ASHS 2024 Conference: Full Schedule

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10:30am HST

NUR/RHIZ - A Snapshot of Nursery Container Substrate Prices in Tennessee

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:30am - 10:40am HST

In container nursery production, the potting substrate serves as the foundation of the crop, providing essential nutrients, aeration, and moisture retention. A well-chosen substrate is crucial for optimizing plant health and growth, and ultimately influences a nursery’s economic viability since substrate is estimated to be 13% of the total variable costs of 3-gallon production. Our objective is to determine the cost of common potting substrate components. The study goal is to identify opportunities for nursery producers to reduce costs and increase profits by optimizing their substrate components. Email surveys supplemented by interviews were used to collect data from six Tennessee container nursery producers. All growers were within a 117-mile radius of McMinnville, Tennessee, and provided the prices they paid in the last 12 months for the primary components of their potting substrate. Delivery fees and fuel surcharges were not considered in the cost when these expenses were itemized. However, one producer’s prices included delivery expenses. Participating nursery producers self-identified as having 100 (66.7%) acres in container production. Growers in this case study paid an average of $19.07 (SD=$5.53) per yard3 for pine bark; however, the prices ranged from $14.53 to $29.00 per yard3. In general, smaller producers paid more for pine bark. Sand ranged from $40.50 to $49.95 per yd3. Nursery producers paid $1.12 to 1.32 per pound for controlled release fertilizer (CRF), an input estimated at 5% of total variable costs. Therefore, some growers paid 18% more for CRF than others. Growers paid from $0.01 to $0.11 per pound for lime. Tennessee nursery producers were paying on average $66.79 per cubic yard for wood fiber-based substrate and vermicompost, 250% more than the average cost of pine bark but just 46% of the market price for peat. These preliminary data show 1) individual nurseries pay a range of prices for the same potting substrate components, and 2) the relatively high cost of peat replacements, i.e., wood fiber and vermicompost. The data highlight the range of prices being paid for CRF and its relative expense, underscoring the opportunity for growers to reduce costs by optimizing their use and placement of CRF. Additional research is needed to more broadly sample nurseries for these data and determine the influence of nursery size on substrate component costs. cparwutcakwt8uvpamtb

Speakers

Amy Fulcher

University of Tennessee

Co-authors

Alicia Rihn

University of Tennessee

James Owen

USDA-ARS

Jim Owens is a USDA-ARS Research Horticulturist located at the Application Technology Research Unit in Wooster, OH. Jim received his B.Sc. in Plant and Soil Science at the University of Kentucky, his M.Sc. in Environmental Science at the University of Rhode Island, and Ph.D. at North... Read More →

Walker Harrell

University of Tennessee

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:30am - 10:40am HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Nursery Crops 1

SUBJECT Nursery Crops, Root Growth and Rhizosphere Dynamics

10:40am HST

NUR/RHIZ - Suppression of Stem Elongation of UV-B Treatment Timing and Intensity on Tomato Scion and Rootstock in Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:40am - 10:50am HST

South Pacific 3

This study aimed to determine the optimal conditions of UV-B exposure for regulating the growth of tomato grafted seedling in Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting by investigating growth characteristics, rhizosphere development, and chlorophyll fluorescence of seedlings. Tomato scion and rootstock were used in the experiment. UV-B treatment timing was divided into three stages from sowing to grafting. UV-B intensities were set at 1.44, 2.88, and 5.76 kJ·m−2·d−1. Results showed that morphology of plants did not exhibit significant differences up to 2.88 kJ·m−2·d−1 for tomato scion and rootstock. However, side effects such as leaf wilting were observed at 5.76 kJ·m−2·d−1. The length of hypocotyl, which is closely related to scion and rootstock suppression of stem elongation, was shortest when treated with 5.76 kJ·m−2·d−1 during the mid-growth stage across all treatment. Interestingly, rhizosphere characteristics such as root volume, surface area, and average root diameter showed improvement trends regardless of treatment timing when exposed to UV-B at 1.44-2.88 kJ·m−2·d−1. Quality indicators of seedlings showed best when 2.88 kJ·m−2·d−1 during the late-growth stage. Comparisons of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters revealed no significant effects of UV-B treatment on cucumber seedlings and grafting except for PIABS. However, tomato seedlings and grafting exhibited significantly reduced FV/FM and DIO/RC at late-growth stage when exposed to 5.76 kJ·m−2·d−1. Therefore, it is concluded that utilizing UV-B in the range of 1.44-2.88 kJ·m−2·d−1 during cucumber and tomato scion and rootstock production in Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting could minimize plant damage while expecting to suppress grafting effects.

Speakers

dongcheol jang

assistatn professor, kangwon national university

Co-authors

hwichan yang

kangwon national university

soon jae hyeon

kangwon national university

youngho kim

kangwon national university

YunHyeong bae

kangwon national university

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:40am - 10:50am HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Nursery Crops 1

SUBJECT Nursery Crops, Root Growth and Rhizosphere Dynamics

10:50am HST

NUR/RHIZ - Effects of Nitrogen on the Nodulation of Ceanothus velutinus

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:50am - 11:00am HST

South Pacific 3

Ceanothus velutinus, commonly known as snowbrush ceanothus, is a nitrogen-fixing species native to North America. It plays a vital role in ecosystem by improving soil fertility through nodulation, a symbiotic process with bacteria that fixes atmospheric nitrogen. The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of various nitrogen concentrations on the nodulation and plant morphological and physiological responses. Ceanothus velutinus seedlings were transplanted in calcined clay and inoculated with 30 mL of soil containing Frankia. Seedlings were treated with 0.0 to 8.4 g·L-1 of controlled released fertilizer (CRF, 15N-3.9P-10K) or a nitrogen-free nutrient solution supplemented with or without 2mM ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3). Plant growth and photosynthesis increased linearly or quadratically along with the increasing CRF application rates with a notable increase observed at 4.2 g of CRF. Nodules were observed only in plants receiving 0.0, 0.3, 0.5, 1.1, or 2.1 g of CRF. However, the number of nodules formed in the treatments was too small to analyze statistically. The study indicates that while CRF significantly boosts C. velutinus growth, nodulation and nitrogen fixing capacity of the plant remains unknown. Further investigation is needed to determine the effect of nitrogen on the nodulation of C. velutinus using peat-based soilless substrate.

Speakers

PRAKRITI NEPAL

Utah State Univeristy

Co-authors

Youping Sun

Utah State Univeristy

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:50am - 11:00am HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Nursery Crops 1

SUBJECT Nursery Crops, Root Growth and Rhizosphere Dynamics

11:30am HST

VCM 2 - Effects of Off-Season Winter Cover Crops and In-Season Nematicide Application on Plant-Parasitic Nematodes

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:30am - 11:40am HST

South Pacific 3

In the Southeast United States, control of parasitic nematodes in vegetable growing systems has traditionally relied on soil fumigation before planting vegetables. However, new regulations on the application of fumigant pesticides and concerns about their toxicity to non-target organisms are compelling growers to adopt sustainable alternatives. This study examined the effects of winter cover crops and subsequent production of cabbage treated with a non-fumigant nematicide on root-knot (Meloiodgyne incognita) and stubby-root (Nanidorus minor) nematodes. Off-season treatments consisted of oilseed radish cvs. “Control” and “Image”, cereal rye cv. “Wrerens Abrussi”, oat cv. “Tachiibuki”, black oat cv. “Protex” and mustard cv. “Caliente”. In-season treatments consisted of an untreated check and the nematicide fluensulfone, applied through the drip irrigation system one week before transplanting cabbage into raised beds covered with plastic mulch. A weedy fallow treatment was also included for comparison. After growing cover crops and incorporating plant residues into the soil, M. incognita population density was significantly reduced only in plots where Tachiibuki oat was grown. None of the cover crops reduced the population density of N. minor. Nematicide application on cabbage significantly reduced M. incognita populations in plots previously grown with Tachiibuki and Pratex oats, and mustard compared to the untreated check. Similarly, the nematicide reduced the N. minor population density in plots previously grown with oats, mustard, and rye. The efficacy of fluensulfone on root gall severity of cabbage was significant only in the untreated check, with plots previously grown with Image radish having a significantly lower root galling than the mustard, rye, and weedy fallow. Nematicide application reduced root gall severity of cabbage in plots previously grown with radish, Tachiibuki oat, and rye compared to the untreated check. Growing cabbage after cover crops and using the nematicide did not impact cabbage yield compared to the untreated check. These results indicate that cover cropping with Tachiibuki oat and the use of non-fumigant nematicides appear to be effective for managing these nematode species.

Speakers

Abolfazl Hajihassani

University of Florida

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:30am - 11:40am HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

11:40am HST

VCM 2 - Lessons Learned from Living Mulch Trials on Midwest Vegetable Farms

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:40am - 11:50am HST

South Pacific 3

In the Great Plains region of the United States, perennial clover living mulch is being explored for the potential benefits of reducing tillage, suppressing weeds, and supplementing soil. Perennial living mulch systems also have the potential to reduce the use of single-use plastic. Research on the use of perennial living mulch in vegetable systems has been limited in the Great Plans, and farmers have expressed interest in trialing this system to improve soil health and reduce erosion by wind and rain. Two vegetable farms, Haroldson Farms in Bruce, SD and Blue Sky Vegetable Company in Worthing, SD, have participated in the on-farm trials since 2023. In collaboration with South Dakota State University, the on-farm trial collaborators were interested in using living mulch to control weeds and reduce the need for plastic. ‘Domino’ white clover (WC) (Trifolium repens), and ‘Dynamite’ red clover (RC) (Trifolium pratense) are the clovers that were selected for the on-farm trials. The clover struggled to grow with the lack of rainfall and was soon overtaken by weeds. Results quickly showed that the lack of moisture had a detrimental effect on the clover’s ability to compete and establish in walkways. A mixture of grasses and broadleaf were observed as the clover declined. Early moisture is essential for the establishment of clover living mulch and be used to its full potential. The planting method of frost seeding would be recommended for future trials to encourage clover germination and establishment before weeds get large enough to compete.

Speakers

Connor Ruen

South Dakota State University

Co-authors

Kristine Lang

South Dakota State University

Thandiwe Nleya

South Dakota State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:40am - 11:50am HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

11:45am HST

FRBR - Haplotype-Phased Genome Assemblies of ‘Sulhyang’ Strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) using PacBio Revio Sequencer

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:45am - 11:55am HST

Kahili

Cultivated strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch, 2n = 8× = 56) belongs to the family Rosaceae and is an allo-octoploid species. We report here a high-quality haplotype-phased genome assembly of a representative Korean short-day cultivar, ‘Sulhyang’ using a trio-binning approach. Using PacBio Revio long reads of ‘Sulhyang’ and whole genome paired-end reads (Illumina) of two parents ‘Akihime’, and ‘Yukbo’, we completed telomere-to-telomere phased genome assemblies of both haplotypes. The ‘Sulhyang’ genome was 797 Mb , with a long terminal repeat (LTR) assembly index (LAI) of 17.28. The genome was phased into two haplotypes, phase-1 (784.9 Mb with contig N50 of 12.34) and phase-2 (781 Mb with contig N50 of 16.04 Mb). The BUSCO analysis detected over 99% of conserved genes in the combined phased-1 and phased-2 assembly. Both haploid assemblies were annotated using RNA-Seq data representing various F. ×ananassa tissues from the NCBI sequence read archive, resulting in a total of 104,099 genes in the primary assembly. This haplotype-phased reference genome for ‘Sulhyang’ will broaden our knowledge of strawberry genome evolution and gene functions.

Speakers

Youngjae Oh

Prof., Chungbuk National University

Co-authors

Hyeondae Han

University of Florida/IFAS/Gulf Coast REC

Seonghee Lee

University of Florida/IFAS/Gulf Coast REC

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:45am - 11:55am HST
Kahili

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

11:50am HST

VCM 2 - Evaluating Cover Crop Biomass and Roller Crimper Technology for Effective Weed Control in Vegetable Systems

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:50am - 12:00pm HST

South Pacific 3

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of roller crimper technology in tandem with various cover crop mixtures for weed management in coastal California's vegetable systems. The experiment was conducted at the Rodale Institute California Organic Center (34.220453, -199.108214) in Camarillo, CA. Twenty randomized plots 46 x 12 m were measured and assigned to either to a bare soil treatment or one of two cover crop mixes: oat (Avena sativa) hairy vetch (Vicia villosa), or oat pea (Pisum sativum), with cover crops terminated via conventional tillage using a disk (T) or using a roller crimper for no-till system (NT). Pumpkins (Howden variety) were direct seeded, and data on cover crop growth and weed pressure were collected at three time points: before cover crop termination, after cover crop termination and after harvest. At harvest, a subset of each plot was sampled to count and weigh pumpkins for crop yield assessment. Before termination, the total dry matter of cover crop biomass showed no significant differences between oat/peas and oat/vetch mixes. Oat/vetch exhibited lower weed biomass at 0.74 t/ha compared to oat/peas at 1.98 t/ha (0.8 t/a); bare soil plots had the greatest biomass at 21.35 t/ha. After termination (30 DAT), NT plots showed similar biomass production between oat/peas and oat/vetch. T plots displayed residues on the soil surface, with higher amounts in oat/vetch at 8.7 t/ha compared to oat/peas at 8.4 t/ha. Weed emergence after cover crop termination was comparable across all plots with cover crops, ranging from 1.24 t/ha to 2.22 t/ha, while bare soil exhibited higher weed biomass at 10 t/ha compared to plots with cover crops. After harvest (120 DAT), oat/vetch in NT plots showed greater biomass retention compared to T plots, as did oat/peas in NT plots. All plots experienced biomass reductions, with oat/peas T plots experiencing the most significant decrease at 61.5%. Oat/vetch mixture plots (T and NT) and bare soil had similar pumpkins production per hectare, outperforming oat/pea T plots in terms of fruit number and production per hectare. Oat/pea T plots exhibited decreased fruit weight compared to bare soil.

Speakers

Arianna Bozzolo

Rodale Institute

Co-authors

Andrew Smith

Rodale Institute

Jacob Pecenka

Rodale Institute

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:50am - 12:00pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

11:55am HST

FRBR - Exploring the molecular basis of rootstock-mediated growth vigour in macadamia: Unravelling aquaporin gene dynamics

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:55am - 12:05pm HST

Kahili

Rootstocks play a crucial role in shaping plant growth and vigour, driven by a complex interplay of physiological, molecular, and genetic factors. Aquaporins (AQPs), as key water transport proteins, are emerging as pivotal component in understanding rootstock-mediated vigour. However, evidence for rootstock effects in macadamia remains limited with no exploration into the mechanisms of rootstock-mediated vigour control, hindering progress in rootstock development for this crop. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of AQPs by conducting a genome-wide investigation on whole genome sequence of Macadamia integrifolia (‘HAES741’). This study identified 37 putative macadamia AQP (miAQP) genes belonging to 5 different sub-families including 11 plasma membrane intrinsic proteins, 10 tonoplast intrinsic proteins, 10 Nod26-like intrinsic proteins, 2 small and basic proteins and 6 X-intrinsic proteins. miAQP genes are unevenly distributed across 11 chromosomes with chromosome 7 possessing the most genes. To investigate the differential expression of plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs), in high- and low-vigour rootstocks, root, leaf, and stem tissues were collected from trees with a single scion ‘HAES741’ grafted on to 7 different rootstock genotypes . RNA from tissue samples were extracted by a modified CTAB RNA extraction protocol using the Zymo-spin™ IICR Column. RNA quality and quantity was checked via nano spectrophotometer and gel electrophoresis. Primer pairs for 11 PIP genes and 2 housekeeping genes (ACT and EF1b) were designed using Primer BLAST in NCBI. RNA samples were subjected to a real time quantitative RT-PCR. The tissue specific expression data will be analysed to observe differential expressions, if any, between high and low vigour rootstocks and scions. Differential expression patterns reveal the PIP genes associated with vigour control. The correlation between gene expression levels and rootstock vigour provides better understanding on the intrinsic molecular mechanism vigour regulation in macadamia. Moreover, comparative analysis of PIP gene expression between rootstock and scion can provide insights into the rootstock-scion interactions. Overall, results from this study offer a better understanding of the molecular basis of rootstock-mediated vigour control with implications for rootstocks development and orchard optimization in macadamia.

Speakers

Pragya Dhakal Poudel

The University of Queensland

Co-authors

Borhan Ahmed

Bangladesh Jute Research Institute

Bruce Topp

Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland

Lindsay Shaw

Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland

Mobashwer Alam

Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:55am - 12:05pm HST
Kahili

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

12:00pm HST

HSMP - Effects of Drought Stress on Secondary Metabolite Production and Yield in Ocimum Basilicum

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:00pm - 12:10pm HST

South Pacific 2

Climate change makes water stress a more prominent obstacle to maintaining the same yield and quality of harvestable crop biomass for consumers, posing a unique challenge to farmers who must compete for clean water resources with other stakeholders. Thus, farmers must adapt their irrigation strategies to remain profitable and relevant. Basil is a tender perennial crop from the family Lamiaceae that is grown as a culinary herb and as a source of essential oils. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a model crop for understanding water stress in economically important crops due to its intolerance to drought stress and its unique phytochemical properties. Sweet basil produces different concentrations of different secondary metabolites in response to abiotic stress, such as eugenol and methyl chavicol. This study seeks to understand what chemical and physical changes occur to sweet basil under water stress within a greenhouse environment. Three different treatments of water stress controlled via drip irrigation and a separate control group were used to analyze the yield and secondary metabolite production within sweet basil. Wet weight, dry weight, height, and phytochemical concentrations were calculated for the different drought treatments. There was a significant relationship between the final height, dry and wet yield, and chemical concentration of the different water stress treatments. One of the most interesting findings of the study was that the high note of sweet basil, a phenylpropanoid known as eugenol, was found in similarly high concentrations throughout the different treatment groups. There were significant differences in concentration across terpenoids such as eucalyptol, germacrene D, and linalool. This study showed that there were significant effects on the yield and concentration of phytochemicals produced by sweet basil from drought stress.

Speakers

Daniela Menendez

Florida International University

Co-authors

Diego Salazar Amoretti

Binghamton University

Krishnaswamy Jayachandran Jayachandran

Florida International University

Mahadev Bhat

Florida International University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:00pm - 12:10pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

12:00pm HST

VCM 2 - Fall Cover Crops to Follow Carrot Harvest on High Organic Matter Soils

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:00pm - 12:10pm HST

South Pacific 3

The high organic matter (muck) soils in the Holland Marsh, Ontario, Canada, are prone to wind erosion, especially in the fall and winter months. Good canopy coverage of ideally 30%, is important for protecting the soil and reducing soil erosion. Carrots are usually harvested in October. Cool temperatures at this time result in slow germination and growth of cover crop species. Field trials were conducted to assess the efficacy of various cover crops and methods for rapid establishment after carrot harvest. One approach to increasing germination and emergence is seed priming. Seeds of barley, oats, and triticale were primed by soaking for 24 hr in water (hydro-priming) or potassium nitrate at 5 mg L-1 (osmo-priming). Seed was dried for 24 hours and then seeded into pots placed in controlled environments at 5, 10 or 21°C. Priming generally resulted in faster germination and higher biomass especially at lower temperatures of 5 and 10°C. Primed and non-primed seed was seeded into high organic matter soil (50% organic matter, pH 6.9) on 17 Oct. and crop growth was assessed on 13 Nov. There were no advantages of priming in the field trials. Non-primed barley had high or higher canopy coverage (13%), plant counts and dry weight, compared to other species and primed seed. Barely was also grown as transplants with 2 seeds/plug and transplanted in the trial on 17 Oct. This treatment had higher canopy coverage (25%) and dry weight than seeded treatments. However, using barley transplants is not a cost effective option at this time. In a separate trial on an adjacent site, barley was over-seeded into standing carrots on 27 Sept. at 200 kg ha-1, and the carrots were harvested on 17 Oct. Barley and fall rye were direct seeded on 17 Oct. Pre-harvest seeding of barley resulted in significantly better establishment, canopy coverage and biomass, although all were low, maximum 12% coverage. There was a strong positive correlation between canopy coverage and biomass production across all trials. More research is needed on cover crops species and establishment methods.

Speakers

Mary Ruth McDonald

Professor, University of Guelph

Research and extension interests include vegetable production and crop protection, with the emphasis on onions, carrots, celery and Brassica crops. Also conducting research on soil health of high organic matter soils and agricultural robots.

