bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TAM Mild Habanero: A Low-pungency Habanero Variety for South Texas
Authors: Crosby* Kevin , Leskovar Daniel , Yoo Kil Sun
Published: February 2019

The Habanero pepper, a distinct cultigen of Capsicum chinense, has become increasingly popular in American markets due to its unique flavor and aroma. It is extremely pungent compared to other commonly cultivated hot peppers. This attribute restricts its culinary uses. The objective of the Habanero pepper improvement project was to breed for important flavor compounds in the absence of genes involved in capsaicin synthesis. Intensive selection in large breeding populations was carried out to identify individual plants producing fruit with good aroma and flavor and low capsaicin concentrations. An initial cross was made between a non-pungent selection of C. chinense out of PI 543188 and a highly pungent, typical Habanero pepper from Yucatan. A series of sib-selections following a single backcross of a non-pungent F2 individual to the Habanero line were carried out in field and greenhouse plantings at Weslaco. Six subsequent generations of inbreeding resulted in a highly uniform, novel variety-TAM Mild Habanero (TMH). The fruit of TMH is very similar in size and shape to the recurrent parent. Color is yellow-orange as opposed to the deep orange of the Yucatan Habanero (YH), but aroma and flavor are extremely similar. In contrast, total capsaicin concentration of TMH fruit at Weslaco averaged 154 μg·g-1, compared to 12,704 μg·g-1 for the YH. Field trials conducted in south Texas showed that TMH consistently matured about 10 days earlier, had significantly higher levels of beta-carotene (7.6 μg·g-1 compared to <0.5 μg·g-1 in YH) and out-yielded YH by 25%. These traits make TMH an ideal cultivar for Fall production in south Texas.
Photosynthetic Characteristics of Single-node Cutting Rose `Versillia' by Mineral Nutrient Control in a Closed Hydroponic System
Authors: Yang* Eun Young , Oh Jung-Sim , Lee Yong-Beom
Published: February 2019

This experiment was carried out to observe the effect of mineral nutrient control in photosynthetic capacity of single-node cutting rose grown in a closed hydroponic system. Single-node cutting rose `Versillia' was grown in aeroponics and DFT system and was irrigated with the nutrient solution of the Univ. of Seoul (NO3 -N 8.8, NH4 -N 0.67, P 2.0, K 4.8, Ca 4.0, Mg 2.0 me·L-1). Recirculated nutrient solution was managed by five different control method: macro- and micro-element control in aeroponic system (M&M); macro-element control in aeroponic system (M); nutrient solution supplement in aeroponic system (S); electrical conductivity (EC) control in aeroponic system (EC-A); EC control in deep flow technique system (EC-D). The photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate at 35 days after transplant with M&M and M were higher compared to those with S, EC-A and EC-D. The maximal efficiency of photochemistry (Fv/Fm) was higher for M&M, M and S than that with EC-A and EC-D. Therefore, it is possible to increase photosynthetic capacity of rose with mineral nutrient control in recirculated nutrient solution.
Nutrient Uptake of Single-node Cutting Rose `Red Velvet' and `Vital' by Nutritional Control in a Plant Factory
Authors: Yeo* Kyung-Hwan , Son Jung-Min , Lee Yong-Beom
Published: February 2019

The plant factory to control growing system automatically is necessary to cultivate single-node cutting rose, which produce large numbers of uniform shoots per unit area in short cultivation. However, the recirculation of the nutrient solution in closed system leads to several problems. One of them is connected with the quality of nutrient solution and the supply of minerals. The uptake of specific nutrients depends on growth and development, or plant stage, which results in a shift in ionic ratio in the drainage water compared to the nutrient solution supplied. Consequently, the nutrient supply should be controlled to be equal to the demand of the plant to avoid disorder of nutrient solution, such as depletion or accumulation. Therefore this study was conducted to examine the effect of mineral nutritional control on nutrient uptake of single-node cutting rose `Red velvet' and `Vital' in a plant factory. The nutritional control of nutrient solution was conducted by five methods: the control of electrical conductivity (EC), N, P, and K elements (NPK), macro elements (M), macro and micro elements (MM) to target ranges in root zone, and the supplement of nutrient solution (S). In NPK, M, and MM control system, the input of nutrients was calculated as amounts of absorption by the plants compared to target values in root environment. The fertilizer supplement of N, P, and K was lower in EC control system than other control systems. In EC and S control system, the concentration of NO3- -N and K in root zone exceed optimal range whereas P, Ca, and Mg decreased at the later stage of growth. The concentrations of each nutrient in root environment were kept at the target ranges in M and MM control system, which showed optimum yield and product quality.
Fluctuating Controlled Water Table Irrigation
Authors: Buxton* Jack W. , Pfeiffer Janet , Slone Darrell
Published: February 2019

