Progress 10/01/23 to 09/30/24
Outputs
PROGRESS REPORT Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Develop systems-level precision agriculture strategies and tools based on climate, soil, water and nutrients to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 1.A. Develop variable-rate nutrient application systems to increase yields, ratoon longevity and sustainability. 1.B. Utilize UAV-based remote sensing systems to estimate yields prior to harvest. 2. Analyze the impacts of existing and emerging pathogens that affect sugarcane or its wild relatives to enhance genetic control and chemical control strategies. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 2.A. Identify germplasm of hybrid sugarcane and wild relatives of sugarcane for resistance to economically limiting diseases that breeders can use for parental clones. 2.B. Characterize races, strains, or other biotypes of endemic pathogens and monitor the Louisiana sugarcane industry for the emergence of new pathogens. 3. Optimize and integrate the chemical and cultural control of weeds including identifying key factors that promote proliferation in sugarcane production. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 3.A. Develop new herbicide programs that optimize application timing, placement, and herbicide use rates for management of problematic grass and broadleaf weed species in sugarcane. 3.B. Identify weedy characteristics that promote divine nightshade proliferation. 4. Integrate pest management systems into sugarcane production systems including genetic sources of host-plant resistance for greater sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 4.A. Determine the required level of sugarcane borer control after subsequent borer damage to ratoon crops. 4.B. Assess compatibility of billet seed treatments with biological control of the sugarcane borer. Approach (from AD-416): To address the first objective, precision agriculture (PA) methods such as soil electrical conductivity (EC) mapping, variable-rate application and remote-sensing will be utilized to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. Soil EC mapping will be used to develop management zones to optimize nutrient application with variable- rate application procedures. Sugarcane yields in the successive ratoon crops of PA systems will be used as an index of the progress made in increasing ratoon longevity as compared to conventional management methods. Imagery acquired by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will be utilized to predict cane and sucrose yields prior to harvest. To address objective two, we will identify and develop parental germplasm with resistance to the economically limiting diseases affecting sugarcane in the United States. Highly domesticated and wild clones of sugarcane and near relatives will be evaluated for disease resistance following either natural infections or artificial inoculation. Genotypic and phenotypic expressions of variability within populations of pathogens will be used to identify the genetic variability among pathogen populations and determine the distribution of races, strains, or biotypes. The domestic sugarcane industry will be monitored for the introduction of exotic pathogens. To address the third objective, three new 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) herbicides will be evaluated for their efficacy in controlling problematic weeds postemergence in sugarcane. The HPPD herbicides will be applied separately and tank-mixed with various herbicides to evaluate the weed spectrum controlled. Analysis of both herbicide efficacy data and yield data, will allow us to determine effective herbicides and herbicide use rates that maximizes weed control while at the same time minimizes injury to the sugarcane crop. Research will also be conducted to understand the phenology of divine nightshade during a sugarcane cropping cycle to assist in developing the necessary management tactics to prevent weed proliferation. To address the fourth objective, methods will be developed to assist in preventing and managing infestations of the primary economic pest of sugarcane in Louisiana, the sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis (F.); Lepidoptera: Crambidae). We will determine the required level of sugarcane borer control after subsequent borer damage to ratoon crops by comparing yield, borer infestation levels, and natural enemy presence in the first and second year of growth after plants have accumulated different levels of borer damage. We will also assess the compatibility of billet seed treatments with biological control of the sugarcane borer by estimating the arthropod community activity density changes after treatment with insecticides (neonicotinoid) and fungicides (azoxystrobin and propiconazole) alone and in combination. The end product of this research will be new crop, soil, disease, weed and insect management strategies that ensure efficiency and sustainability of sugarcane production while increasing ratoon longevity. In fiscal year (FY) 2024 treatments were applied to all variable-rate (VR) fertilizer studies on commercial sugarcane farms. UAV imagery will be collected in the summer and fall of 2024. Yield data from all trials was harvested in November/December 2023 using a weigh wagon and sugarcane harvester equipped with a commercial yield monitor. Data from 2024 trials will be harvested as outlined above in the fall of 2024. Soil samples will be collected after harvest. In FY 2024, progress was made by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in identifying sugarcane germplasm resistant to economically important diseases. Varieties (50) for possible release into commercial production within the next five years were screened through artificial inoculation in the field for susceptibility to smut and leaf scald. New assignment varieties (53) were also screened for RSD by artificial inoculation with the causal bacterium. In other ARS breeding trials and nurseries, candidate varieties were observed for natural infection by pathogens that cause mosaic, brown and orange rust, sugarcane yellow leaf, smut, and leaf scald diseases. Pathology recommendations were made at variety advancement and variety release meetings. In FY 2024, populations of the viruses that cause mosaic in sugarcane were monitored for genetic diversity. Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) remained the predominant virus causing mosaic. No isolates were identified as Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), another virus that causes mosaic symptoms in sugarcane, from samples collected among commercially released and experimental varieties. Sequence data suggest the SrMV population contains multiple genotypes. Climatic conditions were favorable for orange rust among variety trials at the ARS research farm in Houma, Louisiana; however, no epidemics have been observed in commercial fields. Brown rust continues to be observed in commercial fields in susceptible varieties. Highly susceptible clones to either brown or orange rust are not advanced to the next stage of the variety development program. Efforts have continued to investigate new or developing exotic pathogens in variety trials and commercial fields. In FY24, plant cane was harvested for trials examining pyroxasulfone and S-metolachlor treatments in early spring. These treatments were repeated in the first stubble and in plant cane of replicates planted at the end of FY23. Three different sugarcane varieties, L 01-299, Ho 12-615, and HoCP 09-804, were included in these studies. No significant injury was observed in sugarcane following these treatments suggesting pairing of these herbicides may be a viable option as part of a larger herbicide program pending registration of pyroxasulfone in sugarcane. Plant cane and second stubble plots were harvested for a trial examining different rates of pyroxasulfone alone and with an adjuvant. In addition to assessing injury, weed counts were conducted two, four, and six weeks after treatment. Stalk counts and heights will be assessed over the summer and yields will be determined at harvest. Those studies currently in plant cane will be continued into first ratoon and those at second ratoon will be rotated into fallow. Two trials examining HPPD inhibitors and auxin mimics were moved into second, and first ratoon. Residue was burned prior to herbicide application for both trials. Weed counts, crop injury, stalk heights, stalk counts, and yield will be assessed as described above. The trial in second ratoon will be terminated after harvest. The trial in first ratoon will be continued for another year. In FY 2024, sugarcane borer damage and yield data from the 4.A ratoon crop were collected in October/November 2023. Sentinel egg assays were deployed in July 2023. No significant differences in borer damage or natural enemy predation rates were observed among treatments with and without sugarcane borer infestations during the prior crop year. The leaf carbon and nitrogen content from summer 2023 ratoon samples were assessed in January-March 2024. Statistical analyses and final manuscript preparation should be completed by September 2024. Billet seed cane and ratoon insecticide treatment recommendations were presented at stakeholder meetings. ACCOMPLISHMENTS 01 Effects of potassium fertilizer on sugarcane yields and plant and soil potassium levels. Potassium has many functions in sugarcane, including its role in water relations and the regulation of more than 60 enzymes affecting plant growth. ARS scientists from Houma, Louisiana studied the effects of potassium fertilizer on sugarcane yields and leaf and soil potassium content at six locations in Louisiana. At all locations and soil types, potassium fertilizer did not increase cane or sugar yields. Soil properties and plant potassium data showed that significant increases in soil potassium levels did not occur until the second ratoon crop. The potential cause of the observed lack of response may be explained by interference in potassium retention from calcium and magnesium, combined with fixation of potassium by smectite and vermiculite clay minerals. The data would also suggest that to achieve the potential benefits of potassium fertilizer in Louisiana sugarcane soils, consistent application of potassium at recommended rates will be required, possibly over multiple crop cycles. 