Co-authors

Kimberly Schneider

University of Guelph

Neem Pandey

University of Guelph

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:00pm - 12:10pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

12:05pm HST

FRBR - Multivariate Analysis of Fruit Composition Diversity Among the North Carolina Strawberry Germplasm Collection

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:05pm - 12:15pm HST

Kahili

Strawberries are a highly sought-after fruit for their flavor, color, and nutritional benefits. In this study, strawberry fruit from 268 commercial cultivars and advanced selections from the North Carolina breeding program were evaluated to determine and characterize genotype diversity, relationships, and overall trends in fruit composition. Fifteen marketable, fully red, firm fruit were harvested per genotype between April and June of 2022 from a greenhouse core collection and held at -20°C until analysis. Juice from thawed fruit was used to collect total soluble solids (SSC), total titratable acidity (TTA), and pH data. Strawberry juice was also extracted with acidified methanol (0.1ml/1.6 ml total) and supernatants used to determine monomeric anthocyanin content (TA) using the pH differential method. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) sorted genotypes into four clusters, highlighting significant differences in fruit composition profiles. The majority of commercial cultivars, and 38 advanced selections, were grouped together in Cluster 1. This cluster was distinguished by lowest SSC (7.0%), TTA (0.72%), and TA (31.22 mg/100g) values. In contrast, Cluster 2 containing 41.4% of germplasm had fruit highest in TA (54.57 mg/100g). Fruit from genotypes in Cluster 3 had high pH and %SSC, and the smallest group (Cluster 4), with 13.1% of the germplasm, had low pH and was significantly greater in %TTA. Regional strawberry breeding programs were found to group together. The Florida germplasm were grouped in Cluster 1, North Carolina commercial genotypes in Cluster 2, and two advanced New Jersey genotypic lines were found in Cluster 3. California day-neutrals were found in Cluster 1, while short-day genotypes were split between the first two clusters. Additionally, the first two principal components in PCA analysis captured 64.88% of the total variance, with both pH and TTA largely contributing to PC1 (91.1%), SSC in PC2 (71.1%), and TA associated with PC3 (77.4%). Variation in pH and %TTA had a more pronounced effect on genotype profiles and were the primary driving force for germplasm separation and differentiation. This work represents the first instance where an entire germplasm collection was assessed together in a single evaluation. The determination of genotype diversity, characterization of relationships among the genotypes and the fruit composition parameters, and visualization of trends within the collection will help guide future breeding decisions for developing new strawberry cultivars with improved quality.

Speakers

Brianna Haynes

Graduate Student, University of Florida

Co-authors

Gina Fernandez

NC State University

Penelope Perkins

North Carolina State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:05pm - 12:15pm HST
Kahili

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

12:10pm HST

HSMP - Effects of Thermal Processing and Drying on Nutritional Quality and Consumer Preference of Amaranthus viridis L. Value-added Product

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:10pm - 12:20pm HST

South Pacific 2

Economic opportunities have arisen to increase the production of specialty crops catering to ethnically diverse consumers. Opportunities to capture anticipated niche market growth for ethnic crops continue to grow. Amaranthus viridis L. (amaranth), a highly nutritious leafy vegetable, eaten cooked or raw, with a nutritional value similar to spinach, is widely cultivated, highly nutritious, and has medicinal properties. Studies were conducted to 1) evaluate two thermo-processing (steam and water blanching) and three drying methods (freeze, hot air, and infrared drying) for the development of amaranth value-added products and 2) analyze the effective thermo-processing and drying methods to maximize the phytonutrient contents and minerals in the vegetable. Two thermo-treatments, steam blanch (SB) and hot water (HB), and the control (C), three drying treatments, freeze-dried (FD), hot air dried (HAD), and infrared dried (ID) were used. The treatments were T1:FD(C), T2:HAD(C), T3:ID(C), T4:FD(SB), T5:HAD(SB), T6:ID(SB), T7: FD(HW), T8: HAD(HW), T9: ID(HW). Amaranth was harvested once per week and processed three times throughout the growing season (1st harvest (28 days after transplanting (DAT)), 2nd harvest (56 DAT) in the middle of the growing season, and the 3rd harvest (84 DAT) at the end of the growing season). Phytonutrients, ascorbic acid and β-carotene, rehydration capacity, and sensory evaluation were analyzed. Significant differences in phytonutrients (total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC)) were observed among treatments and harvest times, with the FD(C) treatment being significantly higher in TPC and TFC during the 1st and 2nd harvest when compared to the other treatments. Ascorbic acid was significantly higher in FD(C) and HAD(C) (419.33 mg/100g, dm and 203.3 mg/100g, dm, respectively). ID(C), ID(SB), ID(HW) and HAD(SB) were significantly lower in ascorbic acid when compared to the other treatments. Significant differences were also observed in β-carotene among treatments. For rehydration capacity, rehydration at 9 minutes showed the highest water absorbance for all treatments, with FD(C) and HAD(C) being significantly higher, while HAD(HW) and ID(HW) were significantly lower in water absorbance for the rehydration times of 3, 6 and 9 minutes. For the sensory evaluation, 59%, 73%, and 54% of respondents indicated that the rehydrated samples were just right for flavor, color, and texture, respectively; and 45% of respondents indicated that the overall quality of the rehydrated sample was good. This study provides valuable insights for the development of value-added products catering to ethnically diverse consumers.

Speakers

MEGAN REID

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Co-authors

Byungrok Min

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Caleb Nindo

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Corrie Cotton

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:10pm - 12:20pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

12:10pm HST

VCM 2 - Cover Crops For Vegetable Research Farms Need Nitrogen

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:10pm - 12:20pm HST

South Pacific 3

On research farms on which vegetable crops are studied, there is often a need to aggressively maintain and improve soil health, while also keeping fields ready to be assigned to research projects. We tested a protocol for keeping a Northeast farm in an appropriate condition by alternating a winter cover crop of cereal rye and a summer cover crop of forage sorghum-sudangrass with no tillage. The alternating cycle was flexible for entry points when vegetable researchers finished with an experiment, as well as for exit points to make the ground ready for an experiment. Rye was sown in late September in Geneva, NY with a no-till drill and allowed to grow to anthesis in May. Sorghum-sudangrass was sown in mid-June with the no-till drill. We tested how much nitrogen fertilizer was needed to obtain a desirable amount of growth (3 tons/acre dry mater) in the sorghum- sudangrass. The trial was done in four fields using 0, 20, 40 and 60 lb N broadcast on the rye residue at planting. The highest rate is as much as our farm would agree to invest in a cover crop, but also below forage-crop recommendations. The biomass when growth stopped due to cold (Sept 18) responded strongly to nitrogen. Without nitrogen, the biomass was only 0.5 T/ac. At 60 lb/ac, the biomass ranged among fields from 2 to 4 T/ac. Nitrogen limitation was also assessed using a SPAD chlorophyll meter. The leaves in the 0, 20 and 40 lb/ac were yellow (SPAD 22-28), with the top N rate notably greener (SPAD 30-35). The fully green control had a SPAD value of 40. The cover crop rotation kept the field in a condition where is could be prepared to being a research project with about a month’s advance notice. However, to get sufficient growth of the summer cover crop, additional nitrogen is needed. This farm is on a high-fertility silt loam, but with low organic matter from repeated research trials. In that situation, at least 60 lb/ac of actual N is needed for the cover crops to meet biomass expectations.

Speakers

Thomas Bjorkman

Professor Emeritus, Cornell Horticulture

How do you move from adequate cover cropping to excellent cover cropping? What fine tuning improves carbon, nitrogen, weeds, percolation, tillage goals?We all need to advocate for horticultural research and education with those who decide to spend money on our work. It is not difficult... Read More →

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:10pm - 12:20pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

12:15pm HST

FRBR - Assessment of Fruit Composition and its Influence on Flavor and Consumer Preferences in Blackberry

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:15pm - 12:25pm HST

Kahili

Breeding efforts to improve blackberry (Rubus subgenus Rubus) flavor have previously been a subjective and imprecise process. The flavor perception of blackberries is largely controlled by interactions between sugars, acids, and volatile components. The aim of this study was to determine what combinations of these biochemical compounds result in positive flavor perception by the average consumer to assist in determining breeding targets. In the first year of data collection, consumer panelists assessed pureed frozen blackberries from the University of Arkansas Fruit Breeding Program for overall liking, aroma, flavor, sweetness and sourness across 24 sensory panels. Pearson correlation coefficients were generated to determine the relationship between overall liking and significant effects. Positive correlations to overall liking were significant for flavor intensity (0.99), aroma intensity (0.50), and sweetness intensity (0.89) indicating increases in flavor, aroma, and sweetness resulted in greater liking. Sourness was found to have a negative correlation with overall liking (-0.81). The positive correlation between liking and Brix (0.54) aligns with the perceived sweetness relationship, similarly the negative relationship between liking and titratable acidity (-0.59) aligns with perceived sourness. Panelists’ perceptions of fruity or indulgent flavors such as grape, banana, strawberry, apple, jam and candy produced significant positive correlations with overall liking. While fruit presenting flavors described as citrus, grassy, earthy, musty, pine, or chemical produced significant negative correlations with overall liking. The volatiles associated with these perceived flavors were also assessed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry.

Speakers

Katelyn Lust-Moore

University of Arkansas

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

12:15pm HST

LOCSY - Exploring Markets for Horticultural Food Crops in Midwestern United States

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:15pm - 12:25pm HST

South Pacific 1

Agricultural communities in the Midwest face ongoing economic, environmental, and social challenges. A variety of research shows that increasing diversity in an agricultural system can help overcome these challenges. The Diverse Corn Belt (DCB) is a USDA-NIFA funded project focuses on developing an evidence-based framework and vision of how to enable a more diverse agricultural landscape across the Corn Belt (Illinois, Iowa, and Indiana). This interdisciplinary project is exploring and promoting diversity at the farm, landscape, and market levels through Research, Extension, and Education. We have completed 18 focus groups across Indiana, Illinois and Iowa with conventional and diversified farmers, interviews with horticultural growers, and surveys of retailers, processors, and consumers. Last year we presented results from focus groups and interviews. This year, we add results from survey findings to highlight gaps between different stakeholders in the horticultural value chain, as well as the most valuable food labels among consumers, retailers, and processors.

Speakers

Linda Prokopy

Purdue University

Co-authors

Ariana Torres

Purdue University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:15pm - 12:25pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

12:20pm HST

CE - Urban Agriculture Efficiency: A Year-Long Evaluation of Kale Yield and Energy Use in a Shipping Container Farm

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:20pm - 12:30pm HST

Coral 1

Urban expansion is a threat to agricultural land. As cities increase in size and residential areas are being built on arable land, a new solution to growing food in urban area needs to be considered. Shipping container farms are designed to grow a high number of plants in a small area. These farms are programmable to fit the environmental parameters that are optimal for each type of crop. In this experiment, ‘Toscano’ kale was grown inside the farm and harvested weekly for one year to simulate farm production. The average day/night temperature in the farm was 22.8C and 15.6C with a photoperiod of 20 hours. Sole sourced lighting was supplied by light emitting diodes with an 80:20 red:blue ratio and an intensity of 100 mol . m -2. s -1 for a daily light integral of 7.2 mol . d -1 . Electrical energy use of the farm was collected on three categories of energy usage: Lighting, HVAC, and all Other Energy usage. Seeds were sown four weeks prior to transplant. Plants were transplanted weekly into vertical channels and harvested 12 weeks after sowing. This experiment was a complete block design with block nested in time. Yield data was collected at time of harvest, including plant number, fresh mass, dry mass, plant height, canopy area, and leaf number. The mean number of plants per replication was 320. The mean fresh mass per plant by block was 43.34g, 48.84g, 53.17g, 59.15g, 57.88g, and 53.29g, respectively, while mean dry mass was 3.31g, 3.66g, 3.94g, 4.42g, 4.3g, and 4.08g, respectively. Daily mean lighting and other energy consumption exhibited no variation across all 48 harvests. Daily mean HVAC energy consumption varied based on outdoor environmental conditions, with increased usage during summer months and a maximum of 33.53 kWh/day. Overall, fluctuations across mean fresh mass needs to be investigated further as the optimal harvest date for this farm may occur prior to 12 weeks, for both plant yield and energy consumption levels.

Speakers

Skyler Brazel

University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Co-authors

Carl Sams

University of Tennessee

Katelynn Rector

University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:20pm - 12:30pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

12:20pm HST

HSMP - Ginseng Growth and Ginsenoside Contents According to Light Intensity

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:20pm - 12:30pm HST

South Pacific 2

Ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) is mainly cultivated in the Republic of Korea and China, and has been traditionally used as a medicinal plant in East Asia for the treatment of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, liver and kidney dysfunction, mental disorders, and skin inflammation. Ginseng roots are cultivated after maturing at 3 to 6 years of age. The harvested ginseng roots are consumed and sold in various forms of products, such as fresh ginseng, red ginseng, and white ginseng. Ginseng is a shade-tolerant crop and requires shading facilities. It grows well with a light intensity of 10%, but its growth is hindered at light intensity above 20% due to high temperature. Therefore, it is cultivated with a light intensity set to 10% from April to October and harvested in October. However, if early harvesting is done in August to increase farm income, growth is low due to insufficient light. Therefore, a cultivation experiment was conducted with the light intensity set to 10% and 20% for the August harvest, and the yield and ginsenoside contents were compared with the October harvest. The yield of the 20% light intensity treatment group was 665 kg/10a, whereas the yield of the 10% light intensity treatment group was 572 kg/10a. The yield of the 20% treatment group was 16.3% higher than that of the 10% treatment group. According to the analysis on nine ginsenoside components including Rg1, the total ginsenoside contents in the 20% light intensity treatment group was 27.51 mg/g, which was 75.3% higher than that of the 10% light intensity treatment group at 15.69 mg/g. Specifically, Rg1, Re, Rb1, and Rc were 3.40, 7.29, 7.93, and 3.84 mg/g, respectively, more than twice as high as those in the 10% light intensity treatment group. Conclusively, a light intensity of 20% was determined to be optimal for maximizing ginsenoside cultivation for August harvesting.

Speakers

Minhee Kim

South Korea, Ginseng&Medicinal Plant Research Institute, Chungcheongnam-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services

Co-authors

Bong Jae Seong

Ginseng

Ka Soon Lee

Ginseng

Sun Ick Kim

Ginseng

Yong Chan Park

Ginseng

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:20pm - 12:30pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

12:20pm HST

VCM 2 - Insurance Industry Standards Over-estimate Yield Loss Due to Stand Reduction in Processing Sweet Corn

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:20pm - 12:30pm HST

South Pacific 3

Sweet corn is an important processing crop in the upper Midwestern United States. It can be insured for hail losses, but actuarial tables are based on field corn. The first step in developing accurate yield loss assessments is determining yield loss due to complete plant loss. To that end, we compared ear yield of sweet corn thinned to 75, 50, or 25% of a full population at three times throughout the growing season to control plots that were not thinned. We repeated this in three consecutive years at two locations, without irrigation or supplemental fertilizer. Average yield for control plots was 16.4–20.3 Mg•ha-1. Average yield losses due to thinning were generally less than currently-used actuarial estimates. For example, average yield of sweet corn when thinned to 50% of a full population at growth stage V3–V5 was 88–96% (95%CI) of full yield. The actuarial estimate is 78% of full yield, indicating greater resilience than expected. The number of tillers per plant was greater in all thinned plots, especially those thinned early in the season. Kernel recovery was unaffected by thinning treatment in one location and declined slightly at heavy thinning in the other location. Sweet corn actuarial tables should be different from actuarial tables based on field corn.

Speakers

Charlie Rohwer

Scientist, University of Minnesota

Co-authors

Joe Lauer

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Mark Zarnstorff

National Crop Insurance Services

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:20pm - 12:30pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

12:25pm HST

FRBR - Improving Blueberry By Dissecting Fruit Texture

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:25pm - 12:35pm HST

Kahili

Blueberry texture is a critical trait impacting mechanical harvesting, transportation resilience, shelf life, and consumer preference. Its complexity arises from multiple attributes, requiring a depth understanding for developing breeding tools to generate varieties with superior texture profiles. In this study, a diverse group of southern highbush blueberry (SHB) genotypes, reflecting various textures, were subjected to mechanical phenotyping, consumer perception analysis, and cell wall composition analysis. By conducting instrumental analysis using a texture analyzer, three key parameters crucial for genotype differentiation based on texture were identified. Consumer perception analysis revealed moderate agreement in texture classification between breeders and panelists. Additionally, cell wall composition analysis highlighted galacturonic acid as a potential monosaccharide capable of categorizing texture. The integration of mechanical phenotyping, consumer perception analysis, and cell wall composition analysis offers a comprehensive approach to dissecting blueberry texture. This enables breeders to select and develop blueberry varieties meeting consumer expectations, enhancing market competitiveness, and supporting the growth and sustainability of the global blueberry industry.

Speakers

Juan David Jimenez Pardo

PhD student, University of Florida

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:25pm - 12:35pm HST
Kahili

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

12:25pm HST

LOCSY - An expanded scope of ethnic crops research and outreach in the United States: implications on immigration and urban food

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:25pm - 12:35pm HST

South Pacific 1

The participation of immigrant, refugee and communities of conflict-displaced former agricultural professionals in urban agriculture and local food systems has steadily increased in the United States over the past decades. Even though production and access of culturally appropriate crops has the potential to nourish the health and social fabric of communities and contribute to the local economy, less is known about the extant literature related to research and outreach on ethnic crops. This presentation will cover preliminary results of an ongoing systematic review collating peer-reviewed and gray literature published from 2000 to the present to identify, map, and describe existing research and outreach efforts on culturally relevant crops in the United States. Our findings will have the potential to offer a greater understanding of the current state of knowledge to inform the focus of future research on innovative models for more sustainable and local urban production.

Speakers

Fernanda Krupek

Ohio State University

Co-authors

Jacqueline Kowalski

University of Connecticut

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:25pm - 12:35pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

12:30pm HST

CE - Production of Red Leaf Lettuce at Vertical Farm Equipped with Blue LED According to Anthocyanin Concentration and Its Ge

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST

Coral 1

At the last ASHS annual conference, I, Satitmunnaithum et al., (2023), presented our study on the effect of blue and white LED light ratio on red leaf lettuce, however, the effect of blue LED on red coloration during its growth is still unclear. Thus, at this year’s conference, we aim to clarify the mechanisms of red coloration under blue LED based on anthocyanin biosynthesis gene analysis and its content in vertical farming condition to stabilize its production for high market demand. To elucidate the effect of blue LED light on the red coloration of red leaf lettuce, green and red leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) were selected for this study. Both were hydroponically cultivated at the Advanced Plant Factory Research Center at Meiji University, Japan. The cultivation temperature was set at 22 ℃ with a humidity of 60%. Seeds were sown under white LED for 24 hours. Ten-day-old seedlings were transplanted to different light conditions: white LED and blue LED. The photoperiod was set for 16 hours. The nutrient solution was supplied at an EC of 1.6 mS/m^2 with a pH of 6.0 ± 0.5. Both light treatments had a PPFD of 100-120 µmol/m^2/s. After 20, 25, and 30 days of transplantation, lettuces were harvested. The red area on leaf lettuce, along with the total anthocyanin content and its precursors, as well as the expressions of anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes such as ANS, CHS, bHLH, DFR, and HY5, were evaluated. Blue light shows a large red area on red leaf lettuce at most of the development stages resulting in a high red area percentage, while green leaf lettuce remained completely green in both light conditions. The interested genes were upregulated mostly in blue light irradiated red leaf lettuce which led to high total anthocyanin content. This can be assumed that blue LED light enhances anthocyanin synthesis in red leaf lettuce which can contribute to the stable production of red leaf lettuce in vertical farms.

Speakers

Junjira Satitmunnaithum

Specially-appointed lecturer, Organization for the Strategic Coordination of Research and Intellectual Properties, Meiji University , Japan

Co-authors

Chiharu Inoue

Daiwa House Co. Ltd.,

Takao Otsuka

Daiwa House Co. Ltd.,

Takashi Ikeda

School of Agriculture, Meiji university

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

12:30pm HST

HSMP - Evaluation of anticancer activity of perennial tree seed-derived extracts on various cancer cell lines

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST

South Pacific 2

According to the WHO, the global cancer incidence rate is increasing by more than 5% annually due to the rapid increase in the elderly population and continuous environmental degradation. The increasing rate of cancer incidence underscores the importance of developing health supplements and pharmaceutical ingredients derived from plants. Indeed, several anticancer drugs such as Taxol, vincristine, and vinblastine have been developed from plant-derived ingredients, serving as crucial resources in modern pharmaceutical development. This study evaluated the anticancer activity of extracts from seven different seeds against various cancer cell lines. Seeds from perennial trees such as Alnus japonica, Chamaecyparis obtusa, Cornus kousa, Phellodendron amurense, Pinus densiflora, Prunus sargentii, and Quercus glauca were used in the experiments. Extracts, prepared via ultrasonic extraction with 70% ethanol and concentrated to 100 µg·mL-1, were tested on lung (A549), prostate (LNCaP-LN3), melanoma (B16F10), colon (Caco-2, HCT15), and breast (MDA-MB-231) cancer cell lines using the MTT assay. In the lung cancer (A549) cell line, C. kousa, C. obtusa, and Q. glauca significantly inhibited cancer cell proliferation compared to the negative control (DMSO), with viability rates of 68.2%, 6.8%, and 44.7%, respectively. Prostate cancer (LNCaP-LN3) cells showed anticancer activity with extracts from six species, excluding P. sargentii, in the following order of cell viability: C. obtusa (8.2%) > C. kousa (15.8%) > A. japonica (35.1%) > Q. glauca (73.9%) > P. amurense (78.6%) > P. densiflora (86.3%). Cell viability was assessed for colon cancer cell lines Caco-2 and HCT15, where extracts from C. kousa (71.7% for Caco-2 and 69.9% for HCT15), C. obtusa (8.0% for Caco-2 and 7.1% for HCT15), and Q. glauca (89.9% for Caco-2) demonstrated significant inhibition of cell proliferation. For melanoma (B16F10) and breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cell lines, extracts from C. kousa (63.8% and 66.3%, respectively) and C. obtusa (6.7% and 7.3%, respectively) showed strong anticancer activity, significantly reducing cell viability. This study suggests that the extracts from seven species of seeds can have a potent anticancer effect on specific cancer cell lines and confirms their potential as an important step in the development of anticancer ingredients derived from perennial tree seeds.