A controlled water table irrigation system (CWT) automatically provides water to plants. One edge of a capillary mat, on the bench surface, draws water from a trough (water table) below the bench. Each treatment trough was 30 cm long. As the distance between the water surface and the bench surface increases, the water in the growing medium decreases, the air increases; and the water potential decreases. In previous studies a constant CWT of 2 cm below the bench surface was the optimum placement for producing 15-cm pots of geranium. In this study the water table fluctuated between two distances below the bench surface. The fluctuating treatments were 2 cm to 3 cm, 2 cm to 4 cm, and 1 cm to 4 cm. The control treatment remained at a constant 2 cm below the bench surface. The fluctuating treatments were established by using two liquid level controllers connected to a switching mechanism that allowed the water table to fluctuate between the treatment settings. The rate of movement from the higher level to the lower level was determined by the rate of transpiration and evaporation occurring in individual treatments. The amount of water used for each treatment was determined by counting the number of times the solenoid turned on and multiplying this by the amount of water added to the trough. The leaf area and dry weight were the same for plants grown in 2 cm, 2 to 3 cm, and 2 to 4 cm treatments and these treatments were significantly greater than plants in the 1 to 4 cm treatment. The amount of water used by all treatments was nearly the same.
Petunia Growth and Maintenance in the Landscape as Influenced by Alternative Irrigation Strategies
Authors: Scheiber* Sloane M. , Beeson Richard C.
Published: February 2019

Petunia `Midnight' were grown in drainage lysimeters in an open-sided clear polyethylene covered shelter to evaluate growth responses in response to alternative irrigation strategies. Three irrigation methods were evaluated: tensiometer-controlled automatic irrigation system, regularly scheduled irrigation utilizing an automated controller, and human perception of plant irrigation need. Drainage lysimeters (250 L) were backfilled with native sand field soil to simulate landscape conditions and managed with Best Management Practices. Following establishment, lysimeters irrigated by an automated controller were irrigated 1.3 cm daily. Tensiometer-controlled lysimeters were irrigated when plant available water (2.5 kPa to 1.5 MPa) had declined to 70% or less, and were irrigated back to field capacity. Canopy growth indices and leaf gas exchange measurements were evaluated relative to irrigation strategies. Actual evapotranspiration was calculated for each replication. Daily irrigation resulted in significantly higher assimilation rates, transpiration rates, and final shoot dry weights than the other treatments tested. Assimilation rates and transpiration rates were significantly higher for tensiometer-controlled irrigation than the human judged treatment, but no differences were found in final shoot dry mass.
Susceptibility of Deciduous Azalea Cultivars to Powdery Mildew Disease
Authors: Long* Michael C. , Krebs Stephen L. , Hokanson Stan C.
Published: February 2019

Forty deciduous azalea (Rhododendron sp.) cultivars from commercial sources were evaluated for powdery mildew (Microsphaera sp.) resistance. Plants were established in two duplicate field plantings in Ohio and Minnesota and evaluated in 2002 and 2003. Plants were scored using a disease symptom rating based on the percent of leaf area infected, evaluating both ab- and adaxial leaf surfaces. Highly significant differences were found for cultivar, location, year, cultivar × location and cultivar × year for disease severity. Calendulaceum × speciosum, `Fragrant Star', `Garden Party', `Late Lady', `Millennium', `Parade', and `Popsicle' showed no powdery mildew symptoms in both locations. Another group of plants with only minimal symptoms (<25% leaf area affected) included `Jane Abbott', `Magic', `Northern Hi-Lights' and `Snowbird'. The symptom-free cultivars exhibited glaucous foliage, suggesting a potential, common resistance mechanism. The mean scores for the abaxial and adaxial leaf surfaces were 2.34 and 1.64, respectively, although four cultivars had more disease symptoms on the adaxial surface. `Arneson Gem' showed nearly a two-point difference between abaxial and adaxial scores. Evaluations of azalea powdery mildew susceptibility should consider both leaf surfaces and use the highest score as the best estimate of host resistance.
Influence of Root Zone Calcium on Maintenance of Potato Shoot Tip
Authors: Busse James S. , Ozgen Senay , Palta* Jiwan P.
Published: February 2019

Calcium deficiency in the potato shoot results in sub-apical necrosis. This is a physiological condition whereby necrotic lesions form a few millimeters below the shoot apex ultimately causing shoot tip senescence, loss of apical dominance, and the release of axillary buds. Using a Dark Red Norland tissue culture system, we studied the relationship of root zone calcium levels to shoot tip maintenance. Root zone calcium levels lower than 50 ppm resulted in shoot tip death and prolific branching from axillary buds. Chelator studies with EGTA and tracer studies with 45 Ca, indicated a direct involvement of calcium at the shoot tip for shoot tip maintenance. Interestingly, low root zone calcium deficiency syptoms could be mitigated with 0.001 to 0.01 μM of the auxin analog NAA. Developmental studies of calcium deficiency symptoms indicate no anatomical relationship with shoot tip necrosis as xylem conducting elements were found near the shoot apex regardless of the root zone calcium level. These results have important implications for potato shoot development especially during the early development stage from the seed piece.
Perspective for the Sabila (Aloe vera barbadensis) Production in the Mexico Sonoran Desert
Authors: Robles-Contreras Fabian , Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Macias-Duarte Ruben
Published: February 2019

