GERMPLASM SELECTION AND MANAGEMENT TO OPTIMIZE VEGETABLE QUALITY AND YIELD IN TROPICAL, ORGANIC PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

• Sponsoring Institution: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: HATCH
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 1005894
• Project Start Date: Feb 14, 2015
• Project End Date: Sep 30, 2019
• Program Code: [(N/A)]- (N/A)

Project Director
Radovich, TH.

Recipient Organization
UNIV OF HAWAII
3190 MAILE WAY
HONOLULU,HI 96822

Performing Department
Tropical Plant & Soil Science

Non Technical Summary
Although Hawai'i does produce significant amounts of some of the conventionally grown vegetables we consume, more than 80% percent of Hawaii's total food is imported, and the State is thought to have less than a seven day supply of many foods, particularly perishables (Leung and Loke, 2008). This is a situation shared by all of the U.S. Island protectorates. Although most experts agree that it is not feasible to eliminate food imports, import substitution has been identified as an important component of food security for these islands. Import substitution is especially critical with respect to organic vegetables, which are not produced in adeqaute supply to meet demand in the state (Kohala Center, 2104) and which are associated with increased risk of pest introduction to Hawai'i when imported (DOA, 2002).Higher pest pressure and lower soil nitrogen availability relative to other systems are common issues for organic agriculture (Lampkin, 1990). Genetic variation for nitrogen use efficiency, pest tolerance, yield and quality under these conditions exists in modern crop cultivars, and screening of existing cultivars for these desirable traits under target conditions offers a valuable tool for identifying germplasm well adapted to production environments in organic agriculture (Francis, 1991; Lester, 2006). The greatest potential for the identification of cultivars specifically adapted to certified organic conditions lies in the selection of available germplasm in the target environment employing systematic selection and screening techniques. While almost all of the work conducted historically has been with grain crops, more recent work has demonstrated the value of developing recommendations for vegetables grown in certified organic systems (Chable et al., 2008; Szafirowska and Ko?osowski, 2011). However, more work needs to be done, especially under tropical conditions.

Animal Health Component

30%

Research Effort Categories

Basic

40%

Applied

30%

Developmental

30%

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
202	1499	1080	50%
205	1099	1070	50%

Knowledge Area
205 - Plant Management Systems; 202 - Plant Genetic Resources;

Subject Of Investigation
1499 - Vegetables, general/other; 1099 - Tropical/subtropical fruit, general/other;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology; 1080 - Genetics;

Keywords

sustain

protect

and manage hawai‘i’s natural resources and environment

Goals / Objectives
1. Identify 5-10 varieties each of ~10 vegetable species to be recommended for organic production in Hawai'i based on both quality and yield performance.2. Produce organic seed of UH varieties of papaya, onion, mustard and lettuce for sale through the UH Seed program.3. Disseminate program results via field days, traditional print media and on-line research and extension venues.

