Progress 12/01/99 to 09/30/05
Outputs
Investigation of fruit abscission is important because the single greatest expense for vegetable production is usually harvest cost. Two tabasco lines "McIlhenny Select" and "Hard Pick" that were previously identified to differ in ease of fruit detachment were used. Cellulase and polygalacturonase activity increased during ripening, and this increase correlated to fruit detachment force and red coloration. There was no difference, however, between the two tabasco lines in enzymatic activity. The research demonstrated that pectin methyl esterase activity in the fruit separation zone was related to differential tabasco fruit ripening and separation. Pectin dissolution in fresh ripe fruit tissue and in extracted fruit cell wall was higher in the easy-detaching line than the "Hard Pick" genotype and inversely correlated to the fruit detachment force. The implementation of a hands-on science project were introduced into three elementary schools as an informal education
program. Science achievement was significantly different (P < 0.0167) between the experimental classes pre- and posttest scores, while no significant difference was found between the test scores of the control classes. The gardening programs also impacted environmental awareness indicating an enhanced appreciation for the environment and nature for the treatment classes. There were no differences in pastoralism. Field studies were conducted to investigate the effect of sustainable production practices on vegetable crops yield, and pest management. The research involved the use of winter cover crop treatments and nitrogen fertigation on diploid watermelon and jalapeno pepper production. The cover crops (mix of crimson clover and annual rye grass) were planted in the fall and watermelon and peppers were planted in the spring. Unfortunately, a severe weather event (Tropical Storm Allison) completely destroyed the crops prior to harvest. Summer solarization strategies on fall-planted
lettuce growth and yield and pest management were investigated (2001-2002). Summer solarization with clear and black mulches equally increased lettuce yield by enhancing plant growth and head weight compared to bare ground treatments while reducing weed densities, especially from grasses, compared to bare ground and enhanced weed suppression was achieved by using black plastic for solarization and mulching. Field research studies were conducted in 2004 and 2005 to evaluate the use of high tunnels in combination with row covers using trickle irrigation and black plastic mulch for spring season fresh market tomato production in southern Louisiana. Both high tunnels and row covers significantly impacted air and soil temperatures compared to the black plastic mulch control. Early yield was highest with the tunnel treatment without row cover compared to tunnel with row cover and similar to row cover alone or the control. Field studies were conducted in the rainy season in 2004 at the
Kasetsart University Research Station at Kampaengsan, Thailand to evaluate the effect of preplant fertilization rates on pungency of hot pepper grown under rain shelters.
Impacts
Research investigating the effect of environmental parameters and cultural practices on vegetable crops yield and quality characteristics for the fresh and processing market is necessary. High tunnels have been used to protect crops from cold temperature in northern states as they often provide benefits similar to greenhouses with considerably lower cost. Very little research, however, has been conducted to quantify the benefits of high tunnels in the production of vegetable crops in southern states. This research demonstrated the benefit of high tunnels and plasticulture in order to develop economical, sustainable production systems for small and medium-scale vegetable growers in Louisiana. Harvest of pepper fruit is still primarily conducted by hand for both processing and fresh market and the greatest single expense is usually harvest costs. Understanding the physiology and developmental changes in pepper fruit separation zones is essential to maximizing crop
production potential in a managed agricultural environment. The results of the research will be important in developing new cultivars and production technology. Gardens are increasingly utilized for activity-based hands-on science and environmental education at the elementary school level. Little research, however, has been conducted to quantify the benefits of school gardens and the formal exercises using them. The results of this research will enable teachers and administrators to enhance the educational experience of elementary school students through hands-on science activities.
Publications
- Motsenbocker, C.E. and R.A. Hinson. 2003. Forming a consensus in agricultural development Issues and constraints: using the nominal group technique. Acta Horticulturae 621:81-87.
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2003. Pectin methyl-esterase activity in vivo during fruit ripening and the deciduous character of tabasco pepper fruit. HortScience 38(5):838. (Abstr)
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2005. Pectin methylesterase activity in vivo differs from activity in vitro and enhances polygalacturonase-mediated pectin degradation in tabasco pepper. J. of Plant Physiology 163(5): 488-496.
- Aldana, M.E. 2005. The effect of phosphorus and potassium fertility on fruit quality and growth of tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) in hydroponic culture. M.S. Thesis, LSU A&M University
- Smith, L.L. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2005. Impact of hands-on science through school gardening in Louisiana public elementary schools. HortTechnology 15(3):439-443.