Sabila is a plant that by his multiple applications in the medicine as in the naturist feeding and the cosmetics industry is taking a lot of importance at world-wide level. In addition, this is a crop that requires little amount of water to be developed satisfactorily, for this reason this crop is a good alternative to cultivate in the agricultural areas of the sonoran desert. The objective of this study was to determine the viability to produce sabila in the sonoran desert. During Summer 2002, two experiments of sabila was conducted, and distributed on two agricultural areas of the sonoran desert: The first experiment was carried out in two location of the agricultural region of Sonoyta, Sonora, Mexico, (“The Nariz” and “The Papago” farm). The second experiment was carried out in two lacation of the agricultural region of Caborca, Sonora, Mexico, (“The Bizani” and “The Coast” area) being the less cold area. During the first year we evaluated the surviving plants and the sprout emission. The result indicated that the plant in the Sonoyta region is more affected for the winter frosts, and it is reflected in a smaller average of surviving plants, being this of 78.6% and 97.8% in Sonoyta and Caborca respectively. Also we observed an effect in the percentage of plants that present sprout emission, being this of 11.25% and 23.65% in Sonoyta and Caborca respectively. Apparently the agricultural area of caborca has suitable condition for Sabila production.
The Charleston Area Children's Garden Project: A Community Sponsored Initiative
Authors: Phillips Fred B. , Rushing* James W. , Mey Brenda J. Vander
Published: February 2019

The Charleston Area Children's Garden Project is a community-sponsored initiative affiliated with the Clemson Univ. Coastal Research and Education Center and the Landscapes for Learning Program. The Project transforms vacant lots and other unused spaces into neighborhood outdoor learning centers. Garden activities are free and open to all. The children plan, plant, and tend the garden under the supervision and guidance of adult Garden Leaders. Whatever is grown, the children take home. A “sidewalk learning session” is held in the garden each week. At these sessions, the garden manager, parents, neighbors, or visitors teach the youngsters about garden-related topics from insects to siphons, from origami to pickling, and a multitude of other topics designed to stimulate learning and child participation. The Project is designed to give children a hands-on learning experience outside the classroom setting, to make neighborhoods more attractive, and to build a sense of community. The Project is totally funded by grant monies and has grown from one garden in 2000 to ten gardens in 2004. Gardens are planted with the involvement of neighborhood associations, the Boys and Girls Clubs, the Homeless Shelter, and in conjunction with after-school programs. The Project makes use of such resources as The Growing Classroom and the Junior Master Gardener Teaching Guide. An array of program materials has been developed that are designed for use in the coastal communities of South Carolina.
Miscanthus: Ornamental and Invasive Grass
Authors: Meyer* Mary Hockenberry
Published: February 2019

Miscanthus sinensis was investigated where it has naturalized and invaded native plant communities in southeastern Pennsylvania, the Washington, D.C. area, western North Carolina, and Iowa. Plants were identified; inflorescences were collected; seed was cleaned and tested for viability; and soil was collected for seed bank analysis. Many individuals were interviewed at each location. Locations were mapped to show miscanthus. The species or “wild type” Miscanthus sinensis that has naturalized at the above locations is rarely sold in the nursery trade. The numerous, popular, ornamental cultivars derived from this species are vegetatively propagated clones that are common in the nursery trade. Miscanthus is self-incompatible and sets seed only when two or more genotypes are grown together. Individual isolated plants set little seed. Plants of the wild type which have naturalized each represent a unique individual or genotype and thus set heavy seed, quite different from ornamental cultivars. Further complicating this is the high variability of seed set due to environmental conditions. Management guidelines were developed along with recommendations which include: Do not plant the species Miscanthus sinensis. Cultivars of the species, especially when two are more are grown together, represent a high risk for self-seeding in the Mid Atlantic states. Cultivars should only be planted in areas where they can be watched and managed for self-seeding. No miscanthus should be planted where it can seed into native areas, such as highways, fields, meadows, or wooded areas. A comprehensive website with identification, pictures, management guidelines, and recommendations was developed: http://horticulture.coafes.umn.edu/miscanthus.
Development and Testing of a Model to Rapidly Predict Apple Thinner Response
Authors: Greene* D.W. , Lakso A.N. , Robinson T.L.
Published: February 2019

Several thinning experiments were initiated in 2003 to test the hypothesis that monitoring fruit growth is an appropriate and accurate method to predict final fruit set early enough to apply supplemental thinners if appropriate. A total of eight thinning treatments were applied in Massachusetts and New York. On the day of thinner application 70 to 100 spurs were tagged on 4-8 trees (replications). All fruit within a spur were individually identified and fruit were measured. At 2 to 3 day intervals fruit diameter was measured at a designated point on the fruit. Growth rate of the fastest growing 20 fruit on the untreated trees was used as the criteria to determine growth rate of fruit that would persist to harvest. A fruit on a treated tree was predicted to abscise if growth rate slowed to 50% or less of the growth rate of the 20 fastest growing fruit on untreated trees. Cold weather in 2003 following thinner application slowed the response time to thinners. Thinning treatments were applied to Delicious, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, and Gala at 7-9-mm stage. BA, carbaryl, and combinations of NAA and carbaryl were used. In Massachusetts accuracy of prediction of final fruit set at 7-11 days after application ranged from 87% to 100% with and average of 95% accuracy compared to final observed drop at the end of June drop in July. In Geneva, N.Y., the temperature was so unseasonably cold following application that prediction of final set at 7 to 11 days after application was between 68% and 79% with an average of 74% accuracy. We conclude that prediction of final fruit set following growth rate of individual fruit shows promise as an accurate predictor of final fruit set early enough to apply supplemental thinners if appropriate.
Evaluation of Different Fertilization Formulas on the `Jalapeño' Hot Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Production in Colima, México
Authors: Radillo-Juárez* Francisco , Bazán-Tene Marcelino , Molina-Ochoa Jaime , Rolón-Vejar Edgar Damián
Published: February 2019

