Progress 06/01/01 to 05/31/04
Outputs
Groundcover selection trial was completed in the fall of 2002. This study included 12 groundcover selections grown in full sun in soils amended with processed poultry litter as a fertilizer compared with traditional mineral fertilizers. New methods of producing trees in the pot in pot system were demonstrated in studies began in 2001 and continued through 2003 at the North Alabama Horticulture Substation (NAHS). A study demonstrating the production of container-grown espaliered apples has been completed. A native species of Clematis occurs only in the central and north part of Alabama. Studies on the propagation of this species were conducted and completed in our greenhouse facility in Auburn. Studies evaluating the production of Pistache chinensis, in important landscape tree and the impact of coppicing have been completed. Impact of tropospheric ozone on red maples and buddleia. A heat stress study on several species of hemlock (Tsuga species) was completed in 2002.
Laboratory evaluations of cold hardiness of some of the major landscape palms has been completed. Studies have been completed on the influence of chilling on linden cultivars (Tilia species), an important landscape tree from Birmingham north. The goal was to identify selections that might survive in areas with less cold. The work was successful. The impact of chilling on Ginkgo biloba, an important landscape tree has been completed. The work will assist growers throughout the south with managing production of this species. Low temperature evaluations of ornamental plants (gardenia, azaleas, hydrangea). Evaluation of how timing and severity of pruning affect cold hardiness of Buddleia and Lantana cultivars. Greenhouse and nursery screening trials to evaluate blends of the agricultural waste generated from the cotton ginning process were completed in 2002. Two greenhouse and container studies have been completed evaluating using cotton gin trash and poultry litter as substrate
components in nursery crop propagation and production. Currently, North Alabama has an abundance of cotton gin waste and a greater supply of poultry litter than can be managed in an environmentally friendly way. 2002 Summer trial of 179 warm-season flowering bedding plants; 2002-03 Winter trial of 61 cool-season flowering bedding plants; and 2003 Summer trial of 213 warm-season flowering bedding plants at Auburn, AL and NAHS. Evaluation of season long exposure of ozone to native wildflower growth and reproduction. Field and laboratory research were conducted to determine turfgrass tolerance and weed efficacy with fluroxypyr alone and in admixture with diflufenzopyr. A 4,000 square foot putting green was in operation for 2003 at the Turfgrass Research Unit and was used to determine the effects of fans and syringing on bentgrass health during the summer months. Trials of seeded bermudagrass varieties were established at the Sand Mountain Research and Extension center in Crossville and
at the Turfgrass Research Unit in Auburn.
Impacts
Evaluations of cold hardiness, heat tolerance, and general adaptability of plant materials to Central and North Alabama will aid growers, landscape professionals, turf managers, and end users of horticultural products by providing reliable research based information about the suitability of selected plants with likely application to much of the Southeastern U. S. region. Better adapted plant selections are expected to require fewer pesticide, cultural, and water inputs to maintain a commercially and aesthetically valuable landscape. A better understanding of significant pests will aid in identifying more effective control measures.
Publications
- Cain, J.J., J.L. Adrian, P.M. Duffy and E. Guertal. 2003. Turfgrass-Sod Production in Alabama: Economics and Marketing. AAES Bulletin 653, Auburn University, AL.
- Cole, D.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, D.J. Eakes, and K.M. Tilt. 2002. Cotton gin compost as an alternative substrate for propagation. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 52:388-392.
- Cole, D.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, D.J. Eakes, and K.M. Tilt. 2002. Evaluation of cotton gin compost as a horticultural substrate. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 47:274-277.
- Elliott, M.L., E.A. Guertal, E.A. Des Jardin and H.D. Skipper. 2003. Effect of N rate and root-zone mix on rhizosphere bacterial populations and root mass in creeping bentgrass putting greens. Biol. Fertil. Soil 37:348-354.
- Guertal, E.A., C.L. Derrick and J.N. Shaw. 2003. Deep-tine aerification in compacted soil. Golf Course Mngt. 71:87-89.
