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Institute of Biological Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur; Asian Institute of Medicine, Science and Technology, 2 Persiaran Cempaka, Amanjaya, 0800 Sungai Petani, Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.27

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Abstract: The vase life of detached pollinated Dendrobium (Heang Beauty) orchids are affected by loss of energy source and the production of pollination-induced ethylene. The physiological changes that follow these two events are discoloration, thinning of petals and hyponasty. In order to circumvent this problem, individual detached pollinated Dendrobium (Heang Beauty) flowers were treated with solutions containing different concentrations of sucrose or glucose, Aminooxyacetic acid (AOA) and a combination of sugars and AOA. Discolouration, petal thickness and hyponasty were observed and data was recorded daily. Weight loss of flowers and pH of all solutions were also measured daily. Results showed that the best treatment solution in extending the longevity of the flowers were solutions containing 4% sucrose + 0.5mM AOA. Flowers held in this treatment also showed a delay in discoloration, thinning of petals and hyponasty. The inclusion of AOA into solutions resulted in low pH and contributes to better water uptake and delayed turgor loss in flowers.

Center of Excellence for Special Crops, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Birjand, P.O.Box. 97175/331, Birjand, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.28

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Abstract: In order to study effective factors in production of saffron, a series of studies was carried out during 2001 and 2002. In these studies, four selected location, Birjand, Qaen, Gonabad and Torbat-Haydarieh were spotted as the main saffron producing areas in Iran. Data was collected from 160 saffron farms, aged between 1 and 5 years. Results indicated that age of saffron farms, corm size, irrigation interval, and summer irrigation had positive linear relationship with yield. Age of saffron farms had the most pronounced effects on yield and was the most important component in all linear equations. Age of farms, irrigation intervals and corm size were major factors contributing to yield. The longest irrigation interval was observed for Gonabad (24 days) and the shortest was for Torbat-Haydarieh (12 days). Highest actual yield was for Torbat-Haydarieh which is an indication of better farm management in comparison with other areas. Maximum yield of 4 kg ha^-1 was frequent but many farms produced over 7 kg ha^-1 yield.

Faculty of Agriculture, Ehime University, Hattanji 498, Matsuyama City, Ehime 799-2424, Japan; Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Kafr El-Sheikh University, 33516 Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.29

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Abstract: A study was carried out to examine the effect of bud scale removal (BSR) and aminooxy acetic acid (AOA) on bud break and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) content of 'Muscat Bailey A' grapevines using single-eye cuttings. Samples were collected monthly from October to February. Single-eye cuttings were subjected to these treatments; BSR, BSR + AOA, control and AOA. The results show that in October and November, BSR and BSR+AOA were more effective on bud break without big difference between the two treatments. Whereas, control and AOA were found to be more effective from December up to February. In October, ACC content recorded a marked increase after one week and decreased afterwards under BSR and BSR + AOA. However, it showed a continuous increase under control and a reverse trend under AOA. In November, it increased after one week and decreased in the fourth week under all treatments. A continuous increase was recorded in December under all treatments. In January, there was no significant change under control with time and AOA treatment exhibited decline with time, while BSR and BSR + AOA treatments recorded small increment and then decreased. In February, it decreased under all treatments with time. The results indicate that bud break of grapevine seems to be associated with the promotion of ethylene biosynthesis caused by wounding stress.

Department of Aridland Agriculture, College of Food and Agriculture, UAE University, P.O.Box. 17555 Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates. Permanent address: Faculty of Agriculture, Pomology Department, Mansoura University, El-Mansoura/Egypt.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.30