The production of `Jalapeño' hot pepper has been increased in the last 10 years in about 6.21% during the period between 1992-2003, with a growing rate of 72%. In Mexico, is an important produce, because it is considered part of the traditional Mexican diet as well as its high productive level. One of the most frequent problems in this crop is the low production of fresh fruits caused by an inadequate fertilization. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of four fertilization formulas on the yield of fresh fruit of hot pepper variety Jalapeño cultivar Grande under irrigation conditions The evaluated formulas were (N-P-K-S): 1) 58-51-35-12 (control); 2) 78-68-46-16; 3) 97-85-58-20; and 4) 117-102-69-24. Treatments were distributed under a completely randomized block design with four replications. The formula 117-102-69-24 showed the highest values in the plant height and number of fruits with 62.5 cm, and 48 fruits, respectively. This formula also showed the highest values on equatorial and longitudinal diameters, and fruit weight with 3.36 cm, 11.26 cm, and 33.66 g, respectively. The total yields per plant and per hectare was 1.54 kg; and 38.22 t was obtained with the formula 117-102-69-24. The formula with the higher units of each element showed the best performance and exhibited the highest yield of fresh hot pepper, it was more productive than the control treatment commonly used by the hot pepper growers in Colima.
Fertilization Strategies for Silene vulgaris (Caryophyllaceae) Production, a Wild Species with Alimentary Use
Authors: Arreola Jesús , Franco* José Antonio , Martínez-Sánchez Juan José
Published: February 2019

The wild native vegetable cultivation in Spain is very interesting due to the potential value as leafy vegetable. In order to preserve the minor crop diversity we investigate several wild species as Silene vulgaris. This is a perennial herbs, widespread in Europe and North of Africa, very appreciated by leaf in the Iberian Peninsula. In this work, six fertilization treatments with different Base Fertilizer: Top Fertilizer were evaluated in the field on Mediterranean coast of Spain: T0 (without fertilization), T1 (5000 and 0), T2 (2500 and 725), T3 (2500 and 363), T4 (1250 and 725),T5 (1250 and 363), T6 (625 and 181) kg·ha-1, Base fertilized, and Top fertilizer respectively. Silene vulgaris seedlings 30 days old were transplanted to 1 m2 experimental plots under drip irrigation. and previously Base fertilized with Guano of fish (4% N, 8% P, 4% K). Thirty days later a Top fertilization were applied with KNO3 (13,8% N and 44% K). Two harvests were carried out 55 and 110 days after plantation and the parameters measured were the fresh mass and the dry mass. In the first harvest, both fresh and dry mass were significantly greater in T3 (8541 and 1522 kg·ha-1, respectively), while T0 produced the smallest yield (3765 and 625 kg/ha, respectively). In the second harvest, T4 produced the greatest values of fresh and dry mass (9995 and 903 kg·ha-1, respectively), while, again, T0 threw the smallest values (4846 and 464 kg·ha-1, respectively). This work was supported by the CICYT of Spain (Project AGL2000-0521) and by the Fundación Séneca of the Region of Murcia (project PI-27/00753/FS/01).
Antioxidant Content of Peach and Plum Genotypes
Authors: Byrne* David , Vizzotto Marcia , Cisneros-Zevallos Luis , Ramming David , Okie W.
Published: February 2019

Stone fruits contain a range of phenolic compounds and carotenoids which have been implicated in improving human health. The objective of this study was to characterize the phytochemicals and antioxidant activity (AOA) exhibited in peaches and plums. Twenty-two peach varieties and fifty-three plum varieties with different flesh and skin color collected from fields in California, Georgia, and Texas were analyzed for their antioxidant content and AOA. Total phenolics, anthocyanins, carotenoids were analyzed spectrophotometrically. AOA was evaluated by DPPH. Anthocyanin and phenolic contents were higher in red-flesh than in white/yellow-flesh peaches. Carotenoid content was higher in yellow-flesh [2-3 mg β-carotene/100 g fw (fresh weight)] than in white or red-flesh peaches (0.01-1.8 mg β-carotene/100 g fw). AOA was about 2-fold higher in red-flesh varieties than in white/yellow-flesh varieties. Among the peaches, the AOA was well correlated with both phenolic and anthocyanin content. Among the plums, the anthocyanin content increased with the red color intensity. Although the plums varied widely in phenolic content, the red/purple-flesh plums generally had higher phenolic content (400-500 mg chlorogenic acid/100 g fw) than the other plums. Carotenoid content in plums was similar for all varieties (0.2-2 mg β-carotene/100 g fw). AOA was higher in red/purple-flesh varieties; however, it was well correlated only with the phenolic content in light colored flesh plums. These results suggest that red-flesh peach varieties have a greater potential health benefit based on antioxidant content and AOA as compared to the white/yellow-flesh varieties. Although this trend is not clear over all the plum varieties; the red/purple-flesh plums usually have higher antioxidant content and AOA.
Ten Year Performance of `Gala' on 18 Dwarf Apple Rootstocks in Michigan
Authors: Perry* Ronald L , Stefanelli Dario , Byler Gail
Published: February 2019