- Harbuck, T.L, D.J. Eakes, J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam. 2003. Evaluation of a controlled-release fertilizer on leachate quality and growth of Bonanza daylily. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 48:394-397.
- Jackson, B.E., J.L. Sibley, and A.N. Wright. 2004. Cotton gin compost as a substrate component in container production of ornamental plants. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 49.
- Kessler, J. Raymond. 2003 "2002 Summer Trial Garden Results". Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin #652.
- Kessler, J. Raymond. 2003 " 2002-03 Winter Trial Garden Results". Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin #654.
- Mayfield, J.L., J.L. Sibley, E.H. Simonne, and D.J. Eakes. 2002. Effect of liming materials on media pH and overall growth and nutrition of dwarf nandina. J. Plant Nut. 25:1377-1387.
- McElroy, J. Scott, Robert H. Walker, Glenn R. Wehtje and Edzard van Santan. 2004. Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) populations exhibit variation in germination response to temperature, photoperiod and fenarimol. Weed Sci 52(1):47-52.
- McElroy, J. Scott, Robert H. Walker, and Edzard van Santen. 2002. Patterns of variation in Poa annua populations as revealed by canonical discriminant analysis of life history traits. Crop Sci. 42:513-517.
- Miles, M.R., J.L. Sibley, G.J. Keever and C.H. Gilliam. 2001. Coppicing as a means of increasing regular growth in Chinese pistache. Ornamentals Research Report Series No. 20:16-17.
- Miles, M.R., J.L. Sibley, G.J. Keever and C.H. Gilliam. 2001. Coppicing as a means of increasing regular growth in Chinese pistache. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 46:126-127. Raciborski, M.A. 2003. Growth and turf quality comparisons among seeded bermudgrass cultivars. M.S. Thesis, Auburn University, Auburn, AL.
- Raciborski, M.A. and D.Y. Han. 2003. Seeded bermudas gain ground. Turfgrass Trends 12(2): 1-4.
- Raciborski, M.A. and D.Y. Han. 2003. Suitability of seeded bermudagrass for use on golf courses, athletic fields, and landscapes. Alabama Turfgrass Association Turf Times 22(1): 2-5.
- Walker, R. H., G. R. Wehtje and J. L. Belcher. 2003. Poa annua control with rimsulfuron. Golf Course Management. 71(3):120-123.
- Sibley, J.L., B.C. Wilson and J.C. Wilson. 2001. Chilling affects foliar budbreak of ornamental trees. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 51:604-609.
- Thompson, J.M. and J.L. Sibley. 2003. Slimy friends and foes: understanding slugs and snails. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 53:339-342.
- Walker, R. H. and J. L. Belcher. 2002. Sulfonyl urea herbicides for Poa annua control in bermudagrass turf. Proc. South. Weed Sci. Soc.55:50-51.
- Warr, J., G. Keever, D. Findley, and R. Kessler. 2002. Time of pruning affects cold hardiness of Buddleia. SNA Res. Conf. 47:115-120.
- Wehtje, G. and R. H. Walker. 2004. Diflufenzopyr admixtures: do they have a role in Virginia buttonweed control in warm-season turf? Proc. South. Weed Sci. Soc. 57: paper 134.
- Wilson, B.C. and J.L. Sibley. 2001. Chilling durations affect foliar budbreak of linden (Tilia spp.) cultivars. Ornamentals Research Report Series No. 20:19-20.
- Wilson, B.C., J.L. Sibley, and J.E. Altland. 2002. Chilling duration affects foliar budbreak of linden cultivars. HortTechnology 12:660-662.
- Wilson, B.C., J.L. Sibley, J.E. Altland, E.H. Simonne, and D.J. Eakes. 2002. Chilling and heat unit levels affect foliar budbreak of selected red and Freeman maple cultivars. J. Arboric. 28:148-152.
- Wilson, J.C., J.E. Altland, J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2003. Chilling affects budbreak of Ginkgo biloba L. J. Environ. Hort. 21:153-158.
- Wilson, J.C., J.E. Altland, J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee. 2004. Effects of chilling and heat on growth of Ginkgo biloba L. J. Arboric. 30:45-51.