02 Itchgrass management across soil types. Itchgrass is currently the most challenging weed for Louisiana sugarcane growers to manage and soil type can impact the efficacy of pre-emergence herbicides. In collaboration with ARS researchers at Houma, Louisiana and Nicholls State University scientists, control of itchgrass by pendimethalin and clomazone was evaluated on five soil types. Control, particularly for clomazone, did vary with soil type. Clomazone was most effective on Iberia silt clay and Coushatta silt loam soils while pendimethalin was consistently most effective in controlling itchgrass on Iberia silt clay soil. As pendimethalin and clomazone are among the few herbicides that control itchgrass, it is important for growers to know on which soil types these herbicides are effective so they can successfully manage itchgrass. This work is part of a larger manuscript that has been submitted for publication. 03 Comparison of surfactant effectiveness when used with the most common sugarcane insecticide. The most common insecticide (chlorantraniliprole) used in Louisiana sugarcane to treat sugarcane borer infestations recently changed manufacturers and is now a thicker consistency and more concentrated. ARS scientists from Houma, Louisiana wanted to determine which commonly used non-ionic surfactants were most effective when paired with the new insecticide formulation. The recommended amount of insecticide was applied with a methylated seed soil to plots in a highly borer-susceptible sugarcane field and compared with two commonly used non-ionic surfactants or to an untreated control. Results indicated no significant differences in sugarcane borer control among the surfactants, but all insecticide/surfactant combinations had better borer control compared to the untreated control plots. These results indicate that growers can apply the new formulation using their current stock of surfactants. Results were published in Arthropod Management Tests as well as presented at grower and agricultural consultant meetings. 04 Sugarcane borer infestation in prior crop years does not change infestation risk in subsequent crop years. For many perennial plants, insect pest infestations in prior years can increase the risk of recurring infestations. Sugarcane is a perennial crop that is harvested multiple times before replanting, but the risk of sugarcane borer infestation (the primary pest) relative to the prior crop year⿿s infestation level, particularly if a field could not be treated, is unknown. Using two multi-year field studies and a 28-year dataset, ARS scientists from Houma, Louisiana conducted research to determine if sugarcane borer damage to seed cane or in the first crop year increased subsequent borer infestations. Results indicated that while borer damage may change plant nutritional content, prior damage did not increase the risk of recurring sugarcane borer infestations. However, results also indicated that annual crop scouting and timely treatment of infestations significantly decreased damage and increased crop yield within the current crop year. Results were presented to growers and crop consultants at annual meetings as well to peer scientists and are being prepared for publication
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Mahon, M.B., Penn, H., Campbell, K.U., Crist, T.O. 2023. Differential patterns of taxonomic and functional diversity for two groups of canopy arthropods across spatial scales. Ecosphere. 14(11). Article e4700. https:/ /doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.4700.
- White Jr, P.M., Ellsworth, P.Z., Lima, I.M. 2023. Low rates of sugarcane bagasse-derived biochar have limited effects on soil properties and sugarcane crop yield. Agrosystems, Geosciences & Environment. 6(4).Article e20430. https://doi.org/10.1002/agg2.20430.
- Shires, M.K., Molnar, C., Wright, A.A., Bishop, G., Harper, S.J. 2024. Distribution and Frequency of Little Cherry Virus 2 Genotypes in both Production and Ornamental Fruit Trees in the Pacific Northwest. Plant Health Progress. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-09-23-0077-S.
- Penn, H., Johnson, R.M., Richard, K.A., Richard, R.T., White, W.H. 2023. Lignocellulosic composition not associated with stem borer resistance in select Louisiana sugarcane cultivars. Agronomy. 13(11).Article 10.3390. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13112764.
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Progress 10/01/22 to 09/30/23
Outputs
PROGRESS REPORT Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Develop systems-level precision agriculture strategies and tools based on climate, soil, water and nutrients to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 1.A. Develop variable-rate nutrient application systems to increase yields, ratoon longevity and sustainability. 1.B. Utilize UAV-based remote sensing systems to estimate yields prior to harvest. 2. Analyze the impacts of existing and emerging pathogens that affect sugarcane or its wild relatives to enhance genetic control and chemical control strategies. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 2.A. Identify germplasm of hybrid sugarcane and wild relatives of sugarcane for resistance to economically limiting diseases that breeders can use for parental clones. 2.B. Characterize races, strains, or other biotypes of endemic pathogens and monitor the Louisiana sugarcane industry for the emergence of new pathogens. 3. Optimize and integrate the chemical and cultural control of weeds including identifying key factors that promote proliferation in sugarcane production. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 3.A. Develop new herbicide programs that optimize application timing, placement, and herbicide use rates for management of problematic grass and broadleaf weed species in sugarcane. 3.B. Identify weedy characteristics that promote divine nightshade proliferation. 4. Integrate pest management systems into sugarcane production systems including genetic sources of host-plant resistance for greater sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 4.A. Determine the required level of sugarcane borer control after subsequent borer damage to ratoon crops. 4.B. Assess compatibility of billet seed treatments with biological control of the sugarcane borer. Approach (from AD-416): To address the first objective, precision agriculture (PA) methods such as soil electrical conductivity (EC) mapping, variable-rate application and remote-sensing will be utilized to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. Soil EC mapping will be used to develop management zones to optimize nutrient application with variable- rate application procedures. Sugarcane yields in the successive ratoon crops of PA systems will be used as an index of the progress made in increasing ratoon longevity as compared to conventional management methods. Imagery acquired by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will be utilized to predict cane and sucrose yields prior to harvest. To address objective two, we will identify and develop parental germplasm with resistance to the economically limiting diseases affecting sugarcane in the United States. Highly domesticated and wild clones of sugarcane and near relatives will be evaluated for disease resistance following either natural infections or artificial inoculation. Genotypic and phenotypic expressions of variability within populations of pathogens will be used to identify the genetic variability among pathogen populations and determine the distribution of races, strains, or biotypes. The domestic sugarcane industry will be monitored for the introduction of exotic pathogens. To address the third objective, three new 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) herbicides will be evaluated for their efficacy in controlling problematic weeds postemergence in sugarcane. The HPPD herbicides will be applied separately and tank-mixed with various herbicides to evaluate the weed spectrum controlled. Analysis of both herbicide efficacy data and yield data, will allow us to determine effective herbicides and herbicide use rates that maximizes weed control while at the same time minimizes injury to the sugarcane crop. Research will also be conducted to understand the phenology of divine nightshade during a sugarcane cropping cycle to assist in developing the necessary management tactics to prevent weed proliferation. To address the fourth objective, methods will be developed to assist in preventing and managing infestations of the primary economic pest of sugarcane in Louisiana, the sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis (F.); Lepidoptera: Crambidae). We will determine the required level of sugarcane borer control after subsequent borer damage to ratoon crops by comparing yield, borer infestation