Trees of Gala were planted in 1994 on 18 rootstocks at the Clarksville Horticulture Experiment Station as one cooperating site of 26 North American sites organized by the NC-140 Regional Pome and Stone fruit rootstock committee. One tree each of seven rootstock treatments and two on B.9 and B.491 have died since establishment. Death has been caused by wind (brittle union) on most of the trees in replication one, on the western exterior of the plot which is exposed to strong wind. The most vigorous trees in this planting are those on V.1 and M.26 and least vigorous on M.27 and P.22. Cropping in 2003 was highest on Pajam 2, Ottawa 3 and M.9 NAKB 337, yielding an average of between 60 to 70 kg per tree. Cropping over the years has been highest on PJ.2, M.9 EMLA, and O.3. Cumulative yield efficiency in this plot is highest on P.16, followed by P.22 and B.491. Trees on M.26 are the least efficient over the years. Average fruit weight was highest in 2003 on V.1 and PJ.2. M.9 NAKB 337, the dominant international an national standard M.9 clonal rootstock is not as productive and as precocious as many other M.9 clonal stocks in this trial. After 10 years of evaluation, there appears to be no significant difference in cropping, cumulative yield, for `Gala' among the top eight rootstocks led by M.9 Pajam 2. M.9 NAKB 337 is not among the top eight rootstocks at this site. Pajam 2 is impressive from the view that while it is the top cropping stock, it is the rootstock in 2003 which also averaged the largest fruit. Among the M.9 clonal rootstocks, PJ 2 is also the most vigorous which for North American commercial apple orchards, has excellent commercial potential to withstand field and production stresses.
Early Performance of `McIntosh' Apple Trees on Several Semidwarf Rootstocks in the 1999 NC-140 Rootstock Trial
Authors: Autio* Wesley , Cline John , Crassweller Robert , Embree Charles , Garcia Elena , Hoover Emily , Kosola Kevin , Perry Ronald , Robinson Terence
Published: February 2019

`McIntosh' apple trees [Malus ×sylvestris (L.) Mill. Var domestica (Borkh.)] on five semidwarfing rootstocks (CG.4814, CG.7707, G.30N, M.7 EMLA, and Supporter 4) were planted at 10 locations (MA, MI MN NS 2 in NY ON PA VT and WI) under the direction of the NC-140 Multistate Research Project. After four growing seasons (through 2002), trees on CG.7707, G.30N, Supporter 4, and M.7 EMLA were significantly larger than those on CG.4814. Cumulative root suckering was most from trees on M.7 EMLA, and least from trees on CG.7707, G.30N, and Supporter 4. Yield per tree in 2002 and cumulatively was greatest from trees on G.30N and least from trees on CG.7707 and M.7 EMLA. In 2002 and cumulatively, CG.4814 resulted in the greatest yield efficiency, and M.7 EMLA resulted in the lowest. In 2002, fruit from trees on M.7 EMLA were largest, and those from trees on CG.4814 were smallest. On average, M.7 EMLA resulted in the largest fruit, and G.30N resulted in the smallest. Limited data will be presented on CG.6210, CG.8, G.30T, and M.26 EMLA, which are planted only at some locations. Data for the fifth season (2003) will be presented.
Chemical Control in the Soil Fungus (Pyrenochaeta terrestris) in Onion Production
Authors: Macias-Duarte Ruben , Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Robles-Contreras Fabian
Published: February 2019

The producers areas of onion in Mexico, are affected by the existence and increment of pathogens organisms of the soil like the fungus Pyrenochaeta terrestris, This problem increased its presence and damages due to the consecutive establishment of this vegetable year with year on the same soils. The fungus is activated and this disease developed when the soil temperature is increased. The disease infection of the plants causes rot and death of roots and small bulbs whit no commercial value, and low yields. According that the objective of the present research was to evaluate three treatments for the control of this organism pathogen: The experiment was carried out on INIFAP-CIRNO Experimental Station on a severally infested soil whit this fungus. The sow date was on 6 Jan. 2002, in this trial we used “local” variety. The treatments evaluated were Trichoderma (30 L·ha-1), Humega 8% (180 L·ha-1), Isofert 25 (400 L·ha-1) and a control (without treatment). The products were applied using the drip irrigation system. The results indicate that the treatments with Trichoderma and Humega 8% presented the lower percent of disease roots with 33% and those of more incidence were the control and Isofert 25 with 46% and 47% of disease roots, respectively. The results show 13% efficiency with the use of Trichoderma with respect to control; however this treatment did not affect the bulb weight and yield, control treatment obtained the greatest bulb weight and yield with 212 g for bulb and 80.9 t·ha-1 against 196 g and 71.9 t·ha-1, respectively, of the Trichoderma, which was seemingly a secondary negative effect in decrement the yield.
Productivity and Fruit Quality in Tomatoes Varieties Under Greenhouse Conditions in the Northwest of Mexico
Authors: Grijalva-Contreras* Raul Leonel , Macias-Duarte Ruben , de Jesus Valenzuela-Ruiz Manuel , Robles-Contreras Fabian
Published: February 2019