Speakers

Hamin Lee

Chungbuk National University

Co-authors

Ju-Sung Cho

Chungbuk Nationl University

Kyungtae Park

Chungbuk Nationl University

Youg-Rak Kwon

National Forest Seed Variety Center

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

12:30pm HST

POM 2 - Testing Agronomic Strategies to Reduce Biennial Bearing in Apples

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST

Coral 2

Biennial bearing in tree fruit can be problematic, and these patterns are not unique to tree fruit and occur in natural species. Masting, or the abundant production of seeds in some years, can also be observed in natural tree species. Despite extensive research, biennial bearing still affects commercial orchard production. Biennial bearing cycles are costly, with inconsistent yields and fruit quality occurring yearly. Crop load management is one commonly used management strategy to control biennial beating. However, trees can continue a biennial cycle the year following adequate crop thinning. We evaluated six different agronomic strategies to combat biennial bearing in apple trees; two for low-cropping trees (“off” year) and four for high-cropping trees (“on” year). In 2023, ‘Honeycrisp’ trees on B.9, G.41, G.890, and M.9-T337 rootstocks in their high-cropping year were root pruned, girdled, sprayed with ethephon, or fertilized with nitrogen (ammonium nitrate) in the fall, along with untreated control. Trees in their low-cropping year (2023) were defoliated and sprayed with gibberellic acid (GA 3 ) and untreated control. Due to the limited availability of low-cropping trees in 2023, only ‘Honeycrisp’ trees on B.9 and M.9-T337 rootstocks were used. All treatments were applied two to three weeks after full bloom except for nitrogen fertilization, which was applied in late August. Crop load, vegetative growth, and fruit quality were measured for treated trees and controls. Carryover effects of treatments were calculated to quantify the reduction/amelioration of biennial bearing incidence. In low-cropped trees, GA 3 had significantly higher return bloom from controls and defoliated trees. In high-cropped trees, no treatment had a significant effect on return bloom compared to controls. Vegetative growth was not affected by any treatment. Effective agronomic strategies for managing biennial bearing can be inconsistent and need to be further investigated for their impacts.

Speakers

Thiago Campbell

Washington State University

Co-authors

Lee Kalcsits

Washington State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

12:30pm HST

VCM 2 - Combining Lasers and Distress Calls to Control Birds in Sweet Corn

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST

South Pacific 3

Red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) and European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) cause significant damage to sweet corn (Zea mays). Even minor damage can render ears unmarketable and the need to sort out damaged ears during packing increases costs for growers. Propane cannons and pyrotechnics have long been the preferred methods for preventing birds from damaging corn, but both methods create noise pollution and conflicts with farm neighbors. Automated laser scarecrows and automated recordings of bird distress and predator calls are two newer technologies for deterring birds from crops. We tested both technologies on a research farm in Kingston, Rhode Island and in commercial processing sweet corn fields in western New York in 2022 and 2023. All experiments used naturally occurring flocks of wild birds; flock size and species makeup varied between fields and over time. The automated laser scarecrows (LS) were designed and built by the URI Laser Scarecrow Project; they utilized a 50 mW 532 nm green laser with a beam diameter of 14 mm at the aperture and a dispersion of 4 mrad. Vertical and horizontal movement of the beam was randomized by a microcontroller. Bird Gard Super Pro units (BG) randomly played digital recordings of distress and alarm calls of red-winged blackbirds and European starlings and hunting calls of hawks and falcons. Data were collected as counts of damaged ears and converted to percentage of total ears for analysis. In Rhode Island the effect of laser scarecrow alone was compared to the effect of the laser scarecrow combined with the bird distress calls. In New York the two deterrent treatments were also compared to an unprotected control. In Rhode Island in 2022 bird damage averaged 20.7% with just LS and 7.1% with LS BG; the difference was significant at P

Speakers

Rebecca Brown

Co-authors

Julie Kikkert

Cornell Cooperative Extension

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:30pm - 12:40pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

12:35pm HST

FRBR - Sugar Content and Gene Expression Dynamics in Apple Spurs in Response to Fruit Load and Gibberellins

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:35pm - 12:45pm HST

Kahili

Many commercial apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.) cultivars follow a biennial bearing cycle, alternating between an “on” year with a heavy crop load and an "off" year with few if any fruit. It is commonly thought that biennial bearing is conditioned by repression of floral initiation by developing fruit. Although various studies have provided some insights into the regulation of flowering and biennial bearing by fruit load, the associated molecular-genetic pathway involved remains unclear. The objective of this study is to evaluate the influence of fruit load on the expression of specific, presumed flowering genes in the spur leaves and shoot apex, focusing on the potential role of sugars in this process. The hypothesis is that the potential accumulation of photosynthates in the leaf or shoot apex related to the absence of a strong sink (developing fruit) promotes floral initiation by directing the expression of floral-promotive genes. To test this, physiologically similar ‘Royal Red Honeycrisp’ trees were manipulated to influence fruit load. The accumulation of soluble sugars (fructose, sorbitol, glucose, and fructose) in the spur leaf and shoot apex was evaluated using a gas chromatograph. RNAs were extracted and gene expression patterns in the leaf and apex were evaluated using quantitative RT-PCR and direct sequencing; results will be presented. This study should provide new insights into the fundamental mechanisms of biennial bearing in apple. This may lead to approaches to limit the impact of biennial bearing in existing orchards, and genetic information useful for apple cultivar improvement.

Speakers

Qiuyi Fu

Michigan State University

Co-authors

Steve van Nocker

Michigan State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:35pm - 12:45pm HST
Kahili

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

12:35pm HST

LOCSY - Youth Sustainable Agriculture Urban Farming Entrepreneurship Program: An Overview and Pilot Results from Urban Farming

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:35pm - 12:45pm HST

South Pacific 1

Urban agriculture initiatives developed for youth have the capacity to motivate learning, include minority groups, and allow participation in activities that foster self-growth, community engagement, and entrepreneurship. This pilot study builds on a partnership between a midwestern university and the Felege Hiywot Center’s (FHC) successful youth urban farming program, now focusing on how that programing could contribute to developing life skills, sustainable agriculture knowledge, and entrepreneurial skills. A mixed methods approach was utilized, including pre/post surveys, student presentations, and observations. Participants were twenty-eight high school aged youth, of which 91% self-identified as African American. Main foci of the project were participants’ life skills, entrepreneurial skills and mindset, sustainable agriculture content, and community collaborations. Key findings from the summer pilot post survey (n=23) indicate that 70% of participants responded that they could develop their own business plan, 83% believe that external changes create opportunities for an urban ag business; and 65% believed they could build connections with people they had not before. Knowledge around sustainable agriculture shows room for improvement where only 30% could identify what percentage of food grown globally is wasted annually, and 43% believed that technology development, adoption and utilization is not a part of sustainable agriculture; however, sixty five percent of participants could identify the three sustainability pillars: economics, environment, and social. The program's influence on participants' future plans was of interest, with 52% self-reporting a change in their outlook. This impact can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of volunteers, professionals, sponsors, and the structured nature of the FHC program, which also emphasizes the importance of individual backgrounds. The potential to impact and enhance life skills, foster self-awareness, improving family communication, and open avenues for future education and career opportunities will allow for a broader development and expansion of this project. This pilot contributes to the broader discourse on youth programs in urban agriculture by highlighting the integrative approach of experiential learning, farm-based education, and student-centered learning within a youth development framework. While early in the project, this pilot shows promise in underlining the critical role of urban agriculture programs in shaping the lives and future prospects of minority youth.

Speakers

Kathryn Orvis

Professor, Purdue Univ

Co-authors

Aster Bekele

Felege Hiywot Center

Delphine Iradukunda

Purdue Univ

Nathan Shoaf

Purdue University

THEONESTE NZARAMYIMANA

Kentucky State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:35pm - 12:45pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

12:40pm HST

CE - Interlighting Improves Tomato Yield in Northern Greenhouses

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST

Coral 1

Low natural light and high heating costs limit northern winter greenhouse production. Technology advancements now offer opportunities to improve delivery of light to and within crop canopies. The greenhouse tomato cultivars Bigdena and Beorange were chosen to evaluate high pressure sodium irradiance with LED interlighting. Plants were grown in a high-wire drip irrigation system using dutch (bato) buckets (17.7 L volume) filled with a 50/50 mixture of perlite and a peatlite medium (Pro-Mix BX). The containers were placed in alternating rows across a drainpipe. Seeds were sown on 8 Sep and two seedlings were transplanted into each container 38 d later (17 Oct). Day temperature was 22 ± 2°C and reduced to 18 ± 2°C during the night. Lower leaves were removed as fruit ripened and the study was terminated at a plant height of ~250 cm (128 d from transplanting). The photoperiod was 18-h. In addition to overhead 400-W HPS lighting, LED fixtures designed for placement within the canopy were evaluated (GE current Arize® Integral). Two horizontal LED bars were positioned 30 cm (12 inches) apart with the upper bar adjusted within 30 cm of the top of the plants throughout the study. The integral lighting provided a spectrum with blue (peak 450 nm) and red (peak 660 nm) wavelengths in a 12:88 ratio. The perpendicular horizontal distance from the LED bars to the plant stems was 30 to 35 cm. The intensity (400-700 nm) measured at the plant stems horizontally from the LEDs averaged 195 ± 30 µmol m-2s-1. Overhead HPS provided ~130 ± 20 µmol m-2s-1, 100 cm below the fixtures. Seasonally short days and low sun angles limited natural light during the study. The first ripe tomatoes were harvested 62 d from transplanting (18 Dec). Interlighting resulted in higher plant yields with 6.3 ± 0.82 kg for Bigdena and 4.9 ± 0.67 kg for Beorange. In comparison, 4.1 ± 0.37 kg (Bigdena) or 3.4 ± 0.80 kg (Beorange) was recorded for plants receiving only HPS lighting. Five or six additional tomatoes were harvested with interlighting for Bigdena (25 ± 2.0 versus 19 ± 1.8) and Beorange (22 ± 2.5 versus 17 ± 1.9). Average tomato size increased from 217 ± 11.9 g to 250 ± 19.3 g (Bigdena) or from 199 ± 36.1 g to 227 ± 20.2 g (Beorange) with interlighting.

Speakers

Meriam Karlsson

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Co-authors

Eric Cook

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

12:40pm HST

HSMP - Exploring the Potential of Annonacin and 2-Deoxy-D-glucose on Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST

South Pacific 2

Annonacin is a natural compound found in the fruit of a number of members of the Annonaceae family, including soursop and Asimina triloba. This compound has promise in targeting vital metabolic pathways, inhibiting mitochondrial complex I, and exploiting the altered energy dynamics of cancer cells that lead to apoptosis. Non-small cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% of all lung cancer cases and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in cancer treatment, the five-year survival rate of NSCLC is low, justifying the urgent need for innovative and effective therapeutic approaches. The aberrant energy metabolism, which is a hallmark of cancer, including NSCLC, known as the Warburg effect, makes it a potential target for therapeutic interventions. In addition, 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2DG) is a glucose analog widely studied for its ability to target the glycolytic pathway of energy metabolism of cancer. The potential combination of Annonacin and 2DG acting synergistically to inhibit the growth of A549 NSCLC cells could lead to new treatment options. The objective of this study was to examine glycolytic and mitochondrial complex I inhibitors individually and in combination to target energy metabolism to inhibit A549 NSCLC cell growth as novel antitumor agents. The study was carried out in an in vitro model system using the A549 NSCLC cell line, where the NL20 Bronchial Epithelium cell line was used as a parallel control. Cells were treated with 0 µM, 2 µM, 4 µM, and 6 µM concentrations of Annonacin and 0 mM, 2.5 mM, 5 mM, and 10 mM concentrations of 2DG, both individually and in combination in triplicate experimental design with control. The MTT assay was employed to determine immediate cell viability and assess the applied treatment's cytotoxic effects. The oxidative stress in treated and control cells was determined through superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase assays. Furthermore, the long-term proliferative capacity of the cells post-treatment was examined using a colony-forming assay. The implications of the combined application of 2DG and Annonacin on A549 NSCLC cell viability and potential as a treatment of NSCLC will be discussed. These findings need further investigation to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore the in vivo and clinical applicability details for the combined administration of Annonacin and 2DG's use in NSCLC treatment.

Speakers

Bjoj Raj Bhattarai

Kentucky State University

Co-authors

Avinash Tope

Kentucky State University

Cora Teets

Kentucky State University

Kirk Pomper

Kentucky State University

Dr. Kirk W. Pomper is the Professor of Horticulture in the College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences at Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Kentucky. As Horticulture Research Leader, his program is focused on research and Extension efforts toward developing pawpaw as... Read More →

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

12:40pm HST

POM 2 - Identifying Local Apple Germplasm for Use of Hard Ciders in North Dakota

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST

Coral 2

Hard cider is one of the fastest growing specialty beverages in the United States with an average annual retail sales of about $500 million in recent years. Cider apples refer to those that are specifically used for hard ciders (alcoholic) with unique traits, such as high acid, high tannin, and high total soluble solid that help ferment superior-quality hard ciders. In traditional hard cider production countries, hard ciders are made from cider-specific cultivars; however, hard ciders in the US are usually made from apples that were bred for fresh apple market because of inadequate fruit availability of cider-specific cultivars. In this study, apple germplasm grown at the NDSU Horticulture Research Farm near Amenia, ND (USDA hardiness zone 3-4a) was evaluated for the suitability of quality hard ciders. Specifically, four biochemical traits, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity (TA), and total phenolic compounds (TPC) that are the general attributes to the quality of hard ciders, were analyzed. Preliminary results showed that the average TSS was 15.75o Brix with the highest TSS reached 21.2o Brix. The fruit of some lines were very sour and tart indicating the high level of acidity and phenolics, which showed the great potential for quality hard cider production. The titratable acidity (malic acid) and total phenolic compounds in the apple juice of selected lines are being quantified. This research could identify local cider apple germplasm and provide apple growers and cider makers with the information on cultivar selections for quality hard cider production in ND and the surrounding region.

Speakers

Wenhao Dai

Professor, North Dakota State University

Co-authors

Brent Trela

Trelab

Mika Mzumara

North Dakota State University

Tian Sun

North Dakota State University

Zhao Jin

North Dakota State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

12:40pm HST

VCM 2 - Pea-oat Green Manure and Reduced Nitrogen Rate Delay Maturity of Broccoli But Do Not Reduce Yield

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST

South Pacific 3

Cover crop biomass can provide nitrogen (N) to a sequential cash crop as a ‘green manure’, whether the N is sourced from the atmosphere or from the soil. For short-season vegetable crops in Minnesota, like transplanted broccoli, there is time for a cover crop to be grown before or after the main crop. Growing a pea-oat cover crop early in the spring, before broccoli, may increase the N available to the broccoli. However, immobilization of green manure N may reduce N availability at a time of high N demand in broccoli. In order to study N availability to broccoli provided by a spring-planted pea-oat cover crop mix, four reduced-rate nitrogen treatments were applied to two broccoli hybrids (‘Green Magic’ or ‘Gypsy’) after a spring-planted pea-oat cover crop was incorporated. Yield and maturity of broccoli were compared to broccoli grown without green manure and given a full nitrogen rate (170 kg N / ha). The fertilizer treatments included slow-release urea (139 or 110 kg N / ha), composted poultry litter with blood meal at ~110 kg N available / ha, and turkey manure applied with blood meal in the autumn before growing green manure and broccoli (~110 kg N available / ha). There was no reduction in total yield (7900 kg / ha) or marketability (>95%), but maturity was delayed by ~2 days for most treatments. A microbial inoculant (Nature’s Source®) applied to the soil at planting did not have a measurable impact on any response.

Speakers

Charlie Rohwer

Scientist, University of Minnesota

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:40pm - 12:50pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

12:45pm HST

FLOR - Peperomia mauiensis can tolerate low indoor light conditions for up to 12 months

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:45pm - 12:55pm HST

Nautilus

Peperomia mauiensis is an endemic peperomia found on west Maui, and the islands of Molokai and Lanai. Its short stature and reddish stems and leaves make it highly ornamental. To evaluate its feasibility as an indoor foliage plant, potted plants (n=6) were grown under three light levels (0.2 mol·m-2·d-1 [low], 0.4 mol·m-2·d-1 [office] and 2.9 mol·m-2·d-1 [high] for 12 hours) in airconditioned settings (22°C, 61% RH) for 1 year. Plant height and diameter as well as visual quality [1 = poor, 2 = fair (not saleable), 3 = acceptable (saleable), 4 = good, and 5 = excellent quality) were recorded 0, 3, 6 and 12 months after placing in light chambers. Height and diameter of plants between light treatments were similar at 0 (height = 5.9 cm; diameter = 10.5 cm) and 3 (height = 7.1 cm and diameter = 15.0 cm) months after the plants were placed in light chambers. Visual quality ratings also did not differ between light treatments at 0 (3.5) and after 3 (3.6) months. After 6 months, plants under office light conditions were the tallest (10.8 cm) and the widest (18.2 cm). Visual quality ratings between treatments at 6 months were similar (3.4). At 12 months, plant height between treatments were similar (8.8 cm), but office light plants exhibited the widest diameter (23.2 cm). Visual quality ratings between treatments at 12 months were similar (2.1) but was no longer acceptable. Results of the study indicate that Peperomia mauiensis can tolerate low indoor light levels and can be used as an indoor potted foliage plant.

Speakers

Orville Baldos

Associate Researcher, University of Hawaii at Manoa

Co-authors

Christyn Wong

Hawaii Department of Agriculture

Lindsey Watanabe

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Sherry Ann Hara

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:45pm - 12:55pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

12:45pm HST

FRBR - A Census and The Conservation of Malus coronaria in Michigan

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:45pm - 12:55pm HST

Kahili

Crop wild relatives are important genetic resources for cultivar improvement. Domesticated apple (M. x domestica) cultivars grown in North America are heterogeneous hybrids of Asian and European Malus species, with no known genetic contribution from native apples. M. coronaria (Sweet Crabapple) is the only native apple species found within the major apple-producing Great Lakes region. In spite of its potential importance for apple cultivar improvement, the genetics of this species has not been well studied, and only a few accessions are maintained in the USDA National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS). The objective of this research was to identify and collect new accessions of M. coronaria for the NPGS, focusing on the northernmost extent of its range in Michigan. To locate living trees, we combined analyses of historical records in 12 herbaria and the North America Fruit and Nut Tree Data, along with crowdsourcing using the popular online platform, iNaturalist. We identified a total of 158 M. coronaria records from herbaria and the fruit tree dataset. Records were removed from consideration if they were cataloged earlier than 1950, did not include collection coordinates, were redundant, or were not collected in the state of Michigan. iNaturalist listed 309 sightings of M. coronaria in Michigan; of these, we determined that a majority were likely misidentified based on the phenotypic characteristics in the images provided by the observer. Finally, Google Earth was used to rule out locations where the M. coronaria individuals had likely been lost due to anthropogenic activity. Ultimately, this three-factored approach identified only 64 sites within the state of Michigan where a living tree would likely be found. Our results provide strong evidence that M. coronaria is in decline within its native range in Michigan, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts for this species.

Speakers

Lily Kaz Christian

Graduate Research Assistant, Michigan State University

Co-authors

Steve Vannocker

Michigan State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:45pm - 12:55pm HST
Kahili

Poster presentation (individual talk), Fruit Breeding

SUBJECT Fruit Breeding

12:45pm HST

LOCSY - Connecting the Dots: Creating School Garden and Produce Taste Testing Programs in Kentucky

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:45pm - 12:55pm HST

South Pacific 1

More than one-third of adolescents are overweight or obese in Kentucky. Access to and consumption of fruits and vegetables is important to maintain a healthy weight and reduce disease risk; however, in Kentucky adolescents, 44.6% reported consuming fruit less than once daily and 42.7% reported consuming vegetables less than once daily. Research has shown that farm to school (F2S) activities lead to improvements in student health behaviors, including: an increase in the consumption of and preference for fruits and vegetables, and improved knowledge and attitudes to nutrition. F2S activities have been shown to have strong benefits relative to economic development, public health, education, environment, and equity and community engagement and include 3 core elements – procurement of local food by schools, agriculture, food, health, and nutrition education, and school gardens. The University of Kentucky (UK), the Kentucky Horticulture Council (KHC), Feeding KY, Community Farm Alliance (CFA), and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) partnered to develop a Kentucky F2S Network and awarded 40 schools mini-grants to implement taste testing activities and awarded 5 schools mini-grants to establish school gardens and implement nutrition and food education in the classroom. More than 35 applications for the school garden mini-grants were submitted and 5 schools received $5,000 to install school gardens and conduct related nutrition and cooking education. UK student interns assisted schools and conducted garden/nutrition lessons, reaching over 2,000 students. Garden grantees grew and harvested 35 fruits and vegetables. During the final project reporting period, grantees engaged over 2,000 people in gardens for a total of 3,000 hours collectively spent in the garden with 1,300 of those hours coming from parent and community member involvement. Interns presented 3 school garden educator workshops and developed resources about best practices for school gardens. Over 100 applications were received for $1,000 taste test mini-grants and 40 grants were awarded directly to KY schools to conduct taste test activities of locally-grown fruits and vegetables. The taste testing grantees: purchased $24,369 in produce from 90 Kentucky farms; served 70 different types of fruits and vegetables; and served locally-grown produce to 11,000 students in 55 different schools. The presentation will focus on strategies used to recruit and screen program participants by assessing needs, setting realistic expectations, and increasing production knowledge and skills, with the goal of influencing student food choices and increasing use of locally-grown produce in classroom education and school feeding programs.

