ASHS 2025 Conference: Full Schedule

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Assessment of the Effects of Modified Polyamine Metabolism on Phenotypic Plasticity and Structure-Function Coordination of Tomato Plants Under Deficient Irrigation

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

The development of genotypes resilient to abiotic stresses like drought has a pivotal role over the impacts of climate extremes on global food security. Recent studies suggest that modulating the activity of polyamine oxidases (PAOs) in crop species could enhance stress tolerance. Given the limited data on how altered PAOs expression (either overexpression or silencing) affects physiological and anatomical traits that may contribute to plant resilience, the aim of the present study is to investigate phenotypic variability - focusing on leaf structure and function - in tomato genotypes with modified polyamine metabolism under deficient irrigation. Three tomato genotypes were cultivated in a greenhouse, one reference (cv. Moneymaker) and two transgenic lines of the reference genotype with silenced expression of the genes encoding the homologous enzymes SlPAO3 and SlPAO4 of PAO. Two irrigation regimes were applied: Control (100% field capacity, FC) and Drought (20% FC). Following the development of new leaves under drought conditions (long-term acclimation), anatomical features of the leaves and petioles, as well as gas exchange parameters, were assessed. Results showed that, regardless of genotype, water deficit led to a reduction in leaf area, reflecting a decrease in transpiring surface, an adaptation of leaf function under limited water availability. The slpao3 plants, regardless of the irrigation regime, exhibited a smaller total vascular tissue area per petiole cross-section compared to both the reference genotype and the slpao4 plants. However, during acclimation to drought stress, an increase in vascular tissue area was observed only in the slpao3 plants. These findings align with previous studies highlighting the involvement of polyamines in xylem differentiation processes. Long-term acclimation resulted in a reduction in xylem vessel size and an increase in vessel density, irrespective of genotype, indicating an adjustment of hydraulic traits to meet the water demands of acclimated leaves. Petiole vascular characteristics, leaf area, and gas exchange parameters, independent of genotype and treatment, showed strong correlations among them. These results confirm a coordination presence between hydraulic function and photosynthetic response. Further research is needed to clarify how this coordination influences water transport and use efficiency, and to explore whether modulation of PAOs activity could serve as an effective strategy to enhance plant resilience to environmental stresses.

Speakers

Ioannis Karapanos

University of Florida / North Florida Research and Education Center

Co-authors

Aliki Boura

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Andriana Karachaliou

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Dimosthenis Nikolopoulos

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Evangelos Kyrkoulis

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Georgios Liakopoulos

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Panagiota Bresta

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Paraskevi Tavladoraki

Department of Science, University Roma Tre

Styliani Chorianopoulou

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Correlation Analysis of Short-day Onion Bulb Characteristics as Indicators of Firmness to Reduce Bulb Bruising from Mechanical Harvesting

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Short-day onions are grown for fresh market in the southern region of the US, and they require around 10 to 12 hours of photoperiod or 12 to 14 hours of nighttime to thrive. These onions tend to produce fewer, thinner layers and have higher moisture contents, making them susceptible to bruising. When short-day onions are harvested by machines, a small percentage of them are damaged and the rest experience bruising during the harvesting process. This leads to a focus on bulb firmness and how it can affect the reduction of bruise damage. The current study seeks to identify bulb characteristics that affect bulb firmness and their relation to the overall bruise damage in short-day onions. For this, early and main season maturity varieties were used and several bulb characteristics including bulb weight (gm), height (cm), width (cm), number of rings, firmness, growing point (single versus multiple centers), and total soluble solids (°Brix) were measured. Correlation among bulb traits was analyzed using correlation in R corrr package. In the early season, there was correlation between bulb weight and bulb width (r=0.920343), firmness and single center (r=0.504853), and single center and ring number (r=0.609349). There was no significant correlation between bulb firmness and the remaining bulb traits. A negative correlation was observed between firmness and moisture content (r=- 0.412323) and firmness and ring number (r=- 0.5084) in the main maturity season trial, but not enough to significantly impact the bulb firmness. The results suggested that in early maturity bulbs, a single center directly correlated with firmer bulbs, but in the main maturity season, firmness had a negative correlation with moisture content and ring number. Results will be validated with the second season trial during the 2024-2025 season.

Speakers

Nathalia Figueroa-Silva

Texas A

Co-authors

Christopher Cramer

New Mexico State Unimersity

Lakhvir Kaur

Texas A

Subas Malla

Texas A

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Mechanical Harvest Project

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Evaluating diverse sweetpotato breeding lines in western Washington

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Orange-fleshed sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) cultivars with moist, sweet texture are the most popular type of sweetpotatoes grown in the United States, while elsewhere in the world, white, yellow, and purple-fleshed types with firm, dry texture are more popular. There is a market opportunity in the United States for diverse sweetpotato cultivars, however, their yield tends to be low as they have not received the same breeding attention as orange-fleshed cultivars. In this experiment, six advanced breeding lines from the USDA, representing a diversity of flesh colors, textures, sweetness, and firmness, were compared to cvs. Covington (standard) and Cascade (new release). The experiment was carried out in a certified organic field in Mount Vernon, WA in 2024 and is being repeated in 2025. Each plot included 15 plants with 4 replicate blocks. In 2024, sweetpotatoes were planted on 4 June in raised beds covered with black polyethylene mulch and with drip irrigation. Harvest was by hand on 7 Oct., roots were sorted by size, and damage by wireworms (Agriotes lineatus, A. obscurus, Limonius canus), the most significant insect pest impacting sweetpotatoes in this region, was assessed using the WDS severity index ( 0 = no scars, 1 = 1-5 scars, 2 = 6-10 scars, 4 = >10 scars). Without accounting for wireworm damage, yield (US No. 1 and US No. 2) of ‘Covington’ (orange, soft flesh) was highest (18.2 t/ha) followed by USDA-22-009 (13.8 t/ha, yellow flesh), and ‘Cascade’ (white, firm flesh) had low yield (6.7 t/ha) followed by purple-fleshed breeding lines USDA-17-090 (4.1 t/ha) and USDA-16-051 (3.1 t/ha). Orange-fleshed breeding lines USDA-16-031 (3.8 t/ha) and USDA-19-036 (1.7 t/ha) and yellow-fleshed USDA-23-039 (0.5 t/ha) all had low yield. ‘Cascade’ was the most wireworm resistant (WDS severity index 1.61) followed by USDA-16-051 (2.33), while ‘Covington’ and USDA-22-009 were the most susceptible (3.67 and 3.54, respectively). The breeding lines USDA-16-031, USDA-17-090, USDA-19-036, and USDA-23-039 had similar ratings, ranging from 2.83 to 3.39. While yields of ‘Cascade’ (white, firm flesh) and USDA-16-051 (purple flesh) were less than ‘Covington’, farmers may be interested in growing these niche cultivars for their wireworm resistance and to cater to consumer interests.

Speakers

Jordan White

Washington State University

Co-authors

Carol Miles

Washington State University

Laura Schulz

Washington State University

Phillip Wadl

USDA, ARS, U.S. Vegetable Laboratory

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Garlic Cultivar Trial and Allicin Content Analysis in Oklahoma

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a cool season and flavorful vegetable crop that has a long history in culinary, horticultural, medicinal uses. Oklahoma is a state characterized by diverse weather and soil types, but there is an economic opportunity for garlic production with optimal planting techniques and planting recommended cultivars. The number of farmers producing garlic increased from 28 to 44 between 2017 and 2022. This trial was conducted at the Cimarron Valley Research Station with Oklahoma State University in Perkins, Oklahoma and evaluated ten cultivars grown using drip tape irrigation, no mulch, and a no-spray approach to weed and pest control. Total graded marketable yield and allicin content were recorded during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 growing season for softneck and hardneck cultivars including: ‘California Early’, ‘Chesnock Red’, ‘Duganski’, ‘German Extra Hardy’, ‘German White Stiffneck’, ‘Inchellium Red’, ‘Music’, ‘Purple Glazer’, ‘Romanian Red’, and ’Sicilian Artichoke.’ In 2024, the top performing cultivars were ‘German Extra Hardy’ and ‘Inchellium Red’. These were significantly higher yields that ‘Duganski’. No other statistical differences were observed. Their respective marketable yields were 2,704 and 2,538 pounds per acre. In addition, we recorded allicin content for each cultivar using a spectrophometric assay. Allicin is one of the most important thiosulfates in garlic and its presence adds market value for those interested in the nutritional and health benefits of garlic. We observed statistically significant differences among the cultivar entries. ‘California Early’ and ‘Duganski’ had a significantly higher allicin content at .66 grams and .59 grams per 100 g sample than ‘German White Stiffneck’ at .49 grams per 100 g sample. Additional research of allicin content among different cultivars of garlic is needed to guide consumers and healthcare professionals in selecting the best cultivar for fresh market consumption.

Speakers

Victor Ware

Oklahoma State University

Co-authors

Tyler Mason

Oklahoma State University

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA: National Needs Fellowship

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Organic pest management of broccoli using mesotunnels in the Midwest

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Broccoli, scientifically known as Brassica oleracea var. italica, was first cultivated in the 17th century. Based on 2022 USDA Ag census, in the United States, broccoli is grown on 96,600 acreage. Broccoli is damaged by more than 25 insect pests. Some pests are region/place specific and some are common across the world like aphids, mites, etc., Pests like imported cabbage worms, cabbage loopers, and diamondback moths have a destructive effect on the crop in different growth stages of the crop. Organic pesticides to manage these pests have mixed results and account for increased labor and costs. Mesotunnels could serve as a viable pest management approach within organic production systems. “Meso” means “middle,” so mesotunnels are medium-size tunnels – taller than low tunnels and shorter than high tunnels. A breathable nylonmesh fabric (brand names include ProtekNet and ExcludeNet) that resembles window screen are placed over the mesotunnel. The fabric acts as a barrier for insect pests and prevents their entry and disease-carrying pathogens. These nylon nets are breathable, durable, and light permissible which can also protect from extreme weather conditions like hail damage. This study includes the following three treatments: 1) Mesotunnel with proteknet, 2) Organic insecticides, and 3) Control (no mesotunnel or organic insecticides). Mesotunnel treatment resulted in less pest damage (No.of holes/plant) with a mean 14 when compared to organic insecticides which had mean damage of 22. A significant difference was observed in pest damage between the treatments. Regarding marketable yield, the highest was observed in the Mesotunnel treatment. However, no significant difference was found between the treatments. This study aims to identify the most effective method of pest management in broccoli production while minimizing the environmental impact through reduced reliance on pesticides. Keywords: mesotunnels, proteknet, excludenet, organic pesticides

Speakers

Akshaya Thinakaran

Iowa State University

Co-authors

Ajay Nair

Iowa State University

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Screening for Cucumber with Disease and Pest Resistance and Consumer-Defined Visual Appeal in the Virgin Islands

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Matching breeding target with consumer preference is the goal of many crop production methods. But this is normally a difficult challenge when the selected disease- and pest-resistant materials do not meet the consumers’ product preference. In this report, we highlight the efforts we are making to deliver cucumber lines with consumer-preferred visual traits and that have combined resistance to melonworm, leaf miner, aphids, and Downy mildew. After a series screening of 100 lines from the USDA, 36 showed at least 40% resistance to leafminer and melonworm in 2022 and 2023. Of these, we have evaluated 16 against lines with varying degrees of resistance and six susceptible lines against three commercial varieties commonly grown in the Virgin Islands. All the 25 cucumber lines were exposed to open natural infestation by leaf miner, melonworm, aphids and downy mildew in the open field and scored for resistance based on visual ratings designed for each infestation. We used a mathematical model that considered multiyear and multilocation performances to rank the lines for combined resistances. Unfortunately, the top three resistant lines were not among the top five visually appealing fruit types on a consumer preference scale based on a survey of 245 respondents. We report on the prospects and anticipated timeline for the development of cucumber plants with the preferred fruit type and disease and pest resistance traits. Our study has the potential to deliver cucumber varieties that are highly adapted to the Caribbean abiotic and biotic stresses and that have significantly reduced pesticide footprints. Key words: Consumer preference, cucumber, pest resistance, screening, trait

Speakers

Jessica Ewer

University of the Virgin Islands

Co-authors

Amy Dreves

University of the Virgin Islands

Henry Awika

University of the Virgin Islands

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA-AMS-SCBG-VIDA

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Stop, Dry, Lignify: Simulated Pre-harvest Water Deprivation Increases Continuity of Lignified Periderm Tissue and Reduces Postharvest Weight Loss in Sweetpotato Storage Roots

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

A greenhouse culture system simulated in-ground curing by imposing pre-harvest water deprivation treatments in sweetpotato. Virus-tested sweetpotato cv ‘Beauregard’ cuttings were planted at the following staggered times relative to the control (0d): 10 days (10d) and five days (5d) earlier, respectively. Water deprivation treatments were applied 10d and 5d pre-harvest. The first study terminated experiments when the control plants attained 30 days of growth. Storage root sections 1-2 mm thick were obtained from the broadest part of the storage root, stained with phloroglucinol, followed by image capture with a microscope. Digital image analysis was performed by measuring the area of the continuous lignified zone (CLZ) below the phellogen layer and calculating % CLZ after measuring the total area of the cross-section. Simulated WD at 10d and 5d was associated with a six- and three-fold increase in % CLZ, respectively. None of the control SRs showed 100% CLZ, while 50% of SRs subjected to 10d WD showed an intact ring of lignified tissue below the phellogen layer. Storage roots from control plants consistently showed breaks in the phellem tissue relative to SRs subjected to WD treatments. In the second study, plants were grown for up to 50 days, and harvested SRs were kept in ambient conditions for weight loss measurements. Water deprivation was associated with reduced weight loss in SRs relative to SRs grown in well-watered conditions. These findings can lead to follow-up work to validate increased skin durability with pre-harvest, in-ground curing in production areas where postharvest curing facilities aren’t available.

Speakers

Arthur Villordon

Professor, Louisiana State University AgCenter

No roots left behind! The sweetpotato's root system architecture integrates internal, environmental, and management determinants of storage root yield, quality, and shape attributes. Root architectural adaptations to biotic and abiotic stress variables provide insights about traits... Read More →

Co-authors

Mae Ann Bravo

Louisiana State University

Marissa Barbosa

Lousiana State University

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Queensland Department of Agriculture and Forestry

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Sweetpotato Cutting Length Influence on Production in the USVI

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) is a tuberous root crop and an important agricultural staple in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Due to its year-round production potential, drought tolerance, adaptability to calcareous soils, and cultural significance, a more efficient land-use and cropping system is needed. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of sweetpotato cutting length on yield per linear foot on five cultivars, ‘Bonita’, ‘Bellevue’, ‘GA-11’, ‘Murasaki’ and ‘Sakura-40’. Actively growing vines from five cultivars were propagated using 6–8-inch terminal cuttings and 3-foot cuttings. An 8-inch drip irrigation system was used for both treatments. After 130 days, harvest data were collected on number of tuberous roots, weight, and marketable yield. Results showed that Bonita, Bellevue, and Murasaki produced higher yields (kg/ft) when planted with 6–8-inch cuttings, whereas ‘GA-11’ and ‘Sakura-40’ yielded more with 3-foot cuttings. Similarly, ‘Sakura-40’, ‘Bonita’, and ‘Bellevue’ had greater numbers of marketable and total roots per foot with 6–8-inch cuttings, while ‘Murasaki’ and ‘GA-11’ performed better in both categories with 3-foot cuttings. These findings indicate that optimal cutting length is variety-specific, with certain cultivars favoring shorter cuttings for higher yield and root number, while others benefit from longer cuttings. This research was funded by a USDA Mutistate Hatch Grant.

Speakers

Imhotep Charles

University of te Virgin Islands

Co-authors

Samuel Joseph

University of the Virgins Islands

Thomas Zimmerman

University of the Virgin Islands School of Agriculture

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA Multistate Hatch

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Tradeoffs of Rowcover Management Approach on Winter Spinach Crop in Unheated High Tunnels in Cold Climates

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

In the northeastern US, cold-tolerant crops such as spinach are an important source of winter income for high tunnel growers. Supplemental rowcovers are used on crops inside unheated high tunnels to expose plants to optimal temperature ranges for longer periods of each day and to provide greater protection from injurious low temperatures. Rowcover management impacts temperature, light availability, humidity, pest populations, crop yield, and labor requiremenst. Some growers actively manage rowcovers, removing them daily to optimize light exposure and then reapplying them in the evening and on cloudy or very cold days. This is thought to provide a yield benefit due to increased crop light availability, but it is labor intensive and experienced growers often make decisions about removal based on a combination of current conditions and forecasted weather. Therefore, some growers opt for a “set it and forget it” approach, where layers are applied once and then only removed as needed, rather than daily. Here we describe the tradeoffs of “active” rowcover management, where rowcovers are removed during the day and replaced nightly, compared to “passive” management, where rowcover is removed only for harvest and regular maintenance. We conducted a replicated trial in two experimental years in an unheated high tunnel to investigate the effects of rowcover management on winter spinach yield, pest abundance, and abiotic environmental factors including growing degree hour accumulation. We also compared our observations with those from commercial tunnels managed by three experienced growers in the northeast. In both experimental years, growing-degree hour accumulation and the cumulative amount of time below freezing did not differ significantly between active and passive management. However, active rowcover management did result in greater light accumulation, lower relative humidity, and increased spinach yields in one experimental year compared with passive management.