The production of vegetables in Mexico under greenhouse conditions has been increased notably during the last years. Actually the area is about 1,250 ha. Tomatoes is the vegetables more important with 70%. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate ten beef tomatoes varieties growing on soil medium and to choice those with high yield, fruit quality and disease resistant. The experiment was carried out on the Experimental Station (INIFAP-CIRNO) inside Polyethylene greenhouse. The soil characteristics are clay loam texture, electrical conductivity (1.22 ds·m-1 and Ph 7.96). The date seedling establishment on 25 Oct. 2003 (28 days after sow seed). The plant density used was of 3.78 plants per square meter. The harvest period occurred from 20 feb. Feb. 20 to 27 May and they were carried out an average of sixteen cutting. There were nonsignificant differences in yield and weight fruit among varieties. Yield varied from 26.2 and 19.2 kg·m-2. The varieties with more yield were Clarion, GC-29125, Attention, Thomas and Charleston with 26.2, 24.7, 24.4, 24.2 and 21.5 kg·m-2, respectively. Fruit weight varied from 96.5 to 174.0 grams per fruit. The important insect pests in this year were Leaf Miner (Lyriomyza sp.); Army worm (Heliothis op.) and white fly (Bemissia sp.) however, we have not recorded any important disease during this trial.
Characterization of Apple Hybrids (Malus × domestica Bork.)
Authors: Flores* Aroldo Isudro Rumayor , Ramos Jose Antonio Vázquez , Andres Martínez Cano , Fernando Borrego Escalante
Published: February 2019

In hybrids of apple (Malus × domestica Bork.) subjected to study phenological in Aguanueva, Coahuila, Mexico, their requirements of chill hours (CH), heat units (HU), bud breaking flower and vegetative % (BB) for good adaptation to warm milder climate, bloom period (BP), and vegetative period (VP), were determined using the Methodology of Identification of New Cultivars of Fruit Breeding (Ploudiv 1983). They were material with requirements of cold from 200 up to 650 (CH) when they underwent a test of controlled conditions of (CH). These materials are; AR-109 (200 CH), AR-106 (300 CH), AR-108 (300 CH), AR-147 (300 CH), AR-144 (550 CH), and AR-a60 (650 CH), while the control Mutant Aguanueva II (500 CH). Under winter conditions of the year 2000 with so slone 168.76 (CH), some materials showed a bud break superior to the control. The bud break dates understand between 30 days before the witness Aguanueva II, as the hybrid AR-147 and 34 days later in the case of the hybrid AR-151, location this way to the materials as: Early with regard to the control; AR-16-S (24 days), AR-130 (14 days) and AR-147 (30 days). Similar to the control; AR-144, AR-103 and AR-127. Later than the control; AR-111 and AR-103-B. since they don't require spray bud breaking res compounds for their bud break and they have bloom period (BP) of 8 to 21 days. And when presenting low chill requirements they will be set fruit in a microclimate frost-free and growing and have their cultivation in a mild winter climate.
Postharvest Calcium Chloride Dips of Whole Tomato Fruit Reduce Postharvest Decay
Authors: Ritenour* Mark A. , Stoffella Peter J. , He Zhenli , Burton Michael S.
Published: February 2019

Previous research suggests that treatment of sliced or vacuum-infiltrated tomato fruit with calcium chloride (CaCl2) solutions may reduce decay, but no work on dipping whole tomatoes has been reported. In the present experiments, `FL 47' tomato fruit were collected at the mature green or pink stage from a local packinghouse, held at 12.5 or 25.0 °C overnight, and then dipped in solutions with 0.5% to 5% CaCl2 with or without 150 ppm sodium hypochlorite. Fruit were dipped for 1 to 4 minutes at temperatures ranging from 0 to 35 °C. Mature green fruit dipped in solutions with 0.5% and 1.0% CaCl2 at 35 °C had significantly lower rates of decay following storage at 12.5 °C (90% RH) than the control (27% vs. 36% decay, respectively). These fruit were also significantly softer after 2 weeks of storage than control fruit (0.85 mm vs. 0.74 mm deformation, respectively) and appeared to be slightly more ripe. Decay in fruit dipped in 2% CaCl2 was not significantly different from the control, while fruit dipped in 3% to 5% CaCl2 developed significantly more decay than control fruit. The CaCl2 treatments had no significant effect on decay of fruit treated at the pink stage and none of the treatments at 0 °C significantly affected postharvest decay. Dips in 2% to 5% CaCl2 significantly increased tomato peel calcium content after storage. Dipping time had no significant effect on peel calcium content.
Using Digital Imaging to Enhance Learning in Undergraduate Plant Biology Courses
Authors: Waegel* Alice S.
Published: February 2019

With grant funds for upgrading technology in undergraduate science laboratories, digital cameras and microscopes were acquired for use in undergraduate biology laboratories. The digital imaging equipment has been used to enhance student learning in both Bio 244 Plant Biology and Bio 480 Biology Independent Study. In the student research oriented independent study course, digital photo-microscopy with a Nikon Digital Still camera (DXM 1200) mounted on a Nikon Stereo-scopic Zoom microscope (SMZ800) was used to illustrate a research project involving the effect of mycorrhizae fungi on root development of the shining club moss Huperzia lucidula. Digital photomicrographs of fungi isolated from the roots of H. lucidula collected in the wild were included in the student researcher's final PowerPoint report on the experiment. In Bio 244 Plant Biology the digital imaging equipment was used in a tree identification project. Students took Nikon Coolpix 995 cameras to a local arboretum (Tyler Arboretum, Media, Pa.) where, after minimal instruction in camera operation, they took photographs of 10 trees for inclusion in a tree identification PowerPoint presentation. Each pair of students selected different trees from their peers, taking shots of overall habit, leaves, bark, and flowers/fruit if present. Photos were downloaded onto lab computers at the conclusion of the field trip. The students were then responsible for incorporating descriptive text and digital images into PowerPoint presentations shown to the class later in the semester. Students and professor participated in the grading process, using a rubric which students helped design. In the end of course evaluations, digital imaging projects were highly rated by students.
Trait Heritability Estimates of an Open-pollinated Onion Population
Authors: Cramer* Christopher S.
Published: February 2019