- Hasing, J., C.E. Motsenbocker, and C. J. Monlezun. 2004. Agroeconomic effect of soil solarization on fall planted lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Scientia Horticulturae 101 (3):223-233.
- Andino, J. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2004. Colored plastic mulches influence cucumber beetle populations, vine growth, and yield of watermelon. HortScience 39(6):1246-1249.
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2004. Pectin ultra-degradation decreases the force required to detach ripe fruit from the calyx in tabasco pepper. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science 129:642-648.
- Arancibia, R.A. 2003. Enhanced pectin degradation is associated with the ease of fruit detachment in tabasco pepper. Ph.D. Thesis, LSU A&M University
- Sundberg, M.A., C.E. Motsenbocker, and Y. Huang. 2003. Anatomy of fruit detachment in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) Solanaceae. Journal of the Torrey Botanical Society 130 (4):231-237.
- Motsenbocker, C. E. and R.A. Arancibia. 2000. Tabasco pepper flower abscission at the pedicel-stem zone. Acta Hort. 514(4):213-218.
- Keinath, A. P., C. E. Motsenbocker et al., 2000. Evaluation of biological and chemical seed treatments to improve stand of snap bean across the southern United States. Crop Protection 19 (7):501-509.
- Motsenbocker, C. E. and R. A. Arancibia. 2000. Ethephon induced differential ripening and enzyme activity response in two tabasco lines. HortScience 35:503. (Abst.)
- R.A. Arancibia and C. E. Motsenbocker. 2000. Cell wall protein profile differences in fruits of two tabasco pepper lines. HortScience 35:586. (Abst.)
- Sarmiento, M.J., J.S. Kuehny, C.E. Motsenbocker, and D.H. Picha. 2000. Development of a tropical horticulture course on CD-ROM. HortScience 35:464. (Abst.)
- Bracy, R.P., H. Harrison, R.L. Parish, R.M. Rosendale, and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2000. Evaluation of watermelon cultivars - Southeast Research Station. LSU AgCenter Res. Sum.124:8-9.
- Andino, J.R. 1999. Effect of colored plastic mulch on watermelon insects, growth, yield and economics. M.S. Thesis, LSU A&M University
- Aldana, Manuel A. and Carl E. Motsenbocker. 2003. Growth response of hydroponic tabasco pepper to phosphorus and potassium. HortScience 38(5):723. (Abstr)
- Motsenbocker, Carl E. and L.A. Smith. 2003. A garden-based science curriculum can impact environmental awareness of elementary school students. HortScience 38(5):836. (Abstr)
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2003. Pectin ultra-degradation and the deciduous character of tabasco pepper fruit during ripening. HortScience 38(5):786. (Abstr)
- Motsenbocker, C.E. and L.A. Smith. 2003. College service-learning students can teach a garden-based science curriculum. HortScience 38(6):1272. (Abstr)
- Smith, L.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2003. The integration of a formal garden curriculum into Louisiana public elementary schools. HortScience 38(6):1272. (Abstr)
- Arancibia, R.A. 2003. Enhanced pectin degradation is associated with the ease of fruit detachment in tabasco pepper. Ph.D. Dissertation, LSU A&M University
- Smith, L.A. 2003. The integration of a formal garden curriculum into Louisiana public elementary schools. M.S. Thesis, LSU A&M University
- Mao, C. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of ethephon on tabasco pepper fruit ripening and abscission at the fruit-receptacle junction. Scientia Horticulturae: 93(3-4):357-365.
- Hasing, J.E. 2002. Agroeconomic effect of soil solarization on fall-planted lettuce. M.S. Thesis, LSU A&M University
- Motsenbocker, C.E. and R.A. Arancibia. 2002. In-row spacing influences triploid watermelon yield and crop value. HortTechnology 12(3):437-440.
- Andino, J.R., and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of colored mulches on insects and watermelon yield. LSU AgCenter Res. Sum. 141:37-39.
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of colored mulch and spunbonded polyester row cover in watermelon production. LSU AgCenter Res. Sum. 141:40-44.
- Hasing, J.E., and C. E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of summer soil solarization on the yield and economics of fall-planted lettuce. Poster presentation at the International Horticultural Congress Meeting, Toronto, Canada (Abstr. On-site Program: 294).