Project Methods
Objective 1: Identify 5-10 varieties each of ~10 vegetable species to be recommended for organic production in Hawai'i based on both quality and yield performance.Trials will be conducted at three Research station locations: 1) Waimanalo Research station organic plots certified organic since 2009; 2) Poamoho Research station transitional organic plots and 3) TBD transitional plots in Maui or Hawai'i county. Trials will also be conducted on commercial organic farms on O'ahu, Molokai and elsewhere. Site location and crop species will be finalized in the first quarter of the project. Species already identified as priority by growers include: Eggplant, Tomato, Pumpkin (especially C. moschata), Hot Pepper (Capsicum sp.) Cabbage (Brassica sp.), non-flooded (dry-land) taro and sweet potato. Trials will generally be arranged in RCBD with 4 replications. Fertilizers will be applied based on soil tests using NOP compliant inputs, including OMRI listed materials when available. Nutrient use efficiency will be evaluated with multiple indices as appropriate (Mosier et al., 2004):Partial Factor Productivity (PFP, kg crop yield per kg nutrient applied); Agronomic Efficiency (AE, kg crop yield increase per kg nutrient applied); Apparent Recovery Efficiency (RE, kg nutrient taken up per kg nutrient applied); Physiological Efficiency (PE, kg yield increase per kg nutrient taken up). Crop Removal Efficiency (CRE, removal of nutrient in harvested crop as % of nutrient applied. Pest control will also include OMRI listed pesticides as needed (Hollyer et al., 2013). Cultural controls as required by the NOP will include crop rotations, physical barriers, compost applications. Exact procedures will vary with location and crop species, but will be similar to those previously reported (OSA, 2009; Sugano et al., 2013; Uyeda et al., 2012). Periodic soil and tissue sampling will be conducted to monitor plant and soil nutrient status. Marketable (No. 1, A, B) and unmarketable yield (including defects) will be recorded using HDOA grading and industry standards. Additional quality measures will be made as appropriate (for examples, see Table 1).TABLE 1.Quality indicatorVegetablesImportance to organoleptic/nutritional qualityAnalytical Method CitedGlucosinolatesBrassicaceaepungency, anti-carcinogenic activityRadovich et al. 2005PhenolicsTomato, sweet potatoRed, purple color, antioxidant activityPant et al., 2009Bingham, unpublishedCarotenoidsBrassicaceae, tomato, sweetpotato, pumpkin, MoringaOrange, pink, yellow color, various health benefits.Pant et al., 2009Bingham, unpublishedTotal soluble solidsTaro, tomato, variousSweetness, processing qualityUyeda, 2011ProteinLeaves of Brassicaceae, Moringa and taroNutritionDC protein assay (Bio-Rad, Hercules, CA).CapsaicinoidsPeppersPungencyCrosby et al, 2009Bingham, unpublishedSpecific gravityTaroProcessing qualityUyeda, 2011Objective 2: Produce organic seed of UH varieties of papaya, onion, mustard and lettuce for sale through the UH Seed program.Select species and cultivars of vegetables maintained by the ADSC seed program will be grown for seed at the three certified and transitional organic research station sites identified in objective one. Current efforts at Waimanalo have focused on production of 'Sunrise' and 'Waimanlo low-bearing' papayas from GUS-tested trees grown under certified organic conditions. See: http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/Video/org_papaya_seed.htmlWe will work closely with ADSC to expand organic seed production to include eggplant parents and hybrids, 'Hirayama' mustard, 'Koba' green onion. These have been identified by organic growers and agents as being in greatest demand. Additional stakeholder feedback will be solicited throughout the project period to adjust/expand species produced. We will continue to work with our certification agency, International Certification Services (ICS) to develop protocols to prevent comingling of conventional and organic seed and develop labeling for marketing the seed through ADSC. We will also work closely with ADSC and the Public Seed Initiative to ensure awareness of seed availability to stakeholders through website postings, newsletter articles, workshops and other venues.Objective 3: Disseminate program results via field days, traditional print media and on-line research and extension venues.Results of this research will be delivered to producers and other stakeholders at both a local and international level. Expected venues for refereed publications include HortScience, HortTechnology and the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. Extension materials detailing project results, implications and recommendations will be developed and distributed in coordination with HFBF, Hawai'i Organic Farmer's Association, the University of Hawai'i Cooperative Extension Service and University of Hawaii Organic Agriculture Working Group (Co-coordinated by the PI, http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/organic). In addition, CES Agents, NRCS planners and agricultural professionals will be updated on project results at the annual Agricultural Professional Development workshops sponsored in part by WSARE PDP program: http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/workshop/WSARE-PDP-Sep2013.html. Also,publications and educational materials will be sent directly as they become available to all CES agents, NRCS planners in the state. Independent consultants, organic inspectors will also receive the materials.With our agricultural professionals located across the island chain of Hawai'i, electronic publications continue to be one of our best investments for information delivery. We have made a concerted effort to provide information and handouts from our educational workshops available on-line. A primary venue for dissemination of information is the Sustainable and Organic Agriculture Program webpage and newsletter. See: http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/news/index.html