Speakers

Becky Sideman

ASHS Board Member-At-Large

Co-authors

Anna Wallingford

USDA ARS

Lilly Hartman

University of New Hampshire

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Funded by NIFA-SCRI 2021-07737 and the NH Agricultural Experiment Station
Funding Option SCRI funded all or part of the research associated with this abstract

1:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Using washed-up semi-decomposed seagrass in sweet potato cultivation

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Seagrass that washes ashore is an abundant, traditional amendment for crop production on Yap Islands, yet its potential for modern sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) cultivation remains largely unexplored. Traditionally, semi-decomposed seagrass is incorporated to create raised beds where sweetpotato is grown for several years. While compost and manure can be effective amendments to improve the conditions of the highly weathered, acidic volcanic soils of the Yap Islands, they are costly, labor intensive, and in short supply. By utilizing an abundant, free resource, this project seeks to improve crop yields and extend the productive life of agricultural lands. This study includes two field experiments that compare semi-decomposed seagrass with conventional commercial fertilizer for two sweetpotato cultivars in two production systems, raised-beds and grow-bags. Experiment 1 utilizes raised beds established on three farm sites with an improved sweetpotato cultivar, where treatments include medium and high application rates (by weight, approximately 40 and 60 kg N ha-1, respectively) of semi-decomposed seagrass and a control treatment using commercial fertilizer (10N-20P-20K) at N rate equivalent to the medium seagrass application. Each treatment is randomized in a complete block design, with six replicates per treatment. Experiment 2 is a split-plot design and compares a traditional vining and a modern sweetpotato cultivar (main plot treatment) in container cultivation using 10-gallon grow bags filled with a soil mix amended with seagrass at medium and high ratios compared to a commercial fertilizer control at N rate equivalent to the medium seagrass application (split-plot treatment). For both experiments, the seagrass is collected, washed, and piled to reduce salinity to acceptable thresholds, with leachate EC measured weekly. Seagrass is then shredded and piled to accelerate decomposition. Analysis results of semi-decomposed seaweed are 15% dry weight with 1.8% N on average, and application rates are 21 g and 32 g per sq foot of soil for N application rates of 40 and 60 kg.ha-1, respectively. Community buy-in and trust building are being achieved through collaboration with island-based agricultural educators and meetings with traditional leaders. This research has the potential to enhance sweet potato production on the Yap Islands, improve resource management, and provide an affordable soil amendment option for local farmers. The project promotes environmental stewardship and contributes to cleaner shorelines and sustainable agricultural practices. The findings will offer critical insights for local agricultural educators and policymakers in optimizing land use and advancing low-cost, high-yield cultivation methods in resource-limited settings.

Speakers

Carol Miles

Washington State University

Co-authors

Steven Young-Uhk

College of Micronesia-FSM

Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

3:59pm CDT

VCM 1- Oral Session

Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:59pm - 4:00pm CDT

Strand 11B

Presiding/Moderator

Guodong Liu

University of Florida

Tuesday July 29, 2025 3:59pm - 4:00pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

4:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Enhancing Phosphorus Utilization in Vegetable Production: Exploring the Benefits of Split-Applications

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Strand 11B

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for snap bean growth, directly influencing root development, plant health, and overall yield. However, P bioavailability is often limited by soil fixation, particularly in highly acidic and alkaline environments. In the Hastings region, soil pH can drop to 4.7 during the growing season, leading to substantial P immobilization due to high concentrations of extractable aluminum (1,300–2,000 lbs/acre) and iron (250–600 lbs/acre). These metals readily react with P, forming insoluble complexes that restrict plant uptake. Chemically, one pound of aluminum can fix up to 2.6 pounds of phosphorus pentoxide, significantly reducing P availability for crop growth. Conversely, in the Homestead region, where soil pH reaches 8.4, P fixation occurs primarily through reactions with calcium, with one pound of calcium binding approximately 1.2 pounds of phosphorus pentoxide, further limiting P solubility. Conventional P fertilization typically relies on a single pre-plant application, which does not align with the plant’s continuous nutrient demands throughout the growing season. Moreover, prolonged soil-P interaction exacerbates fixation losses, further reducing bioavailable P. This study investigates the effectiveness of split P applications as a strategy to mitigate fixation and improve nutrient uptake efficiency. By minimizing phosphorus’s contact time with reactive metals, split applications—through multiple dry granular P applications or fertigation—help sustain adequate P concentrations in plant tissue. Preliminary results indicate that split applications significantly enhance P uptake and use efficiency, leading to higher snap bean yields compared to conventional single-dose treatments. These findings suggest that split P applications offer a more effective and sustainable approach to optimizing phosphorus management in snap bean and other vegetable production.

Speakers

Guodong Liu

University of Florida

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

4:15pm CDT

VCM 1 - Assessing the Efficiency of Commercial Biostimulant Products on Tomato Plant Growth, Crop Yield, and Fruit Quality

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

Strand 11B

Biostimulants are gaining popularity as a tool for enhancing plant growth, mitigating abiotic stress, and improving crop yield and quality. Defined as substances or microorganisms that stimulate natural plant processes. Although skepticism about their efficacy initially limited their use, a growing body of research evidence demonstrates their positive effects on crop systems under both controlled environments and field conditions. However, the continuous development of new biostimulant formulations reinforces the need for further validation under commercial agricultural conditions. This study evaluates the effects of eight commercial biostimulant protocols, each with different composition and modes of action on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) growth, fruit quality, and yield. The objectives are to: 1) quantify the effects on plant growth with parameters such as plant height, stem diameter and leaf chlorophyll content) 2) assess the impact on yield and fruit quality at harvest. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design with three replicates, each comprising eight treatments. Each plot contained 25 tomato plants, and data were collected from 10 selected plants per plot. Biostimulants were applied weekly or biweekly, via drench or foliar spray, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Growth parameters were measured throughout the experiment, while yield and quality assessments were at harvest and during postharvest storage. According to the analysis of variance, plant height was significantly affected by protocol. Protocol 5 was statistically superior to the control in two of the three replicates followed by protocol 8 with one statistical significance in the three replicates compared to the control. There was not any statistical difference in diameter of treated plants compared to the control, however plants treated with protocol 8 had the greatest diameter in two of the three replicates. For the chlorophyll content, treatment 1 was the only one that showed a significant increase compared to the control. In terms of color, protocol 2 and 5 significantly increased fruit brightness while protocol 5 and 7 enhanced color saturation and protocol 1 altered hue compared to the control. The firmness of fruits at harvest was 2.08 to 2.85 kg without any significant differences within the protocol. In yield, protocol 5 was statistical significance in marketable weight, number 8 was statistical significance in count and weight in unmarketable category. According to the above, there is a significant benefit of specific biostimulants as treatments 5 and 8 in promoting tomato plant growth and improving certain fruit quality parameters. Key words: Biostimulants, protocol, plant growth.

Speakers

Bryan Merlos Osorio

Southwest Florida Research and Education Center

Co-authors

Jessie Watson

Pavlos Tsouvaltzis

Southwest Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida

Sotirios Tasioulas

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

4:30pm CDT

VCM 1 - Effect of Biostimulant Application on Yield and Phytochemical Composition of Mustard greens

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Strand 11B

Current vegetable production faces the challenge of productivity with growing demand for environmentally sustainable crop management practices. Biostimulants present a promising and sustainable strategy for mitigating the adverse effects of unpredictable weather patterns on vegetable crops, thereby enhancing resilience to heat stress, water deficits, and various biotic and abiotic stresses. While biostimulants have shown promising effects in various agricultural applications, there is limited literature on biostimulants and their role in regulating plant growth and development under conventional open field production systems. Additionally, there remains a research gap concerning the optimal application methods and rates of various biostimulants across different vegetable crops. Hence, this study analyzed the effectiveness of two different biostimulants seaweed extract and humic acid on mustard greens (Brassica juncea) performance using conventional farming methods in open field conditions. The biostimulants were applied through both soil and foliar application at two different rates to evaluate their effects on the growth, yield, and nutritional quality of mustard greens. Data was collected on various parameters, including the number of leaves per week, fresh and dry weight at harvest, nutrient content including chlorophylls, carotenoids, and mineral nutrient composition. Yield and nutrient compositions were improved by the application of seaweed at high concentration. In conclusion, seaweed application can be beneficial to improve mustard greens production in open field conditions.

Speakers

Nandini Reddy Muraka

oklahoma state university

Co-authors

Niels Maness

Oklahoma state university

Steve Phillips

Oklahoma state university

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

4:45pm CDT

VCM 1 - Effect of Biostimulants on Lettuce Growth Under Varying Water Availability

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT

Strand 11B

Biostimulants have the potential to enhance plant growth and improve resilience to environmental stresses such as drought. This study investigated the effects of biostimulant application on the growth and physiological responses of two lettuce cultivars, ‘Green Oakleaf’ and ‘Red Oakleaf’, grown in a greenhouse at Mississippi State University. Plants were grown in containers under three substrate field capacities (40%, 70%, and 100%) and treated with one of four biostimulant treatments: Tribus®, Huma Pro®16, Kelpak®, or an untreated control. Data collected included plant growth index (PGI), leaf SPAD readings, photosynthetic activity, fresh and dry weights, and leaf color. Water availability and cultivar significantly affected PGI, biomass accumulation, and SPAD readings. The 70% and 100% field capacities resulted in the highest fresh and dry weights, while ‘Red Oakleaf’ exhibited greater dry weight and SPAD values than ‘Green Oakleaf’. Biostimulant treatments had no significant effect on any of the measured parameters. These results indicate that water availability plays a critical role in greenhouse lettuce growth, while the biostimulants tested did not enhance plant performance under the conditions of this study.

Speakers

Zhiheng Xing

University of Georgia

Co-authors

Guihong Bi

Mississippi State University

Tongyin Li

Mississippi State University

Tuesday July 29, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

5:00pm CDT

VCM 1 - Effect of Organic Soil Amendments on Yield and Phytochemical Contents of Collard Greens in Open Field Conditions

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm CDT

Strand 11B

With increasing focus and shift towards soil health, sustainable soil management practices stand as critical approach to enhance the crop productivity and quality while improving production system as a whole. One method to improve soil health is through addition of soil amendments such as compost, animal manure and crop residues. However, there is limited literature on emerging organic amendments like biochar, vermicompost and peatmoss and their role in crop production in field-based conditions. Specifically, biochar has high cation exchange capacity and improves soil homeostasis, while vermicompost has more readily available nutrients. Several researchers have found synergistic effects when biochar and vermicompost were used in combination with high nutrient retention and uptake, supported by high activity of soil microorganisms. Similarly, peat moss is rich in organic matter and has high water absorption capacity. Although its use in soilless substrates has been widely explored, peat moss as soil amendment in open fields has limited literature. Hence, the current study investigated the role of organic soil amendments on yield attributes and nutritional profile of a leafy green vegetable, collard greens. Furthermore, soil parameters like organic matter content, soil nutrients and soil bulk density were observed before and after the crop period. Two open field trials were conducted in spring and fall under at Students Farm, Oklahoma State University, following certified naturally grown production practices. The soil amendment treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design within four blocks. Collard greens’ phytochemicals such as chlorophylls, carotenoids, flavonoids, phenols, and sugars were analyzed after harvest. Results show that vermicompost facilitated better crop performance by improving soil physical and chemical properties. The findings of this study provides sustainable horticulture practices by providing more information on added amendments and their role in improving soil health and enhancing crop quality, offering actionable insights for soil health focused production systems.

Speakers

Pradeep Paudel

Oklahoma State University

An MS student at Oklahoma State University, interested in the use of organic amendments for crop production and soil health improvement.

Co-authors

Bee Chim

Oklahoma State University

Niels Maness

Oklahoma State University

Shivani Kathi

Oklahoma State University

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

5:15pm CDT

VCM 1 - Effects of Nitrogen Fertilization Rate and Timing on Yield and Fruit Quality of Strawberry in Florida

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:15pm - 5:30pm CDT

Strand 11B

Nitrogen (N) is the macronutrient required in the largest amount by strawberry plants (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) and is often the primary factor limiting their yield. Florida’s sandy soils are highly prone to leaching of mobile nutrients like nitrate. Optimizing N fertilization is essential not only for maximizing economic returns but also for reducing the risks of environmental pollution caused by nitrate leaching and runoff. This study aimed to determine the growth stage-specific optimum N rates for the winter strawberry production system in Florida. Three field experiments were conducted in west-central Florida, each following a factorial design with four cultivars [‘Florida Brilliance’ (Brilliance), Florida MedallionTM 'FL 16.30-128' (Medallion), Florida PearlTM ‘FL 16.78-109’ (Pearl 109), and Florida Pearl® ‘FL 18.52-66’ (Pearl 66)] and five N rates (0, 0.56, 1.12, 2.24, and 3.36 kg/ha/d). Different N rates were applied during Weeks 3–8 (early growth) in Expt. 1, Weeks 9–14 (mid-growth) in Expt. 2, and Weeks 15–20 (late growth) in Expt. 3, with a baseline rate of 1.12 kg/ha/d before or after the treatment period. All experiments concluded at the end of Week 20, with total N application rates ranging from 94 to 235 kg/ha. Model fitting analysis was conducted to explain the yield response for N rates. In Experiment 1, marketable yield was fitted to linear models (r2=0.82−0.98) as a response to N rate, with slopes of 0.45, 0.45, 0.36, and 0.35 for Brilliance, Medallion, Pearl109, and Pearl66, respectively. Increasing the N rate from 1.12 to 3.36 boosted total marketable yield by 128%, 132%, 129%, and 126% for Brilliance, Medallion, Pearl109, and Pearl66, respectively, by the season's end. In Experiment 2, marketable yield of Medallion and Pearl66 followed linear models (r2=0.9−0.96) with slopes of 0.44 and 0.26, respectively, while other cultivars showed no significant slope differences. Increasing the N rate from 1.12 to 3.36 enhanced marketable yield by 137% for Medallion and 111% for Pearl66. In Experiment 3, no significant pattern was observed between N rates and marketable yield during the treatment period, but increasing the N rate slightly increased marketable yield at season's end for Brilliance (101%), Pearl109 (113%), and Pearl66 (104%), while negatively impacting Medallion (91%). Across all experiments, unmarketable yield, small fruit number, and soluble sugar content were not significantly (p

Speakers

Kalara Dissanayake

University of Florida

Co-authors

Shinsuke Agehara

University of Florida

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:15pm - 5:30pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

5:30pm CDT

VCM 1 - Cultivar and Growth Stage-Specific Nitrogen Optimization for Enhanced Strawberry Yield and Efficiency in a Florida Sandy Soil

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:30pm - 5:45pm CDT

Strand 11B

Nitrogen (N) is often the primary limiting factor in strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) production. Optimizing N fertilization is crucial for maximizing economic returns while minimizing environmental pollution risks. This study aimed to determine cultivar- and growth stage-specific optimum N rates for winter strawberry production in a subtropical sandy soil. Three field experiments (Expt. 1, 2, and 3) were conducted in west-central Florida, with four cultivars [‘Florida Brilliance’ (Brilliance), Florida MedallionTM (Medallion), Florida PearlTM (Pearl 109), and Florida Pearl® (Pearl 66)] and five N rates (0, 0.56, 1.12, 2.24, and 3.36 kg·ha–1·d–1). Different N rates were applied during Weeks 3–8 (early growth) in Expt. 1, Weeks 9–14 (mid-growth) in Expt. 2, and Weeks 15–20 (late growth) in Expt. 3, with a baseline rate of 1.12 kg·ha–1·d–1 outside the treatment period. All experiments concluded at the end of Week 20, with total N application rates ranging from 94 to 235 kg·ha–1. Model fitting revealed cultivar- and growth stage-specific yield responses to N rates. In Expt. 1, the best-fit models were linear for Brilliance, Medallion, and Pearl 109, with maximum yield increases of 102%, 109%, and 71%, respectively. For Pearl 66, the best-fit model was quadratic, with a maximum yield increase of 126% at 3.34 kg·ha–1·d–1. In Expt. 2, Medallion maintained a linear response with a maximum yield increase of 90%, whereas Brilliance followed a quadratic model, with a maximum yield increase of 70% at 2.27 kg·ha–1·d–1. Pearl 109 and Pearl 66 followed exponential plateau models, reaching 90% of their respective maximum yields with 89% and 73% increases at 1.64 and 2.09 kg·ha–1·d–1, respectively. In Expt. 3, no cultivar exhibited a significant model fit. Agronomic N use efficiency (ANUE, kg yield increase per kg N applied) showed contrasting results. In Expt. 1, only Pearl 109 exhibited a significant model fit, with a linear reduction of up to 30%. In Expt. 2, Medallion showed no significant model fit, whereas the other three cultivars reduced ANUE linearly by 27% to 38%. In Expt. 3, all cultivars followed exponential decay models, with maximum reductions of 57% to 63%. These results suggest that Medallion is the most responsive to N fertilization, while Pearl 109 is the least. Moreover, N fertilization efficiency could be improved by increasing its distribution during the early and mid-season growth stages and limiting late-season inputs.

Speakers

Kalara Dissanayake

University of Florida

Co-authors

Shinsuke Agehara

University of Florida

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:30pm - 5:45pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

5:45pm CDT

VCM 1 - Can biochar mitigate salinity effects on the growth and development for crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis)?

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:45pm - 6:00pm CDT

Strand 11B

Increasing salt stress and water scarcity necessitate research on plant salinity tolerance. This study investigated the effects of biochar crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis) under saline conditions. Three biochar rates (0%, 15%, 25%) were incorporated into commercial substrates, with salinity treatments of control, medium, and high at 0.2 dS∙m-1, 2 dS∙m-1, and 4 dS∙m⁻¹ respectively. Growth parameters (growth index, chlorophyll content, number of flowers), biomass, and physiological responses (photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance rate) were evaluated over time. The results showed crossandra tolerated salinity up to 4 dS∙m⁻¹ with minimal effects on flower production, biomass, and physiological responses, though growth index and SPAD values declined. At 2 dS∙m⁻¹, 15% biochar improved growth index, SPAD, number of flowers, biomass, and physiological rates comparable to controls. These results suggest biochar can mitigate salinity effects for crossandra plants.