Speakers

Cindy Finneseth

Kentucky Horticulture Council

Co-authors

Kendra OoNorasak

University of Kentucky

McKenzie Fox-Potter

Kentucky Horticulture Council

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:45pm - 12:55pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

12:50pm HST

CE - Effect of low root-zone temperature and UV radiation on growth and gene expression of secondary metabolite pathways in N

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST

Coral 1

This study explored the effects of low root-zone temperature (LT) and UV radiation (UV) alone and combined on changes in growth, transcription, and gene expression related to secondary metabolite in Nicotidana benthamiana. The plants were grown in a controlled environment (25/20°C, 16/8 h [light/dark], 70% relative humidity, 1,000 µmol·mol−1 CO2 with photosynthetic photon flux densities of 100 and 200 µmol·m−2·s−1 for 10 and 18 d, respectively). Twenty-eight days after sowing, the seedlings were treated with LT (15°C), 0.3 W·m−2 of UV radiation, and a combined treatment with LT and UV (LT*UV) for 3 d. Results found that the treatment with UV alone decreased the quantum efficiency of photosystem II by approximately 1.5 times, and most growth characteristics decreased under the UV (approximately 1.5 times) and LT*UV treatments. Combined treatment with LT*UV significantly inhibited the growth characteristics and photosynthetic rates compared to those under the single LT and UV treatments. In particular, the transcriptome levels of phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis were the most significantly affected by LT*UV. This suggests the potential of using LT treatment in hydroponic systems and UV radiation to control the synthesis of health-promoting compounds of secondary metabolites in greenhouses and controlled-environment agricultural facilities.

Speakers

KiHo Son

Gyeonsang National University

Co-authors

Eiji Goto

China university

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

12:50pm HST

HSMP - Responses and relationship between bioactive compounds and phenotypic traits in Dahurian angelica breeding lines

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST

South Pacific 2

Dahurian angelica (Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm.) Benth. & Hook. f. ex Franch. & Sav.) is a medicinal plant that grows throughout Korean peninsula. According to the Korean Pharmacopoeia, the total contents of three bioactive compounds, including oxypeucedanin (C₁₆H₁₄O₅: 286.29), imperatorin (C₁₆H₁₄O₄: 270.29), and isoimperatorin (C₁₆H₁₄O₄: 270.29), in dried root of Angelica dahurica, should be higher than 0.7% in order to ensure the appropriateness of quality for the consumption of food and medicine. However, there are many irrelevant cases, where the minimum threshold level of bioactive compounds is not reached, dried products should be rejected for the final produce. Therefore, it is important to breed an A. dahurica varieties that meet the minimal contents of bioactive compounds for the requirements of Korean Phamacopoeia. The objective of this study aimed to evaluate the responses and relationship between bioactive compounds and phenotypic characteristics of two A. dahurica lines (BW2-3-2 and BW2-4-1). They were compared to a native line ‘Chunyang’ of which seeds were collected from farms in Eastern South Korea, the main production area for Angelica dahurica. The content of the three bioactive compounds is positively correlated with DPPH antioxidant activity, fresh root weight, dry root weight and root diameter. The contents of oxypeucedanin and isoimperatorin were highest in BW2-3-2 line, while imperatorin content was highest in ‘Chunyang’ landrace. The total contents of three bioactive compounds were 0.78% and 0.7% in BW2-3-2 and BW2-4-1 which were higher than those in landrace (0.55%). Fresh root weight, dry root weight and root diameter of BW2-3-2 and BW2-4-1 were significantly higher than those of ‘Chunyang’, a native landrace. The results suggest that the two bred lines of Angelica dahurica should have better phenotypes and higher bioactive compounds content than the native landrace, and meet the requirements of the standards of the Korean Pharmacopoeia.

Speakers

Eun Jeong Koh

Gyeongsangbuk-do Agricultural Research

Co-authors

Beong Sung Kim

Gyeongsangbuk-do Agricultural Research

Jiwon Kim

Gyeongsangbuk-do Agricultural Research

Joong Hwan Lee

Gyeongsangbuk-do Agricultural Research

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

12:50pm HST

POM 2 - The Fruitlet Size Distribution Model As A Thinning Decision Aid For Precision Crop Load Management Of Apple

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST

Coral 2

Fruit quality of apple is heavily influenced by crop load management practices. During the developmental window between bloom and 15mm fruitlet diameter, the general commercial practice is to apply chemical thinners to reduce the initial crop load based on the cultivar and market. However, thinning success varies from year to year, depending on bloom density, thinner selection and dose, climatic factors, tree health and cultivar. Precision crop load models such as the pollen tube growth model, the MaluSim model, and the fruit growth rate model have improved thinning success; however, labor-intensive measures has hindered broad adoption of the latter model which effectively predicts fruit set following thinner application. To improve grower adoption, we developed an alternative, time-efficient fruit set prediction model. The model has been tested on multiple cultivars over a three-year period at four distinct apple production regions throughout the United States. Abscission probabilities and fruit set predictions are based on the distribution of fruitlet mass and confirmed by actual measures of fruit set. The model starts at 6 mm fruitlet diameter and accounts for all thinners up to this time. A prediction is returned in ~8 days to inform repeat thinner applications while fruitlets are still highly sensitive to thinners. A user-guide, digital balance that automatically exports fruit mass to a laptop/tablet, and a macro-enabled Excel spreadsheet file have been developed and are available to growers to increase the precision around crop load management.

Speakers

Laura Hillmann

Michigan State University

Co-authors

Luis Gonzalez Nieto

IRTA

Sara Serra

Washington State University

Stefano Musacchi

Washington State University

Terence Robinson

Cornell University

Todd Einhorn

Michigan State University

Tom Kon

North Carolina State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

12:50pm HST

VCM 2 - Field Screening of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) Cultivars for Resistance to Black Rot

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST

South Pacific 3

One of the most effective management strategies for controlling black rot (Xanthomonas campestris pv. Campestris (Xcc)) in cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is resistant cultivars. The objectives of this research were to evaluate commercial and experimental cabbage cultivars for black rot resistance and determine yield potential, harvest maturity, and head quality. A field experiment with nine cultivars (1488, Capture, Celebrate, Cheers, Expat, Melissa, TCA-576, TCA-606, and TCA-607) was carried out during the fall season of 2023 at Hort Hill research farm on the University of Georgia, Tifton campus. ‘Cheers’ (commonly grown high-yielding cultivar), ‘Capture’, and ‘Expat’ (claims high resistance to black rot), and ‘Melissa’ (black rot susceptible Savoy cabbage) were used as checks for comparison with other F1 cabbages. Plants were spray-inoculated with Xcc (250 ml of 10^6 CFU/ml) at 5 and 7 weeks after transplanting. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Relevant agronomic practices, such as irrigation, fertilization, and insect management, were implemented uniformly across all plots. Black rot severity was rated using a 1-9 scale, where 1 indicates the most resistant and 9 represents the least resistant (most susceptible) cultivar. The trial was harvested four times on the following dates:11/30/2023, 12/12/2023, 12/20/2023, and 01/03/2023. Black rot severity, total head counts and weights; and average head weight and height: and average core height, and width were statistically significant between treatments. ‘TCA-607’ and ‘Capture’ had the highest resistance to black rot disease, while ‘1488’ was the most susceptible. All other cultivars expressed moderate levels of resistance. In the first harvest ‘Cheers’ and ‘TCA-607’ had the highest total marketable head counts and weights, indicating early maturity. In addition, ‘Cheers’ and ‘TCA-607’ cabbage had the highest total marketable head counts and weight, followed closely by ‘TCA-606, ‘Celebrate’, and ‘1488’. ‘Cheers’ and ‘TCA-607’ had the highest average head height. Furthermore ‘TCA-607’ outperformed all the cultivars for the average head weight. Among all the cultivars ‘Melissa’ and ‘Expat’ performed the worst for total marketable counts and weights. Overall based on our trial, the experimental cultivar ‘TCA-607’ has the best combination of traits: best black rot resistance, highest yields, and biggest heads.

Speakers

Manisha Kumari

Post-Doctoral Research Associate AD, The University of Georgia

Manisha Kumari is a post-doctoral research associate AD at Horticulture department, University of Georgia, Tifton campus, Tifton 31793, GA, USA.

Co-authors

Ted McAvoy

University of Georgia

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:50pm - 1:00pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

12:55pm HST

FLOR - Investigating the Effect of Hydrafiber and Biochar As a Substitute for Peat-based Substrate for Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) and Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) Production

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:55pm - 1:05pm HST

Nautilus

The increasing environmental concerns and economic pressures necessitate the search for peat moss alternative as a substrate component, aiming to balance ecological sustainability with cost-effectiveness. This study aims to assess whether the biochar (BC) and hydrafiber (HF) could be a partially replacement for peat moss for zinnia and snapdragon production. Twelve substrates were formulated by either mixing BC (20%,40%, or 60% by vol) with HF (20%, 40%, or 60% (by vol), with the remaining being peat moss or blending BC (0%, 20%,40%, and 60%, by vol) with the commercial peat moss-based substrates (CS). The physical properties of substrate, including container capacity (CC), total porosity (TP), air space (AS), bulk density (BD), and water holding capacity (WHC), and chemical properties including leachate pH and electrical conductivity (EC) were measured. Plant growth parameters including growth index (GI) and leave greenness (indicated with SPAD value), biomass, and numbers of flowers were measured biweekly. The results showed all the substrate mixes had similar AP, BD and SPAD. Treatment with 20%BC and 80%CS had the highest plant growth, biomass, and numbers of flowers for both zinnia and snapdragon plants. In conclusion, BC could be used to partially (20%) replace commercial peat moss-based substrate mix for container-grown zinnia and snapdragon production.

Speakers

Lilin Chen

Graduate Research Assistant, University of Georgia

I'm interested in biochar effect on containerized plants, especially the effect under abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity.

Co-authors

Ping Yu

University of Georgia

Yulong Chen

The University of Georgia

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:55pm - 1:05pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

12:55pm HST

LOCSY - Garden to Pantry: An Interactive and Interdisciplinary Approach to Growing and Preserving Produce

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:55pm - 1:05pm HST

South Pacific 1

Garden to Pantry: An Interactive and Interdisciplinary Approach to Growing and Preserving Produce Rebecca C. Lee1 and Carmen Flammini2, 1 Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Jon Archer Agricultural Center, 1070 N. Schillinger Rd., Mobile, AL 36608, 2Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, 302A Byrne St., Bay Minette, AL 36507 Recent research conducted post-COVID-19 indicates that households experiencing food insecurity have escalated their home food procurement activities, including gardening, fishing, canning, and food preservation. These studies propose that transitioning procurement activities into sustainable lifestyles and enhancing fruit and vegetable consumption among food-insecure populations will necessitate technical support and outreach initiatives like Garden to Pantry (G2P). Home gardening and food preservation programs can play a vital role in educating communities about fruit and vegetable cultivation and preservation. The objectives of the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service (ACES) program entitled ‘Garden to Pantry: An Interactive and Interdisciplinary Approach to Growing and Preserving Produce’ aimed to deliver a complete and immersive program from planting to preserving of seasonal fruit and vegetables in a one-day program by offering research-based recommendations for methods of home food preservation. Additionally, the program aimed to provide the community with cross-discipline knowledge and experience from varying disciplines. The pilot program of the ‘Garden to Pantry: An Interactive and Interdisciplinary Approach to Growing and Preserving Produce’ program was presented in five counties in Alabama in 2023 and 2024. Data obtained during the 2023 run of the program revealed the program was positively received by the target community and further interest was expressed in participating in other programs focusing on food safety as a whole concept by integrating all aspects of food preservation. Future challenges of this program include seeking involvement with younger stakeholder demographics as well as individuals interested in the increasing popular homesteading movement.

Speakers

Carmen Flammini

Alabama Extension System, Auburn University

Rebecca Catalena

Food Safety & Quality, Alabama Extension

Rebecca Catalena is a Regional Extension Agent in Food Safety & Quality. Rebecca received her Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from the University of West Florida and an A.A.S degree from Le Cordon Bleu. Before joining the Alabama Extension family, Rebecca served seven years in... Read More →

Co-authors

Dani Reams

Alabama Extension

Wednesday September 25, 2024 12:55pm - 1:05pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

1:00pm HST

CE - Effects of Short-Wavelength UV-B, UV-A, and Blue Light on the Rose Flower Color Transition Phenotype

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST

Coral 1

Light quality plays a crucial role in the growth and development of plants. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of short-wavelength light on rose genotype '16401-N055’, which exhibits the flower color transitioning trait: the flowers change colors from yellow to pink in sunlight. Roses that exhibit this flower phenotype are termed transitioning-type roses. Specifically, we analyzed and compared the impact of six different light treatments [a sunlight control in open field and five spectral treatments created using light-emitting diodes (LEDs)] on various physiological and morphological characteristics. The five LED treatments included white light, blue light, UV-A white light, UV-B white light, and 80% blue 20% white light. Each treatment had two replications where one-year-old rose plants were the experimental unit. The total light intensity was maintained at 300-350 micromol m-2 s-1 for a photoperiod of 16 h light and 8 h darkness. The morphological traits measured included height, width, number of buds, number of flowers, and node density. The color scale parameters L* [luminance of the color ranging from 0 (black) to 100 (white)], a* [red (positive values) and green (negative values) color levels], and b* [yellow (positive values) and blue (negative values) color levels] were measured using a colorimeter. Additionally, the chlorophyll concentration index (CCI) was measured using a chlorophyll meter. Fully pigmented pink flowers were only observed in the UV-B white light treatment with an average L* value of 44.1 and a* value of 50.6. A slight pink hue was observed on the outer sections of petals in blue and blue white light treatments. The average L* and a* values of flowers in the blue treatment were 87.21 and 6.24, and in blue white treatment were 90.9 and 1.86, respectively. The flowers in the white UV-A treatment remained white with the highest average L* value of 92.4 and the lowest average a* value of -1.86. The CCI of plants under sunlight (23.5) was significantly lower than the plants treated with blue (34.4), and blue white (33.7) light. No significant differences in morphological traits were detected after two weeks. The plants will be monitored for longer periods and more data will be collected every two weeks for one month to document additional changes. The results obtained will provide additional information on morphological and floral changes in this genotype under different light treatments.

Speakers

Navdeep Kaur

Texas A and M university

Co-authors

David Byrne

Texas A and M University

Oscar Riera-Lizarazu

Texas A and M University

Shuyang Zhen

Texas A and M University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

1:00pm HST

HSMP - Effects of Foliar Application of Humic Acid and NPK Fertilizers to the Soil on Important Growth Indices of Black Mustard

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST

South Pacific 2

Humic acid that improves plant growth and yield indices such as fresh and dry weights, plant height. Field experiment was conducted at the Al-Mussaib Technical Institute/Iraq during the 2022-2023 season to study the effect of adding NPK complex fertilizer to the soil and spraying with organic fertilizer (Humic acid) on the growth and yield of black mustard plants, according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. In this study, the effect of foliar application of Humic acid and/or fertilizers of NPK on the growth characteristics of black mustard (Brassica nigar) in field conditions were compared. According to the results, the foliar application of Humic acid The results were analyzed according to analysis of variance, and the means were compared using the least significant difference (LSD) test under the probability level of 0.05.A two-factor experiment (3×3) was carried out. The first factor was the addition of a balanced NPK complex fertilizer (20:20:20). At levels of (0, 30, or 60) kg/dunum in two batches, the first two weeks after germination, and the second when flowering begins. The fertilizer was placed about 10 cm under the plant in the furrows and covered with dirt, then watered after fertilization. The second factor was spraying with three concentrations of organic fertilizer (Humic acid) (0, 2, or 4) ml.l-1. It was observed from the results that adding NPK complex fertilizer and organic fertilizer (Humic acid) has a significant effect on the characteristics of vegetative growth, as is evident from the fact that the levels of NPK complex fertilizer and spraying with organic fertilizer (Humic acid) have a significant effect on the productive characteristics of the plant. It is conclude from this experiment that the most effective treatment that can be used to feed the black mustard plant under the conditions of this experiment, and which achieved the best results in improving the vegetative and productive characteristics of the plant, is the 60 kg overlap treatment. 1 dunam-1 NPK with spraying three times with 2 ml.l-1 of organic fertilizer (Humic acid), which improved the characteristics of vegetative growth and gave the highest rate of mustard number. Plant-1 and number of seeds. Mustard-1 and seed weight. Plant-1 and the amount of seed yield per dunum. application of 45 ppm humic acid with 60/kg – per dunum (per 2500 square meters) would be the best option to maintain better growth, yield and quality in black mustard.

Speakers

Keefah AL-Garallaa

Mississippi State University

Co-authors

Richard Harkess

Mississippi State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

1:00pm HST

POM 2 - Deciphering the Proline-Mediated Flowering Delay Mechanism in Peach through Physiological and Metabolic Analyses

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST

Coral 2

Freezing temperatures can harm peaches in late spring with advanced flowering due to climate change and consequently reduce their yield. Flowering delay is a prominent strategy employed to avoid such spring frost damage. Our previous study demonstrated that treatment with 5% sodium alginate 100 mM CaCl 2 (5AG) can delay the blooming, potentially avoiding frost damage. To elucidate the precise mechanism of flowering delay induced by 5AG in peaches, this study systematically and experimentally analyzed the changes of amino acid profiles in control and 5AG-treated peach plants at different day intervals (0, 1, 2, 11, 21, 25, and 28 DAT). Our findings revealed that the levels of arginine (Arg), glutamate (Glu), and proline (Pro) differed significantly between control and 5AG- treated peach shoots throughout the phenological development of flower buds. Furthermore, Arg and Glu amino acids, are involved in the Pro pathway. Computational metabolomics analyses identified the Pro metabolism related genes and their attributes, gene ontology, gene synteny and gene organizations, which represent diverse biological function of these genes, including flowering responses. In addition, qRT-PCR analysis results revealed that elevated expression of P5CS and P5CR genes, involved in Pro metabolism, led to increased Pro content in control plants. Conversely, 5AG treatment downregulated these genes, resulting in lower proline content. This result suggests that 5AG treatment may restrain gene expression related to Pro accumulation, thereby controlling Pro biosynthesis. In addition, our findings unveiled a direct connection between Pro content reduction and delayed flowering. Taken together, these results provide strong evidence that 5AG treatment significantly delays flowering by controlling Pro metabolisms in Prunus persica.

Speakers

HYUNSUK SHIN

Gyeongsang National University

Co-authors

JAE HOON JEONG

Gyeongsang National University

MUTHURAMALINGAM PANDIYAN

Gyeongsang National University

Seung Heui Kim

Korea National College of Agriculture and Fisheries

YEONJU PARK

Gyeongsang National University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

1:00pm HST

VCM 2 - Evaluation of Brassica Oleracea Genotypes in Terms of Agronomic Performance

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST

South Pacific 3

Plant growth performance of 35 different broccoli cultivars was assessed during the Fall season 2023 in terms of plant growth and head development in SW Florida. In particular, seeds of Brassica oleracea var. italica genotypes that were obtained from USDA, ARS, Plant Genetic Resources Unit (PGRU)

Speakers

Sotirios Tasioulas

SWFREC - University of Florida/IFAS

Co-authors

Jessie Watson

SWFREC - University of Florida/IFAS

Pavlos Tsouvaltzis

Southwest Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida

Tie Liu

University of Florida

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 1:10pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Vegetable Crops Management 2

SUBJECT Vegetable Crops

1:05pm HST

FLOR - The Impact of Cold and Darkness on Osmanthus fragrans Flowering and Growth

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:05pm - 1:15pm HST

Nautilus

Osmanthus fragrans, a culturally and economically significant plant in Asian countries, exhibits unique floral characteristics influenced by endogenous metabolites. Previous studies suggest its flowering timing and intensity may be affected by environmental factors including cold and darkness. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cold and darkness factors on the response of Osmanthus fragrans flowering and growth. This experiment included 7 cold and dark treatments (plants were sitting in the dark coolers from 0-15 days) and dark-only treatments (plants were sitting in the GH with plastic bags from 0-9 days). Plant responses were assessed based on the number of flowers, height, and width measurements on the 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 13th, and 15th days post-treatment. The results showed there was no significant difference in plant height across treatments. Dark-only treatment for 7 days significantly increased width growth compared to the control group (9 days), and dark-cold treatment for 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 days. The increase in the number of flowers in the cold-dark treatment for 9 and 15 days was significantly higher than in other treatments, except for the control. In conclusion, the cold and darkness could promote flowering in Osmanthus fragrans without negatively affecting plant growth.