Progress 02/14/15 to 09/30/19

Outputs
Target Audience: Local farmers and producers on Hawaiian and the Pacific Islands. Local extension agents on different Hawaiian and the Pacific Islands. Agricultural professionals at Universities, and community colleges. State and Federal Agencies personnel. High school students. Beginning farmer training programs Existing and transitioning organic growers 300 agricultural operations on 2,000 acres Changes/Problems:10/2015 - 9/2016 The UH Seed Lab was having problems with Nitta and Waimanalo eggplant parents so we planted Hamasaki instead. Once planted out, our Anahu tomato got 100% infected with tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) so those plants were destroyed and we replaced that variety with Komohana, which is less susceptible to TYLCV. Manoa lettuce was planted twice already (March and July 2016) and both times we have had extreme weather events where rainfall and subsequent moisture negatively affected seed drying and collection. Slugs ate our first crop of Hawaiian Chile pepper so we have a second crop planted now. 10/2016 - 9/2017 The UH Seed Lab was having problems with Nitta and Waimanalo eggplant parents so we planted Hamasaki instead. Once planted out, our Anahu tomato got 100% infected with tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) so those plants were destroyed and we replaced that variety with Komohana, which wasless susceptible to TYLCV. Manoa lettuce was planted twice already and both times wehad extreme weather events where rainfall and subsequent moisture negatively affected seed drying and collection. Slugs ate our first crop of Hawaiian Chile pepper so a second crop was planted. 10/2017 - 9/2018 We included the evaluation of varieties of moringa tree in the project due to the importance of the tree and increase interest in the tree for various reasons. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?10/2016 -9/2017 • 10 undergraduate students volunteered to work with us on this project and they received training • 2 Master students were involved in the project and received training. • 25 volunteers of the Student Organic Farming Training (SOFT) program at UH Manoa were involved in using the produced seeds at SOFT plot in Magoon Research Facility and they received training as well. 10/2017 -9/2018 The project team engagement with the farmers training programs, throughout Hawaii (e.g. GoFarm and Kohala Center) have provided a great training and curriculum development opportunities. The programs participants received training on crop diversity and variety selection. 10/2018 - 9/2019 The project team engagged in farmers training programs, throughout the state of Hawaii (e.g. GoFarm and Kohala Center) have provided training and curriculum development opportunities. The programs participants received training on crop diversity and variety selection. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?2/2015 - 9/2015 Waimanalo Organic Farming Field Day 2015 Saturday, August 29, 2015, 9am-1pm, Waimanalo Experiment Station http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/workshop/Organic2015.html Websites http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/radovicht/ http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/? Social Media Twitter @SOAPHawaii: https://twitter.com/SOAPHawaii Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SustainAgCTAHR Instagram profile:https://www.instagram.com/soapgramhi/ 10/2015 - 9/2016 Objective #3: Disseminate program results via field days, traditional print media and on-line research and extension venues. A field day was conducted Thursday November 9th 2016 to share program findings with the community and local farmers. Project findings are disseminated via the programs Newsletter and website: https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/soap/HanaiAi.aspx 10/2017 - 9/2018 Field days demonstration, extension bulletins, public presentations, and the use of social media to announce the project events. 10/2018 - 9/2019 Dissemination of information were conducted through online Newsletter (https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/soap/Hanai-Ai), field days demonstrations, extension bulletins, public presentations, farm visits and the use of social media to announce the project workshops. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? 2/2015 - 9/2015 Eight (8) elite segregants of Moringa oleifera were identified for clonal propagation and increase. • Forty-six traditional Hawaiian taro (Colocasia esculenta) varieties were grown under certified organic conditions for evaluation of yield and quality. • Thirteen sweet potato varieties, including traditional Hawaiian cultivars, were grown under certified organic conditions, yield recorded and samples processed for free sugar analysis. • Eight traditional sugarcane varieties were grown under certified organic conditions for evaluation for yield and sugar content. • A second certified organic site was initiated at the Poamoho Research Station to complement the existing site at Waimanalo Research Station to increase diversity in soil type and climate. • Certified organic papaya 'Waimanalo X-77' and 'Sunrise' were produced and are