The effect of ethephon on fruit maturity in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L) was investigat... more The effect of ethephon on fruit maturity in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L) was investigated in greenhouse studies. Two lines of tabasco pepper (`McIhenny Select' and `Hard Pick') that differ in ease of separation at the calyx-pedicel separation zone were used. Individual flowers were tagged at anthesis and intact fruit were treated with ethephon (500, 1000 μL) 29, 32, 35, and 38 days after anthesis. Untreated fruit were used as controls. The normal development from anthesis to mature red is 45 to 47 days for both lines. Ethephon treatment to tabasco fruit of both lines at 29 and 32 days after anthesis was effective in enhancing ripening by 3 to 7 days. `Mclhenny Select' ethephon treated fruit 35 days after anthesis were not affected. In contrast, `Hard Pick' fruit treated with ethephon at the high rate (1000 μL) 35 and 38 days after anthesis resulted in enhanced ripening compared to that of the control. These results indicate that the two tabasco lines differ in response to ethephon.
Six cover crops were evaluated over two years for biomass production in the summer season at the ... more Six cover crops were evaluated over two years for biomass production in the summer season at the two sites. The species and seeding rates used included: sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea, 44 kg.ha-1); southernpea (Vigna unguiculata, 44 kg.ha-1), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum, 66 kg.ha-1); sesame (Sesamum indicum, 5.5 kg.ha-1); sesbania (Sesbania macrocarpa, 27.5 kg.ha-1); and a proprietary mix of 70% buckwheat and 30% southernpeas, 44 kg.ha-1)). Untreated and/or certified organic seeds were broadcast and incorporated at recommended rates in June. Plots received a single irrigation after planting, but received no fertilizer or pesticides prior to or during growth. A 1 m2 area of crop and weed shoot mass was harvested at two timings. The greatest total fresh (FW) and dry matter (DW)crop biomass production from harvest at Baton Rouge at 90 DAP in 2007 was sunnhemp (62.3 MT.ha-1 FW; 17.0 MT.ha-1 DW) and from sesame (51.6 MT.ha-1 FW; 9.5 MT.ha-1 DW). Weed biomass was less than 15% of total f...
Cotton and snap bean were selected for a multi-year, multi-state regional (south-eastern USA) res... more Cotton and snap bean were selected for a multi-year, multi-state regional (south-eastern USA) research project to evaluate the efficacy of both commercial and experimental bacterial and fungal biological control agents for the management of damping-off diseases. The goal for this portion of the project was to determine the viability and stability of biological agents after application to seed. The biological seed treatments used included: (1) Bacillaceae bacteria, (2) non-Bacillaceae bacteria, (3) the fungus Trichoderma and (4) the fungus Beauveria bassiana. Seed assays were conducted to evaluate the following application factors: short-term (< or = 3 months) stability after seed treatment; quality (i.e. isolate purity); compatibility with chemical pesticides and other biocontrol agents; application uniformity between years and plant species. For the bacterial treatments, the Bacillaceae genera (Bacillus and Paenibacillus) maintained the greatest population of bacteria per seed, the best viability over time and the best application uniformity across years and seed type. The non-Bacillaceae genera Burkholderia and Pseudomonas had the least viability and uniformity. Although Beauveria bassiana was only evaluated one year, the seed fungal populations were high and uniform. The seed fungal populations and uniformity for the Trichoderma isolates were more variable, except for the commercial product T-22. However, this product was contaminated with a Streptomyces isolate in both the years that it was evaluated. The study demonstrated that Bacillaceae can be mixed with Trichoderma isolates or with numerous pesticides to provide an integrated pest control/growth enhancement package.
A garden-based science curriculum (Junior Master Gardener) was introduced into public elementary ... more A garden-based science curriculum (Junior Master Gardener) was introduced into public elementary schools as an informal education program conducted by Master Gardener volunteers and service-learning university students. The program was held once a week for 2 hours during regular school hours with fifth grade classes. The service-learning students were enrolled in a senior level horticultural science education class. Students were surveyed pre- and post-program with the Science Teacher Efficacy Belief Instrument (STEBI-B, preservice), a background survey instrument, and weekly journals. There were significant differences in the students' perceived teaching efficacy pre- and post-program. Most of the student's STEBI scores either remained the same or increased over the semester. Overall, the service-learning college students had very positive responses to their experiences as teachers and mentors in public elementary schools. In addition, the students were able to use their horticultural skills and knowledge and they also gained an appreciation for the teaching profession.
