytochrome bc1 complex had little effect on superoxide production by mitochondria which were insensitive to cyanide. Less superoxide was produced when DTT was used to reduce the sulfhydryl groups of the alternative oxidase protein and the enzyme was activated with pyruvate than when the sulfhydryl groups were oxidized with diamide. A role for the alternative oxidase in limiting the level of reactive oxygen species produced in stressed and senescing plant tissues is suggested.
Gas Exchange Behavior of Male and Female Parwal Plants
Authors: Whitehead Wayne F. , Singh Bharat P.
Published: February 2019

Parwal [Trichosanthus dioica (Roxb.)] is a tropical perennial vine producing small fleshy fruits used as a vegetable. It bears male and female flowers on separate plants. During the summer of 1996, a field study was conducted to determine if male and female plants differed in their gas exchange behavior. Three leaves per plant replicated six times for each sex were tagged randomly at initiation of gas exchange measurements. Transpiration (E), stomatal conductance (gs), CO2 exchange rate (CER), and internal leaf CO2 concentration (Ci) were measured when the leaves were 6, 18, 36, 47, 71, and 81 days old. In general, the gas exchange values for both sexes were similar. The leaves of male plants attained highest E, gs, and CER at 18 days of age. In female plants, CER peaked at an early leaf age of 6 days, while the peaks for E and gs were reached 30 days later. The highest Ci for both sexes were observed in 47-day-old leaves. Eighty-four-day-old leaves were no longer actively exchanging gases.
Seasonal Variation of Photosynthetic Efficiency of Greenhouse Tomato Plants
Authors: Ayari Olfa , Dorais Martine , Turcotte Gilles , Gosselin André
Published: February 2019

Yield of greenhouse tomatoes has greatly increased during the past decade due to the development of more-productive cultivars and to the use of new technologies, such as supplemental lighting and CO2 enrichment. Under high PPF and p[CO2], however, the capacity of tomato plants to use supplemental energy and CO2 decreases. Our project aimed at determining the limits of photosynthetic capacity of tomato plants under supplemental lighting (HPS lamps, 100 μmol·m–2·s–1, photoperiod of 14 to 17 h) and high p[CO2] (900 ppm). The following measurements were made on the 5th and the 10th leaves of tomato plants at regular intervals from November to May: diurnal changes in net (Pn) and maximum (Pmax) photosynthetic rate, Chla fluorescence of dark-adapted and no dark-adapted leaves, and the soluble sugars and starch contents of the 5th and 10th leaves. Changes in global radiation from 250 W/m2 in winter to about 850 W/m2 in spring resulted in Pn increases of 45% and 42% in the 5th and 10th leaves, respectively. During the winter period, Pmax was higher than Pn, suggesting that leaves were not at maximum photosynthetic capacity. In the spring, no difference was found between Pmax and Pn. Sucrose concentration in leaves increased progressively up to a maximum of 12-h photoperiod, while hexoses remained constant. The Fv/Fm ratio did not vary during winter, but significantly decreased during spring due to photoinhibition. Increases in global radiation during spring resulted in lower photosynthetic rates, higher fluorescence, and starch accumulation in leaves. Data will be discussed in terms of crop efficiency and yield.
Sucrose Metabolism and Purification and Characterization of Sucrose Synthase from Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme Fruit
Authors: Islam Md. Shahidul , Khan S. , Matsui T.
Published: February 2019