available for seed through the UH Seed program. • Certified organic green onion 'Koba' were produced and seeds harvested for processing. • Waimanalo Organic Farming Field Day 2015 Saturday, August 29, 2015, 9am-1pm, Waimanalo Experiment Station http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/workshop/Organic2015.htm 10/2015 - 9/2016 Germplasm selection: The following 10 crops were selected by researchers and extension agents to be grown: 1. Koba Green Onion 2. Anahu Tomato 3. Manoa Lettuce 4. Hirayama Kai Choy 5. Hawaiian Chile Pepper 6. Nitta x Waimanalo Eggplant 7. Sunrise and Waimanalo X-77 Papaya 8. Taro 9. Sweet Potato 10. Moringa Field activities: Fields were prepared, seeds were obtained through the University of Hawaii Seed Program (UH SEED), and the selected crops were planted at 2 sites (Waimanalo and Poamoho Research Stations on Oahu). All crops were planted at Waimanalo except for sweet potato varieties that were planted at Poamoho. Seeding and propagation of plant materials has been ongoing since the 1st planting date (Mar. 2016). Germplasm produced (seed): We have saved and cleaned seed from 4 of the crops planted. Seeds currently available through UH SEED are designated with an * *Koba Green Onion, 275g *Sunrise Papaya, 1 kg *Waimanalo X-77 Papaya, 1 kg Hamasaki Eggplant, 255g Manoa Lettuce, 16g Moringa, 734g Germplasm produced (vegetative): We have vegetative propagules from 2 of the crops planted. Sweet potato, cuttings of 16 varieties are available Varieties: Jari ele ele, Piko, Papaa, Mohihi WG, Mohihi lyons, Rapoza, Kahanu purple, Ogasarawa, Yama, Diane, Hale Tuahine, Hui 17, Nancy Hall, Hoolehua, Lanai, and Melemele Taro, Colocasia esculenta huli of 45 varieties available Varieties: Lehua, Piko Uaua, Piko Keokeo, Kai Ala, Kai KBS, Lauloa Palakea Papamu, Lauloa Palakea Eleele, Ulaula Moana, Ulaula Poni, Lehua Maoli, Ohe, Kalalau, Papapueo, Haokea, Pololu, Piko Ulaula, Kai Kea, Lauloa Eleele Ula, Ulaula Kumu, Manini Opelu, Kauai Lehua, Red Moi, Piko Lehu apii, Kai Uliuli, Lauloa Eleele Omao, Nawao, Nihopuu, Lehua Palaii, Haokea, Mana Keokeo, Manapiko, Moana, Kumu Eleele, Manini Kea, White Moi, Eleele makoko, Mana lauloa, Uahiapele, Paakai, Manini Owali, Manini Uliuli, Mana Okoa, Lehua palaii, Mana Ulaula, Elepaio, Pialii, Elele Naioea, Oopukai, Mana Eleele, Kai ala, Mana Opelu, Piko Eleele, Apu, Eleele Makoko, Maea, Lihilihi Molina, Piko Lehu apii, Mana Ulu, Piko Uliuli, Apuwai, Lauloa Kekeo, Kuoho, Hapuu, Mana Iauloa Objective # 1: Produce organic seed from CTAHR crops/varieties of papaya, onion, mustard and lettuce for sale through the University of Hawaii Seed Program. Organically grown Koba Green Onion, Sunrise Papaya, and Waimanalo X-77 papaya seed are currently available for sale at the UH SEED Program. We are currently cleaning seed of Hamasaki eggplant, Manoa lettuce, and Hirayama kai choy. Komohana tomato and Hawaiian Chile pepper are still in the production stage At Waimanalo Research Station. Objective #2: Identify crops/varieties to be recommended for organic production in Hawaii based on surveys and questionnaires collected from local organic farmers to gauge preference. Surveys have been developed and will be distributed local farmers in the scheduled coming field days. Objective #3: Disseminate program results via field days, traditional print media and on-line research and extension venues. 10/2016 - 9/2017 Survey data was very helpful to determine the crops and varieties of interest to local growers in Hawaii. • Seeds and germplasm vegetative propagation materials were produced for different crops. • Organic seeds of some of UH seed lab varieties were produced organically and will be available through UH Seed Lab. 10/2017 - 9/2018 1. 6 vegetable crops were selected (from previous surveys) and varieties of each of the crops were evaluated for growth and yield on different Hawaiian Islands. 2. Organic seeds were produced from UH varieties of papaya, onion, and lettuce. 3. Field days, training, and other outreach activities were conducted on different Hawaiian Islands 10/2018 - 9/2019 Identified 4 varieties of tomato for resistance for TYLCV under certified organic screened conditions • 24 varieties of carrot were evaluated for quality and yield • 9 varieties of celery were evaluated for quality and yield • 6 varieites of Italian basil were evaluated for basil downy mildew resistance, quality and yield • 28 varieties of lettuce were evaluated for quality and yield • 10 varieties of soybean and biochar application rates were evaluated under certified organic conditions different to determine quality and yield • 5 varieties of cucumber were evaluated under certified organic screened conditions • Hawaiian varieties of sugar cane under certified organic conditions to evaluate juice yield and quality Website- https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/soap/Hanai-Ai Other- https://gms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/gs/handler/getmedia.ashx?moid=66307&dt=3&g=12&utm_source=Fall+2019+Updated+as+of+Dec+2019&utm_campaign=Fall+2019+Hanai%27Ai+Revision&utm_medium=email Other-https://gms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/gs/handler/getmedia.ashx?moid=66039&dt=3&g=12