Heritability estimates of bolting percentage (BP), pink root (PR) and Fusarium basal rot (FBR) incidences, and percentage of single centered (PSC) bulbs were calculated for an intermediate-day, open-pollinated onion population using selection response and half-sib (HS) family analyses. BP was determined by counting the number of seedstalks per plot when the population was seeded at an earlier planting date to induce bolting. PR and FBR incidences were determined by rating 30 bulbs/plot for the severity of PR and FBR, and calculated an incidence rate from the number of infected bulbs out of 30 rated. The PSC bulbs was determined by cutting transversely 30 bulbs at the vertical center of the bulb and looking for the presence of a single growing point or multiple growing points within 1.3 cm from the center of the bulb. Families were also evaluated for bulb quality that consisted of shape, size, maturity, firmness, number of scale layers, and dry outer scale thickness, adherence, retention, and color. Families were selected based upon an index that equally weighted BP, PR and FBR incidences, PSC bulbs, and bulb quality. No progress was made for BP even though the narrow sense heritability (h2) estimate was 0.51. PR and FBR incidence was reduced by 18% and 12%, respectively, and realized heritability (RH) estimates of 0.65 and 0.60, respectively, were calculated. h2 estimates calculated through HS family analysis was 0.46 and 0.37, respectively, for these two traits. Very little progress was made for the PSC bulbs and this was reflected in a RH estimate of 0.17. However, the h2 estimate was 0.71, suggesting that progress should be possible.
Developmental Anatomy of Adventitious Shoot Formation on Antirrhinum majus L. Hypocotyls In Vitro
Authors: Busse James S. , Figueroa-Cabanas Monica , Stimart* Dennis P.
Published: February 2019

Adventitious shoot formation in vitro from Antirrhinum majus L. hypocotyls was investigated using two inbred lines, the most and least regenerative lines selected from screening. Time course analysis indicated cell division in the most regenerative line occurred first in one or a small number of epidermal cells with periclinal and anticlinal divisions. Subsequently, cortical then vascular cells were recruited beneath the dividing epidermal cells. Once shoots formed, their vascular system was continuous with the original hypocotyl explant. The least regenerative line had no cell division directed toward organogenesis. Shoot formation on hypocotyls of A. majus was adventitious in origin, by direct organogenesis and genotype dependent.
Crop Load and Shoot Type Affect Return Bloom of Pecans
Authors: Rohla* Charles T. , Smith Michael W. , Maness Niels O. , Reid William R.
Published: February 2019

Trees with about the same crop load were hand thinned to 1, <2, or <3 fruit per cluster or not thinned while the ovule was about one-half expanded. Treatments were replicated three times. Vegetative, and bearing terminal, lateral and shoots with secondary growth were tagged in October, and flowering was determined the following year. Shoots and roots were sampled during dormancy and analyzed for organically bound N, and K. Results indicated that branches with secondary growth produced substantially more shoots and flowers than other branch types. The unthinned trees produced fewer total flowers per branch, had a lower percentage of branches with flowering shoots, and smaller flower clusters than thinned trees. Organically bound N in the roots and shoots was not affected by crop load. Crop load appeared to be negatively related to K concentration in roots <1 cm in diameter, but not in roots >1 cm in diameter. The data suggest that neither N nor K were limiting in trees with large crops.
Performance of Pillar and Upright Form Peach Trees Grown in a Central Leader or Multiple Leader Orchard System at Various Planting Densities
Authors: Miller* Stephen , Scorza Ralph
Published: February 2019

Peach trees with a pillar (P) (columnar) or upright (UP) growth habit were planted at four in-row spacings (1.5, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 m) in 1999 and trained to a central leader or multiple leader system to evaluate their performance in an orchard environment. A standard (S) form peach cultivar (`Harrow Beauty') was included for comparison. In this replicated study using a split-split-split plot design, one-half of the trees were summer pruned (SP) 6 weeks before harvest in each growing season from 2001 to 2003. Growth habit, tree spacing, and SP had a significant effect on tree growth and time necessary for dormant pruning. Growth habit and spacing also affected time required to summer prune. Total pruning time for all growth habits was significantly greater for SP trees compared to non-SP trees. Cumulative yields per tree were greater for UP and S habit trees than P trees over the first four seasons. Per tree yields increased as the in-row spacing increased but were decreased slightly by SP. UP trees consistently produced larger size fruit than P or S trees. Potential yields per ha and pruning times based on projected best tree spacings will be presented. UP form trees provide a good transition for growers going from low-density to high-density peach systems, with significant advantages in yield and fruit quality.
Proper Management for Alternate Fan System in Asian Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia cv. Niitaka) Trees
Authors: Lee* Jae-Young , Kim Yong-Koo , Park Hee-Seung
Published: February 2019

To maintain appropriate tree shapes for Asian pear trees, multi-leader system would be more suitable, which could be obtained from the proper training systems. Controlling apical dominance should be the major factor for tree shape management and this might be modified by branch bending or pruning methods. When the tree shape was managed with Alternate Fan System, too narrower branch angle depressed flower bud formation because of the vigorous shoot growth but too wider angle also decreased that formation because of the numerous water sprouts. The tree with 75 degrees of internally deviated angle performed superior result in fruiting process. Additionally, heading-back pruning could be another for water sprout emerging. For that reason, the severer heading-back pruning stimulated the more water sprout emerging. The proper pruning method could be obtained by considering the relation between main stem width and sum of remained branch width.
The Use of Leaf Removal and Prohexadione-Ca to Modify `Camarosa' Strawberry Nursery Plant Morphology for Plasticulture Fruit Production
Authors: Reekie* Julia , Hicklenton Peter , Duval John , Chandler Craig , Struik Paul
Published: February 2019