Speakers

Ping Yu

University of Georgia

Co-authors

Lilin Chen

University of Georgia

Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:45pm - 6:00pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 1

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

7:59am CDT

VCM 2 - Oral Session

Wednesday July 30, 2025 7:59am - 8:00am CDT

Foster 1

Presiding/Moderator

Israel Joukhadar

New Mexico State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 7:59am - 8:00am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

8:00am CDT

VCM 2 - Optimizing the transplanting date and density for Carolina strongback grafted watermelon nursery

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:00am - 8:15am CDT

Foster 1

Grafting is an effective management strategy in watermelon crop against soil borne pathogens. Carolina strongback (SB) rootstock used for grafting, is resistant to both fusarium wilt and root knot nematodes which are devastating soil borne pest of watermelon. Recent experiments have shown that SB grafted plant have higher plant vigour and bear fruits 7-10 days later than regulate plants leading to farmers losing early profitable watermelon market. Similarly, grafted watermelon nursery is 4-5 times more expensive than regular nursery which leads to reluctance among growers for adoption of this effective management strategy. To fill these gaps for informed adoption of SB grafted nursery, a field experiment was conducted at Blackville SC. The experiment comprised of three transplanting times (April 1, 10 and 20) and four transplant densities (1800 non-grafted, 1800, 1550 and 1300 grafted plants/acre) in a split plot design. The highest plant vigour rating was observed in SB grafted nursery at 1800, 1550 and 1300 plants/acre as compared to 1800 non-grafted plants/acre. April1 and April 10 recorded the highest fruit yield at first harvest as compared to April 20 transplanting. Similar fruit yield was observed for different transplanting times and density at second, third and fourth picks. Transplanting of SB grafted plants at 1300 plants/acre recorded the highest total fruit yield as compared 1800 and 1550 grafted and 1800 non-grafted plants/acre. Highest gross and net returns were observed in 1300 grafted plants/acre as compared to 1800, 1550 grafted and 1800 non-grafted plants/acre. The experiment will be repeated in 2025 to collect two years of data.

Speakers

Bhupinder Jatana

Assistant Professor -Horticulture, Clemson University

Co-authors

Tom Sanders III

Clemson University

Yefan Nian

Clemson Unviersity

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:00am - 8:15am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source National Watermelon Association

8:15am CDT

VCM 2 - Evaluating Rootstock for Fresh Market Tomato Yield, Quality and Sustainability

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:15am - 8:30am CDT

Foster 1

Evaluating Rootstock for Fresh Market Tomato Yield, Quality and Sustainability Tsedeniya Getahun, Harlene Hatterman-Valenti, Collin Auwarter Department of Plant Science, North Dakota State University Fresh market tomatoes are widely grown by specialty crop producers in North Dakota due to their profitability in the fresh market/local foods segment. However, with North Dakota's short growing season, growers often use high-tunnels for season extension to protect the crop from early and late frost events. Unfortunately, tomato plants often face numerous soil and disease challenges due to limited growing space in the high tunnel. Inadequate leaching of soluble salts in the soil and limited crop rotation contributes to salt and disease inoculum buildup in the soil that threatens the health of tomato plants and may cause serious losses in high tunnels. This two-year project with the first year completed in 2024, aims to evaluate the improvement of tomato production by grafting an heirloom, fresh market and paste tomato cultivar with excellent fruit quality characteristics onto rootstocks that are resistant to various abiotic/biotic stresses under high tunnel production. Tomato scion ‘Bigboy’, ‘Brandywine’ and ‘San Marzano’ (indeterminate), and ‘BHN 589’ (determinate) were grafted on to six rootstocks: ‘Arnold’ (generative), ‘DR0141TX’ (generative and vegetative), ‘Estamino’ (generative), ‘Fortimino’ (vegetative), ‘Maxifort’ (generative) and ‘Multifort’ (generative). Scion selection significantly influenced marketable yield, whereas rootstock had no significant impact. This effect was observed in ‘Big Boy’ but not in ‘San Marzano’ or ‘Brandywine’. ‘Big Boy’ grafted onto ‘Multifort’ or ‘Fortamino’ produced the highest marketable yield, followed by ‘Arnold’, Maxifort’, and ‘DR014TX’, with the lowest yield observed in non-grafted Big Boy’. ‘DR0141TX’ and ‘Multifort’ increased stem diameter and San Marzano tomatoes grafted onto Maxifort, Multifort, and Fortamino had the tallest plants. The trial will continue for another year to further evaluate the benefits of grafting for high tunnel tomato production in North Dakota.

Speakers

Tsedeniya Getahun

North Dakota State University

Co-authors

Collin Auwarter

North Dakota State University

Harlene HattermanValenti

NDSU

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:15am - 8:30am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

8:30am CDT

VCM 2 - Evaluating field performance of different watermelon scions grafted with common rootstocks

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am CDT

Foster 1

The goal of the project is to understand the suitability of different scions when grafted onto commonly used watermelon rootstocks in California. This scion variety trial was conducted in 2024 within a commercial watermelon field near Stockton, California. Six different scions (Captivation, Fascination, Citation, Embasy, Melody, and Summer Breeze), categorized by horticultural characteristics such as maturity, fruit size, and color, were grafted onto three widely used watermelon rootstocks in California (Camelforce, Cobalt, and Carolina Strongback). The three rootstocks are grouped into interspecific hybrid squash (Cucurbita maxima x Cucurbita moschata) and Citron (Citrullus amarus). The field experiment was arranged as a randomized block design including eighteen treatments replicated three times. Each plot was 60 ft long and contained 10 triploids and 3 grafted pollenizers (Sentinel). The field was mechanically transplanted on May 14, 2024. In-season plot maintenance included vine separation multiple times to ease data collection and harvest. Canopy coverage was measured using a handheld crop sensor starting at 10 days after transplanting and thereafter at an approximate interval of two weeks for a total of eight measurements. With the help of farm crew, three harvests were conducted on August 5, 12, and 26. Total yields from each harvest and fruit quality taken from the first harvest were recorded and compared among the rootstock-scion combinations. For quality assessment, fruit length and width were measured by yardstick. Fruit flesh firmness was measured using a fruit penetrometer at the spots 1/3 and 2/3 distance from the blossom end after a melon was cut in half. Rind thickness at the blossom and stem ends were measured with a caliper. Sugar content (⁰Brix) was measured by scooping the center flesh of each half and reading the results through a portable reflectometer. Canopy coverage showed no significant differences among the treatments. For yield, four out of six scions (Fascination, Citation, Embasy, and Melody) produced the highest total yield (ton/acre and no/acre) when they were grafted onto Camelforce, while Captivation and Summer Breeze resulted in higher total yield when grafted with Carolina Strongback. A notable difference was observed in fruit quality for ⁰Brix and firmness that Carolina Strongback produced the lowest firmness and highest ⁰Brix when grafted with all six scions. These results provide a helpful advantage for growers in California who are considering grafting in their production. Continuous assessments will be conducted to further aid in the understanding of field performances from different rootstock-scion combinations.

Speakers

Zheng Wang

Univ. of California Cooperative Extension

Co-authors

Fayrouz Buojaylah

University ofr California, Cooperative Extension Stanislaus County

Yaritza Castrejon

UC Cooperative Extension

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

8:45am CDT

VCM 2 - Assessing Different NM Type Green Chile Transplant Methods for Mechanical Harvest

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:45am - 9:00am CDT

Foster 1

New Mexico green chile is a labor-intensive crop, with harvesting posing increasing challenges due to labor shortages and rising costs. To meet growing consumer demand, farmers are transitioning to mechanical harvesting, traditionally reliant on direct seeding, which promotes strong taproots and minimizes uprooting. However, transplant seedling establishment, which allows multiple harvests, produces a root system less suitable for mechanical harvesting. This study evaluated transplant sowing methods to develop taproots compatible with efficient mechanical harvest. In 2024, ‘NuMex Odyssey’ was planted using three methods, direct seeding, ihort® Q plugs, and paperpots®, at the NMSU Agricultural Science Center in Los Lunas, NM. The study employed a randomized complete block design with five replications. Plant architecture, root, and yield data were collected. Preliminary findings show no statistical difference in marketable green fruit yield among the planting methods during mechanical harvest. However, taproot lengths of ihort Q plugs and direct-seeded plants were significantly longer than those of paper pot transplants. These results suggest that taproot length did not impact marketable green fruit yield during mechanical harvest. The findings indicate that ihort Q plugs and paper pot transplanting methods have potential for efficient mechanical harvesting of New Mexico green chile.

Speakers

Israel Joukhadar

New Mexico State University

Co-authors

Danise Coon

New Mexico State University

Stephanie Walker

New Mexico State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 8:45am - 9:00am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source USDA Plant Breeding Partnership

9:00am CDT

VCM 2 - Does Winter Chill Accumulation Affect Transplant Quality and Field Performance of Strawberry Bare-root Transplants?

Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am CDT

Foster 1

Bare-root transplants are the primary planting material used in strawberry production. They are grown in open-field conditions and dug up at maturity before shipment to fruit production sites. Delayed digging exposes transplants to different amounts of winter chilling (

Speakers

Weining Wang

University of Florida

Co-authors

Shinsuke Agehara

University of Florida

Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

9:15am CDT

VCM 2- Investigating Heat Tolerance and Physiological Responses of Late-Planted Tomatoes in Oklahoma

Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:15am - 9:30am CDT

Foster 1

Consumers seek locally grown tomatoes for their superior flavor, making them a valuable crop for local vegetable growers. Tomato production can be difficult with the temperature requirements for fruit set, development, and ripening. Optimum growing conditions are available for a short period in Oklahoma, causing a distinct decline in production during late July and August. A field experiment was designed to investigate the success of late planted, heat tolerant tomatoes in Oklahoma field conditions, as well as explore the relationship between physiological responses and season-long temperatures. The experiment utilized a split plot design with three transplanting dates as whole plot and five cultivars as subplot. ‘Red Snapper’ and ‘Laguna Red’ were selected as potential heat sensitive cultivars. ‘Bella Rosa’, ‘Volante’, and ‘Florida 91’ were selected as heat tolerant cultivars, based on previous trial information. Planting occurred on April 23, May 9, and May 23 to represent early, mid, and late plantings dates, respectively. Physiological measurements were collected every two weeks and included electrolyte leakage, net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, leaf temperature, and chlorophyll fluorescence. Plants were harvested routinely from June to the end of August. Cultivars were not found to be significantly different in the trial for yield or physiological responses. The early planting date was the most productive, compared to mid and late. Yield dropped dramatically for all planting dates in August. There was a strong positive correlation between electrolyte leakage and temperature and a moderate negative correlation between photosynthetic rate and average daily temperature. These correlations indicate that physiological parameters may be able to provide insight into late season thermotolerance. Future research will involve cultivar screenings in controlled environments to promote a wider range of responses to temperature.

Speakers

Courtney DeKalb-Myers

Co-authors

Justin Quetone Moss

Oklahoma State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:15am - 9:30am CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

1:44pm CDT

VCM 3 - Oral Session

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:44pm - 1:45pm CDT

Strand 11B

Presiding/Moderator

Laura Schulz

Graduate Research Assistant, Washington State University

I am a PhD student at Washington State University working with Carol Miles on introducing sweetpotato as a new crop in western Washington.

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:44pm - 1:45pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

1:45pm CDT

VCM 3 - Role of On-station and On-farm Trials to Test and Introduce New Crops

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm CDT

Strand 11B

Many direct-market farmers in western Washington are interested in sweetpotatoes (Ipomoea batatas) for crop rotations, to increase farm sales, offer a culturally relevant crop to consumers, and adapt to climate change. We conducted research station and on-farm trials in 2023, 2024, and 2025 with the goal of testing cultivars, developing production guidelines, and introducing sweetpotato as a new crop for the region. The trials were a partnership between WSU researchers, who led the research station trials, and WSU Extension, who led the on-farm trials. Research station trials provided yield and wireworm resistance data for nine cultivars and breeding lines, and on-farm trials introduced sweetpotato to farmers in the region. On-farm trial participants were provided with slips or roots of three sweetpotato cultivars and a production guide. In 2023, 20 farmers across three counties signed up to participate, 15 farmers planted trials (75% of signups), 11 farmers returned surveys with some data (73% of planted trials), and 5 farmers provided complete data (33% of planted trials). Due to varying management practices and incomplete responses, 2023 on-farm trial data were largely unusable for evaluating yield or wireworm resistance. In 2024, 33 farmers across nine counties signed up to participate, 29 farmers planted trials (88% of signups), 25 farmers returned surveys and/or had data collected by a WSU Extension Field Assistant (89% of planted trials), and 20 farmers provided complete data (71% of planted trials). Hiring a part-time field assistant in 2024 who visited farms and collected data increased farmer response rate and data completeness. Yet, on-farm trial yield and wireworm resistance data still were not fully usable due to inconsistencies in how data were collected, and lack of adherence to production guidelines. In 2025, we redesigned on-farm trial data surveys to focus on farmers’ perceptions regarding suitability of sweetpotato production and marketability for their farm. Participating farmers are uniquely well-suited to answer these qualitative questions, which will assess if sweetpotato has been successfully introduced in the region. In all years of the project, online growing classes, in-person field days, and farm walks proved useful for introducing sweetpotato to new farmers in the region. Visits to on-farm trial locations proved an important avenue of offering support to farmers experimenting with sweetpotato. Completed surveys and conversations with on-farm trial participants provided valuable feedback that was incorporated into our sweetpotato production guide, and expanded and improved our on-line resources including several short production videos.

Speakers

Laura Schulz

Graduate Research Assistant, Washington State University

I am a PhD student at Washington State University working with Carol Miles on introducing sweetpotato as a new crop in western Washington.

Co-authors

Carol Miles

Washington State University

Jordan White

Washington State University

Laurel Moulton

Washington State University

Samantha Grieger

Washington State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:45pm - 2:00pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

2:00pm CDT

VCM 3 - Impact of Native Wildflowers on the Yield of Three Sisters Crops On Green Roofs

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm CDT

Strand 11B

Urban areas are expanding throughout the world, increasing infrastructure and impermeable surfaces and concurrently decreasing quantity and quality of natural landscapes. With a decrease in green spaces, human communities experience an increase in food scarcity. Ecological communities experience a decrease in biodiversity and suitable habitat. Here, we aim to utilize native wildflowers, vegetable crops and urban infrastructure to provide healthy food as well as biodiversity options to urban areas. In this study we examine (a) how the presence of native perennial Colorado wildflowers may influence the yield of crop plants, specifically the three sister’s guild of maize, beans and squash, plus sunchokes and sunflowers and (b) to evaluate how the crop yields may differ between sites in full sun and partial shade landscapes. To do so, we utilize green roofs and ground plots at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado to evaluate the yield differences. We hypothesize that the crops with wildflowers nearby will produce a higher crop yield than the crops grown without wildflowers. Additionally, we expect that shade treatments will reduce yield compared to the full sun treatments. Thus far with preliminary data analysis, we find crops grown on the green roof with native wildflowers nearby had a higher average leaf number (as a proxy for the size of the plant). The yield of the squash crop was the highest on the green roof with the native wildflowers while the yield of the pole bean crop was highest at grade with native wildflowers nearby. This shows the proximity to wildflowers may have a significant effect and there may be an effect of shade for the yield of pole beans. With this research, we hope to provide notable insight to continue working towards the most efficient crop growth on green roofs in urban environments.

Speakers

Isabella Rodelius

Colorado State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:00pm - 2:15pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

2:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Evaluating Impact of Rooftop Agrivoltaics (RAV) on Chile Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Production and Growth

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Strand 11B

Climate change progression has created many challenges for our current agriculture system such as the degradation of arable land and more intense weather patterns. Rates of food insecurity and population growth are simultaneously increasing in urban areas, so reimagining food production and land management is vital for the future of agriculture. Rooftop agrivoltaics (RAV), growing crops under solar panels on a green roof, may be an effective way to produce clean energy and high yields of specialty crops in underutilized spaces. Chile peppers hold economic and cultural significance to the southwest region of the US. Previous studies show chile peppers perform better under 35% shade than in full sun due to heat stress reduction. This study focused on three cultivars of chile peppers: ‘Hatch’, ‘Mosco’, and an unnamed CSU experimental. Individuals of each cultivar were planted in four on the green roof (under opaque photovoltaics (PV), under bifacial PV, under 40% shade cloth, and full sun) and in one at-grade plot. The 40% shade cloth was used to simulate semi-transparent solar panels. Plants were evaluated by yield (fruit production), water efficiency (stomatal conductance), and plant growth index (average of two widths and height). Analysis shows yield was significantly higher in the full sun and shade cloth plots than all other plots, possibly due to the bifacial and opaque plots providing too much shade for optimized fruit production. Stomatal conductance was reduced in the shade cloth, bifacial, and opaque plots in the first part of the growing season and varied by cultivar and treatment at other times. Plant growth index was highest for plants grown in the shade cloth plot at most time points, but significance varied by cultivar across treatments. Growing chile peppers in RAV systems utilizing semi-transparent solar panels can reduce plant water use while producing more fruit than traditional at-grade growing. Sensory evaluation using a just-about-right (JAR) test and was conducted to assess consumer acceptance of sensory attributes of roasted ‘Hatch’ and ‘Mosco’ chile peppers grown in full sun on a green roof and at grade. A standard 9-point hedonic scale was used to assess overall liking. There was no significant difference in JAR ratings for each of the 7 attributes assessed and no significant difference in overall liking. Growing ‘Hatch’ and ‘Mosco’ chile peppers on green roofs does not significantly impact consumer acceptance. This provides urban farmers with more confidence to grow chile peppers on green roofs.