Two genotypes of cayenne pepper, Capsicum annuun, have been previously identified which differ si... more Two genotypes of cayenne pepper, Capsicum annuun, have been previously identified which differ significantly in ease of fruit detachment force. Both greenhouse- and field-grown plants of these genotypes, Cajun1-9027 and Cap-9004, were investigated for differences in cell type or organization where the fruit and receptacle join. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that mature fruit of genotype Cajun1-9027, which does not separate, exhibits a distinct region of sclerified cells that extend from the periphery of the fruit into the receptacle for at least 15 cell layers. In contrast, mature fruit of the more readily detachable genotype, Cap-9004, had fewer sclerified cells at the point of detachment. Neither genotype exhibits a well-defined abscission zone prior to, or at, maturity. Interpretation of histochemical staining of fruit-receptacle sections following ethylene treatment at different fruit developmental stages will be discussed.
Field experiments were conducted to assess how sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] clones int... more Field experiments were conducted to assess how sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] clones interfere with weeds and how clones tolerate weed interference. Eleven clones with architecturally different canopies were evaluated for yield, canopy surface area and dry mass, weed dry mass, and light interception at ground level. A 2-fold difference in ground area covered by canopy surface area was observed among the eleven clones 42 days after planting, and a 3-fold difference in canopy dry mass at harvest. Yields were reduced from 14% to 68% by weed interference. The yields of high-yielding clones, `Beauregard', `Excel', L87-125, `Regal', `Centennial', and W-274, were reduced to a significantly greater extent by weeds than were yields of the other five clones. No differences were observed between clones for weed suppression as measured by weed dry mass at harvest and ground light interception. Short-internode and long-internode clones had similar competitive abilities. Yield of high-yielding clones was impacted more by weed interference than was that of low-yielding clones.
Red-mature Tabasco (Capsicum frutescens) fruit (`McIlhenny Select&#39... more Red-mature Tabasco (Capsicum frutescens) fruit (`McIlhenny Select') normally separate easily at the junction of the fruit and receptacle or calyx. Differences in fruit detachment force (FDF) between two lines, one that separates readily (`McIlhenny Select') and one that does not (`Hard Pick'), have been reported previously (Motsenbocker et al., 1995). In this study, enzyme activity from the detachment area was analyzed by viscosity reduction. The reaction mixture was 0.3% pectin in 20 mm NaAc, pH 5.5, for polygalacturonase (PG) and 0.6% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in 20 mm NaPO4, pH 6.0, for cellulase. Preliminary data indicated that PG and cellulase enzyme activity increased during fruit ripening in both lines. Only cellulase activity, however, correlated with FDF. In addition, the activity of both enzymes was higher in the `McIlhenny Select' line than the `Hard Pick' line at the orange and red-mature stages.
Plasticulture has been successfully used to enhance growth and yield of horticultural crops, and ... more Plasticulture has been successfully used to enhance growth and yield of horticultural crops, and also for season extension in cooler climates. The effect of three plastic mulches (silver on black, photoselective thermal green, and black) in combination with spunbonded polyester rowcover (0.9 oz/yard2) on spring-planted watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) production was investigated. Two red-fleshed cultivars [Sangria (seeded) and Crimson Jewel (triploid)] were used. Plastic mulches increased early and total marketable yield in comparison with bare ground for both cultivars, but net benefit increased in ‘Crimson Jewel’ only. In contrast, yield and net benefit were the same among plastic mulches. Rowcover increased soil and air temperature, with the effect being greatest at lower ambient temperatures. During a near-freeze event, air temperature under the rowcover was about 7.2 °F higher than without a rowcover. Rowcover increased early and total marketable yield, but fruit weight decreased in both cultivars. Yield distribution into three fruit size categories was inconsistent between the cultivars. In ‘Sangria’, the large fruit category had the highest yield proportion for all treatments. In contrast, the highest yield proportion of ‘Crimson Jewel’, with exception of mulch without rowcover, corresponded to small fruit. Rowcover increased gross income at wholesale prices, but net benefit was not different from without rowcover. Protection of high-value plants, such as triploid watermelon, against light freezes, however, may still justify the use of rowcover in early plantings.
Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science. American Society for Horticultural Science
Pectin metabolism was analyzed in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) to determine the metabo... more Pectin metabolism was analyzed in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) to determine the metabolic process associated with the ease of fruit detachment from the calyx. The ease of fruit detachment (deciduous fruit) is a desirable trait in peppers that facilitates mechanical harvest. Two genotypes that differ in the fruit detachment force were used: `Easy Pick' (EZ), which requires a low force, and `Hard Pick' (HP), which requires higher force. Pectin dissolution in water from fresh-ripe EZ tissue was 20 times higher than from HP tissue. EDTA-soluble uronide from inactivated EZ cell wall, however, was only 1.8 times higher. Pectin dissolution was inversely correlated to the fruit detachment force and followed a sigmoidal curve during fruit ripening. Size-exclusion chromatography of EDTA-soluble polyuronides indicated that pectin was degraded in ripe fruit tissue from both genotypes. The degree of depolymerization, however, was more extensive in EZ fruit. Consequently, the ease of fruit detachment was attributed to pectin ultra-degradation. Total pectin content in dry tissue and ethanol/acetone-extracted cell wall was similar in both genotypes. Pectin content in dry tissue was maintained throughout ripening, while extracted cell wall pectin increased slightly. In contrast, the degree of pectin esterification of extracted cell wall decreased only in ripe EZ fruit. These results suggest that pectin de-esterification may have a role in the enhanced pectin depolymerization and consequently in the ease of fruit detachment of the EZ genotype.
This is a horticulture case study of the export market for melons (Cucumis melo) from Central Ame... more This is a horticulture case study of the export market for melons (Cucumis melo) from Central America to the United States. Melons have provided growers an excellent production and marketing opportunity since the early 1980s. “Off-season” shipments have changed from a consumer novelty to a commodity. The case documents how this producer entered the industry and became a dominant firm using a cost leadership strategy that included adopting advanced production technology and generating large sales volume to take advantage of its opportunity. As the product moved through the cycle from new product to mature market, there were changes in behavior by competing firms, a slowdown in growth of the markets, and reduced profits. Other management practices such as creating profit centers, using employee incentives at all levels, and outsourcing transportation and brokerage services were used to supplement the cost leader strategy. The development of the market and of the firm is documented, providing the basis for discussion of management and marketing issues in courses at the university level in horticulture and agribusiness.
Field experiments and trainings are underway to assess and demonstrate summer cover crops for use... more Field experiments and trainings are underway to assess and demonstrate summer cover crops for use in fall organic vegetable cropping systems in the Deep South. The three-year USDA Southern-SARE-funded project includes research at the Truck Crops Branch in Crystal Springs, Mississippi and Burden Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana as well as a grower location in each state. Field research to date has included large replicated screening trials of commercially available legume and non-legume monoculture and polyculture summer cover crops in both states. The screening trials have revealed some promising cover crop species for unfertilized, non-irrigated summer biomass production and soil building. Based on these screening trials and previous research, three summer cover crops (Sunn hemp, Crotalaria juncea; sesame, Sesamum indicum; and sorghum-sudan grass, Sorghum bicolor x S. bicolor var. sudanese) and a mix of sesame and crotalaria are being evaluated along with composted chicken litter a...
Multiyear studies were initiated to assess summer cover crops for use in fall vegetable crops in ... more Multiyear studies were initiated to assess summer cover crops for use in fall vegetable crops in the Deep South. The research in Louisiana involved the production and incorporation of summer cover crops on the same site followed by fall-planted broccoli in 2012. The summer cover crop treatments consisted of Sunn hemp, Crotalaria juncea; sesame, Sesamum indicum; a mix of the Sunn hemp and sesame; sorghum–sudan grass, Sorghum bicolor x S. bicolor var. sudanese); and a weed-free check. The cover crop plots received a single irrigation after planting, but received no fertilizer or pesticides prior to or during growth. A 0.5 m2 area of crop and weed shoot mass was harvested at 60 days. Data collected from the second year of the study included cover crop fresh weight and biomass, total nutrient content, and soil organic matter and nutrient content. Crotalaria had the highest biomass and was statistically greater than the biomass produced by the sesame or sorghum-sudan grass cover crop tre...