- Wilson, J.C., J.L. Sibley, J.E. Altland, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2002. Impact of chilling on budbreak of Ginkgo biloba L. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 47:64-66.
- Wilson, J.C., J.L. Sibley, J.E. Altland, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2002. Impact of chilling on Ginkgo biloba L. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 52:571-575.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2003. Fertilization methods affect growth, color and nitrogen leaching of winter annuals in landscape beds. J. Environ. Hort. 21:99-107.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Fertilizer formulation and method of application influence bedding plant growth and nitrogen leaching in urban landscapes. J. Environ. Hort. 20:204-213.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Rapid determination of nitrogen status in annual vinca. J. Environ. Hort. 20:189-194.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Fertilization of annual bedding plants in urban landscapes. USDA-ARS. Proceedings of workshop. September 16, 1999 in Bryan, TX edited by J.H. Edwards, G.E. Aiken, and T.R. Way. Pages 56-59.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Influence of fertilizer type and frequency of application on plant growth and nitrogen leaching. USDA-ARS. Proceedings of workshop. September 16, 1999 in Bryan, TX edited by J.H. Edwards, G.E. Aiken, and T.R. Way. Pages 60-63.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, G.J. Keever, J.H. Edwards, J.L. Sibley and D.C. Fare. 2003. Rapid determination of nitrogen status in pansy. HortScience 38:537-541.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, J.H. Edwards, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Cultivar differences in the relationship between foliar nitrogen and petiole sap nitrate concentration in Catharanthus roseus. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 47:477-479.
- Blythe, G., and J.L. Sibley. 2003. Novel methods of applying rooting hormones in cutting propagation. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 53:406-410
- Altland, J., C. Gilliam, G. Keever, J.L. Sibley and D. Fare. 2001. Rapid determination of nitrogen status in bedding plants. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. (SNA) Res. Conf. 46:519-521.
- Belcher, J. L., R. H. Walker and M. Cooper. 2004. Velocity for Poa annua control in perennial ryegrass. Proc. South. Weed Sci. Soc. 57: paper 181.
- Belcher, Jason L., Robert H. Walker, Edzard van Santen and Glenn R. Wehtje. 2002. Nontuberous sedge and kyllinga species response to herbicides. Weed Technol. 16(3):575-579.
- Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2004. Auxin application to stem cuttings of selected woody landscape plants by incorporation into a stabilized organic rooting substrate. J. Environ. Hort. 22:63-70.
- Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2003. Cutting propagation with auxin applied via a stabilized organic rooting substrate. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 53:275-283.
- Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2003. Foliar application of auxin for rooting cuttings of selected ornamental crops. J. Environ. Hort. 21:131-136.
- Burtts, L.M., R. Ebel, J. Sibley, K. Tilt, A. Caylor, and J. Adrian. 2001. Espalier of apple trees. Proceedings for Ala. Fruit and Veg. Grow. Assoc. 22nd Annual Meeting and Ala. Pumpkin Assoc. 4th Annual Workshop. Pages 21.
- Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2004. Substrate application of auxin for rooting cuttings of Elaeagnus x ebbingei. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 49.
- Bruner, L.L, D.J. Eakes, J.L. Sibley, C.M. Morton, P.R. Knight and J.J. Cain. 2001. Cutting requirements for propagation of the endangered species, Clematis socialis. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 51:629-633 (peer-reviewed, refereed).
- Bruner, L.L, D.J. Eakes, J. Sibley, C.M. Morton, P.R. Knight and J.J. Cain. 2001. Effects of medium on rooting of Clematis socialis stem cuttings. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 46:358-361.
|
Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Groundcover selection trial was completed in the fall of 2002. This study included 12 groundcover selections grown in full sun in soils amended with processed poultry litter as a fertilizer compared with traditional mineral fertilizers. New methods of producing trees in the pot in pot system were demonstrated in studies began in 2001 and continued through 2003 at the North Alabama Horticulture Substation (NAHS). A study demonstrating the production of container-grown espaliered apples has been completed. A native species of Clematis occurs only in the central and north part of Alabama. Studies on the propagation of this species were conducted and completed in our greenhouse facility in Auburn. Studies evaluating the production of Pistache chinensis, in important landscape tree and the impact of coppicing have been completed. Impact of tropospheric ozone on red maples and buddleia. A heat stress study on several species of hemlock (Tsuga species) was completed in 2002.