Sucrose metabolism was followed in developing fruit of domesticated cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme Alef.). The high amounts of reducing sugars were consistently linked to high soluble acid invertase (EC 3.2.1.26), whereas sucrose synthase (EC 2.4.1.13) followed the same pattern of sucrose levels and reached a peak of activity during early stage of maturation and then decreased to near nil. In comparison, sucrose phosphate synthase (EC 2.4.1.14) activity remain relatively constant throughout development. Thus, sucrose synthase and acid invertase, rather than sucrose phosphate synthase, are the critical enzymes regulating sucrose accumulation in tomatoes. Cultivated cherry tomato sucrose synthase (UDP-glucose: D-fructose 2-glucosyltransferase) was purified to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation, anion exchange chromatography on DEAE-Toyopreal 650, and gel filtration on Sephadex G-200. Further purification to homogeneity resulted from a single band from SDS-PAGE. The enzyme was identified as a homotetramer with a total molecular mass of 370 kDa and subunits of 92 kDa. The enzyme showed maximum activity for the cleavage and synthesis of sucrose was at pH 7.0 and 8.0, respectively, and the optimum temperature was 40°C in both directions for HEPES-KOH buffer. The enzymatic reaction followed typical Michaelis–Menten kinetics, with the following parameters: Km (fructose),7.4; Km (UDP-glucose), 0.2612; Km (sucrose), 33.24; Km (UDP), 0.0946. The enzyme was very sensitive to inhibition by heavy metals.
The Effects of Development and Salinity Stress on Mannitol Biosynthesis in Celery Leaves
Authors: Everard J.D. , Loescher W.H.
Published: February 2019

In celery (Apium graveolens L.), up to 50% of newly assimilated carbon may be partitioned into mannitol in mature leaves. Mannitol biosynthesis involves three unique enzymatic steps, and mannose 6-phosphate reductase (M6PR) is the critical regulatory step in the pathway. We measured M6PR enzyme activities, M6PR protein levels (using an immunological method) and M6PR transcript levels (by Northern blotting) to assess effects of leaf development on mannitol biosynthesis. M6PR was limited to green tissues and was under tight transcriptional regulation during leaf initiation, expansion, and maturation. M6PR expression was also closely correlated with the capacity of leaves to partition newly fixed carbon into mannitol (measured by 14C pulse/chase on intact leaves). Previous studies have also shown salt stress to lead to mannitol accumulation in celery. Using the methods outlined above we also investigated the combined effects of salt stress and leaf development on M6PR expression and the capacity of leaves to partition C to mannitol. Under salt stress M6PR expression and the capacity to synthesize mannitol occurred in younger leaves than in control plants. Thus, the increase in mannitol pool size in salt-stressed celery plants is due, in part, to enhanced de novo synthesis in young leaves. The data also confirmed the relationship between development of photosynthetic capacity, mannitol synthesis and M6PR activity. Supported by USDA-NRI grant # 940-1439.
Horticulture Intergenerational Learning as Therapy, a New Project Publication for 4H Clubs and Local Geriatric Programs
Authors: Tennessen D.J. , Lalli V.A.
Published: February 2019

The population of senior citizens in our society (65 and older) are growing at a faster rate than any other segment of the population. Loss of decisionmaking capabilities coupled with controlled retirement home environments can lead to stress and depression in our elderly. At the same time, our nations youth no longer enjoy a family nucleus that includes elders who help guide youth away from risky activities. The publication “HILT: Horticulture Intergenerational Learning as Therapy” (Cornell Media Services, Ithaca, N.Y., in press) was used as a guidebook for combining senior citizens and gradeschoolers at three local settings in 1995 and 1996. The project encourages elders to take charge and mentor youth while leading youth in an indoor and outdoor gardening program. The pilot projects included a public gradeschool site, a mental day-care facility, and a local retirement home. Youth benefited by learning about their elders and about horticulture. The subject of horticulture provides a comfortable and valuable learning environment as well as a focal point for the participants. The project provides three evaluation methods that include survey, interview, and leader observation tools. In our study, senior participation increased by 75% during two 8-week projects and 40% during a 7-month project. Surveys reveal that senior citizens were nervous and concerned about behavior of young people before the project, yet renewed and excited about future projects after participation. Youth enjoyed hearing stories, learning about planting, and getting dirty. Use of self concept and morale scales will be presented. A copy of the project publication as well as ideas about using the publication will be provided in the discussion.
University–Elementary School Partnerships: Using Landscape Design and Construction Classes to Create School Teaching Gardens
Authors: Lownds N.K.
Published: February 2019