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Abstract: There is a high demand for date palm plantlets regenerated via tissue culture techniques. However, such plantlets require a long acclimatization period extending 12-18 months before transplanting in the open field. The effect of foliar and soil application of anti-stress substances and elemental sulphur, respectively, on growth and survival percentage of tissue culture-derived 'Khalas' date palm plantlets during acclimatization were studied. The results showed that application of salicylic acid, acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin), elemental sulphur, plantacur-E (a vitamin E formulation containing 25% ?-tocopherol) at 1%, and oleic acid at 100 ppm, significantly increased plantlet survival percentages compared to the control. In this respect, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) at 20 mM was the most effective treatment compared to 10 mM and the control. Salicylic acid, aspirin, elemental sulphur and plantacur-E (at 2%) significantly increased the concentrations of Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu in leaflets compared to the control. However, the macro nutrients showed no clear response to the applied treatments. Application of 250 ppm of the ethylene biosynthesis blocker, ABG-3168 (ABG), inhibited the growth of plantlets, and completely suppressed growth at 500 ppm, suggesting the potential role of ethylene biosynthesis in subsequent plantlet development. Irrigation with 10,000 ppm sea water for two months decreased chlorophyll concentration and increased electrolyte leakage by 2-3 fold compared to the control and the other treatments. GABA at 20 mM significantly increased chlorophyll concentration and decreased electrolyte leakage of leaflets compared to all the saline water treatments. In contrast, ABG at 250 ppm significantly decreased chlorophyll concentration and increased electrolyte leakage of leaflets by about 3-fold compared to all the saline water treatments. These results show potential role of GABA, salicylic acid, aspirin and oleic acid conducive for improved survival percentage of plantlets and stress tolerance during acclimatization.

Department of Plant Biotechnology, Dalat Institute of Biology, 116 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Da Lat, Lam Dong, Vietnam; Institute of Agricultural Genetics, Ha Noi, Vietnam.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.31

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Abstract: In this study, the most critical step in Anthurium micropropagation was the induction of primary calli from leaf segments. Genotype played an important role during in vitro multiplication of Anthurium. Callus induction from leaf segments was examined in ten Anthurium cultivars: 'Carnaval', 'Neon', 'Choco', 'Sonate', 'Midori', 'Pistache', 'Tropical', 'Safari', 'Arizona' and 'Cancan' on MS medium supplemented with 1 mg L¹ BA, 0.08 mg L¹ 2,4-D, 30 g L¹ glucose, 8 g L¹ agar and adjusted to pH 6.0. After 100 days, leaf segments of eight genotypes formed calli, among them, cultivar 'Pistache' had the highest callus induction ratio (65.1%) and two genotypes, 'Carnaval' and 'Cancan', showed no response. After multiplication, calli were subcultured on shoot regeneration medium, 1/2 MS with NH₄NO₃ level adjusted to 0.206 g L^-1, added with 20 g L^-1 glucose, 1 mg L^-1 BA, 8 g L^-1 agar and adjusted to pH 6.0. Shoots were obtained from all cultivars with different potential of shoot regeneration. The average number of shoots per explant in 'Tropical' (10.1) was higher than that of 'Choco' (4.3) and 'Pistache' (3.5), and shoots (at least 10 mm high) were excised and cultured on rooting medium, 30 g L^-1 glucose, 8 g L^-1 agar and 1 g L^-1 activated charcoal added to 1/4 MS medium. All shoots consistently formed roots after 30 days and plantlets developed well after being transferred to the nursery. The propagation process took 10 and a half months to complete.

Plant Tissue Culture Division, CSIR National Chemical Laboratory, Pune - 411 008, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.32

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Abstract: Earlier studies have shown that the degree of success at each stage of micropropagation in grapevine is genotype dependent; hence it becomes imperative to optimize culture conditions for rapid propagation of a variety. Present report describes two approaches of in vitro propagation of a Vitis vinifera cultivar, Red Globe. In one approach, whole plants could be developed from single node segments by bud break and direct rooting in vitro. Eight different basal media tried showed different morphogenetic responses. In second approach, multiple shoots were induced in nodal segments cultured on MS basal medium supplemented with BA (8.88 uM). Also, second crop of shoots could be induced in left over nodal segments devoid of shoots. Rooting of shoots could be induced in vitro, both in semi-solid or liquid media and also ex vitro by pulse treatment of IAA (2.85 uM) + NAA (2.70 uM). Plant establishment in later case was 80%. A simple procedure described here can complement conventional methods, currently being used in propagation of this important grape variety.