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Radovich, T.J.K., and Hue, N.V. 2015. Effects of intercropping different legumes on growth of sweet corn (Zea mays). Journal of Crop Improvement, 29(3): 370-378.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Radovich, T., Nagata, R., McHugh,J., Teves, G., Ahmad, A., and Paull, R. 2015. Germplasm evaluation and selection of Moringa oleifera in Hawaii. Moringa oleifera: A Decade of Advances in Research and Development. Nov. 15-18, Manila, Philippines.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., and Radovich, T.J.K. 2015. Enhancing Nitrogen Availability in Liquid Fertilizers Derived from Solid Organic Sources for Fertigation. HorScience 50(9): S222. ASHS Annual Conference, Aug. 4-7. New Orleans, Louisiana.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gangaiah, C., Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., and Radovich, T.J.K. 2015. Use of Invasive Algae as a Potassium (K) Source Affects Growth and K Content in Pak Choi(Brassica rapa cv. Bonsai, Chinensis Group) under Greenhouse Conditions. HortScience 50(9):S330. ASHS Annual Conference, Aug. 4-7. New Orleans, Louisiana.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Radovich, T.J.K., Nguyen, H.V., Uyeda, J., Arakaki, A., Cadby, J., Paull, R., Sugano, J., and Teves,G. 2016. Use of Organic Fertilizers to Enhance Soil Fertility, Plant Growth, and Yield in a Tropical Environment. In: M.L. Larramendy and S. Soloneski, (eds.), Organic Fertilizers-From Basic Concepts to Applied Outcomes. Chapter 4, p: 85-108. http://cdn.intechopen.com/pdfswm/50720.pdf.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Gangaiah, C., Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., Wang, K-H., and *Radovich, T.J.K. 2017. Evaluating Three Invasive Algal Species as Local Organic Sources of Potassium (K) for Pak Choi (Brassica rapa, Chinensis group) Growth. HortScience. 52(3):436440 https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI11049-16
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Gangaiah, C., Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., and *Radovich, T.J.K. 2016. A correlation of rapid Cardy meter sap test and ICP spectrometry of dry tissue for measuring potassium (K+) concentrations in pak choi (Brassica rapa Chinensis group). Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 47:2046-2052.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Lincoln, N.K., Radovich, T., Acosta, K., Isele, E., and Cho, A. 2019. Toward Standardized Leaf Sampling for Foliar Nutrient Analysis in Breadfruit. HortTechnology 29: 443449. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04358-19.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Galanti, R., Cho, A., Ahmad, A., and Radovich, T. 2019. Soil Amendments and Soil Profiling Impact on Macadamia Growth and Yield Performance. HortScience, 54(3), 519-527.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Chung-Do, J.J., Ho-Lastimosa, H.I., Herrera, S., Jr., Ho, K., Hwang, P., Radovich, T., Albinio, L., Rogerson, I., Keliiholokai, Deitschman, K., Spencer, M.S. 2019. Pono Research: Promoting Native Hawaiian Wellness through Culturally-Grounded and Community-Driven Research and Programming. Special issue of the American Journal of Community Psychology on Community, Psychology, and Indigenous Peoples. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajcp.12355
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Ho-Lastimosa, H.I., Chung-Do, J.J., Hwang, P., Radovich, T., Rogerson, I., Ho, K., Kaholokula, J.K., Spencer, M.S. 2019. Promoting Ahupuaa Health through Backyard Aquaponics with Native Hawaiian Families. Global Health Promotion, 26(Supp 3), 87-92.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Keaulana, S., Chung-Do, J.J., Ho-Lastimosa, I., Hwang, P.H., Ho, K., Radovich, T., and Spencer, M.S. 2019. Waimanalo Pono Research Hui: Establishing protocols and rules of engagement to promote community-driven and culturally-grounded research with a Native Hawaiian community. British Journal of Social Work, 49 (1023-1040)
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Del Valle Echevarria, A.R., Campbell, A., Radovich, T.J.K., Silvasy, T., Moore, S. and Kantar, M.B. 2020. Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) Analysis of Fruit and Agronomic Traits of Tropical Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) in an Organic Production System. Horticulturae 6, 14