Laboratory evaluations of cold hardiness of some of the major landscape palms has been completed. Studies have been completed on the influence of chilling on linden cultivars (Tilia species), an important landscape tree from Birmingham north. The goal was to identify selections that might survive in areas with less cold. The work was successful. The impact of chilling on Ginkgo biloba, an important landscape tree has been completed. The work will assist growers throughout the south with managing production of this species. Low temperature evaluations of ornamental plants (gardenia, azaleas, hydrangea). Evaluation of how timing and severity of pruning affect cold hardiness of Buddleia and Lantana cultivars. Greenhouse and nursery screening trials to evaluate blends of the agricultural waste generated from the cotton ginning process were completed in 2002. Two greenhouse and container studies have been completed evaluating using cotton gin trash and poultry litter as substrate
components in nursery crop propagation and production. Currently, North Alabama has an abundance of cotton gin waste and a greater supply of poultry litter than can be managed in an environmentally friendly way. 2002 Summer trial of 179 warm-season flowering bedding plants; 2002-03 Winter trial of 61 cool-season flowering bedding plants; and 2003 Summer trial of 213 warm-season flowering bedding plants at Auburn, AL and NAHS. Evaluation of season long exposure of ozone to native wildflower growth and reproduction. Field and laboratory research were conducted to determine turfgrass tolerance and weed efficacy with fluroxypyr alone and in admixture with diflufenzopyr. A 4,000 square foot putting green was in operation for 2003 at the Turfgrass Research Unit and was used to determine the effects of fans and syringing on bentgrass health during the summer months. Trials of seeded bermudagrass varieties were established at the Sand Mountain Research and Extension center in Crossville and
at the Turfgrass Research Unit in Auburn.
Impacts
Evaluations of cold hardiness, heat tolerance, and general adaptability of plant materials to Central and North Alabama will aid growers, landscape professionals, turf managers, and end users of horticultural products by providing reliable research based information about the suitability of selected plants with likely application to much of the Southeastern U. S. region. Better adapted plant selections are expected to require fewer pesticide, cultural, and water inputs to maintain a commercially and aesthetically valuable landscape. A better understanding of significant pests will aid in identifying more effective control measures.
Publications
- Wilson, J.C., J.L. Sibley, J.E. Altland, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2002. Impact of chilling on budbreak of Ginkgo biloba L. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 47:64-66.
- Wilson, J.C., J.L. Sibley, J.E. Altland, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2002. Impact of chilling on Ginkgo biloba L. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 52:571-575.
- Raciborski, M.A. and D.Y. Han. 2003. Seeded bermudas gain ground. Turfgrass Trends 12(2): 1-4.
- Raciborski, M.A. and D.Y. Han. 2003. Suitability of seeded bermudagrass for use on golf courses, athletic fields, and landscapes. Alabama Turfgrass Association Turf Times 22(1): 2-5.
- Sibley, J.L., B.C. Wilson and J.C. Wilson. 2001. Chilling affects foliar budbreak of ornamental trees. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 51:604-609.
- Walker, R. H. and J. L. Belcher. 2002. Sulfonyl urea herbicides for Poa annua control in bermudagrass turf. Proc. South. Weed Sci. Soc.55:50-51.
- Walker, R. H., G. R. Wehtje and J. L. Belcher. 2003. Poa annua control with rimsulfuron. Golf Course Management. 71(3):120-123.
- Warr, J., G. Keever, D. Findley, and R. Kessler. 2002. Time of pruning affects cold hardiness of Buddleia. SNA Res. Conf. 47:115-120.