The effect of ethephon on fruit maturity in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L) was investigat... more The effect of ethephon on fruit maturity in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L) was investigated in greenhouse studies. Two lines of tabasco pepper (`McIhenny Select' and `Hard Pick') that differ in ease of separation at the calyx-pedicel separation zone were used. Individual flowers were tagged at anthesis and intact fruit were treated with ethephon (500, 1000 μL) 29, 32, 35, and 38 days after anthesis. Untreated fruit were used as controls. The normal development from anthesis to mature red is 45 to 47 days for both lines. Ethephon treatment to tabasco fruit of both lines at 29 and 32 days after anthesis was effective in enhancing ripening by 3 to 7 days. `Mclhenny Select' ethephon treated fruit 35 days after anthesis were not affected. In contrast, `Hard Pick' fruit treated with ethephon at the high rate (1000 μL) 35 and 38 days after anthesis resulted in enhanced ripening compared to that of the control. These results indicate that the two tabasco lines differ in response to ethephon.
Six cover crops were evaluated over two years for biomass production in the summer season at the ... more Six cover crops were evaluated over two years for biomass production in the summer season at the two sites. The species and seeding rates used included: sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea, 44 kg.ha-1); southernpea (Vigna unguiculata, 44 kg.ha-1), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum, 66 kg.ha-1); sesame (Sesamum indicum, 5.5 kg.ha-1); sesbania (Sesbania macrocarpa, 27.5 kg.ha-1); and a proprietary mix of 70% buckwheat and 30% southernpeas, 44 kg.ha-1)). Untreated and/or certified organic seeds were broadcast and incorporated at recommended rates in June. Plots received a single irrigation after planting, but received no fertilizer or pesticides prior to or during growth. A 1 m2 area of crop and weed shoot mass was harvested at two timings. The greatest total fresh (FW) and dry matter (DW)crop biomass production from harvest at Baton Rouge at 90 DAP in 2007 was sunnhemp (62.3 MT.ha-1 FW; 17.0 MT.ha-1 DW) and from sesame (51.6 MT.ha-1 FW; 9.5 MT.ha-1 DW). Weed biomass was less than 15% of total f...
Cotton and snap bean were selected for a multi-year, multi-state regional (south-eastern USA) res... more Cotton and snap bean were selected for a multi-year, multi-state regional (south-eastern USA) research project to evaluate the efficacy of both commercial and experimental bacterial and fungal biological control agents for the management of damping-off diseases. The goal for this portion of the project was to determine the viability and stability of biological agents after application to seed. The biological seed treatments used included: (1) Bacillaceae bacteria, (2) non-Bacillaceae bacteria, (3) the fungus Trichoderma and (4) the fungus Beauveria bassiana. Seed assays were conducted to evaluate the following application factors: short-term (< or = 3 months) stability after seed treatment; quality (i.e. isolate purity); compatibility with chemical pesticides and other biocontrol agents; application uniformity between years and plant species. For the bacterial treatments, the Bacillaceae genera (Bacillus and Paenibacillus) maintained the greatest population of bacteria per seed, the best viability over time and the best application uniformity across years and seed type. The non-Bacillaceae genera Burkholderia and Pseudomonas had the least viability and uniformity. Although Beauveria bassiana was only evaluated one year, the seed fungal populations were high and uniform. The seed fungal populations and uniformity for the Trichoderma isolates were more variable, except for the commercial product T-22. However, this product was contaminated with a Streptomyces isolate in both the years that it was evaluated. The study demonstrated that Bacillaceae can be mixed with Trichoderma isolates or with numerous pesticides to provide an integrated pest control/growth enhancement package.
A garden-based science curriculum (Junior Master Gardener) was introduced into public elementary ... more A garden-based science curriculum (Junior Master Gardener) was introduced into public elementary schools as an informal education program conducted by Master Gardener volunteers and service-learning university students. The program was held once a week for 2 hours during regular school hours with fifth grade classes. The service-learning students were enrolled in a senior level horticultural science education class. Students were surveyed pre- and post-program with the Science Teacher Efficacy Belief Instrument (STEBI-B, preservice), a background survey instrument, and weekly journals. There were significant differences in the students' perceived teaching efficacy pre- and post-program. Most of the student's STEBI scores either remained the same or increased over the semester. Overall, the service-learning college students had very positive responses to their experiences as teachers and mentors in public elementary schools. In addition, the students were able to use their horticultural skills and knowledge and they also gained an appreciation for the teaching profession.