Speakers

Maria Chavez

New Mexico State University

Co-authors

Jennifer Bousselot

Colorado State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

2:30pm CDT

VCM 3 - Effect of intercropping asparagus with King Stropharia mushroom in woodchip mulch at three depths

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

Strand 11B

Intercropping mushrooms with field-grown vegetables may provide farmers additional revenue without sacrificing bed space or investing in indoor production facilities. The King Stropharia mushroom (Stropharia rugosoannulata), also called wine cap, can colonize organic material, like woodchips or straw mulch, making it a good candidate for intercropping with vegetables that can be grown on organic mulches. However, no research has evaluated the impact of this strategy on the vegetable yield. This project seeks to evaluate the compatibility of intercropping wine-cap mushrooms with asparagus in woodchip mulch. A randomized complete block experimental design (RCBD) experiment was initiated in 2021, and data was collected during the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons. The trial evaluated two factors: intercropping – inoculated vs. non-inoculated and mulch depth – 0 in (control), 4 in, 8 in, and 12 in. Wine-cap mushrooms were successfully established in the inoculated plots. The woodchip mulch depth had no effect on the timing or overall yield and marketability of the mushrooms, although 4 in mulch produced a smaller proportion of small-medium, Grade 1 mushrooms resulting in higher average weight fruiting bodies compared to deeper mulch treatments. During the first spring harvest, wine-cap mushrooms were also observed on the edges of non-inoculated plots; therefore, we were unable to evaluate the effects of mushroom on asparagus growth. Woodchip mulch did not affect the date of first harvest or harvest duration in either year, except at 12 in depth, which delayed harvest and shortened the production season. Relative to bare ground, woodchip mulch only affected asparagus yield (by number or weight) at 12 in depth, which decreased the number and weight of harvested asparagus. In 2023, asparagus spears grown with 8 in non-inoculated woodchips weighed 80 % more, on average, than spears grown in 4 in and 12 in inoculated plots. While the experiment provides a proof of concept for intercropping wine-cap mushrooms with asparagus, further research is needed to determine whether intercropped mushrooms directly impact asparagus production.

Speakers

Olalekan Sipasi

Post Doc, Dept. of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University

Sipasi Olalekan Ayodele is a Ph.D. Candidate at the Department of Horticulture and Natural Recourses at Kansas State University, ONE Champion 2017, Fellow Thinking School Africa, 2016 Winner of the African Youth Award in Agriculture, a seasoned NYSC SDGs Facilitator, The Future Award... Read More →

Co-authors

Jeremy Cowan

Kansas State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

2:45pm CDT

VCM 3 - Evaluating New Broccoli Cultivars: Effect of Planting Time on Growth and Yield in North Dakota

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:45pm - 3:00pm CDT

Strand 11B

Small-scale growers face challenges in optimizing the quantity and quality of new broccoli cultivars due to shifting weather patterns and the prevalence of heat-sensitive cultivars. This study aims to identify high-performing cultivars and optimal planting dates for late spring to enhance the competitiveness of cool-season specialty crop growers in North Dakota. The research took place at the NDSU Horticulture Research Farm, near Absaraka, ND, to examine how planting time impacts cultivar performance through field experiments on four planting dates: May 1st, May 15th, June 1st, and June 15th. Early planting of broccoli, particularly in May, resulted in higher yields and better quality across all cultivars. Some cultivars outperformed others. 'Jacaranda' yielded significantly more than any other cultivar, which is a noteworthy. Conversely, 'Gypsy' and 'Monty' had yields similar to the standard cultivar 'Green Magic', while 'Purple Peacock' yielded less across all planting dates, indicating poor adaptation. Early planting benefited all broccoli cultivars, with later dates bringing higher temperatures that negatively impacted head formation and curd size across all cultivars. These elevated temperatures alter key physiological parameters, such as increased transpiration and vapor pressure deficit, while potentially reducing photosynthetic efficiency and stomatal conductance. The physiological changes induced by higher temperatures ultimately lead to accelerated maturation, smaller heads, and reduced overall yields. Notably, early planted broccoli potentially achieved up to 35% higher yields than late-planted crops. The findings provide valuable insights into the relationships between planting dates, temperature effects, and cultivar-specific responses, emphasizing the importance of these factors in maximizing yield and quality for cool-season specialty crop growers in the region.

Speakers

Ajay Dhukuchhu

Graduate Research Assistant, NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

I have developed a great interest in sustainable management practices improving the resiliency of agriculture and ecosystem services to sustain the food production system and ecosystem worldwide, which have long term support in sustainable development. And, I believe maintaining economic... Read More →

Co-authors

Harlene HattermanValenti

NDSU

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:45pm - 3:00pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

3:00pm CDT

VCM 3 - Rhizome Growth Dynamics of High Tunnel Ginger in Virginia

Wednesday July 30, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Strand 11B

As a tropical crop, ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizomes will not fully mature inside high tunnels in Virginia. The objective of this study was to monitor the growth and development of ginger rhizomes throughout the season, as reflected in the fresh and dry weights. The ultimate goal was to determine the harvest time of rhizomes for profitable fresh and dry ginger. Ginger cultivars Bird, Blue Ring, Buffalo Gung, Chinese, Indian, Peruvian Yellow, Red, and Yellow were pre-sprouted in a greenhouse in mid-March of 2024. Sprouted ginger rhizomes were transplanted into raised beds in a 26’ x 150’ high tunnel on May 16, 2024, on Randolph Farm of Virginia State University. The in-row spacing was 1 ft. Monthly destructive samples of 3 plants/cultivar (one in each of the 3 replications) were conducted for fresh and dry weights. Cultivars differed in the rhizome fresh and dry weight over time. Fresh rhizome weight of cultivar Bird, Chinese, Indian, Peruvian Yellow and Yellow reached 0.5 lb/plant 3 months after transplanting (MAT). “Red” had significantly higher percentages of dry weight (> 8%) than other cultivars (< 6%) until 5 MAT, when other cultivars began to catch up. Pooling data from all cultivars, we found that ginger rhizomes will reach 0.5 lb/plant, which is a profitable yield, around 3 MAT. The percentage of dry weight remained low (5.3-5.7%) until 4 MAT, but the number spiked quickly to 8.3 % at 5 MAT and 13.4 at 6 MAT. Our results suggest that young ginger harvest can happen as early as 3 MAT. However, to harvest rhizome for dry ginger, 5 MATs are needed and harvest should occur at the end of season for maximal yield. “Red” is a unique cultivar. It has the lowest yield (1.3 lb/plant), but its percentage of dry weight remained high (8.2-8.8%) for 5 months, compared to all other cultivars (4.4-6.4%).

Speakers

Sanjun Gu

Virginia State University

Co-authors

Peter Coffey

Virginia State University

Wednesday July 30, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

10:14am CDT

VCM 4 - Oral Session

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:14am - 10:15am CDT

Strand 11B

Presiding/Moderator

Marisa Thompson

New Mexico State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:14am - 10:15am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

10:15am CDT

VCM 4 - The Effect of Power System on Potato Production for Small Farms

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:15am - 10:30am CDT

Strand 11B

Despite not well studied within the sustainable agriculture research community, there is evidence that animal traction could be a regenerative power option for small farms. Animals cause minimal compaction, appreciate, and can regenerate. Fuel can be grown on farm, some animals are multi-purpose, and there is social benefit for those that interact with them. However, opportunities for aspiring teamsters to gain knowledge are limited. Extension materials and programming from public Universities are also not widely available. A side-by-side tractor animal traction comparison was established at the Meigs Horticulture Facility in Lafayette IN (Meigs). There were two treatments potato production with animal traction (AT) and potato production with small tractor traction (TT). During the study all field activities related to potato production were performed with animal power or tractor power in the two treatments, respectively. Data collection included: cost of equipment, time for each field, potato yield, and comprehensive soil health assessment including penetration resistance. Potato yield did not differ between AT and TT (P = 0.79213). Yields were 15,266.3 ± 7,523.6 and 12,981.0 ± 9,175.0 lb. 1-acre for AT and TT, respectively. Overall cost of capital equipment used in thus study were 17,050 and 42,147.30 for AT and TT, respectively. Total time in the field for major field events was 4 hours for AT compared to TT. Preliminary results reveal that similar yields to tractor power can be achieved when using animal power. Time in the field may be greater in animal traction, but capital equipment costs can be lower.

Speakers

Moriah Bilenky

Purdue University

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:15am - 10:30am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source North Central SARE

10:30am CDT

VCM 4 - Field Evaluation of Edamame Varieties During Two Planting Seasons in a Subtropical Region

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am CDT

Strand 11B

Edamame, a vegetable soybean harvested at the immature stage with green pods, has gained popularity in the United States due to its high nutritional value and appealing taste, resulting in growing consumer demand. However, over 70% of the edamame consumed in the U.S. is currently imported from East Asia. To support domestic production and reduce reliance on imports, identifying suitable varieties and production windows is essential—especially in regions like Florida, where subtropical conditions allow for multi-season cropping. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of sixteen commercial edamame varieties (maturity groups 0–V) across South Florida’s two primary bean production seasons: spring (early February to mid-May) and fall (early October to mid-December). The objectives were to (a) identify varieties best suited to South Florida’s subtropical climate, and (b) determine the optimal growing season for each variety. Growth parameters (emergence rate, plant height, canopy diameter, leaf area, and nodes per plant) and agronomic traits (fresh pod yield and 10-pod weight) were measured to assess adaptation and productivity. In the spring, ‘UA-Kirksey’ achieved the highest yield at 5.0 t/ha, while ‘Midori Giant’ had the lowest at 0.8 t/ha. In the fall, ‘Chiba Green’ produced the highest yield at 3.2 t/ha, and ‘Karikachi #3’ the lowest at 0.5 t/ha. Six varieties, i.e., ‘KAS 355-11’, ‘Kahala’, ‘Karikachi #3’, ‘Shirofumi’, ‘UA-Kirksey’, and ‘Young Soybean’ yielded significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) in spring compared to fall, while no significant seasonal differences were observed for the other varieties. These findings demonstrate the importance of selecting season-appropriate varieties to maximize yield potential and production efficiency in subtropical regions like South Florida, offering a promising strategy to support local edamame cultivation.

Speakers

Xiaoying Li

University of Florida, IFAS

Co-authors

Vander Rocha Lacerda

University of Florida Tropical Research and Education Center

You's Kertye Myrtil

University of Florida

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

10:45am CDT

VCM 4 - Standard Edamame Row Spacing Results in Greatest Yield but Increases Weed Growth

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am CDT

Strand 11B

Edamame [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] exhibits a promising opportunity for Indiana farmers. Its high nutritional value and nitrogen-fixing capabilities reduce input costs while benefiting crop rotation systems. The crop’s short duration facilitates sustainable practices like cover cropping. Research on edamame cultivation for Midwest local markets remains limited despite increasing sales and consumption. Therefore, this study aimed to explore potential cultivars suited for the fresh and direct consumer market and identify cultural and cultivation practices that minimize weed-crop competition here in Indiana. A field experiment was established at Meigs Horticulture Research Farm, Lafayette, Indiana, which evaluated three different row spacings (7 inch, 15 inch, and 30 inch) on growth and yield of six edamame cultivars (Chiba Green, Sayamusume, BeSweet 292, Midori Giant, Tohya, and Karikachi). This study was designed as an RCBD split-plot design with 4 replications, with different row spacings as main plots, and variety as the split-plot. Leaf area index (LAI), dry weight of weed, total pod count, pod count, and fresh weight of marketable and non-marketable pods were measured. All data were analyzed with R Studio. We hypothesized a) standard row spacing (30 inch) would improve edamame seed yield and productivity compared to narrow row spacings (7 and 15 inch); b) narrow row spacing would reduce the weed growth and density of common weed species compared to standard row spacing; c) standard row spacing may increase yield of edamame but would increase weed-crop competition. Our results from one year are in agreement with our hypotheses. Standard row spacing resulted in the greatest pod yield, but highest weed dry weight. Specifically, 30 inch row spacing produced significantly greater pod count (27) per plant compared to 7, and 15 inch row spacing (9 and 16 pods per plant, respectively). Also, 30 inch row spacing resulted in the greatest marketable pod count (23) per plant compared to 7 and 15 inch row spacing (6 and 12 pods per plant, respectively). 30 inch row spacing led to significantly greater weed dry weight (4.27 g) compared to 7 and 15 inch row spacing (1.01g and 2.81g, respectively). Lowest weed dry weight (1.01 g) at 7-inch row spacing suggests that narrow row spacing might help suppress weed growth. The greatest LAI was measured at 7-inch row spacing (5.26) compared to others (3.77 and 3 for 15 and 30 inch row spacing). BeSweet 292 performed better in terms of yield parameters compared to other varieties.

Speakers

MD MOYEED HASAN TALUKDER

Purdue University

Co-authors

Moriah Bilenky

Purdue University

Thursday July 31, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Bilenky Sustainable Horticulture Lab

11:00am CDT

VCM 4 - Utilizing Biodegradable Mulch Derived from Low-Grade Cotton for Sustainable Jalapeño Pepper Production in Texas

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:00am - 11:15am CDT

Strand 11B

Plastic mulches are widely used in U.S. vegetable production to cut costs and improve efficiency. However, polyethylene, the principal ingredient of plastic mulches, is a poorly degradable material causing significant pollution. Biodegradable mulches, especially those made from local waste materials such as low-grade cotton, offer a sustainable alternative by reducing pollution, enhancing soil health, and supporting circular economy principles. This study aims to evaluate two different types of low-grade cotton mulches in comparison to commercially available plastic and biodegradable plastic mulches in Jalapeño pepper production. Five mulch treatments, including a no-mulch control, were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The assessment focuses on mulch decomposition, plant biomass, crop yield, and weed suppression.

Speakers

Ethan Carter

Texas Tech University

Co-authors

Rupinder Saini

Texas Tech University

Seshadri Ramkumar

Texas Tech University

Sukhbir Singh

Texas Tech University

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:00am - 11:15am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

11:15am CDT

VCM 4 - Effects of Soil Solarization on Weed Management and Lettuce Yield in Kentucky and Tennessee High Tunnels

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:15am - 11:30am CDT

Strand 11B

High tunnel production is increasingly important on small, diversified farms with more than 1,700 and 700 high tunnels (HTs) in Kentucky and Tennessee, respectively. Weed management in HTs is more challenging than open field production and there are limited options. Soil solarization is one alternative; it heats moist soil to high temperatures by trapping solar radiation under transparent plastic tarps. Heating soil to at least 40°C is beneficial for managing soil-related issues, such as reducing the weed seedbank. Soil solarization was conducted in April, July, and September 2024 in Kentucky and Tennessee in open and closed HTs to assess whether growers could solarize individual beds. The objectives were to evaluate the effect of solarization on soil temperatures, weed biomass and emergence, and lettuce yield. Treatments included 2-week (Sol-2wk) and 4-week (Sol-4wk) solarization and a nonsolarized control (NS). Data loggers recorded soil temperatures hourly. Soil in closed HTs accumulated more hours >40°C versus open HTs. The most hours over 40°C occurred in July, followed by September then April, with more hours in Tennessee than Kentucky. In Kentucky, after April solarization, there was less weed biomass in Sol-4wk compared to NS in the closed HT and less weed emergence in Sol-2wk and Sol-4wk compared to NS. There were no differences in lettuce yield. After July solarization, there was less weed biomass in Sol-2wk and Sol-4wk in the closed HT compared to NS, but no differences among treatments for weed emergence. Lettuce yield was higher in Sol-2wk and Sol-4wk compared to NS regardless of HT. There were no differences in weed biomass or weed emergence in September. Lettuce yield in Sol-4wk was higher than NS regardless of HT. In Tennessee after April solarization, there was less weed emergence in Sol-4wk in the closed HT compared to Sol-2wk and NS. Lettuce yield was higher in Sol-2wk and Sol-4wk compared to NS in the closed HT. In July, there was less weed biomass in Sol-2wk and Sol-4wk in the open HT compared to NS. Lettuce yield in Sol-4wk was higher compared to NS regardless of HT. In July and September, there was less weed emergence in Sol-2wk and Sol-4wk compared to NS regardless of HT. There were no differences in lettuce yield in September. Overall, soil solarization in July in both locations reduced weeds and increased lettuce yields. Results were mixed in April and September. The experiment will be repeated in 2025.

Speakers

Paula Luize Lessmann

University of Kentucky

Co-authors

Annette Wszelaki

University of Tennessee

Brooke Keadle Emery

University of Tennessee

Rachel Rudolph

University of Kentucky

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:15am - 11:30am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education

11:30am CDT

VCM 4 - Evaluating the USDA Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) diversity panel and its potential as a cover crop in organic pro

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am CDT

Strand 11B

Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) is a short-lived legume native to the deserts and semi-arid regions of Northwestern Mexico and the Southwestern United States. It is resilient and adaptable to high temperatures and drought stress, ideally suited as a low-input organic cover crop in southern Texas. Tepary beans are prized for their nitrogen-fixing potential and high nutritional value. We explored the effectiveness of tepary beans and common summer legume cover crops, such as cowpea and Sunn hemp, on the productivity of subsequent vegetable crops like spinach. Additionally, we evaluated 207 USDA-GRIN undomesticated tepary bean accessions under organic production systems to assess their seed nutritional profiles. Preliminary findings indicated that spinach grown following tepary beans as a cover crop significantly enhanced biomass and exhibited nitrogen use efficiencies comparable to Sunn hemp and cowpeas. The amino acid profiles of the seeds and the total protein content across tepary bean accessions displayed significant variability. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of seed nutritional and physiological traits using SNPs obtained through GBS. The candidate genes and loci associated with these traits could advance breeding efforts to enhance nutritional value. The study's outcomes would help affirm the potential of tepary beans as a promising summer cover crop, identifying high-value accessions with superior yield and nutritional qualities to facilitate the development of improved cultivars through introgression breeding.