Department ofAgro-Industrial Technology, Faculty of Applied Science, King Mongkut S Institute of Technology North Bangkok, Bangsue, Bangkok, 10800, Thailand; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bang?kok, 10400, Thailand;

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.33

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Abstract: Seeds of Red Agati (Sesbania grandiflora), an ornamental leguminous tree, were germinated in vitro under both light and dark conditions for 7, 10, 15, 20 and 25 days. The localization of anthocyanin-containing cells and level of total anthocyanin content of hypocotyl from several developmental stages were determined. In the hypocotyl of light-grown seedlings, anthocyanin-containing cells were observed in epidermal and sub-epidermal layer and peripheral cortex while none was found in that of dark-grown seedlings. On day 7, the hypocotyl of light-grown seedlings had the highest anthocyanin content (290 ug/g FW). Moreover, Red Agati's petal at various developmental stages was also examined for the total anthocyanin content. It was found that the petal of 3 cm length had the highest total anthocyanin level (455 ug/g FW). It is concluded that the hypocotyl of light-grown Red Agati seedlings is an attractive alternative source of anthocyanins to the petal as the seedlings can be raised and be made available throughout the year.

N. M. College of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture, Navsari, Gujarat Agricultural University.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.34

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Abstract: An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of different stalk lengths and certain chemical substances on vase life of gerbera (Gerberajamesonii Hook.) Cv. 'Savana Red'. Twenty treatment combinations consisting of four chemicals viz., sucrose 4 %, sucrose 4 % + 8-HQC 250 ppm , sucrose 4 % + aluminum sulphate 100 ppm , sucrose 4 % + citric acid 250 ppm , along with control (distilled water) and four lengths of stalk viz., 30, 40, 50, and 60 cm. The vase solution of sucrose 4% + 8-HQC 250 ppm and stalk length of 60 cm, individually and in combination increased fresh weight of flowers by promoting solution uptake. These treatments are also beneficial for improving the vase life of flowers and useful life of flowers, opening of disc florets, with bright, shining red colour and freshness for a longer duration.

College of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, China. Current addres College of Life Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China. Research Institute of Forestry,

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.35

Department of Crop Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana,

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.36

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Abstract: The effect of different organic manures (cow dung, poultry manure and compost) on the yield of okra, soil physical and chemical characteristics was investigated at the University of Ghana, Legon. Results obtained revealed that the application of recycled garden solid waste compost, poultry manure and cow dung improved the soil physical condition, particularly, structure and drainage, increased nutrient and organic matter levels and enhanced the yield components of okra plants. Inorganic fertilizer improved only chemical properties, but soil physical properties such as structure was not improved. There were improvements in pod yield, yield components and pod fibre content on all manured plots. The study clearly inidicated the superiority of poultry manure over cow dung and compost as a source of manure for okra production.

Agricultural Economics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile- Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Services, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Ado-Ekiti, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.37

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Abstract: The fragility and high susceptibility of the soils in Nigeria to degradation and loss of nutrients make augmentation through the use of fertilizers necessary to obtain reasonable crop yield. The use of market oriented organic fertilizer is being encouraged to improve soil fertility and there is the need to determine the economic rationale of this technology. This study determined the change in net income of users of commercial organic fertilizer (UCOF) relative to non-users of fertilizers (NUF) in vegetable crop production in Osun State of Nigeria to find out if its use should be encouraged based on economic reason only. Nested sampling technique was used in selecting UCOF and NUF respondents. Data on yield, quantities and prices of inputs and output; and reasons for non-use of commercial organic fertilizer were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, partial budgetary technique, sensitivity analysis and importance ranking. Analyses indicated that UCOF applied 610kg ha^-1 of commercial organic fertilizer resulting in additional yield (3,375kg ha^-1) and rate of returns (401%) over and above the NUF, making the use of organic fertilizer technology economically superior to non-use of fertilizers. Constraints to the use of commercial organic fertilizer are doubtful efficacy, offensive odour, heavy weed infestation, bulkiness and lack of funds in descending order of importance which if eliminated will boost demand for commercial organic fertilizer and improve production of vegetable for consumption.

Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering; Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Interior; Depart?ment of Crop and Soil Sciences, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-4435, USA.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.38

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Abstract: Composts produced from a mixture of fibrous wool by-products and other components (e.g., wood-shavings, cotton-gin trash, yard waste, biosolids, etc.) have a high concentration of nitrogen and low concentrations of regulated trace elements. Some have low soluble salts content and have slightly acidic to neutral pH. These composts met standards of the US EPA of an exceptional quality product and were successfully used to grow ornamental crops in a greenhouse and to establish turfgrass from seeds. Market research showed that the turfgrass industry and retail garden centers would be the largest and most profitable markets for fibrous wool-based composts and potting mixes. Cost-volume-profit analysis (CVP) indicated that production and sale of about 17,200 tonnes per year of the compost product would be a break-even point in units for a hypothetical compost production and marketing business. Since composting is also a waste management operation, revenues from accepting waste (tipping fees) does improve business profitability.