Bring together a university landscape horticulture professor who believes in school gardens, a landscape design class, a landscape construction class, enthusiastic elementary school teachers and a willing principal, and you can create wonderful teaching gardens. The interactions among university students, elementary teachers, and students were a true learning experience for everyone. University students were involved in a true problem-solving project, being forced to look at problems and solutions through the eyes of elementary school children. Their expertise was valued as they were asked to explain horticulture to first and second graders. For some, this was the first time they really understood some of the concepts. Teachers and students were active participants throughout the process. Sharing thoughts and ideas was dynamic throughout the design and construction. Ways to initiate and maintain university–school partnerships will be presented.
Master Gardener–Water Stewards: Advanced Training to Enhance Community Volunteerism
Authors: Dorn Sheri T. , Aveni Marc T. , Relf Paula Diane
Published: February 2019

Virginia Cooperative Extension's (VCE) Master Gardener–Water Steward program (MGWS) provides advanced training in leadership development and water quality management to Master Gardener (MG) volunteer educators so that they may expand the influence of Extension through leadership in community water quality management. Typically, agents cite limited staff and volunteer resources as the primary factor in restricting program expansion. The MGWS program simultaneously answers the desire of MGs to expand their role in the community landscape and the need of VCE to expand its outreach with increasingly limited resources. MGWS training, guided by a 10-unit resource book, integrates technical and program management expertise to foster volunteer pride and self-sufficiency. This allows MGWS to coordinate much of their own training and recruit and manage large numbers of non-MG volunteers to whom they can provide limited training for specific projects, thus allowing program expansion without additional staff. The Advanced Master Gardener–Water Steward Handbook allows for appropriate training of Master Gardeners so that Extension education is able to reach a larger audience than just that reachable by an agent alone. Eight slide sets on water-quality related topics are available as part of this program. They come complete with legible, easy-to-read scripts. Updated slide sets include Calibrating Your Lawn Spreader (40 slides), Minimum Chemical Vegetable Gardening (62 slides), Backyard Composting (56 slides), Reading and Understanding the Pesticide Label for Lawn and Garden (41 slides), Landscape Tree and Shrub Fertilization (43 slides), Applying Pesticides Safely for the Environment (47 slides), Water Quality and Landscaping Slide Set (48 slides), and Proper Management of Fertilizers on Home Lawns (40 slides).
Using Native Plants
Authors: Meyer Mary H. , Harrison Helen C.
Published: February 2019

Using Native Plants is a 120-min videotape that was developed as a result of a Cooperative Extension Partnership Programming Grant between the Univ. of Minnesota, Minnesota Extension Service and the Cooperative Extension–Univ. of Wisconsin-Extension. The content covers woodland wildflowers, prairie establishment and maintenance, landscaping lakeshores, and using native plants in traditional gardens settings.Video segments include: Eloise Butler Wildflower garden, Minneapolis, Minn.; Curtis Prairie, Madison, Wis.; Big Sandy Lake, Minn.; and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chanhassen. Developed originally as advanced Master Gardener training, the program was a national satellite broadcast on 29 Feb. 1996. It was viewed by at least nine states and more than 500 participants. Video production costs, including a 20-page participant's handout with extensive references and plant lists, were just under $13,000. A cost analysis, evaluation, sample of the participant's packet, pictures from the videotape and an order form will be presented. Copies of the tape and print packet may be obtained for $50 from Minnesota Extension Service, 1.800.876.8636, or Univ. of Wisconsin-Extension, at 1.608.262.3346.
Fungi in Landscape Mulches—Are They a Problem?
Authors: Kuhns Larry J. , Brantley Elizabeth A. , Davis Donald D.
Published: February 2019