Speakers

Sri Kiran Reddy Alla

Texas A

Co-authors

Benedict Analin

Texas A

Dalton Thompson

Texas A

Vijay Joshi

Texas A

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA); Specialty Crop Block Grant GSC2023039; Southern Region SARE 2024 Granduate Student Grant

11:45am CDT

VCM 4 - Mitigating Beet Curly Top Virus in Tomatoes Without Compromising Yield or Quality: Effects of Shade Cover and Irrigation

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Strand 11B

In this 2023 undercover tomato study conducted at the New Mexico State University Agricultural Science Center in Los Lunas, New Mexico, treatments included two tomato cultivars, ‘Big Beef Plus’ (indeterminate, hybrid) and ‘San Marzano II’ (indeterminate, heirloom), grown under three types of shade cloth: 1) white 15% shade, 2) white 50% shade, and 3) black 60% shade. Unshaded plants of both cultivars served as controls. Two irrigation methods were also evaluated: drip irrigation and furrow flood irrigation, each applied to half of the plots. Dependent variables included mortality rates attributed to confirmed beet curly top virus (BCTV) infection, as well as plant size, yield, and fruit quality indicators such as the percentage of fruit exhibiting blossom end rot. Preliminary data indicate expected cultivar differences in yield and susceptibility to blossom end rot. Shade treatment and irrigation method appeared to influence blossom end rot incidence, although the effects varied between cultivars. The protective effect of shade cover was pronounced. By July, 79% of the surviving, uncovered control plants tested positive for BCTV; assuming that untested deceased plants were also infected, this rate rises to 89%. In contrast, among the shaded treatments (white 15% shade, white 50% shade, and black 60% shade), 25%, 25%, and 9% of the surviving plants tested positive for BCTV, respectively, with only one untested deceased plant. These findings suggest that the shade cover, wrapped around the tomato cages, effectively limited exposure to the only known vector of BCTV. The plot thickens, however, as some shaded plants that tested positive for BCTV in July still produced over 21.9 kg of fruit per plant before the first frost in late October. These preliminary findings underscore the potential of shade structures as a viable cultural practice for mitigating BCTV impact and warrant more comprehensive investigation.

Speakers

Marisa Thompson

New Mexico State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 11:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source “This work is supported by the Crop Protection and Pest Management Program (grant no. 2021-70006-35765) from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.”

12:00pm CDT

VCM 4 - Increasing the number of sweet potato storage roots to increase the yield of sweet potato crops in Hawaii

Thursday July 31, 2025 12:00pm - 12:15pm CDT

Strand 11B

Sweet potato is grown year-round and is planted on all islands of Hawaii. During the 20th century, sweet potato was a profitable export crop for Hawaii, but production and sales have been declining for decades. Environmental conditions, such as continued droughts or precipitations and poor soil nutrients, contribute to low sweet potato yields. Sweet potato yields can be determined by the number of storage roots (tubers) per plant, and the size of each storage root at harvest. To maximize the marketable yields of sweet potato, it is necessary to achieve the greatest possible number of storage roots. In a field trial at the Kula Agricultural Park in the island of Maui, Okinawan sweet potatoes were grown under different irrigation regimes, both with and without fertilizer application. Control plots were irrigated daily regardless of soil moisture, and irrigation treatments were designed to initiate irrigation events based on soil moisture thresholds as follow: high moisture (irrigated to a soil water tension threshold of -60 kPa), medium moisture (irrigated to a soil water tension threshold of -80kPa), low moisture (irrigated to a soil water tension of -100 kPa). Fertilizer (16-16-16 and potassium sulfate) was applied to half of each plot in a split plot design. Marketable yield was evaluated in the different treatments. The fertilizer treatments were only significantly different in the irrigated control and the lowest moisture treatment. Marketable yield was highest in the irrigated control that received no fertilizer, and lowest in the low moisture treatment that received fertilizer. As irrigation was reduced, yield was also reduced, and the number of off-grade small tubers increased. In the irrigated control, adding fertilizer reduced the number and weight of marketable tubers, especially in the AA grade, and increased the number and weight of large, off-grade tubers. In the lowest moisture treatment, high numbers of “pencil roots” were observed due to inadequate moisture during tuber development, and few marketable tubers in both the fertilized and unfertilized treatments.

Speakers

Rosemary Gutierrez-Coarite

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Co-authors

Amjad Ahmad

University of Hawaii at Manoa

Thursday July 31, 2025 12:00pm - 12:15pm CDT
Strand 11B

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 4

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

12:30pm CDT

Fruit, Vegetable, and Edible Crops Collaboration Session

Thursday July 31, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT

Collaboration Center, Empire AB

A forum for discussion of potential collaborations with regards to fruit, vegetable, and edible crops – i.e. citrus, breeding, production systems, postharvest, pomology, crop management, viticulture, etc.

Thursday July 31, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Collaboration Center, Empire AB

Hort Theater & Collaboration Center, Collaboration Center

Subject Citrus Crops, Postharvest, Pomology, Produce Quality Safety and Health Properties, Viticulture and Small Fruits, Horticulture Industry, Organic, vegetable Breeding, Vegetable Crops Management, Temperate Tree Nut Crops, Fruit Breeding, Commercial Horticulture, Growth

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Assessing Saltwater Tolerance of Mustard Greens (Brassica juncea) Genotypes using Hydroponics

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

With freshwater supplies dwindling and sea levels rising, irrigation water for crops can become salinized. Therefore, salt-tolerant genotypes of food crops are needed. Here, we tested genotypes of Brassica juncea (brown mustard), a widely grown and consumed leafy green that has mineral and nutrient rich leaves and is also an important oil-seed crop, for their salt tolerance. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of three mustard genotypes (var. ‘Florida Broadleaf’, ‘Carolina Broadleaf’, and ‘Southern Giant Curl’) grown in nutrient film-technique (NFT) hydroponic systems under varying salinity treatments. Five synthetic seawater dilutions (15, 22.5, 30, 37.5, and 45% Instant Ocean at approximately 10, 13.5, 17, 21, 24.5 dS/m conductivity, respectively) with added fertilizer (Masterblend 20-20-20 at approx. 1.5 dS/m) were compared to a control (fertilizer only at approx. 1.5 dS/m) to identify the optimal salinity range for vegetative production over 6 weeks after seeding. Two different production systems were used to evaluate the genotypes: production-scale NFT systems in a greenhouse in Citra, FL, and lab-scale tabletop NFT systems in an environmentally controlled room. In the greenhouse setting, plants were destructively harvested at 7 day intervals to gather growth over time, while in the lab setting, plants were harvested once at the end of the experiment to calculate the biomass and growth along with water and nutrient use efficiencies per genotype. Preliminary findings suggest that yields and water use efficiencies were improved at a 15% seawater dilution (approx. 10 dS/m) and showed a drop in biomass at higher seawater dilutions. The genotype ‘Florida Broadleaf’ demonstrated higher fresh biomass than either of the other genotypes with ‘Southern Giant Curl’ showing the most sensitivity to salt treatments in both the greenhouse and desktop systems. Data collected in these experiments will be used to construct a dynamic crop growth model for mustards that incorporates salinity to predict crop biomass. Crop models such as this could help inform plant breeders studying salt-tolerance and provide insights into yields and crop growth rates to agricultural producers farming in salt-afflicted soils or for use in saltwater hydroponics.

Speakers

Jean Pompeo

University of Florida

Co-authors

Daniel Hofstetter

University of Florida

Karthikeyan Raghupathy

Clemson University

Melanie Correll

University of Florida

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA-AFRI-SAS-2023-69012-39038; USDA-HATCH-ABE-006356; USDA-NIFA-McIntire-Stennis Capacity Grant

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Divergent Leaf Physiology in Kale Cultivars Under Organic and Conventional Farming Systems

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala), a member of the cruciferous (Brassicaceae) family, has gained significant popularity as a nutritionally dense leafy vegetable in recent years, attributed to its rich nutraceutical properties, including phytochemicals, antioxidants, and antiproliferative compounds. These properties play a critical role in addressing global nutritional deficiencies through cost-effective dietary sources, leading to kale’s designation as a superfood by the research community. Its popularity has steadily increased, particularly in the United States. To meet the growing demand for kale, optimizing production systems is essential. In this study, we evaluated leaf physiology, yield parameters, and nutrient content across kale cultivars grown under both organic and conventional farming systems. We observed substantial variation in leaf photosynthesis and other physiological traits, reflecting the different responses of cultivars to cultivation methods. Additionally, significant differences in mineral content and total soluble proteins were noted, with organic farming practices notably enhancing soluble proteins, leaf nitrogen content, nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N), and several key minerals compared to conventional practices. These findings suggest that organic farming practices may enhance the nutraceutical quality of kale, potentially offering superior nutritional benefits compared to conventional methods systems.

Speakers

Benedict Analin

Texas A

Co-authors

Dalton Thompson

Texas A

Vijay Joshi

Texas A

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA-NIFA; Hatch project Number 9647-1

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Effect of biochar and vermicompost to mitigate salinity stress in high-tunnel grown tomato

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Saline water irrigation, higher summer temperatures, limited soil leaching and agricultural intensification with heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers are the main causes for high salt accumulations in high-tunnel soils. These salinity issues have led to soil degradation as well as decline in crop production. In order to improve soil health and bolster the crop yield, use of organic amendments like compost, crop residues and animal manure has been widely practiced. Studies have shown that biochar and vermicompost can improve soil homeostasis by adsorbing excess sodium and chloride ions and holding excess water in root zone. Furthermore, researchers have found that these soil amendments complement each other when used in combination, leading to high crop yield and enriched plant nutrient contents. However, research gaps exists in using emerging soil amendments like biochar, and vermicompost. Hence, the objective of our current study was to assess the growth and yield attributes of tomato under salinity stress and evaluating the role of these soil amendments alone and in combination to mitigate salt stress. Two potted experimental trials were conducted in late spring and early fall in high tunnel at Oklahoma State University. The treatments were arranged in a complete randomized design. Treatments included three levels of salinity (1.5, 4, 8 mS/cm) and different treatment combinations (0, 5, 10% v/v) of biochar and vermicompost in soilless media. Data collection was done on different yield parameters, phytochemicals, stress indicators along with soil media tests. Results show that soil amendments treatments helped reduce salinity stress to some extent and aid in overall crop performance. To sum up, our salinity stress study provides insights on minimizing the salt toxicity by appropriate use of emerging soil additives, providing practices for producers to improve crop production in high-tunnels.

Speakers

Pradeep Paudel

Oklahoma State University

An MS student at Oklahoma State University, interested in the use of organic amendments for crop production and soil health improvement.

Co-authors

Bee Chim

Oklahoma State University

Niels Maness

Oklahoma State University

Shivani Kathi

Oklahoma State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Effect of Selenium Fertilization on Carotenoid and Nutritional Accumulation in Watercress with Deep Water Hydroponics

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Nutrient biofortification in leafy vegetables can enhance dietary health benefits, improve crop nutritional quality, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Deep water culture hydroponic production along with micronutrient exploration can lead to solutions to optimize nutrient uptake. Selenium (Se), an essential micronutrient, has been shown to influence plant metabolism, particularly the synthesis of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids and glucosinolates. However, its role in modulating these phytochemicals in hydroponically grown Nasturtium officinale (watercress) remains underexplored in controlled environment agriculture systems. This study investigates the effects of selenium fertilization at varying concentrations (0, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg Se·L⁻¹) on carotenoid and glucosinolate accumulation in water cress varieties cultivated in deep water hydroponics. The controlled environment environment system provides an ideal environment for plant growth, allowing precise manipulation of nutrient levels, pH, temperature, and light intensity. The selenium treatments are based on a randomized complete block design to ensure statistical accuracy. Various growth parameters, biomass accumulation, and biochemical analyses of carotenoid and glucosinolate levels were measured to determine the interactions between selenium uptake and metabolite biosynthesis. Carotenoid content was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Glucosinolate concentrations were determined through chromatographic and spectrophotometric methods to measure bioactive compound content. Research suggests that selenium supplementation may modulate plant physiological responses and enhance carotenoid and glucosinolate synthesis. It is essential to study ways to optimize hydroponic deep water culture production systems to improve the nutritional and functional quality of leafy greens like watercress. These findings can provide information to guide controlled environment and sustainable agricultural practices. Results from this research may also advance nutrient-fortification strategies, enhance functional food development, and address micronutrient deficiencies, thereby supporting both horticultural innovation and public health. Keywords: Selenium fertilization, Beta-carotene, Deep Water Hydroponic, Watercress, Agricultural sustainability, Controlled Environment Agriculture

Speakers

Cora Teets

Research Associate, Kentucky State University

Hi! I am Cora Teets, I am a resercher in the Center Nutritrition and Cancer for Resrach at Kentcuky State Universoty. I also act as an adjunct professor for Basic Nutrition at the University. I am passionate about mentoring students and establishing collaborations to make the most... Read More →

Co-authors

Adekunle Adeyeye

Kentucky State University, Frankfort, KY

THEONESTE NZARAMYIMANA

Kentucky State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA ARS: 210238-20047-206002-3100
Funding Option OREl or ORG funded all or part of the research associated with this abstract

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Effects of Biostimulant Application on Plant Growth, Fruit Yield, and Quality of Six Sweet Peppers Cultivars

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Sweet peppers are a warm-season vegetable prized for their vibrant colors, rich flavor, and high nutritional value. Biostimulants are a new class of agricultural products consisting of microorganisms or bioactive substances, used as a sustainable approach to enhance plant growth and productivity. This experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of biostimulant applications on plant growth, yield, and quality of sweet pepper cultivars grown in a container production system. Three biostimulants were tested including a seaweed extract (Kelpak Maxx, 1% solution), a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (Continuum V2, at a rate of 2 ml per gallon), and stabilized monosilicic acid (Dune, at a rate of 2 ml per gallon). Six sweet pepper cultivars were selected for the study: Cornito Giallo, Escamillo, Green Machine, Carmen, SVPB8500, and Cornito Rosso, all purchased from Johnny’s Selected Seeds. Biostimulant treatments were applied biweekly through manual fertigation with 120 ml of solution. Plants in the control group were fertigated with 120 ml of water. Plant vegetative growth including plant height, widths, and leaf SPAD were measured three times during the growing season. Once fruit ripening began, pepper fruits were harvested every two weeks from July to September. At each harvest, marketable and unmarketable yield and fruit number were recorded. Fruit quality variables including fruit length, diameters, and color were also measured. Results showed that the sweet pepper cultivars varied in vegetative growth, fruit yield, and quality. The two cultivars Green Machine and SVPB8500 had higher leaf SPAD of 64.2 and 63.9, respectively, than Carmen, Escamillo, Cornito Giallo, or Cornito Ross. The cultivars Carmen, Cornito Giallo, Cornito Rosso, and Escamillo had similar plant heights ranging from 36.4 cm to 38.4 cm, higher than Green Machine or SVPB8500. Biostimulant treatment did not affect leaf SPAD or plant height early in the season.

Speakers

Abby Pennington

Mississippi State University

Co-authors

Ali Alsughayyir

Mississippi State University

Guihong Bi

Mississippi State University

Jacob Arthur

Mississippi State University

Tongyin Li

Mississippi State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce Specialty Crop Block Grant Program; United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project MIS-149220.

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Influence of Silicon and Brassinosteroids Application on Yield and Nutrient Composition of Arugula

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Rising temperatures, erratic precipitation, and increased periods of drought present significant challenges to vegetable crop production by disrupting growth reducing yield and crop quality. To address these challenges, biostimulants have been used in crop production for their ability to enhance plant growth, improve nutrient uptake, and increase resilience against environmental stresses. However, there exists a research gap in the mode of applications and rates of different biostimulants in various vegetable crops grown in open-field conditions. Hence, the current study evaluated the effects of two distinct biostimulants (silicon and brassinosteroids) on arugula (Eruca sativa) production. Although silicon is not universally recognized as an essential nutrient for plant growth, it is considered beneficial and has been proven to exhibit biostimulant properties. Contrarily, brassinosteroids are a class of plant hormones crucial in regulating growth, development, and stress responses in crops. These biostimulants were applied independently through the soil and foliar application at two different rates to assess their effects on the growth, yield, and nutritional quality of arugula. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three blocks in open-field conditions. Data was collected on various parameters, including the number of leaves per week, fresh and dry weight at harvest, and mineral and phytochemical content such as chlorophylls, carotenoids, sugars, phenols, and flavonoids content. Results show that silicon applied plants have improved yield. By assessing biostimulants impact on the yield and nutrient composition of arugula, the current research concludes the potential of biostimulants as a sustainable approach to improve growth of arugula under challenging environmental conditions

Speakers

Nandini Reddy Muraka

oklahoma state university

Co-authors

Niels Maness

Oklahoma state university

Steve Phillips

Oklahoma state university

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Leaf Anatomical and Physiological Variability of Tomato Genotypes with Modified Polyamine Metabolism and its Potential Role to Stress Resilience

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

The anticipated impacts of climate extremes on food production have led research into novel paths aimed at optimizing cultivation techniques and developing genotypes resilient to abiotic stresses. Research over the last 20 years led to a considerable amount of evidence that the regulation of polyamine metabolism (and in particular of thermospermine) through the overexpression or gene mutation of polyamine oxidases (PAOs) genes, could enhance plant resilience. However, there are still limited data on how the differential expression of PAOs genes affects physiological and morpho-anatomical traits that contribute to plant resilience. Therefore, in this study we explored the morpho-anatomical and functional-physiological variability of leaves of 8 tomato genotypes, one reference (cv. Moneymaker), and 7 with modified thermospermine metabolism, comprising 3 overexpressing genotypes and 4 loss-of-function mutants for two thermospermine-specific PAO genes, SlPAO3 and SlPAO4. The plants were cultivated under greenhouse conditions following standard commercial practices, and a total of 17 morpho-anatomical and functional traits were assessed for each genotype. Based on plasticity indices (IP), notable phenotypic variability among genotypes was observed, particularly in leaf morpho-anatomical traits, pigment concentrations, performance index (PItotal), plant height, and total leaf area. In contrast, the lowest IP values were recorded for traits related to gas exchange and Fv/Fm. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified two main axes accounting for 78% of the total variation, and a clear grouping of genotypes emerged according to the type of PAOs gene expression modification (overexpression or gene mutation). These findings reveal substantial differences in leaf structural traits among genotypes, depending on PAOs expression levels, aligning with previous studies highlighting the role of polyamines in organogenesis. Considering the critical importance of leaf structure–function interactions in determining both productivity and stress resistance, further investigation into the role of PAOs as a potential tool for enhancing plant resilience to abiotic stresses is warranted.