- Motsenbocker, C.E., R.A. Hinson. 2002. Forming a consensus in agricultural development issues and constraints: using the nominal group technique. International Horticultural Congress Meeting, Toronto, Canada (Abstr. On-site Program: 404).
- Motsenbocker, C.E., R.A. Hinson. 2002. Small-scale production of vegetable crops in Honduras: a case study. International Horticultural Congress Meeting, Toronto, Canada (Abstr. On-site Program: 404).
- Motsenbocker, C. and R. Hinson. 2002. "Short Cycle Crops and Mangoes in Honduras". FINAL REPORT to Agriculture Reconstruction and Strategic Development Project, USAID Mission MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, www.metrovision.org., pp21 24.
- Motsenbocker, C., and R. Hinson. 2002. "Horticulture: Short Cycle Crops and Mangoes". FINAL REPORT Attachment to Agriculture Reconstruction and Strategic Development Project, USAID Mission for Honduras, MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, www.metrovision.org.
- Hinson, R., and C. Motsenbocker. 2002. "The Asian/Mixed Vegetables Case Study". Case Study Attachment to FINAL REPORT, Agriculture Reconstruction and Strategic Development Project, USAID Mission for Honduras, MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, www.metrovision.org.
- Motsenbocker, C., and R. Hinson. 2002. "The Mango Case Study: Agropecuari Melgar". Case Study Attachment to FINAL REPORT, Agriculture Reconstruction and Strategic Development Project, USAID Mission for Honduras, MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, www.metrovision.org.
- Hinson, R., C. Motsenbocker. 2002. "The Melon Industry Case Study: Agrolibano". Case Study Attachment to FINAL REPORT, Agriculture Reconstruction and Strategic Development Project, USAID Mission for Honduras, MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, www.metrovision.org.
- Motsenbocker, C., and R. Hinson. 2002. "The Tabasco Production Case Study: Cultivos Del Norte". Case Study Attachment to FINAL REPORT, Agriculture Reconstruction and Strategic Development Project, USAID Mission for Honduras, MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, www.metrovision.org.
- Motsenbocker, C. and R. Hinson. 2002. "Short and Long cycle Horticultural Crops". In Agricultural Reconstruction and Development Strategic Plan for Honduras, submitted to United States Agency for International Development as a component of LSU AgCenter International Programs report through MetroVision Economic Development Partnership, pp 52 65.
- Elliot, M.L., ... Motsenbocker, C. E ... et al. 2001. Viability and stability of biological control agents on cotton and snap bean seeds. Pest Manag. Sci. 57:695-706.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Fruit abscission research is important because the single greatest expense for vegetable production is usually harvest costs. Two tabasco lines "McIlhenny Select" and "Hard Pick" that were previously identified to differ in ease of fruit detachment were used. Cellulase and polygalacturonase activity increased during ripening and this increase correlated to fruit detachment force and red coloration. There was no difference, however, between the two tabasco lines. Pectin dissolution in the "McIlheeny Select" was greater than in the "Hard Pick" line and suggests enhanced pectin depolymerization. Field research studies were conducted to evaluate the use of high tunnels in combination with row covers for spring season fresh market tomato production in southern Louisiana. Both high tunnels and row covers significantly increased minimum and maximum air temperatures at 15cm height above the mulch compared to the black plastic mulch control. Early yield was highest with the
tunnel treatment without row cover compared to tunnel with row cover and similar to row cover alone or the control. There were no differences in total marketable yield between treatments. Field studies were conducted at the Kasetsart Universit Research Station at Kampaengsan, Thailand to evaluate the effect of preplant fertilization rates on pungency of hot pepper grown under rain shelters.
Impacts
Harvest of pepper fruit is still primarily conducted by hand for both processing and fresh market and the greatest single expense is usually harvest costs. Understanding the physiology and developmental changes in pepper fruit separation zones is essential to maximizing crop production potential in a managed agricultural environment. The two lines of tabasco pepper differ in ease of fruit detachment and are being used as a model system to investigate pepper fruit detachment. The results of the research will be important in developing new cultivars and production technology. High tunnels, or simple greenhouse-like structures, have been used to protect crops from cold temperature in northern states as they often provide benefits similar to greenhouses with considerably lower cost. Very little research, however, has been conducted to quantify the benefits of high tunnels in the production of vegetable crops in southern states. This research will be beneficial to develop
economical, sustainable production systems for small and medium-scale vegetable growers in Louisiana.