Homeowners are often troubled by the presence of slime molds, stinkhorns, and mushrooms growing in their landscape mulches; but, they are not harmful to landscape plants, and no known health hazards are associated with them unless they are eaten. They can be discarded or ignored and they will quickly decompose. The fruiting bodies of the artillery fungus are barely visible (tiny cream or orange-brown cups approximately 1/10 of an inch in diameter), but they are the source of serious problems, many of which have resulted in insurance claims and lawsuits. They are phototropic and orient themselves toward bright surfaces, such as light-colored siding on homes and automobiles. They “shoot” their black, sticky spore masses, which can be windblown to the second story of a house. The masses stick to the side of buildings and automobiles, resembling small specks of tar. Once in place, the spore masses are very difficult to remove without damaging the surface to which they are attached. When removed, a stain remains. A few of the spots are barely noticeable, but, as they accumulate, they may become very unsightly. To date, there are no known controls for this fungus, but a research program studying possible solutions has been initiated. We ask that anyone who has information or experience with the artillery fungus contact us to exchange information. A brochure describing the four common types of fungi growing in landscape mulches in the eastern United States—mushrooms, slime molds, bird's nest fungus, and the artillery fungus—has also been prepared to educate consumers.
Pistachio Breeding in California: 1989 to 1997
Authors: Parfitt Dan E. , Chao Chih-Cheng T. , Kallsen Craig , Maranto Joe , Ferguson Louise
Published: February 2019

A pistachio breeding program was initiated in 1989 to develop new cultivars for the California industry. The program was begun with an initial set of 1940 progeny from 78 crosses. In 1990, an additional 5470 seedlings were produced from 176 controlled crosses. Progeny were planted at Winters, Calif., Kearney Agr. Center, and a plot near Bakersfield in a randomized block design with crosses as treatments. Fifty-three, 962, and 2943 genotypes flowered in 1994, 1995, and 1996, respectively. Data on flowering, flowering date, sex, tree size as measured by trunk cross-section area, and disease status were collected on all trees in the breeding program at the three field locations. Nuts were collected and evaluated for number of nuts/tree, % splits, % blanks, wet and dry weight, kernel weight, and volume. Heritability estimates for nut characters, tree size, and Alternaria resistance were ranged from 0.30 to 0.76. Several parents were identified that apparently provide a high level of resistance to Alternaria. Relationships among various nut parameters and the relationship of tree size to flowering and parentage were also investigated and evaluated statistically. Replicated advanced selection trials will be established in 1997.
Greenhouse and Field Resistance to Yellow Aphids in the `Pawnee' Pecan
Authors: Thompson Tommy E. , Grauke L.J.
Published: February 2019

Putative resistance to the yellow aphid complex (Monellia caryella (Fitch) and Monelliopsis pecanis Bissell) in the `Pawnee' pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] cultivar was first noted in greenhouse tests by rating cultivars for relative amounts of honeydew on adaxial leaf surfaces. This resistance was confirmed in two field tests monitored from mid-June to mid-Oct. `Pawnee' supported significantly lower aphid populations during every rating period when relatively large numbers of these insects were present. `Navaho' also showed resistance, with `Desirable' having intermediate resistance and `Stuart' being very susceptible. Insect populations were also monitored on the four quadrants of each tree, with this quadrant effect being significant in only one test. This test had the highest populations on the West and lowest populations on the East.
Genetic Analysis of Cucumber Collections Made in India in 1992
Authors: Staub J. , Sequen Felix , McCreight J.D.
Published: February 2019

Genetic variation in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) accessions from India was assessed by examining variation at 21 polymorphic isozyme loci. Forty-six accessions acquired by the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) before 1972 were compared with 146 accessions collected during a 1992 U.S.–India expedition to the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, India. Two distinct groups (Group 1 and Group 2) were identified within accessions collected in 1992 (0.025 < P < 0.01). Variation at Ak-2, Fdp-2, Gr, Mdh-2, Mpi-1, Per, Pgm, and Skdh was important in the detection of this difference. Group 1 contained 37 (27 Madhya Pradesh + 10 Uttar Pradesh) accessions and Group 2 contains 102 (84 Rajasthan + 18 Madhya Pradesh) accessions. Seven accessions (5 Madhya Pradesh + 2 Rajasthan) were not associated with either group. Isozymic variation in U.S. NPGS accessions acquired before 1972 differed significantly (P < 0.005) from those collected during 1992. When Indian accessions taken collectively (collected before 1972 and in 1992) were compared with an array of 707 C. sativus U.S. NPGS accessions examined previously, relationships differed between accessions grouped by country or subcontinent.
Current Status of Cucurbit Anthracnose
Authors: Wasilwa L.A. , Morelock T.E. , Correll J.C.
Published: February 2019