Speakers

Ioannis Karapanos

University of Florida / North Florida Research and Education Center

Co-authors

Andriana Karachaliou

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Dimosthenis Nikolopoulos

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Evangelos Kyrkoulis

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Georgios Liakopoulos

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Panagiota Bresta

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Paraskevi Tavladoraki

Department of Science, University Roma Tre

Styliani Chorianopoulou

Crop Science Athens Attica Greece, Agricultural University of Athens

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Leveraging the potential of Methylobacterium symbioticum to boost spinach productivity

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Nitrogen is a vital element for plant growth, playing a crucial role in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. The bio-stimulant "Utrisha N," which contains the bacteria Methylobacterium symbioticum, has the potential to enhance nitrogen availability by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices. While it has been evaluated in other row crops, its application in vegetable crops remains untested. This study examined the effects of the foliar application of "Utrisha N" on yield, nitrogen metabolism, and phytochemical profiles under various nitrogen conditions. The results indicated that the foliar application of "Utrisha N" during the developmental phase of spinach significantly increased both fresh and dry biomass and chlorophyll content. No significant changes in nitrogen mineral metabolism were observed regardless of nitrogen availability. We assessed nitrogen assimilation by calculating the percentage accumulation of amino acids in the vegetative tissues. The differential expression of genes related to nitrogen metabolism influenced by Methylobacterium symbioticum is currently being analyzed. This study's results will help clarify the potential benefits of Methylobacterium in improving nitrogen metabolism and boosting spinach productivity.

Speakers

Sandeep Sran

Graduate Research Assistant, Texas A & M University, College Station

Co-authors

Dalton Thompson

Texas A

Vijay Joshi

Texas A

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA-NIFA; Hatch project Number 9647-1

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Physiological and Morphological Screening of Tomato Cultivars for Thermotolerance

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Temperature constraints on tomato production challenge local production in warm climates. In Oklahoma, there is a narrow optimum temperature window required for fruit set, which ultimately results in a decline during late July and August. Growers are motivated to select heat tolerant tomato genotypes for better results. Previous research shows that there is a range of physiological responses when considering heat tolerant and heat sensitive cultivars. To investigate further, a controlled environment trial will be designed to evaluate eight different tomato cultivars at two different temperature regimes, optimum (26°C / 20°C) and elevated (36°C/26°C). Morphological measurements will be collected daily and are to include days to first truss, days to first open flower, days to first fruit set, and flower-fruit set ratio. Non-destructive physiological measurements will be collected weekly, including net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, leaf temperature, and chlorophyll fluorescence. Electrolyte leakage will be measured once upon the completion of the trial. Differences in net photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance were found to be significant between the two temperature regimes (p > 0.001) at 28 days after transplanting. Net photosynthetic rate averages were 4.358 µmol m-2 s-1 for the elevated temperature and 7.815 µmol m-2 s-1 for the optimum temperature. Stomatal conductance averages were 0.081 mol m-2 s-1and 0.150 mol m-2 s-1 for elevated and optimum regimes respectively. A Euclidean Distance will be calculated between the responses to the two temperatures upon completion, creating a heat tolerant index. The results will assist with the development of a screening tool for heat tolerant cultivars.

Speakers

Courtney DeKalb-Myers

Co-authors

Justin Quetone Moss

Oklahoma State University

Shivani Kathi

Oklahoma State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Oklahoma Block Specialty Crop Grant

1:00pm CDT

VCM 2 - Production of Alternative Microgreen Species as Affected by Five Types Growing Substrate

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Empire AB

Microgreens are young seedlings of various vegetable and herb species that are usually harvested 10 to 14 days after germination. They are a popular specialty crop because they are rich in mineral nutrients and health beneficial phytochemicals, grow quickly, need little space, and can be produced year-round in a protected environment. The choice of substrate is critical for successful microgreen production because it affects shoot growth, nutrient absorption, and total shoot yield. Compared with commonly used peat-based substrate, easy-to-use hydroponic mat products made from various fibers serve as sustainable alternative growing media. This study examines the effect of five substrates on the growth performance of four microgreen species including ‘Red Garnet’ amaranth (Amaranthus tricolour), ‘Red Gruner’ purslane (Portulaca oleracea), Rainbow Sprinkles Mix (with chard and beet, Beta vulgaris), and Shungiku (Glebionis carinata). The five substrates include bamboo mat, coco coir fiber mat, Ectone mat (made from recycled plastic bottle), jute mat, and a peat based soilless substrate. Results showed that fresh shoot weight was affected by the interaction between species and substrate type. Shungiku grown on peat and coco coir produced the highest fresh shoot weights of 74.7 and 70.2 g per growing tray, respectively, among all treatment combinations. Microgreens species varied in their preference of substrate for maximum shoot yield, with peat producing in higher fresh shoot weight than other substrate types in purslane and Rainbow Sprinkles Mix. Overall, peat and coco coir mat resulted in higher dry shoot weight than jute, bamboo, or Ectone mat across the four tested species. These results show the importance of choosing the right substrate for maximum yield and quality in microgreen production.

Speakers

Ali Alsughayyir

Mississippi State University

Co-authors

Abby Pennington

Mississippi State University

Guihong Bi

Mississippi State University

Jacob Arthur

Mississippi State University

Tongyin Li

Mississippi State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 2

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce Specialty Crop Block Grant Program; United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project MIS-149220.

3:59pm CDT

VCM 5 - Oral Session

Thursday July 31, 2025 3:59pm - 4:00pm CDT

Foster 1

Presiding/Moderator

Arshdeep Kaur

Clemson University

Thursday July 31, 2025 3:59pm - 4:00pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

4:00pm CDT

VCM 5 - Biofortification In Leafy Greens: Can Iron Be Biofortified Through Tank Mixing With Common Pesticides Without Compromising Their Efficacy?

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

Foster 1

Iron deficiency is a major global health issue that has affected approximately 29% of the adult population of US. Plants being the ultimate source of iron in humans (either directly through staple crops and vegetables or indirectly via animal fodder), do not suffice in meeting the average daily requirement of iron. Therefore, there is a need to increase the iron concentration of edible parts of plants, known as biofortification. So far, the most economic and convenient approach to alleviate iron deficiency is agronomic biofortification. However, applying iron fertilizers puts an additional management burden on growers, to manage an already intensive production system. One potential solution to this could be tank mixing with common pesticides. Combining iron fertilizers with already recommended pesticides in vegetable crops can save the farmers from the extra effort. However, knowledge on interactions (synergistic, antagonistic, or neutral) of iron fertilizers with pesticides in a tank mix is lacking. In 2024 we conducted a field experiment to study the effect of tank mixing of different iron fertilizers (FESO4, Fe-EDTA

Speakers

Arshdeep Kaur

Clemson University

Co-authors

Bhupinder Jatana

Clemson University

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

4:15pm CDT

VCM 5 - Effects of Magnesium Fertilization on Phytonutrient Accumulation in Cress Grown Hydroponically

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:15pm - 4:30pm CDT

Foster 1

Leafy greens like cress have generated significant interest worldwide due to their health and nutritional benefits. Cress is a nutrient-dense leafy green unique for its peppery flavor and phytonutrient content. Its hydroponic cultivation coupled with targeted nutrient fertilization provides a controlled environment enabling optimal growth conditions and phytonutrient accumulation. Particularly, magnesium as a macronutrient is known for influencing biosynthesis of plant metabolites including chlorophyll, carotenoids and other antioxidants. The need for biofortification and optimization of hydroponic cultivation for nutrient-dense crops warrant this study. Due to the importance of beta-carotene in human health and its role as a source of vitamin A, it is crucial to understand how fertilization affects its accumulation. Therefore, this study seeks to contribute to optimization of nutrient management in hydroponics and ultimately improve nutritional value of leafy greens. In this research, four magnesium fertilization rates (100 mg/l, 150 mg/l, 200 mg/l and 250 mg/l) were applied to watercress and upland cress in a hydroponic environment. The study aimed to examine the effects of these treatments on phytonutrient accumulation with a focus on beta-carotene. The hydroponic cultivation was done under controlled environment, ensuring desirable nutrient application, temperature, light, pH and electrical conductivity. The treatments were applied in a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system under a split-plot design. Biomass, chlorophyll, beta-carotene and antioxidant activity were analyzed to determine the relationship between magnesium application and the biosynthesis of phytonutrients. Spectrophotometric methods were used to quantify beta-carotene and chlorophyll and determine antioxidant potential. Initial findings indicate increasing content of beta-carotene, chlorophyll, biomass and antioxidant activity with increasing magnesium application rates, with the highest rate maximizing beta-carotene accumulation. The results show variations between watercress and upland cress, indicating strain-specific responses under magnesium application. These results will contribute to insights into the influence of magnesium fertilization on the synthesis of phytonutrients in leafy greens, particularly cress plants. It will guide farmers on optimizing fertilization, eventually improving yields and nutritional quality of the two cress varieties. Additionally, it will recommend dietary guidelines, catering to the demand for nutrient-rich foods among health-conscious consumers. Keywords: Cress, Magnesium fertilization, Phytonutrients, Hydroponics, Spectrophotometry

Speakers

Richard Kabanda

Graduate Research Assistant, Kentucky State University

Co-authors

Cora Teets

Kentucky State University

THEONESTE NZARAMYIMANA

Kentucky State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:15pm - 4:30pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

4:30pm CDT

VCM 5 - Seed Priming Treatments Affect Germination, Shoot Growth and Mineral Nutrient Compositions of Four Herbal Microgreen Species

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Foster 1

Microgreens are young seedlings that are harvested between 7 and 21 days after germination with height of generally 2 to 4 inches depending on the species. They are considered to be nutrient-dense functional foods and have been reported to be rich in mineral nutrients such as calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K) and iron (Fe) as well as health beneficial phytochemicals. Seed priming treatments have been used to activate metabolic activity within the seed and promote fast and uniform germination, which is critical in microgreen production. The objectives of this study were to assess the effect of four seed priming treatments on the shoot growth, visual quality, and mineral nutrient compositions of four herbal microgreen species grown on hydroponic mats made from jute fibers. Four microgreen species including chives (Allium schoenoprasum), dill (Anethum graveolens), scallion (Allium fistulosum) and shiso (Perilla frutescens var. crispa) were used in this study. Four priming treatments were applied including hydro priming with distilled water (20-22°C), chemical priming with hydrogen peroxide (0.3%), biostimulant priming with a plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (0.528 ml·L-1), and another biostimulant derived from kelp extract (5 ml·L-1). Microgreen seeds were soaked for 6 hours in each of the priming solutions and then allowed to dry overnight to their original weight. The control treatment consisted of non-primed raw seeds. Data including germination percentage, shoot height, visual quality, fresh and dry shoot weights, shoot color, and mineral nutrients were all collected. Fresh shoot weight was significantly affected by the interaction between microgreen species and priming treatment. The four priming treatments and control resulted in similar fresh shoot weights in chives, scallion, and shiso. Dill from the control treatment had a significantly higher fresh shoot weight of 1302 g·m-2 compared to kelp extract, PGPR, and hydropriming with weights of 737 g·m-2, 740.7 g·m-2, and 345.8 g·m-2, respectively. Microgreen shoot height was affected by species and priming treatment separately with no interaction. The non-priming control produced shoots with height of 6.9 cm, significantly higher than those from the kelp extract or the hydropriming treatment with heights of 6.3 cm and 6.2 cm, respectively. Chives produced the lowest shoot height of 5.3 cm compared to dill, scallion and shiso with shoot heights of 6.9 cm, 7.0 cm, and 6.8 cm, respectively.

Speakers

Jacob Arthur

Mississippi State University

Co-authors

Abby Pennington

Mississippi State University

Ali Alsughayyir

Mississippi State University

Guihong Bi

Mississippi State University

Shecoya White

Mississippi State University

Tongyin Li

Mississippi State University

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce

4:45pm CDT

VCM 5 - Exploring the Plant Microbiome of Commercial Spinach: Bacterial and Fungal Community Structure and Functional Potential

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT

Foster 1

The study explored bacterial and fungal communities in two commercially cultivated spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) cultivars across five ecological niches: bulk soil, rhizosphere, root endosphere, leaf episphere, and leaf endosphere. Using high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS amplicons, we assessed microbial diversity, composition, co-occurrence networks, and functional potential, revealing that alpha microbial diversity was highest in bulk soil and lowest in the leaf endosphere. Beta diversity analysis demonstrated significant niche differentiation, with fungal communities exhibiting notable cultivar-driven variation, while bacterial communities were more influenced by niche. The bacterial microbiome displayed a wide range of taxa, while the fungal microbiome comprised two primary groups, with differential abundance analysis indicating niche-specific microbial enrichment in both bacterial and fungal communities. Tracking microbial contributions to different niches showed minimal influence of bulk soil on the rhizosphere, with fungal communities presenting higher niche transfer rates than bacteria. Co-occurrence network analysis highlighted cultivar-specific microbial interactions. Functional predictions indicated niche-dependent microbial metabolic adaptations, particularly in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism. These findings offer valuable insights into the spinach microbiome, highlighting niche differentiation and cultivar-specific microbial interactions that influence plant-associated microbial communities.

Speakers

Dhivya Thenappan

Texas A

Co-authors

Gabriele Berg

Graz University of Technology

Vijay Joshi

Texas A

Wisnu Adi Wicaksono

Graz University of Technology

Thursday July 31, 2025 4:45pm - 5:00pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

5:00pm CDT

VCM 5 - Elucidating Collembola-seed interactions to advance seed bank management

Thursday July 31, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm CDT

Foster 1

Collembola, commonly known as springtails, are soil microarthropods which play important roles in organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and microbial interactions in agricultural systems. However, little research has assessed their direct interactions with plants. The few studies that have researched these direct interactions have found mixed effects of Collembola on germination and plant growth outcomes. This research aims to further investigate the role of Collembola in seed germination and early seedling development. Two complementary lab experiments were conducted using species in the Amaranthus family, spinach (crop) and waterhemp (weed), to explore the role of seed coat thickness in Collembola-seed interactions. We hypothesize that spinach, with its thick seed coat, would be stimulated by Collembola grazing without sustaining damage, whereas waterhemp, with its thin seed coat, would experience adverse effects, leading to physiological stress. The first experiment was conducted using deli cups lined with germination paper. The treatments included the two plant species and the Collembola Isotomiella minor at three abundance levels (none (0), low (15), and high (30)). Each treatment combination was replicated 5 times. For each plant species, ten seeds were randomly arranged in each deli cup and the Collembola treatments were added. Mesocosms were maintained in growth chambers at 24°C and deionized water was added as needed to maintain moisture. Germination was recorded after 5, 7, and 10 days. Both the spinach and waterhemp germination were not affected by the Collembola treatments. However, spinach had consistently high germination, whereas waterhemp had consistently low germination. The second experiment was conducted using transparent mesocosms filled with a transparent plant growing medium to simulate a 3-D soil structure. The treatments were the same as the experiment described previously. The sealed mesocosms were maintained in growth chambers at 24°C for four weeks. Germination was recorded 5, 7, 10, and 14 days after planting. Collembola interactions with the root systems were monitored using video and photographic recordings throughout the experiment. After four weeks, in mesocosms with true leaf development, plant leaves were measured for stomatal conductance, transpiration, photosystem II efficiency, and chlorophyll content. Each plant was then harvested, and aboveground and root biomass was collected, dried, and weighed. Overall, germination in the mesocosms was low for both spinach and waterhemp, and the Collembola treatments did not have any significant effects. Our initial findings suggest that seed coat thickness may not play a role in the outcomes of Collembola-seedling interactions.

Speakers

Ashley Jernigan

Assistant Professor, Virginia Tech

Co-authors

Haylie Brown

Virginia Tech

Thursday July 31, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Dr. Ashley Jernigan’s Hatch Research Project VA-160250

5:15pm CDT

VCM 5 - Growth Rate and Yield of High Tunnel Grown Water Spinach (Ipomea aquatica) in Georgia, USA

Thursday July 31, 2025 5:15pm - 5:30pm CDT

Foster 1

Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) is leafy green vegetable that is routinely cultivated in Southeast Asia. Due to its aggressive growing habit and potential to become established in waterways, it has been classified as a federal noxious weed within the United States. However, recently, ethnic communities in the Atlanta, Georgia, USA metropolitan region have expressed an interest in being able to cultivate water spinach for local sale. The objective of this study was to develop recommendations for the establishment of growing degree day (GDD) estimates and yields for harvest for three planting periods for organic cultivation of two selections of water spinach in a high tunnel environment during the summer months in Watkinsville, Georgia USA. Selection 1 had a hastate leaf shape, while selection 2 had a more lanceolate leaf shape. Plantings were conducted on three dates (May, June, July) during summer 2023. Plots contained 36 plants and were arranged factorial randomized complete block design with four replicates with selection and planting date being the main effects. Once plants reached a marketable harvest size, the above-ground portions were cut near the plant base, which repeated during the growing season. Our results indicated that planting water spinach in May resulted in significantly greater yields compared to June and July plantings due to a greater number of harvests and biomass production at each harvest. Using a sweetpotato (Ipomea batatas) growth model, the GDD at harvest for the May planted water spinach were 390, 271, and 301 for the 7 Jul, 1 Aug and 26 Aug harvest periods, respectively. The rate of fresh weight biomass production for these harvests ranged from 41,469 kg ha-1 to 49,398 kg ha-1 for selection 1 and 24,266 kg ha-1 to 45,432 kg ha-1 for selection 2. Total Fresh weight biomass for all three harvests (7 Jul through 26 Aug) for the May plantings were 136,800-1 and 102,300 kg ha-1 for selections 1 and 2 respectively. July plantings had a greater GDD accumulation at harvest, but yields were significantly lower than earlier plantings. Our results suggest that water spinach could be successfully grown in high tunnels in Georgia, USA during the summer months. Further, while some plants did produce flowers, the chance for off-site movement of seeds and plant material was minimal as plants were confined to a high tunnel structure.