- Wilson, B.C. and J.L. Sibley. 2001. Chilling durations affect foliar budbreak of linden (Tilia spp.) cultivars. Ornamentals Research Report Series No. 20:19-20.
- Wilson, B.C., J.L. Sibley, and J.E. Altland. 2002. Chilling duration affects foliar budbreak of linden cultivars. HortTechnology 12:660-662.
- Wilson, B.C., J.L. Sibley, J.E. Altland, E.H. Simonne, and D.J. Eakes. 2002. Chilling and heat unit levels affect foliar budbreak of selected red and Freeman maple cultivars. J. Arboric. 28:148-152.
- Wilson, J.C., J.E. Altland, J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2003. Chilling affects budbreak of Ginkgo biloba L. J. Environ. Hort. 21:153-158.
- Wilson, J.C., J.E. Altland, J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and W.G. Foshee. 2004. Effects of chilling and heat on growth of Ginkgo biloba L. J. Arboric. 30:45-51.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2003. Fertilization methods affect growth, color and nitrogen leaching of winter annuals in landscape beds. J. Environ. Hort. 21:99-107.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Fertilizer formulation and method of application influence bedding plant growth and nitrogen leaching in urban landscapes. J. Environ. Hort. 20:204-213.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Rapid determination of nitrogen status in annual vinca. J. Environ. Hort. 20:189-194.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Fertilization of annual bedding plants in urban landscapes. USDA-ARS. Proceedings of a workshop entitled 'Use of Organic and Inorganic Amendments Derived From Waste By-Products to Alleviate Soil Nutrient Imbalance' September 16, 1999 in Bryan, TX edited by J.H. Edwards, G.E. Aiken, and T.R. Way. Pages 56-59.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, J.H. Edwards, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Influence of fertilizer type and frequency of application on plant growth and nitrogen leaching. USDA-ARS. Proceedings of a workshop entitled 'Use of Organic and Inorganic Amendments Derived From Waste By-Products to Alleviate Soil Nutrient Imbalance' September 16, 1999 in Bryan, TX edited by J.H. Edwards, G.E. Aiken, and T.R. Way. Pages 60-63.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, G.J. Keever, J.H. Edwards, J.L. Sibley and D.C. Fare. 2003. Rapid determination of nitrogen status in pansy. HortScience 38:537-541.
- Altland, J.E., C.H. Gilliam, G.J. Keever, D.C. Fare, J.H. Edwards, and J.L. Sibley. 2002. Cultivar differences in the relationship between foliar nitrogen and petiole sap nitrate concentration in Catharanthus roseus. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 47:477-479.
- Altland, J., C. Gilliam, G. Keever, J.L. Sibley and D. Fare. 2001. Rapid determination of nitrogen status in bedding plants. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. (SNA) Res. Conf. 46:519-521.
- Belcher, Jason L., Robert H. Walker, Edzard van Santen and Glenn R. Wehtje. 2002. Nontuberous sedge and kyllinga species response to herbicides. Weed Technol. 16(3):575-579.
- Bruner, L.L, D.J. Eakes, J.L. Sibley, C.M. Morton, P.R. Knight and J.J. Cain. 2001. Cutting requirements for propagation of the endangered species, Clematis socialis. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 51:629-633 (peer-reviewed, refereed).
- Bruner, L.L, D.J. Eakes, J. Sibley, C.M. Morton, P.R. Knight and J.J. Cain. 2001. Effects of medium on rooting of Clematis socialis stem cuttings. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 46:358-361.
- Miles, M.R., J.L. Sibley, G.J. Keever and C.H. Gilliam. 2001. Coppicing as a means of increasing regular growth in Chinese pistache. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 46:126-127.
- Raciborski, M.A. 2003. Growth and turf quality comparisons among seeded bermudgrass cultivars. M.S. Thesis, Auburn University, Auburn, AL.
- Burtts, L.M., R. Ebel, J. Sibley, K. Tilt, A. Caylor, and J. Adrian. 2001. Espalier of apple trees. Proceedings for Ala. Fruit and Veg. Grow. Assoc. 22nd Annual Meeting and Ala. Pumpkin Assoc. 4th Annual Workshop. Pages 21.