Anthracnose is a destructive foliage and fruit disease of cucurbits worldwide, particularly on cucumber, watermelon, and cantaloupe. Three fungal taxa have been implicated in the cucurbit anthracnose complex [Colletotrichum orbiculare (CO), C. magna (CM), and the putative teleomorph Glomerella cingulata var. orbiculare (GC)]. In the past 7 years we have assembled a large geographically diverse collection of cucurbit isolates that have been characterized for virulence, vegetative (heterokaryon) compatibility, and mitochondrial and nuclear DNA RFLPs. All isolates that are pathogenic on cucurbit foliage are CO, belong to one of the four VCGs, and belong to a single mtDNA RFLP haplotype. Three races of CO (1, 2, and 2B) can be distinguished by their disease reactions on cucumber (`Marketer' and `H19') and watermelon (`Black Diamond' and `Charleston Gray') differentials. Race 1 (cucumber pathogen) and race 2 (watermelon pathogen) were the most common. Examination of virulence on cucurbit fruit indicates that CM and GC are more aggressive than CO, indicating that they could primarily be fruit-rot pathogens. Race 1 and 2 have been used effectively for screening disease resistance in cucumber and watermelon. Isolates of CM, GC, and Colletotrichum spp. recovered from fruit lesions were not pathogenic or were weakly virulent on cucurbit foliage and were diverse with regard to VCGs, nuDNA, and mtDNA RFLPs. However, CM and GC were more virulent on cucurbit fruit than CO.
Quality of Valencia Oranges in Response to Fruit Fly Disinfestation Treatments
Authors: Patil B.S. , Williamson M.R. , Winkelman P.M. , Sievert J.R. , Butts M.B. , Arpaia M.L.
Published: February 2019

Valencia orange (C. sinensis L. Osbeck) fruit quality was evaluated following exposure to either a cold treatment or a high-temperature forced-air treatment (HTFA: fruit center end point, 47.2°C). These treatments are approved as disinfestation measures against selected fruit flies (APHIS, 1996). Fruits were stored at either 5°C or 1°C (cold treatment) for 14 days followed by 10 days at 11°C and 7 days at 20°C. Fruits were obtained six times during the commercial Valencia orange season (three grower lots/time). Valencia oranges exposed to HTFA had significantly lower appearance ratings, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and also had significantly higher rind firmness and weight loss as compared to control or cold-treated fruits. Cold-treated fruits had significantly higher L and hue0 values. Fruits were also presented to an untrained sensory evaluation panel. Cold and HTFA treated fruits were rated significantly inferior in taste. Although statistically significant, these differences were slight. The potential for HTFA treatments for CA citrus, in light of these results, will be discussed.
Effects of Elevated CO2, Liquid Coating, and Ethylene Inhibitors on Postharvest Storage and Quality of Mango
Authors: Al-Solaiman Abdullah , Basiouny Fouad M.
Published: February 2019

Mango fruits (Mangifera indica L. cv. Tommy Atkins) were harvested at early physiological maturity to study the effects of postharvest treatments on storage and fruit shelf-life. The fruits were subjected to control atmosphere (20 CO2 +3% O2, and 30% CO2 + 3% O2), liquid coating (NatureSeal and Polyamine), and ethanol vapor. The fruits were kept for 4 weeks at 50 + 3°F then removed from the cold storage and maintained at room temperature. Mango fruits stored at high level of CO2 or dipped in NatureSeal had better shelf-life than fruits stored at a low level of CO2 or with ethanol vapor.
Modeling Poinsettia Plant Quality in Response to the Ratio of Radiant to Thermal Energy
Authors: Liu Bin , Heins Royal D.
Published: February 2019