Speakers

Timothy Coolong

University of Georgia

Co-authors

Juan Carlos Diaz Perez

University of Georgia

Nick Basinger

University of Georgia

Shelbie Bohensky

Universty of Georgia

Thursday July 31, 2025 5:15pm - 5:30pm CDT
Foster 1

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 5

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source Specialty Crop Block Grant Georgia Department of Agriculture

10:14am CDT

VCM 6 - Oral Session

Friday August 1, 2025 10:14am - 10:15am CDT

Strand 11A

Presiding/Moderator

Jordan White

Washington State University

Friday August 1, 2025 10:14am - 10:15am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

10:15am CDT

VCM 6 - Assessing sweetpotato growth response to growing degree days in western Washington

Friday August 1, 2025 10:15am - 10:30am CDT

Strand 11A

Studies in the Northeast United States and Canada have shown that sweetpotato yield can be comparable to the national average when grown with black plastic mulch. Western Washington has a diversity of microclimates, from the Pacific Coast to the Cascade Mountains, and assessing yield in response to growing degree days (GDD) will help growers determine if soil warming strategies are needed to achieve acceptable yield. This experiment was carried out in Mount Vernon, WA in 2024 and is being repeated in 2025. The experimental design was a split-split plot: the main plot treatment was bare soil and black polyethylene mulch (25.4 µm); the split plot treatment was cultivar, Covington and Cascade; and the split-split plot treatment was harvest date, every two weeks from 8 weeks after transplanting (WAT) to 18 WAT to assess root growth in response to accumulated GDDs. The experiment included 4 replications with 10 plants per plot, and raised beds with drip irrigation. Soil temperature was measured at 15-min intervals with sensors installed in both the mulch and bare soil plots. GDDs were calculated at two base temperatures, 10°C and 15.5°C, as both are reported in the literature. In 2024, for bare soil and plastic mulch treatments at base temperature 10°C, GDDs were 528 and 667 at 8 WAT (29 July), respectively, and 1080 and 1300 at 18 WAT (7 Oct.), respectively. At base temperature 15.5°C, GDDs for bare soil and plastic mulch treatments were 238 and 375 at 8 WAT and 428 and 635 at 18 WAT, respectively. At 8 and 18 WAT, GDDs for AgWeatherNet air temperature located 410 m from the field site were 629 and 1308 for 10°C base temperature and 138 and 275 for 15.5°C. Overall, black plastic mulch increased soil temperature by 1.78°C on average, and soil GDDs were 44% and 21% higher with plastic mulch compared to bare soil for a base temperature of 15.5°C and 10°C, respectively. At 18 WAT, root yield (US No. 1 and US No. 2) without accounting for wireworm damage was 11.7 t/ha for ‘Covington’ and 9.9 t/ha for ‘Cascade’ with plastic mulch and 7.7 t/ha for ‘Covington’ and 8.4 t/ha for ‘Cascade’ with bare soil. Sweetpotato yield in Mount Vernon, WA, was 35% greater on average with plastic mulch, but plastic mulch may not be necessary in warmer regions of the Pacific Northwest.

Speakers

Jordan White

Washington State University

Co-authors

Carol Miles

Washington State University

Laura Schulz

Washington State University

Friday August 1, 2025 10:15am - 10:30am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

10:30am CDT

VCM 6 - Assessing the Effect of Processing on Volatile Organic Compounds in Tomatoes Using Solid-Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Friday August 1, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am CDT

Strand 11A

The profile of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit significantly influences their sensory attributes, particularly aroma, which affects consumer preference. This study examines variation in VOCs between commercially processed tomato products and greenhouse-grown tomatoes, focusing on processing techniques and how they alter VOC profiles. Headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) was employed for detailed VOC profiling. Optimization of HS-SPME parameters, including salt-assisted extraction, extraction temperature, and fiber selection, enabled precise identification and quantification of VOCs. The optimized conditions involved extracting samples in a 30% NaCl solution to maximize volatile release, adsorption onto a 50/30 µm DVB/CAR/PDMS fiber at 80 °C for 30 minutes, and analysis using a Restek Rtx-Wax column with helium as the carrier gas. SPME-GC-MS analysis confirmed that processing techniques significantly influence the release, chemical nature, and composition of VOCs. Commercially processed tomato products exhibited elevated levels of volatiles such as (Z)-3-hexenal and (E)-2-hexenal. Since processed products often undergo thermal treatments such as pasteurization and decontamination, the reduction in volatile composition compared to fresh, unprocessed tomatoes could be attributed to the thermal degradation of heat-sensitive compounds such as cis- and trans-hexanol, hexanal, geranial, and methyl salicylate, contributing to a pronounced cooked tomato aroma. In contrast, greenhouse-grown tomatoes, cultivated under controlled conditions, contained lower overall VOC concentrations but retained higher levels of methyl salicylate and norisoprenoids, yielding a milder, sweeter aroma profile, which is generally absent in processed products. This study underscores the impact of processing on tomato aroma and highlights the importance of optimizing analytical methods for VOC profiling. Detailed VOC profiling offers valuable insights for breeders and food processors seeking to enhance the flavor quality of both greenhouse-grown and processed tomato products. This research was supported by USDA-NIFA-2024-51181-43464 and USDA-NIFA-AFRI-2023-67013-39616 through the Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center and the Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture at Texas A

Speakers

Debanjan Chatterjee

Texas A

Debanjan Chatterjee, PhD, is a dedicated researcher specializing in natural products chemistry and pharmacological studies. He earned his B.Pharm in 2017, followed by an M.S. (Pharm) from the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, in 2019... Read More →

Co-authors

Bhimanangouda S. Patil

Texas A

Braulio Cervantes Paz

Texas A

Deepak Kumar Jha

Texas A

Vikas Dadwal

Texas A

Friday August 1, 2025 10:30am - 10:45am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

10:45am CDT

VCM 6 - Phenological Assessment of Artichoke Grown with Gibberellic Acid–Induced Vernalization in a Subtropical Climate

Friday August 1, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am CDT

Strand 11A

Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus L.) is an herbaceous, perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region and belongs to the Asteraceae family. It requires adequate winter chilling for bud induction, yet susceptible to freeze damage. In subtropical or tropical climates, artificial flower induction or vernalization is necessary for winter crops. Our preliminary results indicate that gibberellic acid (GA3) effectively induces bud formation without chilling. Understanding crop phenology facilitates management planning and performance assessment under diverse conditions. This study used the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, CHemische Industrie (BBCH) scale to characterize the phenological development of artichoke cultivated in a subtropical climate with insufficient winter chilling. Seedlings of ‘Green Queen’ (GQ), ‘Imperial Star’ (IS), ‘Opal’ (OP), ‘20-063’, ‘22-017’, ‘23-057’, and ‘24-060’ cultivars were transplanted on 18 October 2024 in West Central Florida. Plants initially exhibited vegetative growth characterized by leaf development (Stage 1) and rosette formation (Stage 3–4) up to 79 DAP. GA3 applications at 62 and 76 days after planting (DAP) promoted vegetative growth by increasing both leaf number and size. Vegetative growth was most vigorous in ‘GQ’ and least in ‘20-057’, whereas in the Mediterranean climate, growth at this stage typically arrests through winter due to low temperatures. GA3 applications successfully induced bolting, initiating the transition to reproductive growth between 80 and 82 DAP. Buds reached the optimum maturity stage to harvest with the maximum diameter at around 115 DAP, earlier than the typical 120 to 150 days in annual culture. Marketable yields varied significantly among cultivars, from 2.69 t·ha–1 for ‘OP’ to 7.33 t·ha–1 for ’20-063’. By 160 DAP, mature buds exhibited floral opening with characteristic lilac-colored florets (Stage 6: flowering and capitulum formation). In Florida, although hot and humid summers constrain the harvest window, our results suggest that GA3-induced vernalization enables artichoke production during the winter months in a timeframe that is 5 to 35 days shorter than under Mediterranean conditions. This study advances understanding of artichoke adaptability to subtropical climates, promoting its potential as a winter specialty crop for edible and ornamental uses.

Speakers

Avninder Kaur

University of Florida

Co-authors

Shinsuke Agehara

University of Florida

Friday August 1, 2025 10:45am - 11:00am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

11:00am CDT

VCM 6 - Enhancing Bell Pepper Production: Exploring the Effects of AMF Application on WUE in Greenhouse Bell Pepper Production

Friday August 1, 2025 11:00am - 11:15am CDT

Strand 11A

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are a widespread and naturally-present soil microorganism that form symbiotic relationships with the roots of terrestrial plants. These fungi have been credited with numerous host plant benefits, the most relevant to this study being their ability to improve plant-water relations through multiple mechanisms. Bell peppers are extremely vulnerable to drought stress and require high amounts of water, so the colonization of AMF could potentially help fortify peppers against this prevalent stressor. However, AMF populations are greatly affected by the disruptive agricultural practices utilized in vegetable production. Therefore, there is a need to research the integration of AMF into traditional production systems. Existing research on AMF is often inconclusive and inconsistent when compared across locations and environments due to their complex nature. An AMF trial was carried out at greenhouses in Raleigh, NC to examine the effect of AMF application on water use efficiency (WUE) in bell peppers. ‘Red Knight’ F1 hybrid bell pepper seeds were inoculated with a commercially available AMF spore product (Endomycorrhizae formulation). The seeds then germinated and grew for eight weeks to allow the AMF root colonization to establish. Afterwards, the pepper seedlings were transplanted into 2 gal pots and placed on weighing lysimeters before growing for four more weeks to allow the roots to establish in the pots. Two irrigation treatments were then applied to the plants: 100% container capacity (CC) and water deficit (WD). The 100% CC treatments were irrigated in daily intervals to keep the media at maximum soil moisture. The WD treatments were individually irrigated back up to 100% CC each time visual wilting symptoms presented for a plant. Water use for each plant was calculated throughout the growing season by weighing the pots and runoff-catchment containers at each irrigation event to precisely determine the amount of water available to each plant. At the end of the growing season, WUE was determined for each plant by comparing the total water used to the total biomass produced. Results show no difference in WUE for the control vs AMF inoculated plants under water deficit. However, there were some differences observed in other measurements collected, such as floral abortion rates, plant height, biomass, stomatal conductance, and water pressure potential.

Speakers

Brooke Matusko

North Carolina State University

Co-authors

Amanda Cardoso

North Carolina State University

Emmanuel Torres Quezada

North Carolina State University

Kevin Garcia

North Carolina State University

Ricardo Hernandez

North Carolina State University

Friday August 1, 2025 11:00am - 11:15am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

11:15am CDT

VCM 6 - Optimizing Harvest Timing for Enhanced Hop Quality in a Subtropical Climate

Friday August 1, 2025 11:15am - 11:30am CDT

Strand 11A

Optimizing Harvest Timing for Enhanced Hop Quality in a Subtropical Climate Alvaro J. Bautista* and Shinsuke Agehara University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, 14625 County Road 672, Wimauma, FL 33598, United States *Presenter: Alvaro J. Bautista Corresponding author: Shinsuke Agehara (sagehara@ufl.edu) Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) are a key ingredient in brewing, contributing bitterness, aroma, and microbiological stability. While traditionally cultivated in temperate climates, our previous research has demonstrated that subtropical regions like Florida offer unique opportunities for hop production, enabling two production cycles per year with supplemental lighting. Harvest timing is critical for optimizing hop cone biochemical composition, particularly alpha acids (AA), beta acids (BA), and essential oils, which directly influence beer quality. This study examined the seasonal and developmental dynamics of ‘Cascade’ hop cone chemistry to determine the optimal harvest window for both spring and fall growing seasons. Data were collected from 2021 to 2024 from the plants established in 2021 at the University of Florida’s Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in west-central Florida. Cone samples were collected at different days after flower induction (DAFI) to assess changes in AA and BA, cohumulone and colupulone, and essential oil composition. Acid levels showed significant seasonal variation. In spring, AA and BA ranged from 9.38% and 5.48% in 2021 to 4.48% and 2.0% in 2024, respectively. In fall, AA and BA ranged from 4.7% and 2.49% in 2021 to 2.97% and 2.0% in 2024, respectively. Acid accumulation also showed seasonal patterns, peaking at 36–48 DAFI in spring compared to 24–30 DAFI in fall. In contrast, cohumulone and colupulone maintained stable levels around 27.54% of total AA and 47.79% of total BA, respectively, throughout the study. Essential oil content increased during cone maturation, reaching its optimal aromatic profile at 36–42 DAFI (1.5 ml/100g). Myrcene (81.8% of total oil), the dominant terpene across all seasons, followed the same trend as total essential oil content. Humulene and caryophyllene peaked between 24 and 36 DAFI (19.7% and 10.9.% of total oil, respectively), while geraniol and linalool remained stable (0.5% and 0.7% of total oil, respectively) throughout maturation. These findings provide a foundation for optimizing hop production in non-traditional climates and highlight the importance of precise harvest timing to enhance hop quality for brewing applications. Future research will explore additional environmental, physiological, and management factors influencing hop maturation under subtropical conditions.

Speakers

Alvaro J. Bautista

University of Florida

Co-authors

Shinsuke Agehara

University of Florida

Friday August 1, 2025 11:15am - 11:30am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

11:30am CDT

VCM 6 - Quantifying Yield Attributes of Spring Sweet Corn Varieties (Bicolor, White, and Yellow) in the Southeastern USA

Friday August 1, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am CDT

Strand 11A

A comprehensive, two-year field evaluation of bicolor, white, and yellow sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata) varieties was conducted in southern Georgia during the spring seasons of 2022 and 2024. This research aimed to evaluate the yield and quality performance of commercial supersweet sweet corn varieties for the main kernel color market segments. The experiment was conducted at the Hort Hill Research Farm on the University of Georgia Tifton Campus. A total of ten bicolor, five white, and five yellow sweet corn varieties were used in this study. Significant interactions were observed between years and varieties, impacting ear characteristics and marketability. Overall, 2022 exhibited significantly higher ear and shank lengths, while 2024 had increased blank tip lengths and higher unmarketable ear counts. Among the bicolor varieties, ‘Redemption’ demonstrated exceptional performance with the highest ear length and width measurements, shank length, and the lowest blank tip measurements. ‘Grizzly’ had the lowest ear width, shank length, and highest blank tip measurements, while ‘American Dream’ recorded the shortest ear length. ‘Obsession’ and ‘Seminole Sweet’ had the highest marketable yield and 48-ear boxes per acre, reflecting their superior yield performance, whereas ‘Grizzly’ exhibited the lowest performance parameters, including the lowest marketable yield, total ear counts, and 48-ear boxes per acre. Additionally, ‘Superb’, ‘American Dream’, and ‘Courage’ recorded higher unmarketable ear counts per plot, which ultimately resulted in a significantly lower percentage of marketable ears. For the white varieties, there were no significant differences in ear characteristics and yield parameters. However, the yellow varieties displayed statistically significant differences in ear width and shank length. ‘GSS1170’ excelled, with the highest ear width and shank length, making it an excellent option for yellow corn production. Varieties ‘SC1336,’ ‘Astronaut,’ and ‘Passion’ had significantly higher unmarketable ear counts, with total ear counts also varying significantly among varieties, indicating differences in both productivity and marketability. Based on these research findings, the recommended varieties for optimal performance in ear characteristics and marketability are ‘Obsession’, ‘Seminole Sweet’, and ‘Redemption’ for bicolor corn and ‘GSS1170’ for yellow corn. These varieties exhibited excellent yield performance, making them ideal choices for growers seeking to increase yield. Conversely, since white corn varieties did not exhibit significant differences for any ear characteristics or marketability parameters, no specific recommendations can be made for this category.

Speakers

Manisha Kumari

Post-Doctoral Research Associate AD, The University of Georgia

Manisha Kumari is a post-doctoral research associate AD at Horticulture department, University of Georgia, Tifton campus, Tifton 31793, GA, USA.

Co-authors

Ted McAvoy

University of Georgia

Friday August 1, 2025 11:30am - 11:45am CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management

11:45am CDT

VCM 6 - Agrivoltaics: How Solar Panels Affect Bell Pepper 'SVPB8415' Production

Friday August 1, 2025 11:45am - 12:00pm CDT

Strand 11A

Agrivoltaics is a production system that allows for dual land use through the deployment of solar panels for energy production while maintaining agricultural production underneath and/or between solar panels. This study was conducted at the Alliant Solar farm at Iowa State University, Ames, IA. Treatments included bell pepper (Capsicum annuum ‘SVPB8415’) grown between and outside (open-field) the solar panels. For the solar panel treatment, two raised beds with white plastic mulch were created on each side of the single-axis solar tracking panels. Each bed was 19.5m long. Two beds on each side were spaced 1.5m (center to center). Two rows of open-field peppers served as the control treatment. Control beds were 6.7m long. All treatments were replicated three times. Peppers were transplanted on June 6, 2024 at 0.3m spacing, double row. HOBO soil temperature, air temperature, and light intensity sensors were installed on the same day. No pesticides were needed to manage pests. A total of 6 harvests occurred throughout the season on a weekly basis between September 6 and October 14. Plants between the solar panels yielded 52.1 kg per row while the open-field yielded 27.0 kg, a 48% increase in the solar treatment. From June to September, the air temperature was cooler than the control on average by 4 degrees Fahrenheit while the soil temperature was 3 degrees Fahrenheit cooler. Based on first year results, bell peppers show promise within an agrivoltaics production system. More data will be collected in the coming years on plant growth characteristics, soil moisture, and postharvest quality of peppers.