levels, and natural enemy presence in the first and second year of growth after plants have accumulated different levels of borer damage. We will also assess the compatibility of billet seed treatments with biological control of the sugarcane borer by estimating the arthropod community activity density changes after treatment with insecticides (neonicotinoid) and fungicides (azoxystrobin and propiconazole) alone and in combination. The end product of this research will be new crop, soil, disease, weed and insect management strategies that ensure efficiency and sustainability of sugarcane production while increasing ratoon longevity. In fiscal year (FY) 2023 treatments were applied to all variable-rate (VR) fertilizer studies on commercial sugarcane farms. A collaboration with ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, and commercial sugarcane farms was developed to collect soil electrical conductivity (EC) data from all studies using a non-contact, EC mapping system that facilitated the collection of EC data under a wider range of environmental and soil conditions than traditional EC mapping systems. Raw EC data was used to develop VR management zones for all fields. VR soil samples were collected, and management zones were created for all fields. Yield data from all trials was harvested in November/December 2022 using a weigh wagon and sugarcane harvester equipped with a commercial yield monitor. Data from 2023 trials will be collected as outlined above in the fall of 2023. Soil samples will be collected after harvest. Four fields for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) trials were initiated in July 2022 on commercial sugarcane farms. The fields selected were planted to major Louisiana varieties and were approximately 5 hectares in size. UAV imagery was collected using a drone equipped with a multi- spectral sensor from each field monthly until harvest. Fields were harvested in the fall of 2022 as described above. Three additional UAV trials were initiated in 2023 to supplement the data already acquired. These trials will be harvested in the fall of 2023 as outlined above. Data analysis is underway. In FY 2023, progress was made by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in identifying sugarcane germplasm resistant to economically important diseases. Varieties (68) for possible release into commercial production within the next five years were screened through artificial inoculation in the field for susceptibility to smut and leaf scald. New assignment varieties (33) were also screened for ratoon stunting disease by artificial inoculation with the causal bacterium. In other ARS breeding trials and nurseries, candidate varieties were observed for natural infection by pathogens that cause mosaic, brown and orange rust, sugarcane yellow leaf, smut, and leaf scald diseases. Pathology recommendations were made at variety advancement and variety release meetings. In FY 2023, populations of the viruses that cause mosaic in sugarcane were monitored for genetic diversity. Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) remained the predominant virus causing mosaic. No isolates were identified as Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), another virus that causes mosaic symptoms in sugarcane, from samples collected among commercially released and experimental varieties. Sequence data suggest the SrMV population contains multiple genotypes. Climatic conditions were favorable for orange rust among variety trials at the ARS research farm in Houma, Louisiana; however, no epidemics have been observed in commercial fields. Brown rust continues to be observed in commercial fields in susceptible varieties. Highly susceptible clones to either brown or orange rust are not advanced to the next stage of the variety development program. Efforts have continued to investigate new or developing exotic pathogens in variety trials and commercial fields. Pyroxasulfone, a herbicide for controlling annual grasses, broadleaf weeds, and sedges, was applied at different rates with and without adjuvant to L 01-299 cane at second ratoon in March. A second series of plots was planted in September of 2022 to replicate this study, and these were also treated in March. In addition, pyroxasulfone was applied with S- metolachlor to plant cane for varieties L 01-299, HoCP 09-804, and Ho 12- 615. For all plots, sugarcane was assessed for injury and weed counts and weed injury ratings were made two, four, and six weeks after herbicide treatment. Stalk counts and stalk height will be assessed prior to harvest. Sugar yield will be determined at harvest. Studies planted in 2022 will be carried forward into first ratoon. In August sugarcane will be planted to replicate the pyroxasulfone and S-metolachlor treatments. Spring treatment with HPPD (4-hydroxyphenyl-pyruvate dioxygenase) inhibitors paired with an auxin mimic were repeated in plant cane (planted in September 2022) and first ratoon L 01-299. For sugarcane at first ratoon, residue was burned in late winter prior to herbicide application. Sugarcane injury and weed injury assessments and weed counts were performed two, four, and six weeks after herbicide treatment. Stalk counts and height will be assessed prior to harvest and sugar yield will be determined at harvest. These studies will be carried forward into first and second ratoon. In fall 2022, plant cane juice and yield data were obtained from the field trial assessing differences in billet and whole stalk plantings with and without seed cane sugarcane borer damage. Data from the fall 2022 plant cane harvest were presented at winter/spring 2023 grower meetings. In June 2023, the field site was treated as stated in the experimental design with insecticide treatments. Sentinel sugarcane borer egg masses to assess borer damage-induced differences in predation and parasitism rates were ordered for deployment on 11 July 2023 for the final set of 24, 48, and 72 h observations. In fall 2023, the first ratoon juice and yield data will be obtained from the field trial assessing differences in billet and whole stalk plantings with and without seed cane sugarcane borer damage. In fall 2022, the final set of laboratory assays assessing non-target billet seed cane treatment effects on red imported fire ant workers were completed using dip-treated seed cane pieces (treated soil assays were completed in the prior fiscal year). All data from three small plot field trials, two large field trials done in collaboration with Louisiana State University, and two laboratory assessments were entered and analyzed. These data were published in Crop Protection. These data were presented to entomology researchers at Entomology 2022 in fall 2022 and sugarcane researchers at the Louisiana division of the American Society of Sugar Cane Technologists in spring 2023. ACCOMPLISHMENTS 01 Billet seed cane treatments compatible with biological control in sugarcane. Louisiana sugarcane is typically planted using whole plant stalks, but recently growers have increased planting stalks cut into short pieces called billets, which can be cut with the harvester and planted mechanically. Using billets makes the seed cane more likely to be damaged by diseases and pests; but this damage can be prevented by using fungicides and insecticides at planting. However, these treatments may also harm predatory insects like the red imported fire ant that provide biological control of crop pests. ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana, in conjunction with scientists at Louisiana State University in St. Gabriel, Louisiana, tested if certain fungicide and insecticide billet seed cane treatments applied at planting harm the red imported fire ant and other insect predators. Results from three small plot field tests, two large plot field tests, and two laboratory assays indicated that these treatments did not decrease the number of predatory insects or their biological control potential relative to untreated controls. The results indicate that sugarcane growers can readily use seed cane treatments at planting without interfering with biological control of crop pests throughout the growing season. The data were presented at several grower and consultant meetings and two scientific conferences and were recently published in Crop Protection. 02 Impacts of active ingredient, application timing, and rate on sugarcane borer control. Active ingredients, application timing, and the rate of active ingredient used may determine the effectiveness of insecticides in the field. In sugarcane, insecticide treatments are applied when 5% of sugarcane stalks have sugarcane borer caterpillars feeding in the leaf sheaths, but this timing allows for early spring generations of borers to cause damage. ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana, conducted a field study over two years using the variety HoCP 09-804 to compare the efficacy of two active ingredients (tebufenozide and chlorantraniliprole) applied either at standard rates when 5% of stalks were infested or at higher rates earlier in the growing season to potentially prevent early borer damage. Results indicated that plots treated with either rate/timing of chlorantraniliprole had less borer damage than the untreated controls, while plots treated with tebufenozide had numerically but not statistically less damage than untreated controls. However, none of the treatments impacted stalk fiber, stalk sugar content, or sugar yield. These results will be used to guide sugarcane borer active ingredient use and treatment timing in Louisiana and were published in Management Tests as well as presented at grower and agricultural consultant meetings. 