Publications
- Hasing, J., C.E. Motsenbocker, and C. J. Monlezun. 2004. Agroeconomic effect of soil solarization on fall planted lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Scientia Horticulturae 101 (3):223-233.
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2004. Pectin ultra-degradation decreases the force required to detach ripe fruit from the calyx in tabasco pepper. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science 129:642-648.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Investigation of fruit abscission is important because the greatest single expense for vegetable production is usually harvest costs. Two tabasco lines McIlhenny Select and Hard Pick that were previously identified to differ in ease of fruit detachment were used. The enzymes normally associated with ripening (cellulase, polygalacturonase) increased activity. There was no difference in cellulose and polygalacturonase activity, however, between the two tabasco lines. Pectin dissolution in fresh ripe fruit tissue and in extracted fruit cell wall was higher in the easy-detaching line than the Hard Pick genotype and inversely correlated to the fruit detachment force. The ease of fruit detachment was attributed to pectin degradation differences between the two tabasco lines. The implementation of a hands-on science project (Junior Master Gardener, Handbook Level One) were introduced into three East Baton Rouge Parish elementary schools as an informal education program
conducted by East Baton Rouge Parish Master Gardener volunteers and Louisiana State University students. Science achievement tests were given before and after the students participated in the gardening activities to determine whether or not the activities helped improve achievement scores. Science achievement was significantly different (P < 0.0167) between the experimental classes pre- and posttest scores, while no significant difference was found between the pre- and posttest scores of the control classes. No significant difference was found between the experimental and control classes due to treatment. In addition, the gardening programs impact on environmental awareness was evaluated using a testing instrument (Childrens Environmental Response Inventory, CERI). CERI is a multidimensional measure of childrens environmental dispositions using self-reported questions rated on a five-point Likert scale. Environmental Adaptation reflects a fundamental respect for the physical
environment; a lower test score indicates a positive effect for this measure. The implementation of the hands-on science program resulted in a significantly lower (P < 0.01) difference in pre and post Environmental Adaptation scores for treatment (- 1.94) compared to control classes (+ 3.01) indicating an enhanced appreciation for the environment and nature of the treatment classes. There were no differences in Pastoralism which indicates a positive responses to natural environments, outdoors, and open spaces.
Impacts
Harvest of pepper fruit is still primarily conducted by hand for both processing and fresh market and the greatest single expense is usually harvest costs. Understanding the physiology and developmental changes in pepper fruit separation zones is essential to maximizing crop production potential in a managed agricultural environment. The two lines of tabasco pepper differ in ease of fruit detachment and are being used as a model system to investigate pepper fruit detachment. The results of the research will be important in developing new cultivars and production technology. Gardens are increasingly utilized for activity-based hands-on science and environmental education at the elementary school level. Little research, however, has been conducted to quantify the benefits of school gardens and the formal exercises using them. In particular the effect of a garden curriculum on science achievement and environmental awareness has not been well documented. The objective of
this research project is to document the introduction of a hands-on science program (Junior Master Gardener) in public schools in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The results of this research will enable teachers and administrators to enhance the educational experience of elementary school students through hands-on science activities. Through participation in this program, students will gain increased exposure and appreciation of science, agriculture and local food systems.
Publications
- Motsenbocker, C.E. and L.A. Smith. 2003. College service-learning students can teach a garden-based science curriculum. HortScience 38(6):1272. (Abstr)
- Smith, L.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2003. The integration of a formal garden curriculum into Louisiana public elementary schools. HortScience 38(6):1272. (Abstr)
- Arancibia, R.A. 2003. Enhanced pectin degradation is associated with the ease of fruit detachment in tabasco pepper. Ph.D. Dissertation, LSU A&M University
- Smith, L.A. 2003. The integration of a formal garden curriculum into Louisiana public elementary schools. M.S. Thesis, LSU A&M University
- Sundberg, M.A., C.E. Motsenbocker, and Y. Huang. 2003. Anatomy of fruit detachment in tabasco pepper (Capsicum frutescens) Solanaceae. Journal of the Torrey Botanical Society 130 (4):231-237.