Progress 10/01/17 to 09/30/18

Outputs
Target Audience: Local farmers and producers on Hawaiian and the Pacific Islands. Local extension agents on different Hawaiian and the Pacific Islands. Professionals at Universities, and community colleges. State and Federal Agencies personnel. College, community colleges, and high school students. Changes/Problems:We included the evaluation of varieties of moringa tree in the project due to the importance of the tree and increase interest in the tree for various reasons. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project team engagement with the farmers training programs, throughout Hawaii (e.g. GoFarm and Kohala Center) have provided a great training and curriculum development opportunities. The programs participants received training on crop diversity and variety selection. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Field days demonstration, extension bulletins, public presentations, and the use of social media to announce the project events. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. Evaluate 3 more vegetable crops/varieties. 2. Produce organic seeds from the high quality varieties. 3. Conduct various outreach activities to disseminate the project findings among the local community and growers.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? 1. 6 vegetable crops were selected (from previous surveys) and varieties of each of the crops were evaluated for growth and yield on different Hawaiian Islands. 2. Organic seeds were produced from UH varieties of papaya, onion, and lettuce. 3. Field days, training, and other outreach activities were conducted on different Hawaiian Islands.

Publications

Progress 10/01/16 to 09/30/17

Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audiences were: Current 165, transitional, and new commercial certified organic farmers. Agricultural professionals who serve them. 300agricultural operations on 2,000 acres. Changes/Problems:The UH Seed Lab was having problems with Nitta and Waimanalo eggplant parents so we planted Hamasaki instead. Once planted out, our Anahu tomato got 100% infected with tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) so those plants were destroyed and we replaced that variety with Komohana, which is less susceptible to TYLCV. Manoa lettuce was planted twice already and both times we have had extreme weather events where rainfall and subsequent moisture negatively affected seed drying and collection. Slugs ate our first crop of Hawaiian Chile pepper so we have a second crop planted now. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? 10 undergraduate students volunteered to work with us on this project and they received training 2 Master students were involved in the project and received training. 25 volunteer of the Student Organic Farming Training (SOFT) program at UH Manoa were involved in using the produced seeds at SOFT plot in Magoon Research Facility and they received training as well. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? We will focus on collecting more surveys to ensure wider spectrum of growers' opinions on crops and varieties of interest to the local growers in Hawaii. Disseminate the project findings among the local growers through field days and workshops activities.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Survey data was very helpful to determine the crops and varieties of interest to local growers in Hawaii. Seeds and germplasm vegetative propagation materials were produced for different crops. Organic seeds of some of UH seed lab varieties were produced organically and will be available through UH Seed Lab.