03 Identifying weeds in sugarcane fields with remote imagery. Controlling weeds in sugarcane fields is critical for profitable sugarcane production systems. Weeds compete for light, nutrients, and water, and if they are not managed properly can negatively impact sugarcane yields. ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana, in cooperation with scientists from Louisiana State University and Texas A&M University detected weeds in comparison to sugarcane varieties using leaf reflectance measurements and pigment analyses. Leaf samples were collected from four commercial Louisiana sugarcane varieties, and nine weed species commonly found in sugarcane fields. In all cases, leaf reflectance data successfully differentiated sugarcane from weeds. The accuracy of the classification varied from 67% to 100% for individual sugarcane varieties and weed species and in all cases, sugarcane was not misclassified as a weed. Plant pigment levels exhibited marked differences between sugarcane varieties and weed species with differences in chlorophylls and carotenoids explaining much of the observed variation in leaf reflectance. The ratio of chlorophyll a to chlorophyll b showed significant differences between sugarcane and all weed species. The successful implementation of this technology as either an airborne system to scout and map weeds or a tractor-based system to identify and spray weeds in real-time would offer sugarcane growers a valuable tool to manage their crops. By accurately targeting weeds in an emerged, and growing sugarcane field, the total amount of herbicide applied could be decreased, resulting in cost savings for the grower and reduced environmental impacts. 04 Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) is resistant to photoperiod system II herbicide. Herbicide resistant weeds are a problem in crops worldwide and pose a threat to the continued efficacy of herbicides. In crops like sugarcane, where herbicide options are limited, resistance is particularly a concern. ARS scientists from Houma, Louisiana, in collaboration with researchers at Louisiana State University, confirmed photosystem II (PSII) inhibitor resistance in annual ryegrass populations collected from Louisiana sugarcane. These populations exhibit resistance to both pre-emergence and post-emergence application of PSII inhibitor herbicides including atrazine, metribuzin, and diuron. Terbacil, also a PSII inhibitor, still provided control at the full rate. S-metolachlor, clomazone, glyphosate, and clethodim controlled these ryegrass populations. Sequence analysis of psbA, which encodes the target site for these PSII inhibitors, did not show the presence of a resistance-conferring point mutation. These data suggest the mechanism is likely non-target site. As annual ryegrass largely outcrosses, there is concern that this resistance trait can spread to other populations, thereby limiting control of this weed. This research has been presented at grower meetings and the annual meetings of the Weed Science Society of America and American Society of Sugarcane Technologists.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Penn, H., White Jr, P.M., Wilson, B.E., Richard, R.T. 2023. Non-target potential of neonicotinoid and fungicide seed cane treatments on Solenopsis invicta. Crop Protection. 170(106278):1-11. https://doi.org/10. 1016/j.cropro.2023.106278.
- Salgado, L.D., Wilson, B.E., Penn, H., Richard, R.T., Way, M.O. 2022. Characterization of resistance to the Mexican rice borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) among Louisiana sugarcane cultivars. Insects. 13(10):890. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13100890.
- Harper, S.J., Northfield, T.D., Nottingham, L.R., Dupont, S.T., Thompson, A.A., Sollato, B.V., Serban, C.F., Shires, M.K., Wright, A.A., Catron, K.A. , Marshall, A., Molnar, C., Cooper, W.R. 2023. Recovery plan for X-disease in stone fruit caused by 'Candidatus Phytoplasma pruni'. Plant Health Progress. 24(2):258-295. https://doi.org/10.1094/PHP-02-23-0016-RP.
- Johnson, R.M., Orgeron, A., Spaunhorst, D.J., Zimba, P.V. 2023. Discrimination of weeds from sugarcane in Louisiana using hyperspectral leaf reflectance data and pigment analysis. Weed Technology. p.1-9. https:/ /doi.org/10.1017/wet.2023.14.
- Wright, A.A., Harper, S.J. 2022. Draft genome sequence of a Washington isolate of Candidatus Phytoplasma pruni. Microbiology Resource Announcements. 11(12):e00790-22. https://doi.org/10.1128/mra.00790-22.
- Elliott, L., Martinez, I., Pereira, E., Choudhury, R., Penn, H. 2023. Tree canopy cover and elevation affect the distribution of red harvester ant nests in a peri-urban setting. Insect Conservation and Diversity. pp. 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvad025.
- Penn, H., Richard, R.T., Johnson, R.M. 2023. Impact of insecticide, rate, and timing combinations against sugarcane borer, 2019-2020. Arthropod Management Tests. 48(1):1-2. https://doi.org/10.1093/amt/tsad055.
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Progress 10/01/21 to 09/30/22
Outputs
PROGRESS REPORT Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Develop systems-level precision agriculture strategies and tools based on climate, soil, water and nutrients to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 1.A. Develop variable-rate nutrient application systems to increase yields, ratoon longevity and sustainability. 1.B. Utilize UAV-based remote sensing systems to estimate yields prior to harvest. 2. Analyze the impacts of existing and emerging pathogens that affect sugarcane or its wild relatives to enhance genetic control and chemical control strategies. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 2.A. Identify germplasm of hybrid sugarcane and wild relatives of sugarcane for resistance to economically limiting diseases that breeders can use for parental clones. 2.B. Characterize races, strains, or other biotypes of endemic pathogens and monitor the Louisiana sugarcane industry for the emergence of new pathogens. 3. Optimize and integrate the chemical and cultural control of weeds including identifying key factors that promote proliferation in sugarcane production. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 3.A. Develop new herbicide programs that optimize application timing, placement, and herbicide use rates for management of problematic grass and broadleaf weed species in sugarcane. 3.B. Identify weedy characteristics that promote divine nightshade proliferation. 4. Integrate pest management systems into sugarcane production systems including genetic sources of host-plant resistance for greater sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 4.A. Determine the required level of sugarcane borer control after subsequent borer damage to ratoon crops. 4.B. Assess compatibility of billet seed treatments with biological control of the sugarcane borer. Approach (from AD-416): To address the first objective, precision agriculture (PA) methods such as soil electrical conductivity (EC) mapping, variable-rate application and remote-sensing will be utilized to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. Soil EC mapping will be used to develop management zones to optimize nutrient application with variable- rate application procedures. Sugarcane yields in the successive ratoon crops of PA systems will be used as an index of the progress made in increasing ratoon longevity as compared to conventional management methods. Imagery acquired by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will be utilized to predict cane and sucrose yields prior to harvest. To address objective two, we will identify and develop parental germplasm with resistance to the economically limiting diseases affecting sugarcane in the United States. Highly domesticated and wild clones of sugarcane and near relatives will be evaluated for disease resistance following either natural infections or artificial inoculation. Genotypic and phenotypic expressions of variability within populations of pathogens will be used to identify the genetic variability among pathogen populations and determine the distribution of races, strains, or biotypes. The domestic sugarcane industry will be monitored for the introduction of exotic pathogens. To address the third objective, three new 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) herbicides will be evaluated for their efficacy in controlling problematic weeds postemergence in sugarcane. The HPPD herbicides will be applied separately and tank-mixed with various herbicides to evaluate the weed spectrum controlled. Analysis of both herbicide efficacy data and yield data, will allow us to determine effective herbicides and herbicide use rates that maximizes weed control while at the same time minimizes injury to the sugarcane crop. Research will also be conducted to understand the phenology of divine nightshade during a sugarcane cropping cycle to assist in developing the necessary management tactics to prevent weed proliferation. To address the fourth objective, methods will be developed to assist in preventing and managing infestations of the primary economic pest of sugarcane in Louisiana, the sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis (F.); Lepidoptera: Crambidae). We will determine the required level of sugarcane borer control after subsequent borer damage to ratoon crops by comparing yield, borer infestation levels, and natural enemy presence in the first and second year of growth after plants have accumulated different levels