The objectives of this study were to quantify the effects of the radiant-to-thermal energy ratio (RRT) on poinsettia plant growth and development during the vegetative stage and develop a simple, mechanistic model for poinsettia quality control. Based on greenhouse experiments conducted with 27 treatment combinations; i.e., factorial combinations of three levels of constant temperature (19, 23, or 27°C), three levels of daily light integral (5, 10, or 20 mol/m2 per day), and three plant spacings (15 × 15, 22 × 22, or 30 × 30 cm), from pinch to the onset of short-day flower induction, the relationship between plant growth/development and light/temperature has been established. A model for poinsettia quality control was constructed using the computer software program STELLA II. The t-test shows that there were no significant differences between model predictions and actual observations for all considered plant characteristics; i.e., total, leaf and stem dry weight, leaf unfolding number, leaf area index, and leaf area. The simulation results confirm that RRT is an important parameter to describe potential plant quality in floral crop production.
Photoperiod and Temperature Interact to Affect Gomphrena globosa L. and Salvia farinacea Benth. Development
Authors: Warner R. , Erwin J.E. , Wagner R.
Published: February 2019

Gomphrena globosa L. `Gnome Pink' and Salvia farinacea Benth. `Victoria Blue' were grown under different photoperiod treatments with day and night temperatures ranging from 15 to 30°C ± 1°C air temperature for 14 weeks after germination or until anthesis. Days to anthesis and leaf number were lowest when plants were grown under 9 hr of daylight and daylight plus 4-hr day extension from 1700–2100 HR (100 μmol·m–2·s–1 from high-pressure sodium lamps) for Gomphrena and Salvia, respectively. Days to anthesis decreased as temperature increased from 15 to 25°C with Gomphrena. Further increasing night temperature from 25 to 30°C delayed flowering and increased leaf number below the first flower of Gomphrena, but hastened flowering of Salvia. Plant height and internode elongation were greatest and least in the night interruption (2 μmol·m–2·s–1 from incandescent lamps from 2200–0200 HR) and continuous light (daylight plus 100 μmol·m–2·s–1 from high-pressure sodium lamps) treatments, respectively. Implications of these data with respect to classification of Gomphrena and Salvia flower induction are discussed and revised production schedules are presented.
Edamame Genotype Performance in Southwest Washington
Authors: Miles Carol A.
Published: February 2019

Commercial edamame (Glycine max) varieties and advanced edamame breeding lines from the Asian Vegetable Research Development Center (AVRDC) were tested for adaptability to southwest Washington. Edamame, or green vegetable soybeans, are specialty varieties of soybeans that are eaten at the green stage as a vegetable. For the vegetable market, 25 beans must weigh at least 20 g. Experimental procedure was a randomized complete block design with four replications. Recommendations from AVRDC for plant spacing and fertilizer application and timing were followed. In 1995, 13 commercial varieties and 10 AVRDC breeding lines were tested in an on-farm location in Chehalis. At the same location in 1996, 10 of these commercial varieties were again tested along with an additional six commercial varieties. Also in 1996, 12 new AVRDC breeding lines were tested along with the single line that was selected in 1995. Both years, all commercial varieties were harvested more than 40 days later than their advertised days to maturity. Three commercial varieties, White Lion, Shironomai, and Butterbeans, were high-yielding in both years. In 1995, one AVRDC breeding line was selected in Chehalis, and in 1996 five additional AVRDC breeding lines were selected. Earliness is a key factor affecting suitability of commercial varieties and breeding lines to the Chehalis area. In this region, irrigation also appears essential for production of large beans for the vegtable market. Pod weight was not a good indicator of bean weight. Seed was collected in Chehalis from AVRDC breeding lines for use in future trials.