Two genotypes of cayenne pepper, Capsicum annuun, have been previously identified which differ si... more Two genotypes of cayenne pepper, Capsicum annuun, have been previously identified which differ significantly in ease of fruit detachment force. Both greenhouse- and field-grown plants of these genotypes, Cajun1-9027 and Cap-9004, were investigated for differences in cell type or organization where the fruit and receptacle join. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that mature fruit of genotype Cajun1-9027, which does not separate, exhibits a distinct region of sclerified cells that extend from the periphery of the fruit into the receptacle for at least 15 cell layers. In contrast, mature fruit of the more readily detachable genotype, Cap-9004, had fewer sclerified cells at the point of detachment. Neither genotype exhibits a well-defined abscission zone prior to, or at, maturity. Interpretation of histochemical staining of fruit-receptacle sections following ethylene treatment at different fruit developmental stages will be discussed.
Field experiments were conducted to assess how sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] clones int... more Field experiments were conducted to assess how sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] clones interfere with weeds and how clones tolerate weed interference. Eleven clones with architecturally different canopies were evaluated for yield, canopy surface area and dry mass, weed dry mass, and light interception at ground level. A 2-fold difference in ground area covered by canopy surface area was observed among the eleven clones 42 days after planting, and a 3-fold difference in canopy dry mass at harvest. Yields were reduced from 14% to 68% by weed interference. The yields of high-yielding clones, `Beauregard', `Excel', L87-125, `Regal', `Centennial', and W-274, were reduced to a significantly greater extent by weeds than were yields of the other five clones. No differences were observed between clones for weed suppression as measured by weed dry mass at harvest and ground light interception. Short-internode and long-internode clones had similar competitive abilities. Yield of high-yielding clones was impacted more by weed interference than was that of low-yielding clones.
Red-mature Tabasco (Capsicum frutescens) fruit (`McIlhenny Select&#39... more Red-mature Tabasco (Capsicum frutescens) fruit (`McIlhenny Select') normally separate easily at the junction of the fruit and receptacle or calyx. Differences in fruit detachment force (FDF) between two lines, one that separates readily (`McIlhenny Select') and one that does not (`Hard Pick'), have been reported previously (Motsenbocker et al., 1995). In this study, enzyme activity from the detachment area was analyzed by viscosity reduction. The reaction mixture was 0.3% pectin in 20 mm NaAc, pH 5.5, for polygalacturonase (PG) and 0.6% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in 20 mm NaPO4, pH 6.0, for cellulase. Preliminary data indicated that PG and cellulase enzyme activity increased during fruit ripening in both lines. Only cellulase activity, however, correlated with FDF. In addition, the activity of both enzymes was higher in the `McIlhenny Select' line than the `Hard Pick' line at the orange and red-mature stages.
Plasticulture has been successfully used to enhance growth and yield of horticultural crops, and ... more Plasticulture has been successfully used to enhance growth and yield of horticultural crops, and also for season extension in cooler climates. The effect of three plastic mulches (silver on black, photoselective thermal green, and black) in combination with spunbonded polyester rowcover (0.9 oz/yard2) on spring-planted watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) production was investigated. Two red-fleshed cultivars [Sangria (seeded) and Crimson Jewel (triploid)] were used. Plastic mulches increased early and total marketable yield in comparison with bare ground for both cultivars, but net benefit increased in ‘Crimson Jewel’ only. In contrast, yield and net benefit were the same among plastic mulches. Rowcover increased soil and air temperature, with the effect being greatest at lower ambient temperatures. During a near-freeze event, air temperature under the rowcover was about 7.2 °F higher than without a rowcover. Rowcover increased early and total marketable yield, but fruit weight decreased in both cultivars. Yield distribution into three fruit size categories was inconsistent between the cultivars. In ‘Sangria’, the large fruit category had the highest yield proportion for all treatments. In contrast, the highest yield proportion of ‘Crimson Jewel’, with exception of mulch without rowcover, corresponded to small fruit. Rowcover increased gross income at wholesale prices, but net benefit was not different from without rowcover. Protection of high-value plants, such as triploid watermelon, against light freezes, however, may still justify the use of rowcover in early plantings.
Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science. American Society for Horticultural Science
Pectin metabolism was analyzed in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) to determine the metabo... more Pectin metabolism was analyzed in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) to determine the metabolic process associated with the ease of fruit detachment from the calyx. The ease of fruit detachment (deciduous fruit) is a desirable trait in peppers that facilitates mechanical harvest. Two genotypes that differ in the fruit detachment force were used: `Easy Pick' (EZ), which requires a low force, and `Hard Pick' (HP), which requires higher force. Pectin dissolution in water from fresh-ripe EZ tissue was 20 times higher than from HP tissue. EDTA-soluble uronide from inactivated EZ cell wall, however, was only 1.8 times higher. Pectin dissolution was inversely correlated to the fruit detachment force and followed a sigmoidal curve during fruit ripening. Size-exclusion chromatography of EDTA-soluble polyuronides indicated that pectin was degraded in ripe fruit tissue from both genotypes. The degree of depolymerization, however, was more extensive in EZ fruit. Consequently, the ease of fruit detachment was attributed to pectin ultra-degradation. Total pectin content in dry tissue and ethanol/acetone-extracted cell wall was similar in both genotypes. Pectin content in dry tissue was maintained throughout ripening, while extracted cell wall pectin increased slightly. In contrast, the degree of pectin esterification of extracted cell wall decreased only in ripe EZ fruit. These results suggest that pectin de-esterification may have a role in the enhanced pectin depolymerization and consequently in the ease of fruit detachment of the EZ genotype.
This is a horticulture case study of the export market for melons (Cucumis melo) from Central Ame... more This is a horticulture case study of the export market for melons (Cucumis melo) from Central America to the United States. Melons have provided growers an excellent production and marketing opportunity since the early 1980s. “Off-season” shipments have changed from a consumer novelty to a commodity. The case documents how this producer entered the industry and became a dominant firm using a cost leadership strategy that included adopting advanced production technology and generating large sales volume to take advantage of its opportunity. As the product moved through the cycle from new product to mature market, there were changes in behavior by competing firms, a slowdown in growth of the markets, and reduced profits. Other management practices such as creating profit centers, using employee incentives at all levels, and outsourcing transportation and brokerage services were used to supplement the cost leader strategy. The development of the market and of the firm is documented, providing the basis for discussion of management and marketing issues in courses at the university level in horticulture and agribusiness.
Field experiments and trainings are underway to assess and demonstrate summer cover crops for use... more Field experiments and trainings are underway to assess and demonstrate summer cover crops for use in fall organic vegetable cropping systems in the Deep South. The three-year USDA Southern-SARE-funded project includes research at the Truck Crops Branch in Crystal Springs, Mississippi and Burden Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana as well as a grower location in each state. Field research to date has included large replicated screening trials of commercially available legume and non-legume monoculture and polyculture summer cover crops in both states. The screening trials have revealed some promising cover crop species for unfertilized, non-irrigated summer biomass production and soil building. Based on these screening trials and previous research, three summer cover crops (Sunn hemp, Crotalaria juncea; sesame, Sesamum indicum; and sorghum-sudan grass, Sorghum bicolor x S. bicolor var. sudanese) and a mix of sesame and crotalaria are being evaluated along with composted chicken litter a...
Multiyear studies were initiated to assess summer cover crops for use in fall vegetable crops in ... more Multiyear studies were initiated to assess summer cover crops for use in fall vegetable crops in the Deep South. The research in Louisiana involved the production and incorporation of summer cover crops on the same site followed by fall-planted broccoli in 2012. The summer cover crop treatments consisted of Sunn hemp, Crotalaria juncea; sesame, Sesamum indicum; a mix of the Sunn hemp and sesame; sorghum–sudan grass, Sorghum bicolor x S. bicolor var. sudanese); and a weed-free check. The cover crop plots received a single irrigation after planting, but received no fertilizer or pesticides prior to or during growth. A 0.5 m2 area of crop and weed shoot mass was harvested at 60 days. Data collected from the second year of the study included cover crop fresh weight and biomass, total nutrient content, and soil organic matter and nutrient content. Crotalaria had the highest biomass and was statistically greater than the biomass produced by the sesame or sorghum-sudan grass cover crop tre...
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