Speakers

Yulong Chen

The University of Georgia

Co-authors

Lilin Chen

The University of Georgia

Ping Yu

University of Georgia

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:05pm - 1:15pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

1:05pm HST

LOCSY - Fermented Hot Pepper Sauce as a Model for New Value-Added Opportunities for Local Food Production

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:05pm - 1:15pm HST

South Pacific 1

Development of value-added products by local growers can lead to additional economic opportunities for small farmers by utilization of unsold crops for production of products. Kentucky State University (KSU) received a USDA Capacity Building grant to create a Fermentation and Distillation Sciences Program to train students in this area, but also help local farmers develop new value-added fermented products. There are many job opportunities either supporting or directly involved in the fermentation and distillation sciences in Kentucky and the surrounding region. The goal of the program is to develop new recipes for value-added products for small-scale producers, including pawpaw, hemp, and sorghum beer and kombucha, spirits, and fermented fruit and vegetable products through research supported by new equipment. Hot pepper sauce is of great interest to small producers since it is fairly easy to make and there are many variations in recipes. The objective of this current study was to develop new recipes for fermented hot pepper sauce as new value-added products for small-scale producers. Pepper plantings were established at the Kentucky State University Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm for a range of pepper cultivars including: Shishimai (Shishito Pepper), Sargento (Poblano Pepper), Bottle Rocket (Cayenne Pepper), Mad Hatter (Bishop's Crown Pepper), Roulette (Habanero Pepper), Helios (Habanero Pepper), Carmen (Corno di Toro Pepper), and a number of other peppers over a three year period. Initially, a number of recipes for fermented hot pepper sauce were evaluated and subject to taste trails. These recipes varied in preparation, pepper type, and vinegar addition. Finally, a potential unique fermented hot pepper sauce was developed that would be of interest to local farmer to produce as a value added product. A tasting trail was conducted with 23 individuals on the KSU campus comparing this new recipe to three commercially available hot sauces. There were 14 males and 8 female participants, with 1 participant preferring not to answer. The average age range was between 26 and 45. Hot sauce samples were served on saltines and evaluated from 1 to 5 for color, smell, flavor, heat, and willingness to pay. The individuals were also asked to rank their favorite sauce. Additional data was collected concerning the participants liking of spicy foods. The fermented hot pepper sauce recipe that was developed was well received and should be of interest for production by local farmers.

Speakers

Matthew Behrends

Kentucky State University

Co-authors

Jeremy Lowe

Kentucky State University

Joni Nelson

Kentucky STate University

Kirk Pomper

Kentucky State University

Sheri Crabtree

Kentucky State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:05pm - 1:15pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

1:10pm HST

CE - Arduino Uno Can Reliably Log Substrate Moisture from a Bus of Digital Sensors and Control a Drip-Irrigation System

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:10pm - 1:20pm HST

Coral 1

Inexpensive Arduino microcontrollers can be programmed to operate and log data from environmental sensors and operate other accessories such as irrigation solenoids. We describe our efforts to build a modified version of Arduino Uno systems previously developed at the University of Georgia, which operated analog moisture sensors and opened solenoid valves to drip emitters when moisture fell below user-defined thresholds. We attempted to 1) replace analog sensors with a bus of digital sensors that use the SDI-12 communication protocol, 2) include programming to parse digital output from two popular SDI-12 sensors (Decagon GS3 and Campbell Scientific 5TM), 3) use 12VDC solenoid valves that were less expensive and smaller (1/2”) than alternatives, and 4) overcome several challenges encountered in the construction and programming of the Arduino-based system. These included an approach to more easily manage the connection of numerous wires, the inclusion of a reversed diode at the solenoid terminals to prevent electrical interference from intermittently resetting the Arduino program, and the adoption of programming strategies to work around memory limitations that initially rendered our Arduino systems with digital sensors unreliable. We overcame these challenges to develop a robust, reliable, and easy-to-deploy Arduino-based environmental logger and automated drip-irrigation system that can operate numerous digital sensors. Sensor type and thresholds for volumetric water content are defined in a single location within the program, enabling the user to easily make minor adjustments to the system. We also included extensive line-by-line documentation of the source code. A list of the hardware used in this system is available. In 2023, eight of these systems operating 64 total sensors proved their reliability over a two-month experiment on the drought stress physiology of wetland shrubs. We conclude that this system is an effective solution for in-house sensor-automated irrigation with high customizability for end users.

Speakers

Stephanie E. Burnett

University of Maine

Co-authors

Adam J. Peterson

Unaffiliated

Bryan Peterson

University of Maine

Jessica Hutchinson

University of Maine

Rhuanito S. Ferrarezi

University of Georgia

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:10pm - 1:20pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

1:10pm HST

HSMP - Assessment of micropropagated ginger cultivars and generations on plant growth and rhizome yield in a greenhouse

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:10pm - 1:20pm HST

South Pacific 2

Our research demonstrated micropropagated ginger helped solve seed ginger sourcing issue for this “niche” market crop. Traditionally, farmers would save ginger rhizomes from the previous year’s harvest, store over winter, and then use as seeds for the upcoming growing season. This research was to determine if micropropagated ginger generations would affect ginger growth and yield. We studied nine ginger cultivars (BB, BG, BK, CW, HY, MD, PY, KY, and KM) from various tissue culture (TC) generations (TCF1, TCF2, TCF3, and TCF4). TCF1 seedlings were initially planted (March 2023), and then transplanted with TCF2, TCF3 and TCF4 from previous years’ study, into individual grow bags (May 2023) with one seedling per 10-inch grow bag (2:1 metro mix:compost). Plants were placed on a bench inside a greenhouse with a completely randomized design (CRD) with 20 cultivar/TC Generation combinations, 5 replications per cultivar/generation. We collected growth data (stem number, diameter, length, and SPAD), yield data (number of rhizome pieces per seedling, weight of individual rhizome piece/finger, weights of biological root, edible root and total rhizome weight), and PAR of individual plants. Data was then analyzed using SAS OnDemand for Academics with PROC GLM at the 0.05 level of significance. There was a significant effect as the number of TC generations increased, with stem length (TCF1 – 91.8, TCF2 – 91.0, TCF3 – 103.5, and TCF4 – 101.5 cm) and stem diameter (TCF1 – 6.2, TCF2 – 6.4, TCF3 – 8.1, and TCF4 – 8.1 mm) increasing, while number of stems (TCF1 – 19.0, TCF2 – 18.3, TCF3 – 10.4, and TCF4 – 9.9) decreased on average. TC generations had significant effect on rhizome yield. Individual pieces of ginger rhizome decreased in number (TCF1 – 37.9, TCF2 – 31.1, TCF3 – 28.9, and TCF4 – 28.0) but increased in size (weight) (TCF1 – 12.3, TCF2 – 16.8, TCF3 – 25.4, and TCF4 – 23.1 g) as number of TC generations increased. Similarly, biological root weight significantly decreased (TCF1 – 175.9, TCF2 – 195.3, TCF3 – 42.0, and TCF4 – 52.9 g). Edible root weight significantly increased (TCF1 – 443.9, TCF2 – 460.6, TCF3 – 700.6, and TCF4 – 641.0 g). There was a slight upward trend of rhizome yield as TC generations increased (TCF1 – 619.9, TCF2 – 671.3, TCF3 – 761.2, and TCF4 – 709.5 g).

Speakers

Guochen Yang

Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator, Oversight Coordinator for University Hemp Program, North Carolina A&T State University

Co-authors

Daniel Tetteh

North Carolina A

Julia Robinson

North Carolina A

William Lashley

North Carolina A

Zipporia Moore

North Carolina A

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:10pm - 1:20pm HST
South Pacific 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Herbs; Spices and Medicinal Plants

SUBJECT Herbs Spices and Medicinal Plants

1:10pm HST

POM 2 - Genetic Architecture of Important Traits for Prunus Crop Improvement

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:10pm - 1:20pm HST

Coral 2

Numerous QTL and GWAS studies have been conducted on various species of Prunus, but there is limited knowledge on the overall genetic architecture regulating fruit quality traits among these species. As part of a 2022-funded SCRI- project to advance database resources for specialty crop research, efforts are directed towards collecting and curating all types of big data in the Genome Database for Rosaceae (www.rosaceae.org). We conducted an extensive literature review on over 120 QTL and GWAS studies on Prunus traits to extend the existing data in GDR. We aligned the traits to the peach genome to compare important traits in various Prunus species. The consensus map showing QTL hotspots will be accessible using various tools in GDR. Implications of the newly created resources and tools in GDR for breeding will be discussed.

Speakers

Michael Itam

Clemson University

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

1:15pm HST

FLOR - Growth and Quality of Four Zinnia Cultivars Grown in Eastern South Dakota

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:15pm - 1:25pm HST

Nautilus

Over the past two decades, interest in local specialty cut flower production in Eastern South Dakota has grown with several new flower farms being established across the region. However, there is currently no local, research-based information available to support growers in this new wave of interest. The purpose of this study was to assess the production and quality of four zinnia cultivars grown in Eastern South Dakota to support local specialty cut flower growers in their operations. This was a randomized complete block study with four zinnia cultivars (Zinderella Peach, Oklahoma Ivory, Queen Red Lime, and Benary’s Giant Purple) grown in 2022 and 2023. Zinnias were started in the greenhouse and then transplanted into the field in early summer each season. Harvest began each year when flowers reached maturity (July), with one harvest event taking place each week until the first frost. Harvested flowers were rated as marketable or non-marketable based on categories of stem length (18 -inch-long, 13-17.99-inch-long, 8-12.99-inch-long, and

Speakers

Kristine Lang

Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, South Dakota State University

Co-authors

Alexis Barnes

South Dakota State University

Ellen Fitzpatrick

South Dakota State University

Hannah Voye

South Dakota State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:15pm - 1:25pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

1:15pm HST

LOCSY - The Missouri Produce Growers Video Newsletter – Digestible, Accessible and Impactful Extension Education

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:15pm - 1:25pm HST

South Pacific 1

The Missouri Produce Growers Video Newsletter (MPGVN) was established in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic prevented in-person programming. The MPGVN is a bi-weekly video-based email newsletter targeting specialty crop farmers and is an offshoot of a project consisting of weekly live-streamed remote educational town halls, which lacked sufficient attendance to justify continuation. Maintaining impactful, ongoing digital engagement with extension audiences is challenging due to grower’s time constraints and competition with low time-investment and high reward non-extension educational media, such as video hosting and social media platforms. The 3–5-minute narrated PowerPoint™ presentations and live shot videos comprising the educational content in the MPGVN, are easily consumed, introducing key points on a timely cropping systems or farm management topic, with further topic resource links embedded. The MPVGN also features links to workshops, grants, and partner agency and non-profit resources. The core team of content contributors, 5 University of Missouri Extension Field Specialists in Horticulture, meets bi-weekly to plan content. Additional extension collaborators from various disciplines including agricultural business, natural resources, climatology, plant pathology, entomology, and food safety contribute content. The newsletter is created and distributed using the Dotdigital™ platform. The format and content have driven engagement amongst the 950 subscribers. The MPGVN engagement metrics relative to industry benchmarks for educational email newsletters are higher by 188% for unique opens, 345% for unique clickers, and 177% for click-to-open rate. To measure the impact of the MPGVN, a survey was sent to 948 subscribers in 2023, with a 14% response rate. Survey observations showed that 55% identified as growers “currently growing and selling produce or planning to grow and sell produce”, 45% as extension educators, and 5% as home gardeners. The survey showed that of the growers; 85% indicated knowledge gains; 78% reported adoption or change of farming practices ; 63% attended an extension class ; 56% connected with a partner agency ; 23% applied to grants ; and 10% received grant awards, thanks to information delivered in the newsletter. The MPGVN is a valuable educational tool, driving engagement with extension programming and resources.

Speakers

Justin Keay

MU Extension

Justin Keay has served as a Field Specialist in Horticulture with University of Missouri Extension since 2018, and is currently based in Pike County, MO. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Washington University, and an M.S. in Integrated Agricultural Systems... Read More →

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:15pm - 1:25pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

1:20pm HST

CE - The Effect of Climate Change on Plants: A Case Study with Wheat

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:20pm - 1:30pm HST

Coral 1

Anthropogenic climate change (ACC) will have considerable effects on plants, though the extent to which these effects are positive or negative has been controversial. For this poster, a fully factorial experiment combining water and temperature over broad ranges (10-90% soil water content under 16°C-40°C) was carried out to address three shortcomings that might help explain the contrasting effects of climate change on plants: testing only one climate variable (e.g., only water or only temperature), failure to account for nonlinear responses to climatic variables, and studying a limited number of response variables. The experiment utilized wheat as the model species and found that most dependent variables related to grain production showed the highest performance under 23-33°C and low water (

Speakers

Kira Webster

PhD Candidate, University of Hawaii at Manoa

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:20pm - 1:30pm HST
Coral 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 1

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

1:20pm HST

POM 2 - Taste Acidity and Other Important Fruit Characteristics of New Peach Varieties Compared with Concurrent Varieties During

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:20pm - 1:30pm HST

Coral 2

Three new peach varieties and ‘Felicia’ ‘Evelynn’ and ‘Anna Rose’ were recently released from the Rutgers University tree fruit breeding program. These varieties are concurrent with some of the standard peach varieties. The comparison of taste acidity and other important fruit characteristics could help growers choose in case of planting these varieties or replacing the standard varieties during the same harvest window. Fruit characteristics such as flesh color, crop load, shape, skin color, fuzz, attractiveness, stone characteristics (free, semi-free, or cling), flesh color, bacterial spot, on fruits and leaves, taste acidity, juice total soluble solids (TSS) concentration (°Brix), and total titratable acidity (TTA) (%) were measured. Here we compare these varieties to highlight the differences and challenges amongst these varieties on their path to full consumer appreciation. Results indicate that average TSS and firmness were higher in ‘Felicia’ (12.9 brix; 12.4 lb) and ‘Evelynn’ (11.9 brix; 10.9 lbs.) compared to ‘Redhaven’ (11.1 brix; 8.14 lbs.). Also; average TSS and firmness were higher in ‘Anna Rose’ (14.4 brix; 13.68 lbs.) compared to ‘Klondike’ (12.0 brix; 11.3 lbs.) and ‘White Lady’ (10.9 brix; 9.64 lbs.). In summary, new yellow-fleshed peach varieties ‘Felicia’ and ‘Evelynn’ have great potential to replace the old standard variety, ‘Redhaven’. Similarly, the new white-fleshed peach variety ‘Anna Rose’ has great potential to replace old standard varieties ‘White Lady’ and ‘Klondike’.

Speakers

Hemant Gohil

Extension AgentII/Associate Professor, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

Co-authors

Daniel Ward

Rutgers University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:20pm - 1:30pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

1:25pm HST

FLOR - Effects of Photoperiod Treatments on Stock Plants and Cutting Rooting of Callirhoe involucrata

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:25pm - 1:35pm HST

Nautilus

Effects of Photoperiod Treatments on Stock Plants and Cutting Rooting of Callirhoe involucrata James E. Klett and Ronda Koski Colorado State University Department of Horticulture and LA Production of attractive and desirable plants, native to the plains and prairies of central North America, can sometimes be limited due to problems associated with successful rooting of vegetative cuttings. Species that have a long period of bloom can be challenging to vegetatively propagate during the growing season, because sufficient juvenile (vegetatively) growth is necessary for high-quality cuttings. Callirhoe involucrata (winecups) is a native herbaceous perennial with sprawling stems, palmately divided leaves, and dark pink flowers that creates a long lasting, colorful groundcover in landscapes with limited or no supplemental irrigation. Winecups can be difficult to propagate due to seed dormancy and poor rooting of vegetative cuttings. Manipulating the growing conditions of stock plants to suppress reproductive growth may improve rooting success of vegetative cuttings. Based on previous research at Colorado State University with other ornamental perennials and programmed photoperiods, winecups were grown under three programmed photoperiods to determine if a particular photoperiod could be used to suppress reproductive growth and promote vegetative growth. The research was replicated three times, all conducted in a similar fashion, but at different times of the year. Results indicate that plants grown under 10-hour light and 8-hour light photoperiods remained vegetative longer when compared to plants grown under 12-hour photoperiod. Plants grown under 12-hour photoperiods had greater mean ending dry weight when compared to plants grown under 10 hour and 8-hour photoperiods. Cuttings harvested from plants grown under 8-hour photoperiod had higher percent rooting and greater number of roots per cutting when compared to vegetative cuttings harvested from plants grown under 12-hour photoperiod. Based on these research findings, plant propagators may be able to increase production of winecups by growing stock plants under 8-hour photoperiod.

Speakers

James Klett

Colorado State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:25pm - 1:35pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

1:25pm HST

LOCSY - The Center for Sustainability of Farms and Families: Impacts of The Small Scale Farm Grant on Local Foods in Kentucky.

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:25pm - 1:35pm HST

South Pacific 1

The Center for Sustainability of Farms and Families: Impacts of The Small Scale Farm Grant on Local Foods in Kentucky. JONI NELSON*, MATTHEW BEHRENDS, ALLISON NOEL, and KIRK W. POMPER. College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources Cooperative Extension Program, Kentucky State University, Frankfort, KY 40601 Kentucky State University’s Small Farm Grant Program managed through the Center for Sustainability of Farms and Families supports new economic opportunities for limited resource farmers with funding from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board and the USDA-NIFA capacity building grant “Extension Approaches to Support Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Producers”. The Small Farm Grant Program, which began in 2012, has awarded more than $8.5 million through 1,976 applications to farmers from 114 Kentucky counties. This funding has been distributed through mini-grants for categories including Value-Added, Organic, Aquaculture, Food Insecure, and Agroforestry projects. New categories added in 2024 including Food Systems Resiliency and Emerging Agricultural Technologies have been added in addition to a beginning beekeeper program in our ongoing efforts to address the diverse needs of Kentucky producers. These new categories support the efforts of producers to implement innovative practices or technologies that enhance sustainability and resource efficiency on the farm. Program funding supports a wide range of needs such as mobile freezer units, pond aerators, canning equipment for fruits and vegetables, tractor implements to support organic crop integrity, goat cheese and soap making equipment, root cellars, equipment for food banks and farmers markets, agroforestry practices, and numerous others. This program has also assisted many new farmers with entering local markets and education toward production methods as well as aiding their efforts to support local economies and cooperative networks.

Speakers

Joni Nelson

Manager CSFF, Kentucky State University

Co-authors

Kirk Pomper

Kentucky State University

Matthew Behrends

Kentucky State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:25pm - 1:35pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

1:30pm HST

POM 2 - Role of Silicon in Peach Water Stress Tolerance

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:30pm - 1:40pm HST

Coral 2

Water stress in young fruit trees can reduce tree growth and impair future crop productivity. Silicon (Si) has shown a positive effect in mechanisms related to water relations, specifically water uptake and transport, as well as physiological and anatomical changes in leaves of annual plants. These findings suggest that Si could induce adaptive changes that could help trees cope with water deficit. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the role of Si on water status, sap flow, and gas exchange of young peach trees under water deficit. Two-year-old ‘Julyprince’ peach trees grown under controlled conditions received either 100% (well-watered trees) or 50% (stressed trees) of their crop evapotranspiration needs three times a week. Once trees in the two treatments displayed a difference in water status, Si was applied weekly by foliar spray (0 or 20 mg L-1). The combination of these two factors resulted into a completely randomized factorial design with four treatments. Results showed an interaction between irrigation regime and Si application. Si increased sap flow in well-watered trees and reduced that of stressed trees, although this effect was more significant the day after irrigation. Furthermore, Si significantly improved the water status of trees under water deficit but did not influence that of well-watered trees. These results seem to indicate that the role of Si in improving tolerance to water deficit is temporary and dependent on the tree water status.