Speakers

Raymond Wilmes

Iowa State University

Co-authors

Ajay Nair

Iowa State University

Friday August 1, 2025 11:45am - 12:00pm CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Funding Source United States Department of Energy

12:00pm CDT

VCM 6 - Assessing the Efficacy of Green Manure and Mycorrhizae in Reducing Salt Stress on Tomatoes Grown in Miami Dade County, Florida

Friday August 1, 2025 12:00pm - 12:15pm CDT

Strand 11A

Climate change presents a serious challenge for the future of agricultural production, with communities around the world undergoing agroecological disaster as a result of rapidly developing climatic conditions. Among the most pressing concerns for coastal production is sea level rise and salt intrusion into agricultural soils. Such is the case with Florida, which is regarded as a developing “ground zero” of the climate crisis. Along with California, Florida is the largest tomato producer in the country but is greatly at risk from sea level rise and saltwater intrusion, and tomato crop suffers considerably under salt stress. However, regenerative agriculture (RA) techniques present an opportunity for reducing the effects of saltwater intrusion, as they can enhance crop resistance to stresses and facilitate Na leaching out of soil biomes and improve crop yields. This research project aims to test two RA techniques (green manure and mycorrhizal inoculation) as ameliorating agents of salt stress in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. “Sanibel”). In greenhouse controlled conditions, two treatments of pigeon pea green manure was applied to soil prior to the planting of tomatoes (0g mulch [control] and 60g) and tomatoes were subject to two mycorrhizae inoculation conditions (no inoculation [control] and inoculation with the salt-resistant species Glomus intraradices). Tomato plants were then subjected to four irrigation water salinities (0, 4, 8, and 12 dS m-1). Saline treatments were prepared using Instant Ocean® Sea Salt and distilled water. Tomato plant chlorophyll content and fruit texture quality parameters were analyzed in order to determine the salt-stress ameliorating efficacy of these regenerative techniques.

Speakers

Luis Cendan

Florida International University

Co-authors

Amir Khoddamzadeh

Florida International University

Imran Ahmad

Florida International University

Madhugiri Nageswara-Rao

United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service, Subtropical Horticulture Research Station

Friday August 1, 2025 12:00pm - 12:15pm CDT
Strand 11A

Oral presentation, Vegetable Crops Management 6

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Agrivoltaics: How Solar Panels Affect Summer Squash 'Multipik' Production

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Agrivoltaics is a production system that allows for dual land use through the deployment of solar panels for energy production while maintaining agricultural production underneath and/or between solar panels. This study was conducted at the Alliant Solar farm at Iowa State University, Ames, IA. Treatments included summer squash (Cucurbita pepo ‘Multipik’) grown between and outside (open-field) the solar panels. For the solar panel treatment, two raised beds with white plastic mulch were created on each side of the single-axis solar tracking panels. Each bed was 19.5m long. Two beds on each side were spaced 1.5m (center to center). Two rows of open-field summer squash served as the control treatment. Control beds were 6.7m long. All treatments were replicated three times. Summer Squash was transplanted on May 31, 2024 at 0.6m spacing, single row. HOBO soil temperature, air temperature, and light intensity sensors were installed on the same day. Mustang MAXX® AND PyGanic® were sprayed to manage spotted cucumber beetles and squash bugs. A total of 31 harvests occurred throughout the season every 2 to 3 days between July 1 and September 20. Plants between the solar panels yielded 49.5 kg per row while the open-field yielded 36.5 kg, a 26% increase in the solar treatment. Between June, July, and August, the air temperature was cooler than the control on average by 3 degrees Fahrenheit while the soil temperature was 2 degrees Fahrenheit cooler. Light intensity decreased by 34% under the solar panels. Based on first year results, summer squash shows promise within an agrivoltaics production system. More data will be collected in the coming years on plant growth characteristics, soil moisture, and postharvest quality of summer squash.

Speakers

Raymond Wilmes

Iowa State University

Co-authors

Ajay Nair

Iowa State University

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source United States Department of Energy

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Assessment of Rhizoma Perennial Peanut under Agrivoltaic System in Georgia

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Solar energy production has been rapidly expanding in the Southeast; in Georgia alone, acreage has increased from under 500 to over 25,000 acres in the last decade. Agrivoltaics and ecovoltaics have emerged as strategies to ease land competition between Large-Scale Solar (LSS), agriculture, and natural resources. Agrivoltaic systems co-locate solar panels with row crops or livestock agriculture, thereby “stacking” the production of energy and agricultural products on the same land. LSS sites are typically seeded with Bahia and Bermuda grasses to control erosion while vegetation height is maintained by mechanical mowing. However, one of the most common and successful agrivoltaic applications is grazing livestock – typically sheep, which benefit from a high-protein diet, such as a legume. Rhizoma Perennial Peanut (RPP) is an emerging forage crop grown predominantly in southern areas with sandy soils and permissive winter temperatures. Most LSS are located in mid- and South Georgia where soils may have higher clay content. We set out to explore feasibility of RPP as a land cover under solar system in South Georgia. RPP ‘EcoTurf’ was planted between solar panels and outside the solar array. We implemented two experimental treatments: three seeding rates (100, 140, or 160 bushels/acre), and fertilization at planting or at mid-season. We measured canopy spread, leaf chlorophyll content and fluorescence. We also counted blooms and made aerial sweeps to assess arthropod abundance and diversity. In addition to being a potential grazing source, RPP matures well below the leading edge of the solar panels, thus eliminating the need for mowing even without livestock. If left uncut, RPP produces attractive yellow blooms which may serve as floral resources for pollinators and other beneficial insects. In this way, RPP can provide ecosystem services, including biodiversity and wildlife habitat, a potential win-win opportunity for LSS development and natural ecosystems in the Southeast USA. Given the selection of low growing ground cover that requires less frequent mowing (or no mowing), the implementation of RPP could also lead to lower inputs and reduced operation costs of the LSS in the long term.

Speakers

Simona Pitardi

University of Bari

Co-authors

Jason Schmidt

University of Georgia

Leynar Leyton

University of Florida

Svoboda Pennisi

University of Georgia

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Developing Artichoke as a New Winter Crop in a Subtropical Climate

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) belongs to the sunflower family and is cultivated for its edible flower buds. Being adapted to Mediterranean climates, artichoke requires adequate winter chilling for flower bud induction but is susceptible to freeze damage, limiting its commercial production in the United States almost exclusively to California. In tropical and subtropical climates, despite minimal freeze risk, insufficient winter chilling presents a major constraint to artichoke production. This study was initiated in 2015 to evaluate the potential for establishing artichoke as a viable winter crop in Florida. First, we developed a protocol for artificial bud induction using the plant hormone gibberellic acid (GA₃). When applied at the optimal rate and developmental stage, GA₃ effectively promotes bud formation independently of natural winter chilling. From 2016 to 2020, we evaluated seven cultivars based on earliness, yield, and bud quality and selected two promising cultivars, ‘Imperial Star’ and ‘Green Queen’. We also evaluated planting dates from early September to early December and determined that early to mid-October is the optimum planting window, yielding up to 17.3 and 11.8 t ha–1 for ‘Imperial Star’ and ‘Green Queen’, respectively. From 2022 to 2025, we tested additional 16 hybrids and identified three promising cultivars, ‘20-063’, ‘22-017’ and ‘23-057’. Our current artichoke production guide includes recommendations on GA3 application, cultivars, planting configurations, plastic mulch, and basic pest management. In 2023, artichoke was grown on about 12 hectares in Florida using this production guide. Ongoing research focuses on assessing nutritional values and postharvest quality to enhance the viability of artichoke as Florida’s new winter crop.

Speakers

Avninder Kaur

University of Florida

Co-authors

Shinsuke Agehara

University of Florida

Tie Liu

University of Florida

Weining Wang

University of Florida

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Evaluating the impact of intercropping vegetables and cut flowers on economics and conservation biological control

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Vegetable production is highly susceptible to yield and quality loss due to insect pests leading to increased management intensity. Use of conservation biological control practices such as intercropping offers potential benefits to environmental sustainability while also maintaining economic profitability. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of intercropping bell pepper (Capsicum annuum ‘King Arthur’) with cut flowers including zinnia (Zinnia elegans ‘Benary’s Giant White’), sunflower (Helianthus annus ‘Soraya’) and dianthus (Dianthus caryophyllus ‘Chabaud Benigna’). Data collected included insect and disease pressure ratings, marketable and unmarketable yield, economic return, and insect population diversity. Pepper yield was positively impacted in treatments including dianthus, while economic return was greatest where bell pepper was intercropped with zinnia.

Speakers

Alliance Igiraneza

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Co-authors

Katja Koehler-Cole

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Ronald Stephenson

Plant Sciences Hall

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Nebraska Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Exploring Regenerative Vegetable Systems on the California Central Coast

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Regenerative farming practices focus on improving soil health and creating resilient agricultural systems, offering long-term sustainability and environmental benefits compared to conventional organic methods. This study investigated the effects of an in-season cover cropping practice on insect and weed density and crop yield on California’s Central Coast. Two field trials compared regenerative and standard organic systems. Weed populations were assessed biweekly using 50cm x 50cm quadrats, while insect populations were monitored with yellow sticky cards and direct counts. Yields were measured in kilograms per hectare and categorized as fresh marketable, processed marketable, and unmarketable. Both treatments were planted on 80-inch beds using certified organic inputs and methods. The regenerative treatment featured a cereal cover crop in the bed center, with two rows of transplants on either side. The first trial took place at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Organic Farm (Jan–May 2024) with cabbage and sudan grass (three replicates). The second was at a grower’s field near San Ardo, CA (Feb–June 2025) with sweet baby broccoli and ryegrass (four replicates). In Trial 1, weed coverage was not significantly different between treatments (19.6 ± 5.3% for standard organic, 14.9 ± 0.7% for regenerative). Flea beetles were the most common pests, with no significant differences in pest densities (370.67 ± 24.17 vs. 403.11 ± 23.27). Predator and parasitoid insect counts were similar, and no pollinators were observed. Total yields were 5730.91 ± 5688.32 kg/ha for standard organic and 4929.50 ± 4890.27 kg/ha for regenerative. Fresh marketable yields were comparable (3169.77 ± 3139.50 vs. 3237.02 ± 3204.51). Although both treatments experienced high weed pressure, regenerative plots had fewer weeds, suggesting the grass cover crop may aid suppression. Insect density was numerically higher in regenerative plots, which also had slightly lower yields—possibly due to the grass strip. In the second trial, effective weed management led to no observed weeds. Higher insect densities were found in regenerative plots. These findings indicate that regenerative practices, such as incorporating a grass cover crop, may influence weed suppression and insect activity, though they may also slightly reduce yields. Continued research is needed to better understand these trade-offs and optimize regenerative system design for both productivity and ecological benefits.

Speakers

Una O'Connell

Cal Poly SLO

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Non-Land Grant College of Agriculture

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Humic Acid: Effects on Nutrient Uptake and Photosynthetic Capacity

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

The current marketing of humic acid products to potato growers indicates that incorporating these materials at planting will lead to improved nutrient uptake, increased soil health, vigorous growth, and increase in yields. Humic acids are composed of long chained, organic molecules that can be naturally or industrially made. In 2024, the in-furrow application of humic acid was evaluated in Pennsylvania on the cultivar ‘Lehigh’. Plots were evaluated for nutrient uptake and photosynthetic capacity as impacted by use of Black Label Zn, Duo Maxx, Fertiactyl, Humi-Flex FA, Hydra-Hume, and Monty's Carbon. Preliminary data show no statistically significant difference between applied products and an untreated control for macro and micronutrients analyzed by plant tissue sampling. No statistically significant differences were observed for stomatal conductance, chlorophyll fluorescence, or electron transport rate. These preliminary data suggest that there is no positive return on investment with using humic acid products in-furrow at the time of planting. As part of a three-year study, data from 2023 supported a similar conclusion.

Speakers

Ronald Stephenson

Plant Sciences Hall

Co-authors

Donald Lee

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Jonathan Price

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Meghan Sindelar

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Impact of Soil Fertility Amendments and Cover Cropping on Soil Health in Vegetable Production

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Organic farming systems face inherent limitations in nutrient management, particularly when plant nutrient demand exceeds available supply. This multi-year study examined the effectiveness of various soil amendment strategies and cover cropping systems on soil health indicators and pepper yields across three Purdue Agriculture Research Centers in Indiana (Wanatah, Lafayette, and Vincennes). Our experimental design compared conventional, organic, and mixed soil amendment approaches using standardized nutrient targets across treatments. Soil amendments included conventional and organic nutrient sources, plant and manure-based, or mixed (leaf mold and manure) compost applications. Summer cover crops (mustard for biofumigation, sunn hemp for nitrogen fixation, and sorghum-sudangrass for biomass production) were planted in Year 1, while a mix of cereal rye and hairy vetch served as fall/winter cover crops throughout the study. Buckwheat was seeded in bed row middles during Years 3 and 4. Soil health was assessed using the Haney test on composite samples from fifteen 15 cm deep soil cores per experimental unit. Initial challenges from nutrient losses due to heavy rainfall and significant weed pressure in 2021 necessitated management adaptations, including preplant herbicide application and plastic mulch protection of soil amendments. Soil health metrics improved dramatically at the Lafayette location in 2022 (67-202% increase) but showed minimal improvement at Wanatah and Vincennes. By 2023, average soil health declined by 14% across sites, primarily due to decreased water-extractable organic nitrogen (WEON) and slight reductions in water-extractable organic carbon (WEOC), resulting in reduced microbial activity. Our findings demonstrate that summer cover crops combined with fall/winter cover crops produced comparable benefits to high-rate compost applications for both crop yield and soil health improvements. However, high compost applications, particularly at Lafayette, led to extremely high P₂O₅ levels that required adjustment of fertility management. Soil respiration emerged as a reliable predictor of overall soil health, with statistical analysis indicating that a 10-point increase in soil respiration corresponded to soil health improvements of 1.0, 1.1, and 1.3 units at Wanatah, Lafayette, and Vincennes, respectively. This research provides evidence-based guidance for integrated soil fertility management that balances immediate crop nutrient needs with long-term soil health objectives, offering sustainable strategies for both organic and conventional production systems.

Speakers

Petrus Langenhoven

Purdue University

Co-authors

Nathan Shoaf

Purdue University

Nathan Shoaf earned his M.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Architecture from Purdue University, specializing in horticulture and soil microbial ecology. With over two decades of experience, he has expertise in urban farms and specialty crop production, fostering impactful collaborations... Read More →

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source USDA NIFA

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Soil Health in Fitotolodo’s in the Colca Valley Peru: Impact of Time and Management Practices

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

The Colca River Valley is an important agricultural and touristic region in southern Peru ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 meters above sea level. Many of the challenges associated with farming in this hyper-arid region were overcome through the establishment of unique terraces on the steep hillsides centuries ago, which have improved soils and help retain water and heat. However, the cold temperatures in this region prevent farmers from growing many warm-season crops such as tomatoes and zapallo, which bring high returns in larger cities like Arequipa. Fitotoldos are temporary greenhouse like structures created using earthen bricks and a plastic covering. Much like high tunnels or polyhouses in the U.S., these structures can help extend the growing season and allow farmers to grow new warm season crops that bring higher returns. In the past five years, many initiatives from the Peruvian government and several non-governmental organizations have provided funds to establish fitotoldos in the Colca River Valley. However, the farmers recieved little guidance on how to effectively manage soils and crops in these structures. This has led to poor quality crops and the abandoment of many of these structures. To help overcome this challenge, we conducted a survey of soils and farming practices in these structures. Soil samples were subject to several tests to quanitify soil physical, chemical, and biological properties and determine how these properties were impacted by the farmer’s management practices. Results were shared with farmers and used to design training programs that will help local farmers better manage these structures and their crops over the long-term.

Speakers

Lori Hoagland

Purdue Univ - West Lafayette, IN

Co-authors

Dennis Macedo

University of Saint Augustine

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Arequipa Nexus Institute

12:15pm CDT

VCM 3 - Timing of Seeding is an Effective Ecological Weed Control Strategy for Edamame: Preliminary Results from a Greenhouse Study

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT

Empire AB

Edamame [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is a specialty crop with untapped potential in the Midwest. Adoption of edamame in the Midwest has potential due to similarities in production practices to grain soybean and the potential for higher return per acre. Additionally, USA is experiencing expanding market opportunities and rising consumer interest in locally grown edamame. Despite these benefits, limited research exists on suitable edamame varieties for this region, and effective weed control remains crucial for Midwest edamame adoption. Our research aimed to identify currently available varieties of edamame with rapid germination response, with and without weed competition. Six readily available varieties of edamame (Chiba green, Sayamusume, BeSweet 292, Midori Giant, Tohya, and Karikachi) were grown with and without velvet leaf (Abutilon theophrasti Medik.) competition. Weed seeds were planted using three timing treatments: two weeks before edamame planting (PRE), simultaneously with edamame (SIM), and two weeks after edamame planting (POST). Two control treatments without weeds (‘Control 1’ and ‘Control 2’) were also incorporated. This study was designed as an RCBD split-plot design with three replications, with variety as the main plot and timing of weed competition as the split-plot under greenhouse conditions. Edamame emergence rate, plant height, LA (leaf area), and dry weight for both edamame and weed were measured. At 5 and 9 DAS (days after seeding), edamame emergence was significantly higher without weed competition (71.76% and 95.37% in ‘Control 2’ treatment) compared to when weeds had a head start (46.53% and 72.69% in ‘PRE’ treatment). At 9 DAS, edamame emergence was significantly higher when edamame had a head start (93.06% in ‘POST’ treatment) compared to when weeds emerged first (72.69% in ‘PRE’ treatment). In terms of emergence rate, Karikachi showed superiority (78.89%) compared to Midori Giant (39.17%) at 5 DAS, but there was no difference among varieties at 9 DAS. Timing of weed planting affected edamame height, LA, and edamame dry weight. Edamame height and dry weight were reduced by 11.67% and 5.71 % by weed competition when weeds were planted two weeks earlier than edamame. Edamame competition significantly reduced weed dry weight by 93.94% when weeds were planted two weeks later and by 84.85% when planted the same day, compared to weeds established two weeks before edamame. Weed competition reduced edamame LA by 29.189 cm² when weeds were planted simultaneously with edamame compared to two weeks after edamame planting (241.582 cm² in ‘SIM’ vs 270.771 cm² in ‘POST’).

Speakers

MD MOYEED HASAN TALUKDER

Purdue University

Co-authors

Moriah Bilenky

Purdue University

Friday August 1, 2025 12:15pm - 1:00pm CDT
Empire AB

Poster, Vegetable Crops Management 3

Subject Vegetable Crops Management
Poster # csv
Funding Source Bilenky Sustainable Horticulture Lab