Our previous work on modifying strawberry plant morphology used either mowing to remove the leaf laminas and part of the petioles on `Camarosa', or a new reduced-risk gibberellin synthesis inhibitor, Prohexadione-Ca (ProCa), to restrict cell elongation in `Sweet Charlie'. These early studies showed promising results in acheiving desirable plant size and increasing fruit yield in annual hill plasticulture. Therefore, in the growing seasons of 2001 and 2002, we used `Camarosa' to explore the possibility of combining mowing and ProCa as a means of modifying strawberry transplant morphology in the nurseries, and studied its effect on fruit production in annual hill plasticulture. Plants were mowed and treated with 62.5 μL·L-1 of ProCa in a nursery field in Nova Scotia (45°26'N, 63°27'W). Treatments consisted of either mowing, the application of ProCa, or a combination of mowing and ProCa on one of two dates, 5 or 19 Sept. ProCa application early in the growing season had increased the production of daughter plants in the nursery. All plants were harvested in early October, and immediately transplanted in Dover, Fla. (28°00'N, 82°22'W). Fruits were collected twice weekly from late November to February or March. At time of harvest, both mowing and ProCa reduced plant height and total leaf area; plants which were treated with ProCa and mowed were the shortest. On average, treated plants had higher fruit yield as compared to untreated plants. In 2001, early fruit production in December was increased significantly in treated plants.
Wound-inducible Expression of the ipt Gene Stimulates Enhanced Lateral Shoot Development in Tobacco
Authors: Khodakovskaya Mariya V. , McAvoy* Richard J. , Luo Keming , Li Yi
Published: February 2019

The bacterial isopentenyl transferase (ipt) gene involved in cytokinin biosynthesis was fused with a promoter from the serine proteinase inhibiter (win3.12) gene of Populus x generosa and introduced into Nicotiana tabacum (cv. Havana). Transformants were confirmed by PCR reaction and Southern blot analysis, and then analyzed for phenotypic characteristics. RT-PCR analysis detected transcripts of the ipt gene following the wounding of win3.12:ipt transgenic plants. In win3.12: ipt transgenic plants, lateral shoot number and the diameter of lateral branches that developed following apical shoot removal increased relative to wild-type plants. However, the increase in cytokinin production following wounding appeared to be short lived. The potential utility of this construct in enhancing lateral branching in ornamental crops will be discussed.
Construction of a BAC Library Covering a Common Region between Two Sugar Beet Translocation Lines with Two Cyst Nematode Resistance Genes
Authors: Samuelian* Suren
Published: February 2019

Resistance against the beet cyst nematode (BCN) has been introduced into cultivated sugar beet from wild beet by conventional breeding. The first gene effective against the BCN, Hs1pro-1, was isolated from the sugar beet translocation line A906001. It is assumed that a second nematode resistance gene, Hs1pro-1, is present in the translocation line PRO3, which does not carry Hs1pro-1 but still imparts complete resistance against the nematode and resides in the overlapping region between the two lines. The overall goal of this study was to construct a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library to facilitate the cloning of Hs1pro-1. A BAC library from PRO3 was constructed containing 45,041 clones with an average insert size of 108.36 kb. Screening of the library with organelle specific probes indicated less than 1% mitochondrial and 4% chloroplast DNA content. The library covers 6.17 genome equivalents which provides a 99.76% probability of recovering any specific sequence present in the genome.
Alleviation of Nitric Oxide-induced Flower Abscission and Leaf Toxicity in Phlox by Sucrose and 1-MCP
Authors: Sankhla Narendra , Mackay* Wayne , Davis Tim
Published: February 2019

Low concentration fumigation with nitric oxide (NO*) has been shown to extend the postharvest life of a range of flowers, fruits and vegetables by down-regulating ethylene production. Since ethylene is involved in flower abscission and leaf senescence of `John Fanick' phlox cut flower heads, a superior selection of perennial phlox (Phlox paniculata L.) bearing attractive long-lasting flowers, we have evaluated the effect of NO* delivered in vivo using sodium nitroprusside (SNP) as the source of NO* donor, on postharvest performance of `John Fanick' phlox flower heads. Although the presence of SNP (10-200 μmol·L-1) in the vase solution promoted the abscission of the open flowers, the young flower buds continued to open even in the presence of high SNP concentrations. On the other hand, at high SNP concentrations, the leaves became either yellow, or more frequently turned progressively black and senesced. Inclusion of sucrose in the vase solution, or pretreatment of flower heads with either 1-MCP or STS, significantly delayed the abscission of flowers and blackening of leaves. The pretreatment of flower heads with either 1-MCP or STS, or the presence of sucrose in the vase, together with SNP, greatly reduced the toxicity of the latter chemical resulting in improved postharvest display life. These results indicate that in `John Fanick' the leaves are relatively more susceptible to NO*-induced toxicity than the flowers. However, both sucrose and ethylene perception inhibitors are able to minimize the toxicity of high concentrations of NO* delivered in vivo via SNP.