Speakers

Noah Willsea

Clemson University

Co-authors

Inma Martos-Garcia

University of Cordoba

Juan Carlos Melgar

Clemson University

Maria Benlloch-Gonzales

University of Cordoba

Ricardo Fernandez-Escobar

University of Cordoba

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:30pm - 1:40pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

1:35pm HST

FLOR - Consumer testing and surveys indicate a market for Peperomia mauiensis, an endemic succulent with potential use as an indoor potted plant

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:35pm - 1:45pm HST

Nautilus

Peperomia mauiensis is an endemic succulent found on the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai. Its reddish stems and foliage as well as its small stature make it a potential indoor ornamental plant. To assess consumer acceptance, a public plant giveaway with surveys was conducted. Fifty-six plants in plastic and ceramic pots were distributed to the public with the completion of a survey. A six-month follow up survey was conducted to assess the condition of the plant and obtain consumer feedback. During the plant giveaway, 77% of participants completed the survey. Nearly all respondents are willing to buy the plant and recommend it to friends and co-workers. Thirty percent of respondents are willing to buy the plant for $5 in a ceramic pot and $3 to $5 for a plastic pot. Six months after the giveaway, 39.5% of initial respondents completed the follow-up survey. About half of the respondents (52.9%) reported the plant was growing healthy and vigorous. The majority of the respondents did not fertilize the plant (81.3%) and did not report any pest (94.1%) and disease (88.2%) issues. Most responded that they liked it as a houseplant (88.2%) and it was easy to maintain (82.4%). Most respondents (35.3%) were willing to buy the plant again for $5. Results of the surveys indicate that there is consumer interest in Peperomia mauiensis as a new native indoor plant.

Speakers

Orville Baldos

Associate Researcher, University of Hawaii at Manoa

Co-authors

Hannah Lutgen

CTAHR

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:35pm - 1:45pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

1:35pm HST

LOCSY - The Waimānalo Learning Center: Land-Grant Experiment Stations as a Space to Heighten Community Engagement and Advanceme

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:35pm - 1:45pm HST

South Pacific 1

The Waimānalo Learning Center (WLC) is a University of Hawai’i (UH) project established in 2012 through seed funding from the UH College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR) and the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation. Located at CTAHR's Waimānalo Research Station, the WLC aims to transform the station into a community learning center that promotes food security, self-sufficiency, and healthy eating, particularly for indigenous and underserved populations. The UH physical facilities supporting WLC include an aquaponics facility and outdoor classroom adjacent to certified organic research plots. A Community Coordinator was added in 2014, and since then the WLC has rapidly expanded its programming through close partnerships with local schools and community organizations. In 2017 the WLC has partnered with a local non-profit, Ke Kula Nui O Waimānalo to run food sovereignty programs including aquaponics (MALAMA), agroforestry (Ulupono Mahi ‘Āina), and backyard egg production (Hui Hua Moa). In a survey of key partners, the vast majority of 75 respondents strongly agreed that: 1) The WLC has been a valuable partner for their organization (98.6%); 2) The WLC plays an important role in serving the Waimanalo community (95.9%); 3) The WLC has helped them elevate their group’s mission and vision (94.5%). Echoing the comments of others, one respondent stated “The Waimānalo Learning Center has served as important ʻāina (land) for our haumana (students) to build pilina (relationship), hana (work), and take on greater kuleana (responsibility) with. The staff and facilities have allowed us to grow and deepen our curriculum of place-based, ʻāina work within our community.” The results from 12 years of activity suggests that the WLC is an effective model for using Land Grant Research Stations to address community needs around food, health and cultural preservation, and increase community engagement and advancement.

Speakers

Heidi Ilima Ho-Lastimosa

University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Ke Kula Nui O Waimanalo

University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Ke Kula Nui O Waimanalo

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:35pm - 1:45pm HST
South Pacific 1

Poster presentation (individual talk), Local Food Systems

SUBJECT Local Food Systems

1:40pm HST

POM 2 - Mechanization Reduces Pruning and Harvest Labor Time in the Cider Apple Orchard

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:40pm - 1:50pm HST

Coral 2

While fresh-eating, dessert apples dominate the apple market of Washington State, the over 30-fold national increase in volumetric cider production over the past 15 years indicates there is growing demand for specialty cider apples, or apple cultivars with positive cider-making attributes such as high polyphenol content. In a commercial cider orchard, the labor costs associated with thinning, pruning, and harvest comprise a majority of the annual variable production costs once the orchard is in full production; thus, reducing the labor time to perform these tasks has the potential to increase the appeal and profitability of growing cider apples. Further, when cider apples are pressed into juice soon after harvest, cosmetic damage and bruising of the fruit during harvest has minimal impact on juice quality, indicating a strong potential for harvest mechanization. This study separately examines mechanical hedging and mechanized over-the-row harvest (using a modified Oxbo-Korvan 930 harvester) in a multi-cultivar cider apple orchard. Mechanical hedging both sides of the orchard row occurred at a rate of 2.1-3.5 seconds per meter across 5 years. Across 16 cultivars and 3 years, mechanical harvest occurred at a rate of 2.7-3.1 seconds per meter, and the average capture efficiency was 82% with no significant differences between cultivars. Based on these results, a combination of mechanical pruning and harvest could significantly lower labor time, and thus the total production costs, associated with growing cider apples.

Speakers

Carol Miles

Washington State University

Co-authors

Aidan Kendall

Washington State University

Ed Scheenstra

Washington State University

Seth Brawner

Washington State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:40pm - 1:50pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Pomology 2

SUBJECT Pomology

1:45pm HST

EcoPhys/HPRB/PGR - Multiple Modeling Approaches Reveal Temperature Dependent Germination Traits of Vegetable Varieties

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:45pm - 1:55pm HST

South Pacific 3

Crop seed germination is a critical factor in food production. Germination traits vary between different vegetables and between cultivars of the same vegetable. Traits such as germination proportion and the rate and uniformity of germination also contribute to the success of vegetable cultivars to regional temperature averages and regimes. Temperature is a major abiotic factor in seed germination, and selection of seed varieties suited for local temperatures is important to successful crop establishment. Here we aim to model the germination traits of several Korean and North American vegetable cultivars in relationship to temperature. We hypothesize that a model based on time and temperature will represent germination traits across multiple cultivars and species of vegetable. Additionally, we hypothesize that predicted germination traits will be similar within species but will vary between cultivars of the same species based on the regional temperature norms. Eleven vegetable cultivars including two corn, four radish, two pepper, and three onion, were germinated in growth chambers set at 5°C intervals between 5 and 40°C with a 12 hour photoperiod. Germination, defined by radicle emergence equal to the length of the seed, was monitored and recorded daily. Two modeling approaches were used. 1) A time to event model using the drcSeedGerm package in R was used to determine maximum germination proportion (Pmax), germination rate at 50% germination (GR50), and uniformity. 2) A 12-parameter compartmental temperature and time model was implemented, parameterized, and validated in the Cropbox modeling framework. Results show differing temperature responses in germination traits. Additionally, high uniformity was observed in most varieties within the optimal temperature range. The optimal temperature for germination was broad for the vegetable cultivars tested here, with a rapid decrease in Pmax at high and low temperature extremes, except in onions, which showed high Pmax even at 5°C, and a gradual decline above 25°C. All cultivars showed decreased Pmax at 40°C. A time to event model was able to predict germination traits in several crop species. The compartmental model was better equipped to handle heat induced seed degradation but was less parsimonious for determining germination probability and germination rate related parameters. Modeling crop germination traits can provide important context for selecting appropriate cultivars for local climates. A thermal time to event model and a compartmental model both provide potential frameworks for modeling germination traits of diverse vegetable species.

Speakers

Miro Stuke

University of Washington

Co-authors

Arthur Hsin-Wu Hsu

University of Idaho

Kyungdahm Yun

Jeonbuk National University

Sabrina Zerrade

University of Washington

Soohyung Kim

University of Washington

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:45pm - 1:55pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Ecological Physiology 1

SUBJECT Ecological Physiology

1:45pm HST

FLOR - Trials of Low Elevation Tolerant Leucospermum Hybrids on Oahu, HI

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:45pm - 1:55pm HST

Nautilus

Leucospermum species are temperate climate plants native to South Africa and have restricted production regions in Hawaii limited to elevations of 457 m or higher. This limitation and competition for land has been partially responsible to a decline in Leucospermum production in Hawaii. Agriculture land at lower elevations is more abundant and cheaper, and is an option for growing low elevation tolerant varieties. Breeding programs at the University of Hawaii at Manoa have focused on developing hybrids that will perform to commercial standards for plant growth, yield and quality, and grow at or near sea level. 14 hybrids of Leucospermum were trialed at 152 m elevation on Oahu HI. 10 hybrids exhibited adequate survival and were selected for continued trial. Weahter, plant growth (height and width), flower count, flowering seasonality, and plant health data were collected from 2021-2023. Flower length and quality data, and vase life data were collected in 2024. Average relative humidity was 79%, average monthly rainfall was 3.53 cm, and average temperature was 21.8 C with maximum temperature of 33.4 C and low of 14.2 C. The 10 hybrids all had acceptable fitness at 500’ elevation. Some hybrids showed more fitness than others. Hybrid 602 had the highest overall average health (3.8) and highest total flower count. Hybrids 620 and 626 also showed excellent fitness as well as highest flower counts. While none of the hybrids are considered unfit for production in similar conditions, some did perform less well. Hybrid 88 and Hybrid 633 had the lowest average health at 3.0 followed closely by Hybrids 583 (3.2), 679 (3.3), and 563 (3.3). These varieties also had some of the lowest total flower counts. All of the hybrids in this study are considered potential candidates for release and continued trialing. Future work can include long term trialing of these plants, and trialing at different microclimates across the State.

Speakers

Russell Galanti

Extension Educator, University of Hawaiʻi

Co-authors

Alberto Ricordi

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Kenneth Leonhardt

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:45pm - 1:55pm HST
Nautilus

Poster presentation (individual talk), Floriculture

SUBJECT Floriculture

1:55pm HST

EcoPhys/HPRB/PGR - Identifying Pollinators Present on Flowers of the Pawpaw Cultivars 'Sunflower' and 'Susquehanna'

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:55pm - 2:05pm HST

South Pacific 3

Pawpaw (Asimina Triloba) is a temperate species of tropical Annonaceae plant family native to the United States. They are small to medium-sized deciduous trees that bear unique and flavorful fruit. Pawpaw fruits are used in various culinary products such as jam, bread, ice cream, cookies, and even to produce brandy. Additionally, they contain antioxidants and acetogenins, which are currently being researched for their potential in cancer treatment. Fruit sets may be limited in some cultivars due to pawpaw flowers being protogynous and self-incompatible, blooming at various stages of development from late March to April. Consequently, the role of insects in pollination is crucial for increasing fruit production. To address this gap in research, this study aims to identify the different insect orders that visit both flowering and non-flowering branches of two distinct pawpaw cultivars (Sunflower and Susquehanna), along with their respective abundances. Ten trees from each pawpaw cultivar were selected to investigate the various pollinator types. In a completely randomized design, 40 wire cage traps with tangle trap adhesive were placed on both the flowering and non-flowering branches of each chosen cultivar. After 18 days of the flowering period, the traps were collected, and the insects captured were identified by order and counted. The data were analyzed using R software (R 4.3.2) and subjected to a one-way ANOVA with flower and non-flower of each cultivar, a two-way ANOVA, Least Significant Difference (LSD) means separation, with flowers and cultivars as the treatments. In 2023, ‘Sunflower’ had significantly more Dipterans and total insects (p-value: 0.3373 NS and 0.3740 NS). In comparison, ‘Susquehanna’ had significantly more Coleopterans (p-value: 0.40525 NS), and in ‘Susquehanna’, coleopterans had significantly more in the flower-branch (p-value: 0.0255*) for 2023. Additionally, data for 2024 will also be reported and will include additional data on insects observed inside the female receptive and matured male flowers from each cultivar.

Speakers

Subas Thapa Magar

Kentucky State University

A major change happened when the tragedy of Corona hit the world. Hi, I am Subas Thapa Magar, a graduate research assistant under the supervisor Dr. Kirk Pomper. I am currently working on Pawpaw (Asimina Triloba), the native fruit tree of the United States of America, and my research... Read More →

Co-authors

Jeremy Lowe

Kentucky State University

Kirk Pomper

Kentucky State University

Sheri Crabtree

Kentucky State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:55pm - 2:05pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Ecological Physiology 1

SUBJECT Ecological Physiology

2:05pm HST

EcoPhys/HPRB/PGR - Molecular Assessment of Heat Sensitivity in Broccoli Flowering

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:05pm - 2:15pm HST

South Pacific 3

In the warm growing season on the East Coast, broccoli crown development is often disrupted because insufficient cold accumulation for flower bud initiation and enlargement. As part of an effort to breed for adaptation to higher growing temperatures, we investigated whether the sensitivity is due to expression of one or more of the central genes involved in flower initiation. Broccoli transitions from vegetative to reproductive phase normally, it is the transition from reproductive meristem to floral meristem and flower bud that is arrested or delayed in warm temperatures. We compared the heat response of a highly sensitive genotype, ‘Clara’ and the most resistant available genotype ‘P13xP19’ (P. Griffiths, Cornell). Plants that had just entered the reproductive phase were exposed to temperatures that were either permissive (16/12°C Day/Night) or restrictive (28/22°C Day/Night) for three days, then RNA was isolated from the meristem. The RNA was sequenced, transcripts were identified and relative abundance of each transcript was determined. Transcripts were available corresponding to the genes of interest. The model is that various developmental and environmental cues affect expression of the integrator gene SOC. The expression level of SOC then influences a gene that maintains meristem (TFL1) and one that promotes flower development (LFY). The interplay between those genes in time and space is believed to control how big the meristem will get and when the meristem will start to make flowers. When LFY expression dominates, it promotes expression of AP1 (and paralogs) inducing floral primordia. A gene responsible for the heat sensitivity would have differential expression in heat only in the sensitive genotype. That was the case for TFL1 and one copy of SOC1, but not for the other genes. Therefore, heat sensitivity is caused by genes associated with meristem transition, not with the classic flower-initiation genes.

Speakers

Thomas Bjorkman

Professor Emeritus, Cornell Horticulture

Co-authors

Zachary Stansell

USDA-ARS

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:05pm - 2:15pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Horticultural Plant Reproductive Biology Temp

SUBJECT Horticultural Plant Reproductive Biology

2:15pm HST

EcoPhys/HPRB/PGR - Morpho-physiological Response of Plectranthus amboinicus under Flooding and Drought Stress

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:15pm - 2:25pm HST

South Pacific 3

Water stress is one of the major limiting factors of crop growth and productivity worldwide. Plectranthus amboinicus (Jamaican Thyme) is an aromatic, spicy and medicinal plant which is also valued in the pharmacological industry. Although the plant is generally known to tolerate some levels of drought, its response to sequences of different water stresses is unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of flooding and drought on the growth and development of Plectranthus amboinicus. The treatments were regular watering (RW), flooding (FL), drought (DR), and rehydration (RH) after drought. The result showed that plant height was significantly (p < 0.001) reduced in DR and FL plants while fresh aboveground weight was increased by ca. 17.4% in FL compared to RW. Stomatal conductance and transpiration rates were higher in FL plants but reduced drastically in DR. Moreover, chlorophyll fluorometric indices including maximum quantum yield efficiency of Photosystem II (Fv/Fm) and potential photosynthesis capacity (Fv/Fo) were significantly (p < 0.001) increased in the FL but decreased in DR plants. Leaf relative water content was significantly (p < 0.01) highest in the RH followed by the RW, and the least in DR and DH. Leaf cell electrolyte leakage was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the RH followed by the RW while FL recorded the least cell electrolyte leakage. These results indicate that Jamaican thyme regulates physiological characteristics to tolerate flooding and demonstrate that DR poses a severe threat to plant development.

Speakers

Samuel Asiedu

Dalhousie University

Co-authors

Lord Abbey

Dalhousie University, Faculty of Agriculture

Rapahe Ofoe

Dalhousie University, Faculty of Agriculture

Sparsha Chada

Dalhousie University, Faculty of Agriculture

Zijing Wang

Dalhousie University, Faculty of Agriculture

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:15pm - 2:25pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Plant Growth Regulation

SUBJECT Plant Growth Regulation

2:15pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Phenotypic landscape of the photosynthetic performance and seed productivity of spinach germplasm under organic conditio

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:15pm - 2:25pm HST

South Pacific 4

Identifying suitable genetics for low-input organic spinach production and ensuring an adequate supply of organic seeds are critical challenges for organic spinach breeders. This study comprehensively assessed 300 spinach accessions sourced from the USDA National Germplasm Repository and commercial checks. The field trials were conducted at Uvalde, TX, during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 growing seasons, focusing on biomass and nitrogen use efficiency. During the 2023-24 field trial, natural variations in leaf photosynthetic performance, including carbon assimilation, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic electron transport rate (ETR), and PSII actual photochemical quantum yield (PhiPS2), were analyzed utilizing an LI-6800 gas analyzer. The seed productivity traits, such as yield per plant and 100-seed weight, were evaluated at the Organic Seed Alliance Washington field site. The processed data were employed for Genome-Wide Association Analysis (GWAS) to identify underlying genetics associated with organic productivity and photosynthetic traits. Over 88k Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) dispersed across six chromosomes were utilized in the GWAS after stringent filtering criteria. Significantly associated SNPs and candidate genes were delineated for the targeted photosynthetic traits and seed productivity, shedding light on potential genetic factors influencing these crucial traits in organic spinach breeding programs.

Speakers

Vijay Joshi

Associate Professor, Texas A&M University System

Co-authors

Ainong Shi

Associate Professor, University of Arkasnas

Dr. Ainong Shi is a faculty member in the Department of Horticulture at the University of Arkansas. His research laboratory specializes in plant breeding and genetics, particularly focusing on vegetable crops such as arugula, cowpea, and spinach for cultivar and germplasm development... Read More →

Alice Formiga

Oregon State University

Benedict Analin

Texas A

Micaela Colley

Organic seed Alliance

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:15pm - 2:25pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

2:25pm HST

EcoPhys/HPRB/PGR - Effects of Paclobutrazol, Progressive-raising Temperature and Spike-truncated Treatments on Phalaenopsis Join Grace ‘TH288-4’

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:25pm - 2:35pm HST

South Pacific 3

Phalaenopsis is the most popular potted plant worldwide. However, its long spikes often lead to increased shipping costs and risks. This study investigates the effectiveness of varying the concentration, timing, and frequency of paclobutrazol (PP333) applications on shortening the spike of Phalaenopsis Join Grace ‘TH288-4’. Also we examine on different progressive-raising temperature promoting inflorescence development for prior anthesis, and on spike-truncated treatment optimizing flowering performance. Three experimental groups were established based on different PP333 application schedules: T2, T2T3 and T7T8 group. The PP333 concentrations used were 0, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 mg·L-1, applied as foliar sprays. The shortest spikes, measured from base to first flower, were observed in the T2 group with 750 and 1000 mg·L-1; the T2T3 group treated with 500, 750, and 1000 mg·L-1 PP333; and the T7T8 group treated with 1000 mg·L-1. These treatments resulted in spike lengths of 16.7-22.2 cm, which are 54-69% shorter than the control ones. PP333 application had minimal effects on other traits except root diameter. Subsequently, four experimental groups: G20, G25, G30, and G35 group, were set up based on different final flower induction temperature. Mature plants were applied with 750 mg·L-1 PP333 by foliar spray, after four weeks moved to a cool room as 20/18℃. Until the flower stalk bore 0-3 nodes, the G25, G30 and G35 groups were transferred to 25/20℃. While the flower stalk bore 4-5 nodes, the G30 and G35 group were moved to 30/25℃. When the flower stalk bore 6-7 nodes, the G35 group was finally cultured under 35/30℃. Half of plants were randomly selected and truncated the spikes while the first flower bud was 1-1.5cm long. The spike of the G35 and G30 were truncated on the 21st week, which took only 113 and 117 days from the day started placing at a cool room. The G25 and G20 group took 124 and 138 days respectively. The days to flowering of G35 and G30 group were less than G20 at least by 45 days. However, the flower of G35 group performed unusual and were the smallest. All flowers of spike-truncated plants were bigger than the controls under different temperatures. This study establishes a PP333 treatment and a flower induction temperature protocol, offering a strategy to effectively produce single-flowered phalaenopsis.

Speakers

Yi Chien Rivana Lu

National Chaiyi University

Co-authors

MingHua Lee

National Chiayi University

RongShow Shen

National Chiayi University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:25pm - 2:35pm HST
South Pacific 3

Poster presentation (individual talk), Plant Growth Regulation

SUBJECT Plant Growth Regulation

2:25pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - The Southern Cover Crop Variety Trial Program - Assessing Regional Adaptation of Cover Crop Varieties Across the Souther

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:25pm - 2:35pm HST

South Pacific 4

Cover crops provide numerous ecological benefits to production systems. Maximizing these benefits requires identifying species and varieties that are the best fit both geographically and for the planting/termination time frame dictated by the accompanying cash crop system. In 2019, the University of Tennessee began a cover crop variety trial to help growers make better informed decisions on which of a broad range of cover crop species and varieties worked best in their specific region and production system. In fall 2022, in collaboration with the Southern Cover Crops Council, this trial was expanded to cover a 10-state region of the Southern US (TN, FL, NC, KY, VA, SC, TX, GA, AR, and AL) and became known as the Southern Cover Crop Variety Trial. This trial program is currently in its second year, with each trial year running from fall through the following spring. Trial sites were planted in mid-October each year. Cover crop cover, weed suppression, height, biomass, and estimated nitrogen release were measured in early and late spring. Twenty entries each were evaluated in the 22-23 and 23-24 trial years. However, as a fee-based program, entries were submitted by public and private institutions and varied from year to year. Eleven of the twenty entries were evaluated in both trial years. In year one, top-performers by rank were largely uniform across sites, consisting primarily of cereal rye and hairy vetch varieties. Many clover species, particularly crimson clover, exhibited greater variation in performance ranking among locations. Performance values varied significantly among and within locations, species, and evaluation period. Data collection for year two will be completed in Spring 2023 and will be presented.