- Cain, J.J., J.L. Adrian, P.M. Duffy and E. Guertal. 2003. Turfgrass-Sod Production in Alabama: Economics and Marketing. AAES Bulletin 653, Auburn University, AL.
- Cole, D.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, D.J. Eakes, and K.M. Tilt. 2002. Cotton gin compost as an alternative substrate for propagation. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 52:388-392.
- Cole, D.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, D.J. Eakes, and K.M. Tilt. 2002. Evaluation of cotton gin compost as a horticultural substrate. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 47:274-277.
- Elliott, M.L., E.A. Guertal, E.A. Des Jardin and H.D. Skipper. 2003. Effect of N rate and root-zone mix on rhizosphere bacterial populations and root mass in creeping bentgrass putting greens. Biol. Fertil. Soil 37:348-354.
- Guertal, E.A., C.L. Derrick and J.N. Shaw. 2003. Deep-tine aerification in compacted soil. Golf Course Mngt. 71:87-89.
- Harbuck, T.L, D.J. Eakes, J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam. 2003. Evaluation of a controlled-release fertilizer on leachate quality and growth of `Bonanza' daylily. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 48:.
- Kessler, J. Raymond. 2003 '2002 Summer Trial Garden Results'. Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin #652.
- Kessler, J. Raymond. 2003 '2002-03 Winter Trial Garden Results'. Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin #654.
- Mayfield, J.L., J.L. Sibley, E.H. Simonne, and D.J. Eakes. 2002. Effect of liming materials on media pH and overall growth and nutrition of dwarf nandina. J. Plant Nut. 25:1377-1387.
- McElroy, J. Scott, Robert H. Walker, Glenn R. Wehtje and Edzard van Santan. 2004. Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) populations exhibit variation in germination response to temperature, photoperiod and fenarimol. Weed Sci 52(1):47-52.
- McElroy, J. Scott, Robert H. Walker, and Edzard van Santen. 2002. Patterns of variation in Poa annua populations as revealed by canonical discriminant analysis of life history traits. Crop Sci. 42:513-517.
- Miles, M.R., J.L. Sibley, G.J. Keever and C.H. Gilliam. 2001. Coppicing as a means of increasing regular growth in Chinese pistache. Ornamentals Research Report Series No. 20:16-17.
|
Progress 06/01/02 to 05/31/03
Outputs
2 years of laboratory and one year of field testing of Gardenia cultivar cold hardiness has been completed. Similarly, hardiness of three hydrangea and four palm selections have been evaluated. Results of an evaluation of container-grown espaliered apples are being analyzed. Likewise, data from a two year field trial of groundcovers grown in soils amended with processed poultry litter as a fertilizer compared with mineral fertilizers is being evaluated. Greenhouse and nursery screening trials to evaluate blends of waste generated from the cotton ginning process were completed and results are now being analyzed. A heat stress study on several species of hemlock was completed in and results are being prepared for publication. A Sugar maple trial was expanded at the North Alabama Horticulture Substation (NAHS). Plant material for boxwood and crapemyrtle variety trials have been received and will be installed. Plant material has been obtained for evaluation of blueberries
varieties for use as landscape plants. And are being grown in Auburn for out-planting. Peony selections noted in China for heat tolerance and other new plant materials were brought to the U.S. for testing and are in various stages of quarantine, propagation or growing on for out-planting. First year results evaluating effects of timing and severity of pruning on winter injury in buddleia and crapemyrtle are being evaluated and the study will continue. Evaluations were conducted on several hosta cultivars to determine the source of tolerance to high temperatures. Measurements of photosynthesis and night respiration of these plants was utilized to evaluate their heat tolerance. Tests will continue. Over 149 warm season bedding plant cultivars were evaluated for field performance in Central and North Alabama. A similar winter annual trial is in progress. Both trials will be repeated and expanded. 41 ornamental grass selections were planted for evaluation of field performance in north
Alabama. Data collection will begin in the spring of 2003 and continue for 2-3 years. Weed biology studies were initiated, including evaluations of annual bluegrass, sedges, and buttonweed. Site preparation is underway for a study of integrated disease management programs in bentgrass putting greens. Evaluations of 6 improved common bermudagrass cultivars were initiated at the Auburn University Turfgrass Research Unit (AUTRU). Additional trials will be established at the Sand Mountain Substation. Tall fescue selections are under evaluation and zoysia establishment trials have been initiated at the Sand Mountain Substation. The first year of tall fescue evaluation has provided information about the drought tolerance of selected cultivars. A zoysiagrass establishment trial is continuing. First year grow-in data has been collected using Tifeagle ultradwarf bermudagrass. A repeat grow-in study will be conducted. A phosphorus leaching study is nearing the end of its first year, and a
potassium leaching study was established in January, 2003. Follow-up field studies will begin spring 2003 using large-scale ammonia collection devices, which have been constructed and are ready for installation.