Publications

Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16

Outputs
Target Audience:Target audience includes participants in beginning farmer training programs, existing and transitioning organic growers, and the agricultural professionals (e.g. extension and other personnel) who serve these clients. Changes/Problems:The UH Seed Lab was having problems with Nitta and Waimanalo eggplant parents so we planted Hamasaki instead. Once planted out, our Anahu tomato got 100% infected with tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) so those plants were destroyed and we replaced that variety with Komohana, which is less susceptible to TYLCV. Manoa lettuce was planted twice already (March and July 2016) and both times we have had extreme weather events where rainfall and subsequent moisture negatively affected seed drying and collection. Slugs ate our first crop of Hawaiian Chile pepper so we have a second crop planted now. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?See below. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Objective #3: Disseminate program results via field days, traditional print media and on-line research and extension venues. A field day was conducted Thursday November 9th2016to share program findings with the community and local farmers. Project findings are disseminated via the programs Newsletter and website: https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/soap/HanaiAi.aspx What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?We will continue with the seed harvesting and cleaning of the Hirayama kai choy, Sunrise papaya and Hawaiian Chile pepper that are currently in production. We plan to do one more planting of Manoa lettuce this fall. As the seeds are cleaned they are submitted to the UH Seed lab for distribution and will be made available on their website at http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/seed. We will be having a field day/outreach event on November 9th at the Waimanalo Research Station and will continue to follow the project timeline plans as proposed in the approved proposal.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Germplasm selection: The following 10 crops were selected by researchers and extension agents to be grown: Koba Green Onion Anahu Tomato Manoa Lettuce Hirayama Kai Choy Hawaiian Chile Pepper Nitta x Waimanalo Eggplant Sunrise and Waimanalo X-77 Papaya Taro Sweet Potato Moringa Field activities: Fields were prepared, seeds were obtained through the University of Hawaii Seed Program (UH SEED), and the selected crops were planted at 2 sites (Waimanalo and Poamoho Research Stations on Oahu). All crops were planted at Waimanalo except for sweet potato varieties that were planted at Poamoho. Seeding and propagation of plant materials has been ongoing since the 1st planting date (Mar. 2016). Germplasm produced (seed): We have saved and cleaned seed from 4 of the crops planted. Seeds currently available through UH SEED are designated with an * *Koba Green Onion, 275g *Sunrise Papaya, 1 kg *Waimanalo X-77 Papaya, 1 kg Hamasaki Eggplant, 255g Manoa Lettuce, 16g Moringa, 734g Germplasm produced (vegetative): We have vegetative propagules from 2 of the crops planted. Sweet potato, cuttings of 16 varieties are available Varieties: Jari ele ele, Piko, Papaa, Mohihi WG, Mohihi lyons, Rapoza, Kahanu purple, Ogasarawa, Yama, Diane, Hale Tuahine, Hui 17, Nancy Hall, Hoolehua, Lanai, and Melemele Taro, Colocasia esculenta huli of 45 varieties available Varieties: Lehua, Piko Uaua, Piko Keokeo, Kai Ala, Kai KBS, Lauloa Palakea Papamu, Lauloa Palakea Eleele, Ulaula Moana, Ulaula Poni, Lehua Maoli, Ohe, Kalalau, Papapueo, Haokea, Pololu, Piko Ulaula, Kai Kea, Lauloa Eleele Ula, Ulaula Kumu, Manini Opelu, Kauai Lehua, Red Moi, Piko Lehu apii, Kai Uliuli, Lauloa Eleele Omao, Nawao, Nihopuu, Lehua Palaii, Haokea, Mana Keokeo, Manapiko, Moana, Kumu Eleele, Manini Kea, White Moi, Eleele makoko, Mana lauloa, Uahiapele, Paakai, Manini Owali, Manini Uliuli, Mana Okoa, Lehua palaii, Mana Ulaula, Elepaio, Pialii, Elele Naioea, Oopukai, Mana Eleele, Kai ala, Mana Opelu, Piko Eleele, Apu, Eleele Makoko, Maea, Lihilihi Molina, Piko Lehu apii, Mana Ulu, Piko Uliuli, Apuwai, Lauloa Kekeo, Kuoho, Hapuu, Mana Iauloa Objectives achieved so far: Objective # 1: Produce organic seed from CTAHR crops/varieties of papaya, onion, mustard and lettuce for sale through the University of Hawaii Seed Program. Organically grown Koba Green Onion, Sunrise Papaya, and Waimanalo X-77 papaya seed are currently available for sale at the UH SEED Program. We are currently cleaning seed of Hamasaki eggplant, Manoa lettuce, and Hirayama kai choy. Komohana tomato and Hawaiian Chile pepper are still in the production stage At Waimanalo Research Station. Objective #2: Identify crops/varieties to be recommended for organic production in Hawaii based on surveys and questionnaires collected from local organic farmers to gauge preference. Surveys have been developed and will be distributed local farmers in the scheduled coming field days. Objective #3: Disseminate program results via field days, traditional print media and on-line research and extension venues. A field day was conducted Thursday November 9th2016 to share program findings with the community and local farmers.