Speakers

Virginia Sykes

Dr. Lakesh Sharma is an assistant professor of soil fertility and sustainable agriculture at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL. Lakesh has been farming since he was a child on his own farm. His academic school journey started in 2000. He is currently working on nutrient... Read More →

Lexie Worley

University of Tennessee

Mark Reiter

Virginia Tech

Nick Basinger

University of Georgia

Nithya Rajan

Texas A

Ricardo St Aime

Clemson University

Rick Hitchcock

University of Georgia

S Brooke Keadle

University of Tennessee

Sruthi Narayanan

Clemson University

William Wheeler

Texas A

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:25pm - 2:35pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

2:35pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Production of short, medium and long season specialty crops in high-residue, no-till farming systems

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:35pm - 2:45pm HST

South Pacific 4

When speaking to diversified vegetable crop growers, one of the most often cited challenges is the management of weeds. This issue is even more prevalent for organic growers who lack any effective chemical weed control method and rely on crews to mechanically remove weeds from the fields. One possible alternative is the use of terminated cover crops as mulch on the soil surface to act as a physical barrier to prevent weed emergence. This cover crop mulch can be advantageous for a grower in addition to cover crops improving soil health and providing a habitat for beneficial insects. This experiment compared vegetable beds with cover crops terminated with a roller crimper to bare soil beds on short (squash), intermediate (pepper), and long (eggplant) growing vegetable crops and assessed crop performance. In both 2023 and 2024 a cover crop mix of rye and field peas was successfully terminated and provided ample biomass on the soil surface at the time of vegetable transplanting and throughout their grower and harvest. We found that cover cropped treatments led to improvements in soil fertility, higher numbers of soil-dwelling beneficial insects, and lower weed pressure that led to significantly higher yields. These results demonstrate a potential system for organic growers to integrate into their operation as a practice that can reduce time and labor costs for weed management along with improving the soil fertility and creating a system requiring fewer inputs.

Speakers

Arianna Bozzolo

Rodale Institute

Co-authors

Andrew Smith

Rodale Institute

Jacob Pecenka

Rodale Institute

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:35pm - 2:45pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

2:45pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Comparison of Plastic Mulch and Cover Crops - Roller Crimper Systems on Soil, Weeds and Yield in Strawberry Production

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:45pm - 2:55pm HST

South Pacific 4

While organic production of specialty crops has been highly successful in southern California, it relies heavily on the use of plastic mulch and intensive tillage for weed management. A two-year study conducted from 2022 to 2023 aimed to evaluate the impact of plastic mulch and a cover crop based reduced tillage system using a -roller crimper to terminate cover crops on weed pressure and yield in organic strawberry production. Bare root strawberry crowns of the Albion variety were transplanted into four treatments: 1) Sorghum-sudangrass (S. bicolor x S. sudanense) seeded at 100 kg/ha (Sorghum 1), 2) Sorghum-sudangrass seeded at 200 kg/ha (Sorghum 2), 3) buckwheat seeded at 67 kg/ha, or 4) plastic mulch as standard practice. Cover crops were broadcasted on 1.5 m wide raised beds in May and terminated with a roller crimper in August. Both seeding rates of Sorghum-sudangrass effectively suppressed weed growth before and after termination compared to buckwheat. The significantly lower biomass of buckwheat after termination, relative to the Sorghum-sudangrass treatments, indicates variations in weed suppression efficacy among cover crops. Total differences in soil moisture, calculated based on data collected weekly from after cover crop termination to end of harvest, indicate that all treatments resulted in lower soil moisture levels compared to the plastic control, with the buckwheat treatment showing the most significant decrease. At harvest there were no significant differences between plastic mulch and Sorghum-sudangrass 1 and 2 treatments, indicating comparable yields. Buckwheat resulted in the lowest yield, experiencing a 50% reduction compared to plastic mulch. Based on the findings, plastic mulch and Sorghum-sudangrass planted at different seeding rates can be considered effective alternatives for weed suppression and maintaining yields comparable to conventional plastic mulching. The choice between Sorghum-sudangrass seeding rates may depend on factors such as cost, availability, and specific field conditions. The reduced biomass production of buckwheat compared to Sorghum-sudangrass, coupled with its rapid decomposition rate, resulted in diminished efficacy of buckwheat in weed suppression. Consequently, reduced weed control was observed, leading to significantly lower yields in buckwheat-treated plots compared to Sorghum-sudangrass and control treatments. These findings suggest that buckwheat may not be a viable option for organic strawberry production under comparable conditions, emphasizing the importance of selecting cover crops with longer-lasting weed-suppressive qualities.

Speakers

Arianna Bozzolo

Rodale Institute

Co-authors

Andrew Smith

Rodale Insitute

Jacob Pecenka

Rodale Institute

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:45pm - 2:55pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

2:55pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Impacts of Organic Soil Amendments on Hemp Production

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:55pm - 3:05pm HST

South Pacific 4

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a highly versatile crop that has attracted considerable attention among farmers due to its diverse applications. Recent studies have sought to establish a fundamental understanding and baseline of the nutritional requirements of hemp, opening up possibilities for organic hemp production. Our research focuses specifically on evaluating the productivity of a floral hemp variety using different regenerative practices, with a particular emphasis on organic soil amendments that promote soil health in Piedmont area of North Carolina. The field experiment was conducted at North Carolina A

Speakers

Arnab Bhowmik

Associate Professor, North Carolina A&T State University

Co-authors

Dipti Rai

North Carolina A

Kennedy Wimbish

North Carolina A

Wednesday September 25, 2024 2:55pm - 3:05pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture, Hemp

3:05pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Biomass Source of Biochar and Genetic Background of Tomato Influence Plant Growth and Development and Fruit Quality

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:05pm - 3:15pm HST

South Pacific 4

The evolving effects of climate change and intensive agricultural practices have adversely affected soil health and crop yields. This necessitates the need to maintain and improve soil health for sustainable food production. Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from pyrolysis of biomass is being considered as a novel soil amendment that can potentially restore soil health and improve crop yields. Several studies have reported both positive and negative effects of biochar on crop yields while focusing mainly on one type of biochar and a single plant cultivar. However, the effects of different types of biochar and its interaction with plants with different genetic backgrounds has remained unexplored. In this study, we evaluated the impact of six different biochars on the growth performance and fruit quality of three tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) cultivars. The hypotheses that (1) biochars derived from different feedstock sources would produce unique phenotypes in a single cultivar of tomato, and (2) single feedstock-derived biochar would produce different phenotypes in each of the three tomato cultivars were supported by obtained results. This study demonstrated that plant genetic background and biomass source are important variables to consider for using biochar as a soil amendment.

Speakers

Rishikesh Ghogare

Texas A

Washington State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:05pm - 3:15pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture, Bioenergy

3:15pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Nitrogen Utilization from Compost in Organic Strawberries

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:15pm - 3:25pm HST

South Pacific 4

Strawberries are typically grown in high tunnels in the Intermountain West region to protect the flowers and buds from early and late-season frosts and extend the growing season. Organic farmers rely on N mineralization from organic sources to supply plant-available N which can be inadequate for plant needs, especially when temperatures are low. To support cultivar selection for organic strawberry production in high tunnels, greenhouse cultivar trials were conducted to determine if some strawberries grow better on compost than others. Plants were grown for six weeks in a mixture of turface and peat moss with and without compost. A complete liquid fertilizer with and without added N was supplied daily. Leaf, crown, and root dry weights, tissue, and compost N at the beginning and end of each trial were measured and leachate was collected daily and analyzed for nitrate and ammonium. Plant chlorophyll was determined at the end of the experiment. Plants that received liquid N fertilizer grew more, absorbed more N, and had a higher chlorophyll reading compared to plants that received the compost and N-free fertilizer treatment. Ammonium was leached out of the compost-treated pots in the first two weeks while little nitrate was lost. Some cultivars performed better than others on the compost treatment. This suggests that some strawberry cultivars are better able to grow on organic nitrogen sources than others but, additional N fertilization may be needed.

Speakers

Mark Kindred

Grad Student, Utah State University

I am a graduate student at Utah State University working on my master's degree in Dr Jennifer Reeve's lab. I got my bachelor's in plant science and Asian studies from Utah State University. While I was an undergrad, I worked in Jennifer Reeve's lab. When I graduated, I was offered... Read More →

Co-authors

Brent Black

Utah State University

Jennifer Reeve

Utah State University

Robert Schaeffer

Utah State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:15pm - 3:25pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

3:25pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Interactions between photoselective plastics and insect pest dynamics in an organic brassica vegetable system

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:25pm - 3:35pm HST

South Pacific 4

Brassica crops are susceptible to a variety of insect pests of particular significance in organic production systems, including flea beetles, aphids, and lepidopteran caterpillar pests. These pests are abundant on brassicaceous vegetable crops throughout the U.S. and populations frequently are high enough to significantly reduce crop quality. There is an increased interest among small and mid-size vegetable growers to adopt poly-covered tunnels to protect high value horticultural crops. Tunnel production allows for season extension, can protect crops from adverse weather conditions, improve the quality of horticultural crops, and may also influence plant-insect dynamics. Photoselective poly coverings influence light wavelength and transmission in tunnel environments and may affect plant physiological responses as well as incidence of disease and herbivory by insect pests. Here, we explored the impact of UV light blocking and UV light transmitting poly coverings on Lacinato kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) production and the effects on pest and beneficial insect populations in a tunnel environment compared to an open field system on certified organic land in Morris, MN. Our results showed that total kale harvestable yield was similar between the poly covered tunnels and open field plot treatments. No differences in yield or insect pest pressure were observed between UV light blocking or transmitting poly covered tunnels but were observed between tunnels and the open field environment. Imported cabbageworm populations were 75% higher in tunnels versus open field plots (P=.0023), however the inverse was observed for cabbage loopers, which were 60% higher in open field plots (P=.0072). No flea beetles were found in tunnels, and an average of 1 beetle/plant was observed in open field plots. Diamond back moth and aphid populations were not different between the tunnel and the open field plots. Overall, insect pest populations did not reach economically damaging thresholds during the study period, likely due to the field plot location which did not have a history of brassica production. Our results showed that light transmission and ambient air temperatures were similar under the photoselective poly coverings. We observed that pest pressure increases rapidly in tunnel environments as the season progressed regardless of poly covering. Although our study did not observe differences in the yield or quality of kale across production systems, there were differences in insect pest populations across systems, indicating a different management approach may be needed to prevent crop damage in tunnel environments.

Speakers

Dilip Nandwani

Professor, Tennessee State University

Co-authors

Aimee Foster

University of Minnesota

Leah Worth

University of Minnesota

Mary Rogers

University of Minnesota

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:25pm - 3:35pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

3:35pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation: A Non-chemical Approach to Managing Weeds and Nematodes in Sweetpotato

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:35pm - 3:45pm HST

South Pacific 4

Anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) is a promising organic pest management strategy and is an alternative to chemical-led approaches that has shown potential to manage weeds and soil-borne pathogens in organic vegetable production systems. ASD is facilitated by incorporating carbon sources into the soil, tarping the soil with plastic mulch, and irrigating to the soil saturation point. To evaluate the impact of ASD on weed and nematode management in organic-grown sweetpotato, greenhouse studies were conducted at Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina. Experiments were laid out in a randomized complete block design in 2-gallon microcosms with two carbon sources [ASD (soil amended with chicken manure + molasses as carbon source) and non-ASD (non-amended control)] in the main plot and twenty sweetpotato genotypes in subplots. Three-week-old seedlings of tomato (cv. Rutgers) were planted in each microcosm followed by inoculation with 10,000 eggs of the southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita). ASD was initiated one month post inoculation to allow nematodes to complete one life cycle. At the time of the ASD initiation, each microcosm was also inoculated with weed seeds [yellow nutsedge (10 tubers) and carpet weed (100 seeds)]. ASD was conducted for three weeks, followed by the transplantation of sweetpotato slips after one week of ASD termination. Weed counts, abundance of nematode second stage juveniles (J2) in soil, and sweetpotato above ground biomass data were collected. Our results suggested that the microcosms receiving the carbon amendment spent the most time under anaerobic conditions (<200 mvh). ASD lowered weed cover percentage (78%), individual weed count of yellow nutsedge (75%), and carpet weed (70%) as compared to non-ASD. The soil abundance of nematode J2 varied among the sweetpotato lines, with the lowest number observed in sweetpotato cultivar Ruddy (23/100 cm3 of soil) under ASD treatment. However, commercial cultivar Beauregard supported the greatest population under non-amended treatment (163/100 cm3 of soil). ASD treatment had significantly higher above-ground biomass (9.1 g) of sweetpotato compared to the non-ASD controls (4.2 g). Results of this greenhouse studies will be validated under field conditions.

Speakers

Simardeep Singh

Clemson University

Co-authors

Churamani Khanal

Clemson University

Matthew Cutulle

Clemson

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:35pm - 3:45pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

3:45pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Potential Establishment of Entomopathogenic Fungi as an Endophyte in Citrus Trees Over Time

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:45pm - 3:55pm HST

South Pacific 4

Entomopathogenic fungi offer an alternative strategy for citrus growers seeking environmentally friendly pest management solutions. This study aimed to assess the ability of a commercial strain of the fungus Beauveria bassiana to become endophytic in citrus plants after a single foliar application. A completely randomized block design, consisting of ‘Valencia’ sweet orange trees (Citrus × sinensis) grafted on ‘US-942’ (Citrus reticulata × Poncirus trifoliata) rootstock, was established under greenhouse conditions. Treatments comprised 6 replications of treated plants in two separate greenhouses (n = 16 per greenhouse), along with one control (water only). Treated plants were foliar sprayed asynchronously with the fungus at the beginning of each experimental trial per treatment. To assess endophytism over time, a series of cohorts were destructively sampled every two months. Spore deposition was assessed using cover slips post-spray application of all treatments. Additionally, detached leaves collected post-spray were imprinted on potato dextrose agar (PDA), amended with dodine and bactericides, to determine spore coverage of the leaf surface by counting colony forming units. To assess endophytism, sterile samples of plant organs (i.e., leaves, stems, and roots) were placed onto PDA-dodine plates to allow detection of phenotypic mycelia. Results from the first cohorts indicated successful application of the fungi on the citrus leaves, and endophytism was assessed after two months. Additionally, no statistically significant changes were recorded in terms of plant height, root, stem, and leaf biomass, as well as stem girth. This project contributed to a clearer understanding of the long-term endophytic persistence of commercially available entomopathogenic fungi and their effect on plant growth in citrus trees. The trial will continue in the field for additional screening.

Speakers

Joseph Paoli

University Of Florida

I am a Master's student at the University of Florida based at the Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC). I am a long-time Florida resident, having gone to Middle and High School in Central Florida before enrolling at the University of Florida. During my four years of... Read More →

Poster presentation (individual talk), Organic Horticulture

SUBJECT Organic Horticulture

3:55pm HST

ORGH/BioECP - Impact of Biosolid Compost on Basil Plant Growth and Physiology

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:55pm - 4:05pm HST

South Pacific 4

Biosolids, derived from treated sewage sludge, represent a significant resource in agricultural production, with approximately 70 percent being utilized for land application in the United States. Recognized for their potential as organic fertilizers, biosolids undergo meticulous processing to meet grade AA standards before being blended with locally sourced organic materials, such as woody yard debris, in preparation for municipal distribution.
This study delves into the effects of biosolids on plant growth rates using various concentrations ranging from 0% to 30%. Findings revealed that different concentrations of biosolids in soil significantly delay germination by up to two days. Through replicated mesocosm experiments at the Southwest Florida Research and Extension Center (SWFREC), UF/IFAS, Immokalee, we also evaluated the effects of biosolids on basil (Ocimum bacilicum) growth and physiology. Basil was cultivated in half-gallon pots containing various soil amendments of biosolids compost in concentrations of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 30% over a 60-day period.
Comprehensive data collection includes measurements of plant height, leaf chlorophyll content, photosynthetic gas exchange, Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), fresh and dry plant biomass, and visual ratings. Data analysis of weekly and post-harvest collected data analyzes the implications of biosolid usage in agriculture, shedding light on significant effects on crop productivity, and agricultural sustainability. The treatments with higher biosolid compost concentrations showed an increase in plant productivity, specifically, the fresh biomass of the 30% treatment was 45% more than in the control.
Keywords: Biosolids, Organic Fertilizer, Compost, Soil Contaminants, Basil (Ocimum bacilicum), Plant Physiology, Agricultural Systems.

Speakers

MADELEINE TENNY

Florida Gulf Coast University

Co-authors

John Griffis

Florida Gulf Coast University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:55pm - 4:05pm HST
South Pacific 4

Poster presentation (individual talk), Bioenergy and Co-Products Temp

SUBJECT Bioenergy, Organic Horticulture

4:15pm HST

CE 2 -Carbohydrate Synthesis and Freeze Tolerance of Clonal-type Bermudagrasses as Affected by Mowing Heights During Cold Acclimation and Deacclimation Process

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:15pm - 4:25pm HST

Coral 2

Bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) is a prominent warm-season turfgrass extensively utilized across golf courses, athletic fields, home lawns, and recreational areas due to its excellent heat tolerance, good traffic tolerance, and strong recuperative potential. Despite its strengths, winter survivability in colder climates remains a concern. Research has revealed variations in freeze tolerance across bermudagrass cultivars, yet there's a gap in understanding the underlying physiological mechanisms and the impact of cold acclimation and deacclimation processes. Additionally, the influence of mowing height on carbohydrate synthesis and freeze tolerance has been reported. To address these gaps, a study utilizing turfgrass plugs from different acclimation stages was conducted in a freeze chamber. The objective of this study was to examine freeze tolerance and carbohydrate synthesis in four clonal-type bermudagrass varieties ('Tifway’, ‘Tahoma 31’, ‘Astro’, and ‘TifTuf’) under mowing heights of 0.5” and 1.5” across various cold acclimation and deacclimation stages. The plugs were subjected to soil temperatures ranging from -5°C to -12°C, with survival assessed after three weeks to determine the lethal temperature (LT50) for each condition. Rhizome carbohydrate levels at each stage were determined. The correlation between rhizome carbohydrate level and freeze tolerance was determined. The data from this study is currently being analyzed.

Speakers

Mingying Xiang

Oklahoma State University

Co-authors

Dennis Martin

Oklahoma State University

Lu Zhang

Oklahoma State University

Shuhao Yu

Oklahoma State University

Yanwei Sun

Oklahoma State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:15pm - 4:25pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

4:25pm HST

CE 2 - Understanding Photoperiod Effects on Seed and Seedling Quality in Soybean Speed Breeding

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:25pm - 4:35pm HST

Coral 2

Soybean is a short-day plant, which means that days must be shorter than a critical value to induce flowering. Manipulating the photoperiod regime is a well-known way to shorten plant cycles in speeding breeding programs. However, the impact of the photoperiod on the quality of the produced seeds is not well understood. Here, we investigate how photoperiod affected the seed and seedling quality in soybean plants, grown in a controlled environment. Soybean (Glycine max) plants (var. S16-14801C and CZ7570LL) were grown in growth chambers with controlled temperature (27 ± 0.5˚C), CO2 (475 ± 15 µmol mol-1), humidity (70 ± 5.0%), and light (300 ± 5 µmol m-2 s-1 at table; 20% blue,10% green, 70% red). One week after germination, seedlings were exposed to different photoperiod regimes: i) 10 h (0 w at 18 h), ii) two weeks at 18 h and then 10 h (2 w at 18 h), iii) four weeks at 18 h and then 10 h (4 w at 18 h); iv) six weeks at 18 h and then 10 h (6 w at 18 h). The plants were grown in the described treatments until the R8 stage (95% brown pods), without changing the light fixture height (industry standard practice). A sample of seeds was harvested and analyzed regarding quality while other samples were placed to germinate in seed germination paper to evaluate germination rate and seedling growth for 10 days. Similar results were found for both varieties; plants of all treatments presented different heights, in which plants at 0 w at 18 h were shorter (50 cm) and 6 w at 18 h taller (180 cm). Treatments did not affect the moisture or weight of 100 seeds. Conversely, germination and seedling survival were 30% lower in seeds from plants 0 w at 18 h than in other treatments. Similar results were found for the root (13% lower in 0 w at 18 h) and shoot length (19% lower in 0 w at 18 h) of seedlings. However, the dry weight of seedlings was similar among treatments. Manipulating the photoperiod can speed up the plant cycle and is a good alternative for speed-breading programs. However, extreme photoperiods and low daily light integral can produce seeds and seedlings with lower quality that can influence the production of plants of the next generation.