Irrigated Research Program, National Center for Agricultural Research and Technology Transfer (NCARTT), P.O. Box: 639, Baqa'a, Jordan.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.39

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Abstract: To study the effect of pollen source on the productivity, maturity and fruit quality of 'Hayyani' date palm, one local and three commercial male varieties were used during 2002. Effect of pollen source on 'Hayyani' fruit-set and yield was statistically not significant, however, trees pollinated with 'Mejhool' pollen recorded the highest fruit-set and yield. The largest fruit weight, length and diameter were obtained when trees pollinated with 'Barakah' male. In addition, pollen source had no or little effects on 'Hayyani' fruit maturity, however, fruits of trees pollinated with 'Jarvis' male matured earlier while in trees pollinated with 'Barakah' showed delayed maturity. Moreover, 'Hayyani' trees pollinated with 'Barakah' pollen gave the highest fruit flesh %.

Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331-7304, USA, USDA-ARS, 45 Wiltshire Road, Kearneysville, WV, 25430-9606, USA, Forestry & Natural Resource Department, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2072, U

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.21

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Abstract: Reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, are by-products of biological redox reactions. ROS can denature enzymes and damage important cellular components. Plants develop antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) to scavenge ROS and detoxify them. The effect of increased cytosolic ascorbate peroxidase (cAPX) on heat and UV-B stress tolerance was studied using transformed tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum cv. Zhongshu No. 5) plants. This research demonstrates, in either laboratory or field tests, the potential to enhance tolerance to heat, UV-B, and sunscald stress by gene transfer. Overexpression of cAPX in transgenic tomato enhanced resistance to heat (40 ?C) and UV-B stress compared to wild-type plants. When leaf disks were placed at 40 ?C for 13 hours, the electrolyte leakage of disks from wild-type were 93%, whereas two tested transgenic lines (A9, A16) exhibited 24% and 52% leakage respectively. When fruits of wild-type and transgenic plants were exposed to UV-B (2.5mW cm^-2) for five days, the extent of browning was 95%, and 33%, and 37%, respectively. In field tests, the detached fruits from field-grown transgenic plants showed more resistance to exposure to direct sunlight than fruits from wild-type plants. APX activity in leaves of cAPX transgenic plants was several folds higher than in leaves of wild-type plants when exposed to heat, UV-B, and drought stresses.

Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentdries (IRTA) - Estacio Experimental de Lleida, Avda. Rovira Roure, 191. 25198-Lleida, Spain.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2006.v08i02.22

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Abstract: The effects of crystal (transparent) and black nets on the protection of fruits from hail, the interception of light, temperature, humidity and fruit quality were evaluated over four seasons (from 2000 to 2003) at the IRTA-Experimental Station, Lleida (NE-Spain) on 'Mondial Gala' apples (Malus x domestica Borkh.). Nets demonstrated their efficiency for fruit protection against hail; decreased maximum orchard temperatures and increased minimum temperatures and relative humidity. Based on PAR values, on sunny days, the black net intercepted 25% more incident radiation than the control and the crystal net intercepted 12% more. The use of black net resulted in a significant reduction of colour intensity and days taken for maturity, and provided lower average yields for fruit harvested at the first picking. The crystal net was associated with intermediate values between black net and control, or similar values to those of the control. Both nets reduced fruit temperature and the incidence of sunburn improving global skin quality. The black net increased the vigour of the trees. Fruit firmness was not affected by the use of nets. Soluble solid content decreased when black net was used, while maturity was delayed in some seasons. There were no consistent effect with respect to titratable acidity and fruit cracking. The annual cost of the anti-hail nets was 1874 to 1612 ? ha¹, respectively, for crystal and black nets, depending mainly on the durability of the net. The annual cost of insurance was 760 ? ha¹ and was determinated by site, cultivar, yield and price insured, and was lower than that of covering by nets. The gross profit corresponding to the crystal net (8896 ? ha¹) was lower to the control/insurance (9223 ? ha¹) and greater to the black net (7842 ? ha¹) because of the reduction in fruit colour. With 'Mondial Gala' apples, the use of both colour nets was not economically beneficial compared to the control.