Publications

• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Radovich, T.J.K., Nguyen, H.V., Uyeda, J., Arakaki, A., Cadby, J., Paull, R., Sugano, J., and Teves,G. 2016. Use of Organic Fertilizers to Enhance Soil Fertility, Plant Growth, and Yield in a Tropical Environment. In: M.L. Larramendy and S. Soloneski, (eds.), Organic Fertilizers-From Basic Concepts to Applied Outcomes. Chapter 4, p: 85-108. http://cdn.intechopen.com/pdfs-wm/50720.pdf.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2017 Citation: Gangaiah, C., Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., Wang, K-H., and *Radovich, T.J.K. 2017. Evaluating Three Invasive Algal Species as Local Organic Sources of Potassium (K) for Pak Choi (Brassica rapa, Chinensis group) Growth. HortScience. (in press).
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Gangaiah, C., Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., and *Radovich, T.J.K. 2016. A correlation of rapid Cardy meter sap test and ICP spectrometry of dry tissue for measuring potassium (K+) concentrations in pak choi (Brassica rapa Chinensis group). Commun. Soil Sci. Plant Anal. 47:2046-2052.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Radovich, T.J.K., and Hue, N.V. 2015. Effects of intercropping different legumes on growth of sweet corn (Zea mays). Journal of Crop Improvement, 29(3): 370-378.

Progress 02/14/15 to 09/30/15

Outputs
Target Audience: Local farmers and producers on Hawaiian and the Pacific Islands. Local extension agents on different Hawaiian and the Pacific Islands. Professionals at Universities, and community colleges. State and Federal Agencies personnel. College, community colleges, and high school students. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Waimanalo Organic Farming Field Day 2015 Saturday, August 29, 2015, 9am-1pm, Waimanalo Experiment Station http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/workshop/Organic2015.html Websites http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/radovicht/ http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/? Social Media Twitter @SOAPHawaii: https://twitter.com/SOAPHawaii Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SustainAgCTAHR What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Eight (8) elite segregants of Moringa oleifera were identified for clonal propagation and increase. Forty-six traditional Hawaiian taro (Colocasia esculenta) varieties were grown under certified organic conditions for evaluation of yield and quality. Thirteen sweet potato varieties, including traditional Hawaiian cultivars, were grown under certified organic conditions, yield recorded and samples processed for free sugar analysis. Eight traditional sugarcane varieties were grown under certified organic conditions for evaluation for yield and sugar content. A second certified organic site was initiated at the Poamoho Research Station to complement the existing site at Waimanalo Research Station to increase diversity in soil type and climate. Certified organic papaya 'Waimanalo X-77' and 'Sunrise' were produced and are available for seed through the UH Seed program. Certified organic green onion 'Koba' were produced and seeds harvested for processing. Waimanalo Organic Farming Field Day 2015 Saturday, August 29, 2015, 9am-1pm, Waimanalo Experiment Station http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/workshop/Organic2015.html

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Radovich, T.J.K., and Hue, N.V. 2015. Effects of intercropping different legumes on growth of sweet corn (Zea mays). Journal of Crop Improvement, 29(3): 370-378.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Radovich, T., Nagata, R., McHugh,J., Teves, G., Ahmad, A., and Paull, R. 2015. Germplasm evaluation and selection of Moringa oleifera in Hawaii. Moringa oleifera: A Decade of Advances in Research and Development. Nov. 15-18, Manila, Philippines.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., and Radovich, T.J.K. 2015. Enhancing Nitrogen Availability in Liquid Fertilizers Derived from Solid Organic Sources for Fertigation. HorScience 50(9): S222. ASHS Annual Conference, Aug. 4-7. New Orleans, Louisiana.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Gangaiah, C., Ahmad, A.A., Nguyen, H.V., and Radovich, T.J.K. 2015. Use of Invasive Algae as a Potassium (K) Source Affects Growth and K Content in Pak Choi(Brassica rapa cv. Bonsai, Chinensis Group) under Greenhouse Conditions. HortScience 50(9):S330. ASHS Annual Conference, Aug. 4-7. New Orleans, Louisiana.