Speakers

Cristiane da Silva

Postdoctoral Research Scholar, North Carolina State University

I'm Cristiane, a plant physiologist with experience in plant biochemistry and plant responses to abiotic stress. Currently, I'm a post-doc at NCSU studying the effects of light on plant life cycles to expedite breeding purposes in crop and tree species. When I'm not working, I enjoy... Read More →

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

4:30pm HST

CHEX/FP - Evaluation of Irrigation Strategies in Watermelons

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:30pm - 4:40pm HST

Lehua Suite

The Lower Rio Grande Valley farmers traditionally irrigate vegetable crops with furrow irrigation systems. To conserve water and mitigate the effects of droughts, there is a need to adopt more efficient irrigation and fertilization methods and practices in vegetable crops to increase crop production quality and profitability. Farmers that use furrow irrigation systems apply from 4 to 6 inches per irrigation depending on their furrow length and apply more than five irrigations during the vegetable growing season, and using between 20 inches (1.7 ac-ft) and 40 inches (3.3 ac-ft) of irrigation water in their fields. Vegetables have a shallow root system, so farmers must irrigate frequently to maintain good moisture levels during the growing season for optimum growth, possibly wasting water. We use image analysis derived from Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and irrigation soil water sensors to provide management recommendations to schedule drip and surface irrigation to conserve additional amounts of water. We established replicated research experiments using subsurface drip irrigation and soil water sensors (watermark sensors) to irrigate watermelons and other vegetable crops. We grew plants under three different water levels to trigger irrigation (50, 75, and 100 cb). A drip irrigation system with plastic mulch was placed in the field, as well as soil-water sensors, to measure and monitor the soil moisture. After calculating the water used in the three water level treatments, the 50 cb treatment used 0.27 ac-ft, the 75 cb treatment used 0.24 cb and 0.22 ac-ft was used by the 100 cb treatment. According to our results, we could conserve up to 3.0 ac-ft with our recommendations. We concluded that watermelons could be managed when the soil-water sensor readings range between 50 and 75 CB and approximately 0.3 ac-ft of water using subsurface drip irrigation. We obtained an average yield of 53,536 lb/ac, when irrigated under the 50 cb treatment, 42,059 lb/ac at 75 cb, and 36,719 lb/ac at 100 cb.

Speakers

Juan Enciso

Texas A

Co-authors

Carlos Avila

Texas A

Ittipon Khuimphukhieo

Texas A

Jose Chavez

Texas A

Kranthi Mandadi

Texas A

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:30pm - 4:40pm HST
Lehua Suite

Poster presentation (individual talk), Commercial Horticulture 1

SUBJECT Commercial Hort, Federal Partners

4:35pm HST

CE 2 - Identifying the Optimal Range of pH Management for Hydroponic Leafy Vegetables

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:35pm - 4:45pm HST

Coral 2

In hydroponics, the pH of the nutrient solution influences the solubility and availability of essential nutrients. The optimal pH for plant nutrient uptake in many crop species is around 6.0. However, the impacts of precise pH management on plant nutrient uptake, crop yield, and the optimal pH range remain less clear. In this study, we investigated the effects of pH management range on plant nutrient uptake and the growth of hydroponic leafy vegetables. Within an indoor vertical farm, we grew lettuce (Lactuca sativa) 'Rex,' kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) 'Red Russian,' and arugula (Eruca sativa) 'Astro' using deep water culture hydroponics at the air temperature of 22 °C under a photosynthetic photon flux density of 200 μmol∙m−2∙s−1 with a 24-h photoperiod. The experiment included six pH treatments: pH 6, 6±0.5, 6±1.0, 6±1.5, 6±2.0, and without pH control. Compared to managing pH at 6, maintaining pH within 6±1.0 had generally similar impacts on leaf number, leaf area, SPAD index, shoot and root fresh mass, and shoot and root dry mass in all three crops. However, when compared to managing pH at 6, maintaining pH at 6±1.5 or greater reduced leaf area (by 32-47% in lettuce, by 30-41% in kale, or by 56-65% in arugula) and shoot fresh mass (by 33-54% in lettuce, by 37-45% in kale, or by 48-64% in arugula). Furthermore, in comparison to managing pH at 6, maintaining pH at 6±1.5 or greater also decreased leaf number in lettuce by 3-5 leaves and in arugula by 13-15 leaves but increased the root fresh mass of lettuce by 26-43%. Our results suggest that maintaining pH within 6±1.0 can be effective in promoting optimal nutrient uptake and overall plant development in the context of hydroponic cultivation.

Speakers

Yujin Park

Arizona State University

Co-authors

Matthew Easter

Arizona State University

Zhihao Chen

Arizona State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:35pm - 4:45pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

4:40pm HST

CHEX/FP - Advances in Phytophthora, Pythium, and Phytopythium Species Detection, Isolation, Culture, Diagnostics, and Virulence Rejuvenation

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:40pm - 4:50pm HST

Lehua Suite

Not only are Phytophthora, Pythium, and interesting Phytopythium species potentially devastating horticultural pathogens, they regularly present challenges in vitro. In this study, multiple established and novel methodologies were built upon to bolster researchers’ ability to quickly isolate, differentiate, and promote virulence of multiple oomycetes principally collected from symptomatic conifers and nearby water sources. These methods allow greater flexibility in generating clean mycelial cultures for genetic characterization, varying pathogen structures for use in novel bioassays (such as synchronized production of sporangia or zoospores), and ultimately inoculations to evaluate oomycide efficacy or make headway towards completion of Koch’s postulates for previously uncharacterized host: pathogen pairings. Phytopythium vexans (Pp. vexans) (n=8 isolates), three Phytophthora species / species complexes including P. cinnamomi (n=10), P. cryptogea / drechsleri complex (n=4) and P. humicola (n=2), as well as 5 tentative species of Pythium, were evaluated. Isolations took two forms, standard root sampling onto Phytophthora selective media (PARPH), or water-based sampling through a modified ‘baiting/trapping’ technique that utilized on-site collected water samples in the laboratory. The ‘baits’ were Cannabis sativa seed, Vigna radiata beans, and Rhododendron maximum leaves suspended in aerated water samples or slurry of silt/soil. Samples were evaluated on V8-agar (V8A), pea agar (PA), pea broth (PB), potato dextrose agar (PDA), cornmeal agar (CMA), and water agar (WA), each of which provided distinct morphological indicators and structures useful in diagnostic guides and in bioassays or inoculations. As is typical with all plant pathogens, the longer they remain in culture, the less virulent they may become. With oomycetes, this is compounded as the pathogen will often go into chlamydospore or oospore formation (long lived survival structures) which are not ideal for experimentation. Inclusion of germinated then surface sterilized (70% ethanol for 30s) Vigna radiata and Lupinus perennis sprouts into recently poured (still liquid) 1/8 clarified V8 juice agar (1/8 clV8A) provided a media capable of rejuvenating the pathogen due to presence of living roots and dynamic plant nutrients. This allows for more predictability of zoospore formation, especially if they are intended to be used with a time sensitive trials. In numerous incidences multiple species of Phytophthora and Phytopythium vexans isolates went into zoospore release simultaneously by utilizing these approaches in combination with resource starvation and culture washing with sterile distilled water. Taken together these approaches will greatly aid any researcher working with root disease oomycetes in culture.

Speakers

William Errickson

Rutgers University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:40pm - 4:50pm HST
Lehua Suite

Poster presentation (individual talk), Commercial Horticulture 1

SUBJECT Commercial Hort, Federal Partners

4:45pm HST

CE 2 - Enhancing Iron Bioavailability in Hydroponic Leafy Greens by Iron Chelators

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:45pm - 4:55pm HST

Coral 2

Iron is an essential micronutrient for the growth and development of both plants and humans, as it plays vital roles in processes such as protein synthesis, respiration and DNA replication. Leafy greens, vital dietary sources of iron, can be cultivated with increased bioavailable iron through hydroponics by customizing nutrient solutions. Conventionally, iron chelates like EDTA and DTPA, are used in hydroponics, but challenges persist in iron acquisition due to their pH dependency as well as quick oxidation to ferric ion which is harder to uptake by plants. Good sources of chelates that respond well to high pH values, like EDDHA, are often more expensive. Studies suggest that iron complexed with humic substances exhibits higher efficiency, though confirmation in large-scale hydroponic systems is still needed. Fulvic acids are water-soluble humic substances with lower molecular weights that hold promise as alternatives or supplements to synthetic chelates, enhancing iron uptake and stress tolerance. Hydroponic systems, such as Deep-Water Culture (DWC) or Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), impact plant growth and nutrient uptake differently based on temperature, EC, and pH. This research compared the effects of various iron chelators on lettuce and kale cultivation in DWC and NFT systems. Results indicate significant yield loss in iron-deficient kale, while iron-chelated solutions enhanced yields. The addition of fulvic acid to EDTA-chelated solutions notably improved kale yield in DWC compared to no iron and EDTA-only solutions. Leafy greens showed higher chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm ratio) and chlorophyll content in DWC compared to NFT. The results showed species-specific and system-specific responses. Notably, iron-chelated plants exhibit higher iron content correlating with increased shoot weight and chlorophyll content. The effect of fulvic acids and synthetic chelates might be synergistic, with both providing different advantages that can be complementary in hydroponic solutions. This study highlights the importance of iron management in hydroponics and the way forward for iron fortification techniques.

Speakers

ASMITA NAGILA

Graduate Research Assistant, Texas A&M university

Co-authors

Daniel Leskovar

Texas A

Seunghyun Choi

Texas A

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:45pm - 4:55pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

4:50pm HST

CHEX/FP - Effect of Planting Date on Strawberry Yield

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:50pm - 5:00pm HST

Lehua Suite

Optimizing planting date for strawberry in California production is a sustainable measure to maximize yield and maintain plant health. The goal of this project is to assess the optimal planting date for two predominant cultivars: 'Monterey' and 'Fronteras'. The trial was conducted in field 25 at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. The experimental area consisted of 3 beds, each 53.5 ft. long. Standard 64-inch beds with 4 rows of plants per bed and 3 lines of drip tape were used. Beds were planted at two-week intervals: 26 Oct, 9 Nov, 23 Nov 2022. Each bed was planted with four plots of ‘Monterey’ and four plots of ‘Fronteras’ (20 plants/plot). Plug plants were produced at North Carolina State University’s nursery and shipped overnight to Cal Poly and planted in the field the next day. First harvest was 13 Apr 2023 when the first fully red fruit were observed. Fruit were harvested, counted, and weighed twice weekly. The trial was completed 8 Aug 2023 and replicated in the 2024 growing season.

Speakers

Samantha Simard

Cal Poly- San Luis Obispo

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:50pm - 5:00pm HST
Lehua Suite

Poster presentation (individual talk), Commercial Horticulture 1

SUBJECT Commercial Hort, Federal Partners

4:55pm HST

CE 2 - Effects of Mycorrhiza and Biochar Interactions on Geraniums

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:55pm - 5:05pm HST

Coral 2

Biochar has long been proposed to be a substitute for peat in soilless mixes for greenhouse growing. Low levels of biochar have been shown to increase disease resistance, increase nutrient supply and uptake, and immobilize phytotoxic substances. Due to its high porosity and pH, biochar has the potential to provide an ideal habitat for mycorrhizal fungi to partner with plant roots. This study examined how various mycorrhiza sources interacted with different biochar rates to effect geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum L. ‘Maverick Red’). Four different mycorrhizal sources were used in addition to a control containing no mycorrhiza: two commercial sources, MycoBloom and BioAg Vam-Endo, spores extracted from agricultural soils, and spores extracted from prairie soil, with four biochar rates implemented: 0, 15, 30, and 45%. Media with biochar incorporated remained saturated for longer periods after irrigation than pots filled with straight BM-7 peat-media. Prairie soil combined with 15% biochar-BM7 media formed buds and began to flower before all other treatments. Results suggest that biochar and mycorrhiza may pair well to improve potted plant growing.

Speakers

Teal Hendrickson

Oklahoma State University

Co-authors

Bruce Dunn

Oklahoma State University

Gail Wilson

Oklahoma State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:55pm - 5:05pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

5:00pm HST

CH/FP - Outcomes of the Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Summit in New Mexico

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:00pm - 5:10pm HST

Lehua Suite

The aims of the federal initiative Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) are multifaceted: 1) Foster responsible management of the nation's natural resources through the dissemination of location-specific, regional, and sustainable agricultural and ranching techniques, 2) Improve the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers, 3) Safeguard the well-being of individuals involved in food and agricultural systems by reducing reliance on harmful substances, 4) Encourage agricultural variety and resilience, and 5) Assess the local economic, social, and environmental impacts of adopting sustainable agricultural practices. To achieve these goals, SARE offers numerous grant opportunities for research projects, catering to farmers, ranchers, non-governmental organizations, and universities. SARE operates across four regions within the United States. New Mexico is in the Western region (WSARE) which is composed of individual state professional development programs in the area’s 13 states and 4 Pacific Island protectorates. In 2023, the NM WSARE Professional Development Program coordinated a Sustainable Agriculture Summit to better prioritize research and training needs in the state. The event was held in Santa Fe, NM, USA on 30 March, with a total of 58 participants in the full-day event. Among them were 32 agriculture professionals and 26 farmers and ranchers. The event consisted of two main sessions, a panel discussion, followed by an open forum. The panel was comprised of past Western SARE grant recipients and individuals who had submitted proposals, they provided overviews of their projects. Following the panel, summit participants engaged in a brainstorming session to identify critical sustainable agriculture project needs for producers in NM, focusing on research and training needs not previously emphasized in past funding. The priority areas identified by the participants were, in order of importance, 1) Irrigation/water use efficiency, 2) Farm economics, direct markets, and direct sales, 3) Non-traditional production, 4) Pest management, 5) Labor aids and technology adaptation, and 6) Generational transfer of farms and ranches. Each of these priorities was clearly outlined, and potential projects were identified accordingly. The outcomes of this summit were communicated to WSARE, the NM Department of Agriculture, and other funding agencies, offering valuable feedback to guide future proposals and funding initiatives in NM.

Speakers

Mariela Estrada

New Mexico State University

Co-authors

Israel Joukhadar

New Mexico State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:00pm - 5:10pm HST
Lehua Suite

Poster presentation (individual talk), Federal Partners

SUBJECT Federal Partners

5:05pm HST

CE 2 - Exploring Different Nutrient Solution Quantities to Optimize Quantity and Quality in Hydroponic Production

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:05pm - 5:15pm HST

Coral 2

Nutrient solutions play a crucial role in determining crop yield and quality, with optimized quantities offering sustainability benefits. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research regarding the optimal nutrient application quantity for various leafy green vegetables in recirculating hydroponic cultivation. To address this research gap, we proposed a project on different nutrient application quantities using the nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic system in a greenhouse with three replications during the fall (air temp: 24.22°C, RH: 31.2%), winter (air temp: 15.5 °C, RH: 73.3%) and early spring (air temp: 13.7 °C, RH: 72.4% ). The project focused on exploring different nutrient solution quantities of Low (76 liters), Medium (114 liters), and High (151 liters) nutrient regimens for six different leafy green vegetable species and cultivars common in Kansas including red butter lettuce (Lectuca sativa), green butter lettuce (Lectuca sativa), arugula (Eruca sativa), kale (Brassica oleracea), red malabar spinach (Basella alba), and basil (Ocimum basilicum). Our results showed that green butter lettuce and basil remained unaffected by the treatments throughout the study. Additionally, plant height, leaf count, and SPAD value for all species remained consistent across treatments and seasons. However, during the fall, the shoot fresh weight of red butter lettuce and kale increased by 7.11% and 21.1%, respectively, in the high-nutrient regimen. Moreover, the dry shoot weight of kale increased by 18.7% in the high-nutrient regimen, while the dry shoot weight of the red malabar spinach increased by 10.3% in the low-nutrient regimen. In contrast, during winter, the shoot fresh weight of red butter lettuce increased by 18.9% and 25.0%, respectively, in medium nutrient regimens compared to low and high nutrient regimens. Similarly, the shoot fresh weight of red malabar spinach increased by 15.3% and 25.0%, respectively, in low-nutrient regimens compared to medium and high-nutrient regimens. During early spring, the shoot fresh weight of red butter lettuce increased by 17.9-18.0% and that of arugula increased by 17.8% in the high-nutrient regimen, compared to low and medium nutrient regimens. In summary, the high-nutrient regimen benefited red butter lettuce and kale in fall and arugula in early spring. Conversely, during winter, the medium nutrient regimen benefited red butter lettuce, while the low nutrient regimen benefited red malabar spinach. The results from this experiment identified the optimal nutrient application quantity which helps to reduce nutrient waste for vital leafy vegetables in Kansas for different seasons and offers valuable production guidelines for local growers.

Speakers

Puja Subedi

Kansas State University

I am a graduate research assistant working at the Kansas University Olathe, 22201 W Innovation Dr, Olathe, KS 66061. My major is urban food system under the department of horticulture and natural resources. Currently, I am working in the hydroponics research project.

Co-authors

Teng Yang

Kansas State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:05pm - 5:15pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

5:15pm HST

CE 2 - How Does Supplementing Dissolved Oxygen Impact Hydroponic Strawberry Production?

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:15pm - 5:25pm HST

Coral 2

Oxygen is crucial for the growth and nutrient uptake of plant roots, especially in crops like strawberries that demand high levels of oxygen in their root zones. However, in hydroponic systems, the nutrient solution is often inadequately oxygenated. In this study, we examined the effects of supplementing dissolved oxygen (DO) into the nutrient solution on the growth of strawberry plants. Inside an indoor vertical farm, bare-root plants of strawberry ‘Albion’ and ‘Eversweet’ were grown using deep water culture hydroponics under a controlled environment of 23 °C air temperature and an 18-h photoperiod, with an extended photosynthetic photon flux density of 350 µmol∙m –2 ∙s –1 . The DO concentration of the nutrient solution was maintained at control levels (no adjustment) or supplemented using an air pump or an oxygen concentrator. The average DO concentrations in the control condition was 70%, while supplementing the nutrient solution with an air pump or an oxygen concentrator increased the average DO concentration to 85% and 100%, respectively. Supplementing with DO had minimal to no effect on the days to root of strawberry bare root plants in both cultivars. Four weeks after the DO treatments, root length, crown diameter, leaf area, and fresh mass of shoot and root were also similar in both cultivars regardless of DO concentration. The effects of supplementing DO on flowering and fruit production will also be presented.

Speakers

Jonathan Ries

Arizona State University

Co-authors

Yujin Park

Arizona State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:15pm - 5:25pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE

5:25pm HST

CE 2 - Exploring Different EC Levels to Optimize Quantity and Quality in Hydroponic Production

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:25pm - 5:35pm HST

Coral 2

Efficient nutrient management is the key to successful hydroponic production. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research regarding the optimal electrical conductivity (EC) levels for various leafy green vegetables in recirculating hydroponic cultivation. To address this research gap, we experimented with different EC levels using the nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic system in a greenhouse with three replications during the fall (air temp: 24.22°C, RH: 31.2%) winter (air temp: 15.5 °C, RH: 73.3%) and early spring (air temp: 13.7 °C, RH: 72.4%). The experiment was conducted using three different EC levels (1.2, 1.8, and 2.4 mS/cm) for six different leafy green vegetables kale (Brassica oleracea) ‘Winter bor F1’ and ‘Toscano’, swiss chard (Beta vulgaris), basil (Ocimum basilicum) ‘Prospera® Compact DMR (PL4)’ and ‘large leaf’ and red malabar spinach (Basella alba). Our results showed that, during the fall, the shoot fresh weight of the ‘Winter bor F1’ increased by 13.1 % in EC 2.4 compared to EC 1.2 and that of Swiss chard increased by 8.3-20.6% in EC 2.4 compared to EC 1.2 and 1.8 while that of ‘Prospera® Compact DMR (PL4)’ basil increased by 13.1-13.9 % in EC 1.8 compared to EC 1.2 and 2.4. In contrast during the winter, the shoot fresh weight of ‘Toscano’ kale, ‘Winter bor F1’ kale, and ‘large leaf’ basil increased by 11.2-17.8%, 18.9-20.8%, and 13.2-14.7%, respectively in EC 2.4 compared to EC 1.2 and 1.8, while that of ‘Prospera® Compact DMR (PL4)’ basil increased by 19.2 % in EC 1.2 compared to the EC 2.4. However, during the early spring, only the shoot fresh weight of ‘Winter bor F1’ kale in EC 1.8 was increased by 10.0 % compared to EC 1.2, while the plant height and fresh shoot weight of large leaf basil was increased slightly by 3.1-5.6% in EC 2.4 compared to EC 1.2. In summary, this experience suggested that ’Winter bor F1’ kale performed best in EC 2.4 during the fall and winter seasons but grew best in EC 1.8 during the early spring. In addition, the 2.4 mS/cm proved the optimal EC level for Swiss chard during the fall, ‘Toscano’ kale during the winter, and ‘large leaf’ basil during the spring. The results from this experiment identify optimal EC levels of vital leafy vegetables in Kansas for different seasons, aiding Kansas growers in reducing nutrient waste and enhancing leafy vegetable production.

Speakers

Puja Subedi

Kansas State University

Co-authors

Teng Yang

Kansas State University

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:25pm - 5:35pm HST
Coral 2

Poster presentation (individual talk), Growth Chambers and Controlled Environments 2

SUBJECT Growth Chambers and CE