Impacts
Evaluations of cold hardiness, heat tolerance and general adaptability of plant materials to Central and North Alabama will aid plant growers, landscape professionals, turf managers, and end users of horticultural products by providing reliable research-based information about the suitability of selected plants with likely application to much of the Southeastern U. S. region. Better adapted plant selections are expected to require fewer pesticide, cultural and water inputs to maintain a commercially and aesthetically valuable landscape. A better understanding of significant pests will aid in identifying more effective control measures.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
|
Progress 06/01/01 to 05/31/02
Outputs
1. Identify superior plants for the Southeastern nursery and landscape industries. - New plant material secured from China. Some are now being propagated for field testing and some are currently still under quarantine. - Sugar maple trial installed at North Alabama Horticulture Substation - Plant material for boxwood variety trial has been received and is to be installed at the Huntsville Botanic Garden and Auburn University. - Plant material has been obtained for evaluation of blueberries varieties for use as landscape plants. - Crapemyrtle variety trial in planning stages for North Alabama Horticulture Substation. Initiation of these and other plant variety evaluations were delayed due to timing of the receipt of 2001 support in June. Too late to obtain or install without risk of significant loss due summer conditions. Irrigation system upgrade to support installation of additional evaluations at North Alabama Horticulture Substation is planned. 2. Evaluate woody
and herbaceous landscape plants for physiological adaptations to environmental stresses including heat and drought tolerance and seasonal changes in shoot and leaf cold hardiness. - Studies evaluating effects of pruning on crapemyrtle, butterfly bush and lantana are under way. The crapemyrtle field test is in progress at the North Alabama Horticulture Substation. Preliminary laboratory evaluations on butterfly bush and lantana and field test is planned for installation at the North Alabama Horticulture Substation, April 2002. - Preliminary laboratory evaluations of hydrangea and palm cold hardiness have been completed. Extensive laboratory evaluation of gardenia cold tolerance has been completed. Field tests of gardenia were initiated in 2001. - Hosta cultivars were evaluated for heat stress tolerance in 2001. - Drought tolerance studies were not initiated due to timing of receipt of funding. 3. Evaluate a wide range of bedding plants and herbaceous perennials for landscape
performance in major climatic regions of Alabama. - Site layout, soil preparation and irrigation system installation completed for this part of the project in Auburn. Initiation of study delayed because timing of 2001 funding receipt did not allow a full growing season. Evaluation will be planted April of 2002. 4. Evaluate the performance and suitability of turfgrass cultivars/genotypes for use in Alabama including the biology and management of turfgrass pests and an examination of nutrient flux in turfgrass systems. - Weed biology and management studies and nutrient tests were not initiated in 2001 because of timing of receipt of funding. These are to be started Spring 2002. - Site preparation is underway for a study of integrated disease management programs in bentgrass putting greens. - Bermudagrass evaluations were initiated at the Auburn University Turfgrass Research Unit. Duplicate trials are scheduled for initiation at Sand Mountain and Gadsden in 2002. - Tall fescue selections
are under evaluations and zoysia establishment trials have been initiated at the Sand Mountain Substation.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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