of borer damage. We will also assess the compatibility of billet seed treatments with biological control of the sugarcane borer by estimating the arthropod community activity density changes after treatment with insecticides (neonicotinoid) and fungicides (azoxystrobin and propiconazole) alone and in combination. The end product of this research will be new crop, soil, disease, weed and insect management strategies that ensure efficiency and sustainability of sugarcane production while increasing ratoon longevity. In fiscal year (FY) 2021, sites were located for all repeated variable- rate (VR) fertilizer studies on commercial sugarcane farms. A collaboration with ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, and commercial sugarcane farms was developed to collect soil electrical conductivity (EC) data from all studies using a non-contact, EC mapping system that will facilitate the collection of EC data under a wider range of environmental and soil conditions than traditional EC mapping systems. Raw EC data will then be used to develop VR management zones for all fields. VR soil samples were collected, and management zones were created for all fields mapped in 2020. Plant cane data was harvested in the fall of 2021 using a sugarcane harvester equipped with a commercial yield monitor. Data from first ratoon and plant cane trials will be harvested in November/December 2022 using a weigh wagon and sugarcane harvester equipped with a commercial yield monitor. Post-harvest soil samples will be collected from all studies in November/December 2022. Four fields for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) trials were initiated in July 2022 on commercial sugarcane farms. The fields selected were planted to major Louisiana varieties and were approximately 5 hectares in size. UAV imagery will be collected using a drone equipped with a multi- spectral sensor from each field monthly until harvest. Fields will be harvested in the fall of 2022 as described above. In FY 2022, progress was made by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in identifying sugarcane germplasm resistant to economically important diseases. Varieties (61) for possible release into commercial production within the next five years were screened through artificial inoculation in the field for susceptibility to smut and leaf scald. New assignment varieties (36) were also screened for Ratoon Stunting Disease (RSD) by artificial inoculation with the causal bacterium. In other ARS breeding trials and nurseries, candidate varieties were observed for natural infection by pathogens that cause mosaic, brown and orange rust, sugarcane yellow leaf, smut, and leaf scald diseases. Pathology recommendations were made at variety advancement and variety release meetings. Disease ratings were used as criteria to release two new sugarcane varieties (L 15-306 and HoL 15-508) in 2022. In FY 2022, populations of the viruses that cause mosaic in sugarcane were monitored for genetic diversity. Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) remained the predominant virus causing mosaic. No isolates were identified as Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), another virus that causes mosaic symptoms in sugarcane, from samples collected among commercially released and experimental varieties. Sequence data suggest the SrMV population contains multiple genotypes. Climatic conditions were favorable for orange rust among variety trials at the ARS research farm in Houma, Louisiana; however, no epidemics have been observed in commercial fields. Highly susceptible clones were not advanced to the next stage of the variety development program. Several rates of pyroxaysulfone were applied with and without an adjuvant to L 01-299 cane at first ratoon in early March. Each treatment had four replicates. Following treatment, weed control was assessed by monitoring weed counts and weed injury. Sugarcane was also monitored for injury as an indicator of tolerance to the herbicide. Stalk number and height for each treatment will be measured prior to harvest. In August, cultivar L 01-299 will be planted so that applications in plant cane can be examined this spring. The current study in first ratoon will be continued into second ratoon. Analysis of the nightshade phenology data indicated that pairing a 4- Hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD)-inhibitor with an auxin mimic such as 2,4-D or dicamba, might be effective in controlling this weed. In late March, treatments including different rates of HPPD inhibitors and auxin mimics, as well as conventional weed control strategies such as metribuzin paired with pendimenthalin, were applied to a plant cane field of L01-299. Weed counts, weed injury, and sugarcane injury were monitored after treatment. Before harvest, stalk number and height will be determined. A new plant cane trial will be initiated in August of 2022 and treatments will be applied both in plant cane and in first ratoon. In FY 2022, the field site to assess impacts of prior borer damage was planted in fall 2021 with initial plant emergence documented later in the fall as well as the following spring. Insecticide treatments in this field were applied to assigned plots in June 2022, and sentinel sugarcane borer egg masses to assess borer damage-induced differences in predation and parasitism rates were deployed for 24, 48, and 72 hours (h) in July 2022. In fall 2021, the plant cane trial was harvested, and cane and sugar yield data were obtained to assess differences in billet and whole stalk plantings with and without seed cane sugarcane borer damage. Preliminary data from the plant cane harvest were presented at winter/ spring 2022 grower meetings. In fall 2021, the billet seed treatment field was harvested to determine cane and sugar yields. The summer of 2021 was particularly wet, and the original field flooded for the entire month of July, removing any remaining seed treatment and red imported fire ant colonies nesting in the area. For this reason, another field for treated billets was located for 2022 sampling. Pitfall traps were deployed in this new field throughout the summer of 2022, and sentinel egg masses were deployed in July 2022 for 4, 24, and 48 h to assess predation rates in each plot. In fall 2021, and again in summer 2022, red imported fire ant colonies were captured and brought into the laboratory. Workers from these colonies were exposed to soil-applied insecticides matching the field trials, followed by an assessment of survival and behavior. The plant cane data from the field trial and the laboratory trial data were presented to sugarcane growers and agricultural consultants at winter/spring 2022 meetings. ACCOMPLISHMENTS 01 Nitrogen fertilizer and sugarcane variety change borer pressure. The nitrogen content of plant tissues is a key factor influencing the development and reproduction of insect pests but is also necessary for sugarcane growth and development. The impact of nitrogen fertilizer application on the primary economic insect pest in Louisiana sugarcane, the sugarcane borer, has not previously been studied. ARS researchers in Houma, Louisiana, in collaboration with scientists from Louisiana State University compared sugarcane borer infestations across four rates of nitrogen fertilization (0, 50, 100, and 200 lbs/acre) in four separate field trials planted with two varieties over a two-year period. Results indicated that excessive nitrogen fertilization can increase sugarcane susceptibility to sugarcane borer damage without any benefits to sugar yield. The benefits of reducing unnecessary nitrogen fertilizer application include input savings for growers as well as prevention of yield loss from insect pests. The incumbent and collaborators have been presented this information at numerous grower meetings and at the American Society of Sugarcane Technologists. 02 Treatment efficacy and resistant sugarcane varieties for Mexican rice borer management in south Texas. Over 40,000 acres of sugarcane are grown in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) in south Texas, with few acres treated for the primary pest of concern, the Mexican rice borer, due to unsuccessful control measures in prior decades despite an estimated $575 loss per hectare from borer damage. To provide LRGV sugarcane growers with more management tools, ARS researchers in Houma, Louisiana, collaborated with growers in south Texas to evaluate commercial sugarcane varieties for resistance to the Mexican rice borer, as well as the effectiveness of foliar applications of a chlorantraniliprole-containing insecticide. Varieties were planted in two fields, across two years, then assessed for Mexican rice borer damage and final yield during the first and second years of crop production. Results of this study indicate that two varieties, CP 07- 1824 and L 01-299, are more resistant to the borer in south Texas compared to other commonly planted varieties such as L 12-201. In addition, the insecticidal control of the Mexican rice borer was successful, with all internodes protected, and increased crop yields observed if applications are conducted both in the summer and the early fall prior to harvest. The incumbent has presented these results to LRGV stakeholders, resulting in an estimated 90% of LRGV sugarcane acres being treated for Mexican rice borer in 2022.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Rivera, D., Noval, J.A., Elliott, L., Penn, H. 2021. Tropical milkweed herbivore and predator dynamics in suburban South Texas. Subtropical Agriculture and Environments: Research Note. 72:16-20.