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2003. Pectin methyl-esterase activity in vivo during fruit ripening and the deciduous character of tabasco pepper fruit. HortScience 38(5):838. (Abstr)
- Aldana, Manuel A. and Carl E. Motsenbocker. 2003. Growth response of hydroponic tabasco pepper to phosphorus and potassium. HortScience 38(5):723. (Abstr)
- Motsenbocker, Carl E. and L.A. Smith. 2003. A garden-based science curriculum can impact environmental awareness of elementary school students. HortScience 38(5):836. (Abstr)
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2003. Pectin ultra-degradation and the deciduous character of tabasco pepper fruit during ripening. HortScience 38(5):786. (Abstr)
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
Field studies were conducted to investigate the effect of summer solarization strategies on fall-planted lettuce growth and yield and pest management. Summer solarization with clear and black mulches equally increased lettuce yield by enhancing plant growth and head weight compared to bare ground treatments. Solarization reduced weed densities, especially from grasses, compared to bare ground and enhanced weed suppression was achieved by using black plastic for solarization and mulching. Cost analysis revealed that yield increases required to cover solarization expenses in bare-ground and fall-mulch systems are generally lower than yield increases reported in previous solarization research. Jalapeno pepper cultivars were evaluated for yield and quality characteristics in field studies. Machine harvesting of transplanted jalapeno pepper was conducted on an experimental basis on a grower location. Fruit abscission research is important as the single greatest single
expense for vegetable production is usually harvest costs. Two tabasco lines "McIlhenny Select" and "Hard Pick" that were previously identified to differ in ease of fruit detachment were used. Continuing studies of enzyme activity in the fruit separation zone indicated that cellulase and polygalacturonase activity increased during ripening with no difference, however, between the two tabasco lines. Preliminary data indicates that differences in pectin methyl esterase activity in the fruit separation zone may be significant in differential tabasco fruit ripening and separation.
Impacts
Research investigating the effect of environmental parameters and cultural practices on vegetable crops yield and quality characteristics for the fresh and processing market is necessary. Evaluation of vegetable varieties that are better adapted to the Gulf-South environment and market situation also is important. Harvest of pepper fruit is still primarily conducted by hand for both processing and fresh market, and the greatest single expense is usually harvest costs. Understanding the physiology and developmental changes in pepper fruit abscission zones is essential to maximizing crop production potential in a managed agricultural environment. The two lines of tabasco pepper differ in ease of fruit detachment and are being used as a model system to investigate pepper fruit detachment. Demonstration/research of machine harvesting of jalapeno pepper may increase the potential for jalapeno production in support of the local pepper processing industry.
Publications
- Mao, C. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of ethephon on tabasco pepper fruit ripening and abscission at the fruit-receptacle junction. Scientia Horticulturae: 93(3-4):357-365.
- Motsenbocker, C.E. and R.A. Arancibia. 2002. In-row spacing influences triploid watermelon yield and crop value. HortTechnology 12(3):437-440.
- Andino, J.R., and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of colored mulches on insects and watermelon yield. LSU AgCenter Res. Sum. 141:37-39.
- Arancibia, R.A. and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of colored mulch and spunbonded polyester row cover in watermelon production. LSU AgCenter Res. Sum. 141:40-44.
- Hasing, J.E., and C. E. Motsenbocker. 2002. Effect of summer soil solarization on the yield and economics of fall-planted lettuce. Poster presentation at the International Horticultural Congress Meeting, Toronto, Canada (Abstr. On-site Program: 294).
- Motsenbocker, C.E., R.A. Hinson. 2002. Forming a consensus in agricultural development issues and constraints: using the nominal group technique. International Horticultural Congress Meeting, Toronto, Canada (Abstr. On-site Program: 404).
- Motsenbocker, C.E., R.A. Hinson. 2002. Small-scale production of vegetable crops in Honduras: a case study. International Horticultural Congress Meeting, Toronto, Canada (Abstr. On-site Program: 404).
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
Field studies were initiated to investigate the effect of sustainable production practices on vegetable crops growth and yield and pest management. This research is funded by a Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (S.S.A.R.E.) competitive grant in conjunction with Southern University and the Baton Rouge Economic and Agricultural Development Alliance. One of the experiments involves research investigating the use of winter cover crop treatments and nitrogen fertigation on diploid watermelon and bell/jalapeno pepper production. The cover crops (mix of crimson clover and annual rye grass) were planted in fall 2000 and watermelon and peppers were planted in the Spring 2001. Unfortunately, a severe weather event (Tropical Storm Allison) completely destroyed the crops prior to harvest. Another collaborated research experiment with the SARE grant is to investigate summer solarization strategies (clear/black plastic mulch) on fall-planted lettuce.