- Salgado, L.D., Wilson, B.E., Villegas, J.M., Richard, R.T., Penn, H. 2021. Resistance to the sugarcane borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Louisiana sugarcane cultivars. Environmental Entomology. 51(1):196-203. https://doi. org/10.1093/ee/nvab118.
- Elliott-Vidaurri, L.V., Rivera, D., Noval, A., Choudhury, R.A., Penn, H.J. 2022. Red harvester ant (Pogonomyrmex barbatus F. Smith; Hymenoptera: Formicidae) preference for cover crop seeds in South Texas. Agronomy. 12(5) :1099. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12051099.
- Dasilva, D.P., Johnson, R.M., Crusciol, C.A. 2022. The effects of cobalt on sugarcane growth and development in plant cane and two ratoon crops. Sugar Tech. 2022:1-12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12355-022-01108-4.
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Progress 10/01/20 to 09/30/21
Outputs
PROGRESS REPORT Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Develop systems-level precision agriculture strategies and tools based on climate, soil, water and nutrients to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 1.A. Develop variable-rate nutrient application systems to increase yields, ratoon longevity and sustainability. 1.B. Utilize UAV-based remote sensing systems to estimate yields prior to harvest. 2. Analyze the impacts of existing and emerging pathogens that affect sugarcane or its wild relatives to enhance genetic control and chemical control strategies. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 2.A. Identify germplasm of hybrid sugarcane and wild relatives of sugarcane for resistance to economically limiting diseases that breeders can use for parental clones. 2.B. Characterize races, strains, or other biotypes of endemic pathogens and monitor the Louisiana sugarcane industry for the emergence of new pathogens. 3. Optimize and integrate the chemical and cultural control of weeds including identifying key factors that promote proliferation in sugarcane production. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 3.A. Develop new herbicide programs that optimize application timing, placement, and herbicide use rates for management of problematic grass and broadleaf weed species in sugarcane. 3.B. Identify weedy characteristics that promote divine nightshade proliferation. Approach (from AD-416): To address the first objective, precision agriculture (PA) methods such as soil electrical conductivity (EC) mapping, variable-rate application and remote-sensing will be utilized to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. All research will be conducted on commercial sugarcane farms in Louisiana on silt-loam and clay soils and treatments will be arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Soil EC mapping will be used to develop management zones to optimize nutrient application with variable-rate application procedures. This will ensure that nutrients are not under or over applied which can lead to decreased yields or adverse environmental impacts, respectively. Sugarcane yields in the successive ratoon crops of PA systems will be used as an index of the progress made in increasing ratoon longevity as compared to conventional management methods. Finally, imagery acquired by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will be utilized to predict cane and sucrose yields prior to harvest. This will allow farmers to more accurately determine harvest schedules and adjust crop management strategies to optimize cane and sugar yields. To address objective two, we will identify and develop parental germplasm with resistance to the economically limiting diseases affecting sugarcane in the United States. Highly domesticated and wild clones of sugarcane and near relatives will be evaluated for disease resistance following either natural infections or artificial inoculation. Genotypic and phenotypic expressions of variability within populations of pathogens will be used to identify the genetic variability among pathogen populations and determine the distribution of races, strains, or biotypes. The domestic sugarcane industry will be monitored for the introduction of exotic pathogens. To address the third objective, a holistic weed management strategy designed for sustainable sugarcane cultivation will be developed that addresses application optimization, herbicide mixtures, use rates that result in adequate weed control, crop tolerance, and evolution of herbicide resistant weeds. Three new 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) herbicides will be evaluated for their efficacy in controlling problematic weeds postemergence in sugarcane. Treatments will be arranged in a randomized complete block design with at least four replications. The HPPD herbicides will be applied separately and tank-mixed with various herbicides to evaluate the weed spectrum controlled. Analysis of both herbicide efficacy data and yield data, will allow us to determine effective herbicides and herbicide use rates that maximizes weed control while at the same time minimizes injury to the sugarcane crop. Research will also be conducted to understand the phenology of divine nightshade during a sugarcane cropping cycle to assist in developing the necessary management tactics to prevent weed proliferation. The end product of this research will be new crop, soil, disease, and weed management strategies that ensure efficiency and sustainability of sugarcane production while increasing ratoon longevity. In fiscal year (FY) 2021, sites were located by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana for all repeated variable-rate (VR) fertilizer studies on commercial sugarcane farms. A collaboration with ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, and commercial sugarcane farms was developed to collect soil electrical conductivity (EC) data from all studies using a non- contact, EC mapping system that will facilitate collection of EC data under a wider range of environmental and soil conditions rather than traditional EC mapping systems. EC data will be collected by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana from all repeated sites in July/August 2021. Raw EC data will then be used by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana to develop VR management zones for all fields and soil samples will be collected in August/September 2021. VR soil samples were collected, and management zones were created by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana for all fields mapped in 2020. Plant-cane data will be harvested by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana in the fall of 2021 using a weigh wagon and sugarcane harvester equipped with a commercial yield monitor. Two plant-cane fields for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) repeated trials were located and trials initiated by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana in July 2021 on commercial sugarcane farms. Fields selected were planted by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana to major Louisiana varieties and were approximately 5 hectares in size. UAV imagery will be collected by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana from sites initiated in 2020 and 2021 using a drone equipped with a multi-spectral sensor from each field monthly until harvest. Fields will be harvested by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana in the fall of 2021 as described above. In FY 2021, progress was made by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in identifying sugarcane germplasm resistant to economically important diseases. Varieties (83) for possible release into commercial production within the next five years were screened by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana through artificial inoculation in the field for susceptibility to smut and leaf scald. In other ARS breeding trials and nurseries, candidate varieties were observed by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana for natural infection by pathogens that cause mosaic, brown and orange rust, sugarcane yellow leaf, smut, and leaf scald diseases. Pathology recommendations were made by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana at variety advancement and variety release meetings. Disease ratings were used by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana as criteria to release two new sugarcane varieties (Ho 14-885 and L14-267) in 2021. Ho 14-885 was shown to be well adapted for the Rio Grande Valley of Texas sugarcane industry, as well as the Louisiana industry. In FY 2021, populations of the viruses that cause mosaic in sugarcane were monitored by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana for genetic diversity. Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) remained the predominant virus causing mosaic. No isolates were identified by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana as Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), another virus that causes mosaic symptoms in sugarcane, from samples collected among commercially released and experimental varieties. Sequence data suggest the SrMV population contains multiple genotypes. Forty SrMV isolates from a diverse population of sugarcane varieties, some from varieties that were commercially significant over the past four decades, were selected by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana for high throughput sequencing to obtain full genomic sequences for further analyses. Climatic conditions were favorable for orange rust among variety trials at the ARS research farm in Houma, Louisiana; however, no epidemics have been observed by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana in commercial fields. Highly susceptible clones were not advanced to the next stage of the variety development program. A hard freeze in mid-February 2021 was followed by a wetter than average spring and early summer. To prepare for sugarcane planting in late summer, traditional field practices to remove old sugarcane roots were implemented by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana in late spring and summer. Land was precision-graded for improved drainage and rows were marked, shaped, and maintained weed-free by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana for optimal sugarcane planting. In August-September 2021, several replicated field trials will be planted by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana to L 01-299, covered with 3 of soil, and packed to evaluate the effect of several rates of pyroxasulfone on sugarcane. Pyroxasulfone is a preemergence herbicide with activity on annual grass and small seeded broadleaf weeds but is currently not labeled in sugarcane. Another experiment will be implemented by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana at sugarcane planting to evaluate residual activity of pyroxasulfone and S-metolachlor, a newly commercialized herbicide in sugarcane with a similar weed control spectrum as pyroxasulfone, on control of Italian ryegrass. Experiments with nightshade will be repeated by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana by planting seeds directly into field plots in August-September 2021. All existing experiments will be harvested by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana in the fall of 2021 with a weigh wagon and sugarcane combine harvester. Record of Any Impact of Maximized Teleworking Requirement: The maximized telework posture did not affect the initiation or harvest of the majority of field research experiments by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana. It was possible to maintain physical distancing in the field and multiple vehicles were taken when needed. The number of personnel needed for each task was also minimized. It was also possible to maintain all greenhouse experiments during maximum teleworking. One individual was assigned to perform greenhouse maintenance tasks and timing of these tasks was scheduled to avoid interaction with other personnel. ACCOMPLISHMENTS 01 Fertilizer sulfur can increase cane and sugar yields in Louisiana Sugarcane. ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana, determined for many years sugarcane producers in Louisiana would only apply nitrogen fertilizer due to the high cost of potassium, phosphorus, and sulfur fertilizers. ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana, have recently demonstrated the importance of potassium fertilizers and also that phosphorus is not needed for sugarcane in Louisiana. However, the effects of sulfur fertilizer have not recently been reported. A series of experiments were conducted by ARS scientists at Houma, Louisiana, on light (silt loams) and heavy soils (silty clay loams and clays) on plant-cane and stubble fields of HoCP 96-540, L01-299, and HoCP 09-804 to study the effects of sulfur fertilizer on sugarcane yields. Results from these studies demonstrate that increases in both cane and sugar yields can be achieved with sulfur fertilizer application in both plant- cane and ratoon fields of three of the major Louisiana sugarcane varieties in both light and heavy soils. An ARS scientist at Houma, Louisiana, reported these results at numerous field days and growers⿿ meetings and a majority of Louisiana sugarcane growers have adopted his sulfur recommendations.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Dasilva, D.P., Orgeron, A.J., Johnson, R.M. 2020. Effect of variety and Trinexapac-ethyl application on the yield of billet and whole-stalk planted sugarcane in Louisiana. Journal of the American Society of Sugar Cane Technologists. 40:46-55.
- Wilson, B.E., White, W.H., Richard, R.T., Johnson, R.M. 2021. Evaluation of sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis, resistance among commercial and experimental cultivars in the Louisiana sugarcane cultivar development program. International Sugar Journal. 123(1468):256-261.
- Wilson, B.E., White, W.H., Richard, R.T., Johnson, R.M. 2020. Population trends of the sugarcane borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Louisiana sugarcane. Environmental Entomology. 49(6):1455-1461.
- Penn, H., Penn, J.M., Hagan, M., Hu, W. 2020. The buzz about bee campuses: Student thoughts regarding pollinator conservation. American Entomologist. 66(4):54-61. https://doi.org/10.1093/ae/tmaa055.
- Penn, H., Penn, J.M., Cunningham-Minnick, M., Hu, W. 2021. Kentucky soybean farmers⿿ supportiveness of two integrated pest and pollinator management tactics. Journal of Integrated Pest Management. 12(1):1-9. https://doi.org/10.1093/jipm/pmab005.
- Islam, M.S., Pan, Y.-B., Lomax, L.E., Grisham, M.P. 2021. Identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling fiber content of sugarcane (Saccharum hybrids spp.). Plant Breeding. 140(2):360-366. https://doi.org/ 10.1111/pbr.12912.
- Uchimiya, M., Spaunhorst, D.J. 2020. Influence of summer fallow on aromatic secondary products in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research. 2:100064. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr. 2020.100064.
- Todd, J.R., Johnson, R.M. 2021. Prediction of ratoon sugarcane family yield and selection using remote imagery. Agronomy. 11(7):Article 1273. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11071273.
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Progress 10/01/19 to 09/30/20
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Develop systems-level precision agriculture strategies and tools based on climate, soil, water and nutrients to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 1.A. Develop variable-rate nutrient application systems to increase yields, ratoon longevity and sustainability. 1.B. Utilize UAV-based remote sensing systems to estimate yields prior to harvest. 2. Analyze the impacts of existing and emerging pathogens that affect sugarcane or its wild relatives to enhance genetic control and chemical control strategies. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 2.A. Identify germplasm of hybrid sugarcane and wild relatives of sugarcane for resistance to economically limiting diseases that breeders can use for parental clones. 2.B. Characterize races, strains, or other biotypes of endemic pathogens and monitor the Louisiana sugarcane industry for the emergence of new pathogens. 3. Optimize and integrate the chemical and cultural control of weeds including identifying key factors that promote proliferation in sugarcane production. [NP 305, Component 1, Problem Statement 1A] 3.A. Develop new herbicide programs that optimize application timing, placement, and herbicide use rates for management of problematic grass and broadleaf weed species in sugarcane. 3.B. Identify weedy characteristics that promote divine nightshade proliferation. Approach (from AD-416): To address the first objective, precision agriculture (PA) methods such as soil electrical conductivity (EC) mapping, variable-rate application and remote-sensing will be utilized to increase sugarcane yield, sustainability, and ratoon longevity. All research will be conducted on commercial sugarcane farms in Louisiana on silt-loam and clay soils and treatments will be arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Soil EC mapping will be used to develop management zones to optimize nutrient application with variable-rate application procedures. This will ensure that nutrients are not under or over applied which can lead to decreased yields or adverse environmental impacts, respectively. Sugarcane yields in the successive ratoon crops of PA systems will be used as an index of the progress made in increasing ratoon longevity as compared to conventional management methods. Finally, imagery acquired by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will be utilized to predict cane and sucrose yields prior to harvest. This will allow farmers to more accurately determine harvest schedules and adjust crop management strategies to optimize cane and sugar yields. To address objective two, we will identify and develop parental germplasm with resistance to the economically limiting diseases affecting sugarcane in the United States. Highly domesticated and wild clones of sugarcane and near relatives will be evaluated for disease resistance following either natural infections or artificial inoculation. Genotypic and phenotypic expressions of variability within populations of pathogens will be used to identify the genetic variability among pathogen populations and determine the distribution of races, strains, or biotypes. The domestic sugarcane industry will be monitored for the introduction of exotic pathogens. To address the third objective, a holistic weed management strategy designed for sustainable sugarcane cultivation will be developed that addresses application optimization, herbicide mixtures, use rates that result in adequate weed control, crop tolerance, and evolution of herbicide resistant weeds. Three new 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) herbicides will be evaluated for their efficacy in controlling problematic weeds postemergence in sugarcane. Treatments will be arranged in a randomized complete block design with at least four replications. The HPPD herbicides will be applied separately and tank-mixed with various herbicides to evaluate the weed spectrum controlled. Analysis of both herbicide efficacy data and yield data, will allow us to determine effective herbicides and herbicide use rates that maximizes weed control while at the same time minimizes injury to the sugarcane crop. Research will also be conducted to understand the phenology of divine nightshade during a sugarcane cropping cycle to assist in developing the necessary management tactics to prevent weed proliferation. The end product of this research will be new crop, soil, disease, and weed management strategies that ensure efficiency and sustainability of sugarcane production while increasing ratoon longevity. In fiscal year (FY) 2020, sites were located for all variable-rate (VR) fertilizer studies on commercial sugarcane farms. A collaboration with ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, and commercial sugarcane farms was developed to collect soil electrical conductivity (EC) data from all studies using a non-contact, EC mapping system that will facilitate collection of EC data under a wider range of environmental and soil conditions than traditional EC mapping systems. EC data will be collected from all sites in July/August 2020. Raw EC data will then be used to develop VR management zones for all fields and soil samples will be collected in August/September 2020. Two plant-cane fields for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) trials were located and trials initiated in July 2020 on commercial sugarcane farms. Fields selected were planted to major Louisiana varieties and were approximately 5 hectares in size. In July 2020, UAV imagery was collected from both sites using a drone equipped with a multi-spectral sensor. Imagery will be collected by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, from each field monthly until harvest. Fields will be harvested by in the fall of 2020 using a weigh wagon and sugarcane harvester equipped with a commercial yield monitor. In FY 2020, progress was made by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in identifying sugarcane germplasm resistant to economically important diseases. Varieties (81) for possible release into commercial production within the next five years were screened through artificial inoculation in the field for susceptibility to smut and leaf scald. In other ARS breeding trials and nurseries, candidate varieties were observed for natural infection by pathogens that cause mosaic, brown and orange rust, sugarcane yellow leaf, smut, and leaf scald diseases. Pathology recommendations were made at variety advancement and variety release meetings. Disease ratings were used as criteria to release a new sugarcane variety (Ho 13-739) in 2020. In FY 2020, populations of the viruses that cause mosaic in sugarcane were monitored for genetic diversity. Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) remained the predominant virus causing mosaic. No isolates were identified as Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), another virus that causes mosaic symptoms in sugarcane, from samples collected among commercially released and experimental varieties. Sequence data suggest the SrMV population contains multiple genotypes. A phylogenetic analysis was performed by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, using the RT-PCR product sequences of 74 SrMV isolates. Isolates were assigned to five groups based on sequence similarity. Twenty SrMV isolates from among the five groups were selected for high throughput sequencing to obtain full genomic sequences for further analyses. Climatic conditions were favorable for orange rust among variety trials at the ARS research farm in Houma, Louisiana; however, no epidemics have been observed in commercial fields. Highly susceptible clones were not advanced to the next stage of the variety development program. ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in collaborative studies with researchers in the Rio Grande Valley sugarcane production area of Texas, orange rust was observed for the first time in 2017. Orange rust was observed in variety trials in 2020, but was not observed in commercial plantings although the most widely grown variety, CP 89-2143, is known to be susceptible. A greenhouse experiment was initiated by ARS researchers from Houma, Louisiana, in February 2020 to evaluate the effect of synthetic auxin herbicides and 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase-inhibiting herbicides applied separately and in mixtures on flower abortion and reproductive development of divine nightshade. Treatments were applied to 8 to 14� tall divine nightshade at the reproductive growth stage. Three stages of reproductive development were targeted: pre bloom, 50% bloom, and 100% bloom by attaching uniquely colored ties to stem segments adjacent to floral clusters. Fully developed fruits were counted weekly and harvested for dry biomass approximately 56 days after herbicides were applied. Harvested seed will be germination tested from October to December 2020 in the greenhouse. To prepare for sugarcane planting in late summer, traditional field practices to remove old sugarcane roots were implemented in late spring and summer. Land was precision-graded for improved drainage and rows were marked, shipped, and maintained weed-free for optimal sugarcane planting. In August 2020, several replicated field trials will be planted to L 01- 299, covered with 3� of soil, and packed to evaluate the effect of several rates of pyroxasulfone on sugarcane. Herbicide treatments were broadcast applied at 20 gallons per acre immediately following sugarcane planting. Soil applied herbicides require moisture for activation; therefore, overhead irrigation will be applied if an activating rainfall does not occur within 7 to 10 days. Pyroxasulfone is a preemergence herbicide with activity on annual grass and small seeded broadleaf weeds, but is currently not labeled in sugarcane. Another experiment will be implemented at sugarcane planting to evaluate residual activity of pyroxasulfone and S-metolachlor, a newly commercialized herbicide in sugarcane with a similar weed control spectrum as pyroxasulfone, on control of Italian ryegrass, a problematic winter annual grass weed.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Spaunhorst, D.J., Orgeron, A.J., White Jr, P.M. 2019. Burning post-harvest sugarcane residue for control of surface-deposited divine nightshade (Solanum nigrescens) and itchgrass (Rottboellia cochinchinensis) seed. Weed Technology. 33(5):693-700.
- Grisham, M.P., Warnke, K.Z., Maggio, J.R., Davidson, W., Haudenshield, J.S. , Hartman, G.L., Hernandez, E., Scott, Jr., A.W., Comstock, J.C., Mccord, P.H. 2020. First report of Puccinia kuehnii causing orange rust of sugarcane in Texas, USA. Plant Disease.
- Rice, J.L., Hoy, J.W., Hale, A.L., Todd, J.R., Grisham, M.P., Kimbeng, C.A. , Pontif, M.J. 2019. Evaluation of susceptibility to mosaic in Louisiana's sugarcane breeding program. Journal of the American Society of Sugar Cane Technologists. 39:1-11.
- Alencastre-Miranda, M., Johnson, R.M., Krebs, H.I. 2021. Convolutional neural networks and transfer learning for quality inspection of different sugarcane varieties. IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics. 17(2) :787-794.
- Rice, J.L., Hoy, J.W., Grisham, M.P. 2019. Sugarcane mosaic distribution, incidence, increase, and spatial pattern in Louisiana. Plant Disease. 103:2051-2056.
- Wilson, B.E., Beuzelin, J.M., Richard, R.T., Johnson, R.M., Gravois, K.A., White, W.H. 2019. West Indian Canefly (Hemiptera: Delphacidae): An emerging pest of Louisiana sugarcane. Journal of Economic Entomology. 113(1):263-272.
- Spaunhorst, D.J. 2020. Influence of establishment timing on growth and fecundity of two itchgrass (Rottboellia cochinchinensis) biotypes grown in Louisiana. Weed Science. 68:418-425.
- Spaunhorst, D.J., Orgeron, A.J. 2019. Dry heat and exposure time influence divine nightshade and itchgrass seed emergence. Agronomy Journal. 3(5) :2226-2231.
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