Preliminary research indicated that summer solarization may be a suitable cultural practice for fall-planted vegetables such as lettuce. Investigation of fruit abscission is important as the single greatest single expense for vegetable production is usually harvest costs. Two tabasco lines "McIlhenny Select" and "Hard Pick" that were previously identified to differ in ease of fruit detachment were used. Cellulase and polygalacturonase activity was previously identified to increase during ripening and this increase was correlated to fruit detachment force and red coloration. The enzyme activity was not different, however, between the two tabasco lines. Research is ongoing to investigate the effect of pH on enzyme activity as well as other enzymes involved with fruit ripening.
Impacts
Research investigating the effect of environmental parameters and cultural practices on vegetable crops yield and quality characteristics for the fresh and processing market is necessary. Evaluation of vegetable varieties that are better adapted to the Gulf-South environment and market situation is also important. In addition, sustainable practices that are suitable for small-scale growers in Louisiana are limited and relevant research is warranted. Harvest of pepper fruit is still primarily conducted by hand for both processing and fresh market and the greatest single expense is usually harvest costs. Understanding the physiology and developmental changes in pepper fruit abscission zones is essential to maximizing crop production potential in a managed agricultural environment. The two lines of tabasco pepper differ in ease of fruit detachment and are being used as a model system to investigate pepper fruit detachment.
Publications
- Elliot, M.L., ... Motsenbocker, C. E ... et al. 2001. Viability and stability of biological control agents on cotton and snap bean seeds. Pest Manag. Sci. 57:695-706.
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Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00
Outputs
Field studies were initiated to investigate the effect of sustainable production practices on vegetable crops yield, and pest management. This research is funded by a Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (S.A.R.E.) competitive grant. Specifically the research involves the use of winter cover crop treatments and nitrogen fertigation on diploid watermelon and bell/jalapeno pepper production. The cover crops (mix of crimson clover and annual rye grass) were planted in October following LSU AgCenter recommendations. Investigation of fruit abscission is important because the single greatest expense for vegetable production is usually harvest cost. Two tabasco lines "McIlhenny Select" and "Hard Pick" that were previously identified to differ in ease of fruit detachment were used. In preliminary experiments, cellulase and polygalacturonase activity increased during ripening, and this increase correlated to fruit detachment force and red coloration. There
was no difference, however, between the two tabasco lines. Differences in pH of the apoplastic solution from the fruit detachment zones was noted, however. During ripening the apoplastic pH decreased in both lines at a similar rate. The pH range was lower for the "McIlhenny Select" compared to the "Hard Pick" line.
Impacts
Research investigating the effect of environmental parameters and cultural practices on vegetable crops yield and quality characteristics for the fresh and processing market is necessary. Evaluation of vegetable varieties that are better adapted to the Gulf-South environment and market situation also is important. Harvest of pepper fruit is still primarily conducted by hand for both processing and fresh market and the greatest single expense is usually harvest costs. Understanding the physiology and developmental changes in pepper fruit abscission zones is essential to maximizing crop production potential in a managed agricultural environment. The two lines of tabasco pepper differ in ease of fruit detachment and are being used as a model system to investigate pepper fruit detachment.
Publications
- Motsenbocker, C. E. and R. A. Arancibia. 2000. Tabasco pepper flower abscission at the pedicel-stem zone. Acta Hort.514(4):213-218.
- Keinath, A. P., C. E. Motsenbocker et al., 2000. Evaluation of biological and chemical seed treatments to improve stand of snap bean across the southern United States. Crop Protection 19 (7):501-509.
- Motsenbocker, C. E. and R. A. Arancibia. 2000. Ethephon induced differential ripening and enzyme activity response in two tabasco lines. HortScience 35:503. (Abst.)
- R.A. Arancibia and C. E. Motsenbocker. 2000. Cell wall protein profile differences in fruits of two tabasco pepper lines. HortScience 35:586. (Abst.)
- Sarmiento, M.J., J.S. Kuehny, C.E. Motsenbocker, and D.H. Picha. 2000. Development of a tropical horticulture course on CD-ROM. HortScience 35:464. (Abst.)
- Bracy, R.P., H. Harrison, R.L. Parish, R.M. Rosendale, and C.E. Motsenbocker. 2000. Evaluation of watermelon cultivars - Southeast Research Station. LSU AgCenter Res. Sum.124:8-9.
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