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Special Report 1053
June 2004
Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center
2003 Annual Report
Oregon State
For additional copies of this publication, write
Clint Jacks, Superintendent
Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center
850 N.W. Dogwood Lane
Madras, OR 97741
Agricultural Experiment Station
Oregon State University
Special Report 1053
June2004
Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center
2003 Annual Report
INTRODUCTION
Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center's (COARC) faculty and staff are pleased to
present this summary of research activities conducted during 2003. Our research activities are in
large part based on mutually identified high priority areas and opportunities facing agriculture. It
is with special thanks that we acknowledge the many growers, industry personnel, and others
who have assisted and helped focus our efforts.
The agricultural industry in central Oregon faces a changing question of what to grow, as
old standby crops leave the area because of decreasing demand, low prices, and crops that are
"diseased out". Our goal is to shift more resources toward addressing the increasingly complex
problems associated with potential new crops for the area.
Central Oregon's agriculture has a unique mix of specialty crops, many of which are not
supported by commodity organizations nor are the focus of grants. Obtaining support for this
unique mix and screening potential new crops requires innovative grant writing and searching for
new funding sources.
Our research report acknowledges our cooperators through authorship. We extend special
thanks to growers who have been invaluable in collaborating with on- and off-station research.
Growers generously supply land and resources and tolerate the inconvenience caused by
research. Their efforts are deeply appreciated. In addition, the agricultural industry has been
responsive to requests for support and assistance and has freely shared its observations and
resources.
Many of our research activities are joint projects with other researchers at various branch
stations, campus departments, or at other research institutions. It is with this pool of
collaboration and partnerships that we have conducted research, which is much greater than just
the sum of our own resources.
For those who have access to the internet, we invite you to view our home page at
http://www.oregonstate.edu/dept/coarc/. You will find this publication on the COARC web site
along with summaries of past research projects and other information. We welcome any
comments you might offer on how we can better provide information to you.
Finally, I thank all the faculty and staff, including our seasonal employees, for their dedication
and efforts. At a time when commitment and productivity of public employees are questioned,
government money is declining, and regulations are increasing, we can be proud of the
dedication and accomplishments of our faculty and staff.
Clint Jacks
Superintendent
2003 Station Faculty and Staff
Dr. Fred Crowe, Associate Professor of
Botany and Plant Pathology (75 percent
research and 25 percent extension)
Rhonda Simmons, Research Assistant
Mylen Bohle, Associate Professor, Crook
County Extension (75 percent extension and 25
percent research)
Pat Foltz, Farm Supervisor, Madras and
Powell Butte
Steve James, Senior Research Assistant (75
percent research and 25 percent extension)
Gerald Baker, Bio Technician, Powell
Butte
Marvin Butler, Associate Professor, Jefferson
County Extension (75 percent extension and 25
percent research)
Robert Crocker, Bio Technician, Madras
Leta Morton, Office Specialist II
Nita Campbell, Student Technician
Jessica Anderson, Student Technician
Brandi Jorgensen, Student Technician
Caroline Weber, Student Technician
Clint Jacks, Superintendent
Claudia Campbell, Research Assistant
Lora Turner, Research Technician,
Powell Butte
List of Authors and Contributors
Ballerstadt, Peter
Former Extension, Forage Specialist, Crop and Soil Science Dept., Oregon State
University, Corvallis, Oregon
Barber, Rex
Grower Cooperation, Lower Bridge Area of Deschutes County
Bassinette, John
Department of Crop and Soil Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Bohie, Mylen
Associate Professor, Crook County Extension, Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Prineville, Oregon, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Burr, Ron
Agri Research, Inc., Sublimity, Oregon
Butler, Marvin
Professor of Crop Science, Jefferson County Extension, Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Madras, Oregon; Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Campbell, Claudia
Faculty Research Assistant, Oregon State University; Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Madras, Oregon
Carroll, Jim
Fieldman, CHS, Madras, Oregon
Chariton, Brian
Senior Research Assistant, Klamath Falls Experiment Station, Oregon State University
Crocker, Robert
Bio-Tech II, Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon, Oregon
State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Crowe, Fred
Professor of Botany and Plant Pathology, Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center,
Madras; Oregon, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Derie, Mike
Washington State University Mt. Vernon Research and Extension Unit
duToit, Lindsey
Vegetable pathologist and extension specialist
Washington State University Mt. Vernon Research and Extension Unit
H &T Farms
Grower Cooperator, Culver, Oregon
Hake, Ted
Fieldman, Round Butte Seed, Culver, Oregon
Holliday, Brad
Central Oregon Seed, Inc., Madras, Oregon
James, Steven
Faculty Senior Research Assistant, Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center,
Madras, Oregon; Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
K & S Farms
Grower Cooperator, Madras, Oregon
Klauzer, Jim
Clearwater Supply, Ontario, Oregon
Macy Farms
Grower Cooperative, Culver, Oregon
On, John
Syngenta
Roseberg, Rich
Assistant of Associate Professor at Klamath Falls Experiment Station, Kiamath Falls,
Oregon; Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Simmons, Rhonda
Faculty Research Assistant, Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras,
Oregon; Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Smith, Jim
Research Assistant, Kiamath Falls Experiment Station, Klamath Falls, Oregon; Oregon
State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Talkington, Mike
Sun Seeds, bluster, California
Weber, Caroline
Student Technician, Central Oregon Agriculutural Research Center, Madras, Oregon;
Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon
Weber, Mike
Central Oregon Seed, Inc., Madras, Oregon
Zarnstorff, Mark
National Crop Insurance Service, Overland Park, Kansas
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Weather Information: 2003 Water Year, Powell Butte, Oregon
Weather Information: 2003 Water Year, Madras, Oregon
I.
13
30
32
36
40
44
63
65
67
86
98
122
134
138
139
146
148
Disease Detection Procedures
Evaluation of Fungicides for Control of Powdery Mildew in Kentucky Bluegrass Seed
Production in Central Oregon, 2003
V.
11
Systems for Producing Agricultural Crops
Evaluation of Apogee® and Palisade® on 'Stephens' Wheat, 2003
Drip Irrigation on Commercial Seed Carrots and Onions in Central Oregon, 2003
Evaluation of Palisade® on Kentucky and Rough Bluegrass, 2003
Jefferson County Smoke Management Piball Observations, 2003
IV.
1
Plant Improvement
Peppermint Variety Trial, Central Oregon, 1999-2003
Triticale Cereal Testing Trial, Central Oregon 2003
The Influence of Nitrogen Application on Carrot Seed Yield
Fall Dormancy Effect on Three-cut First-year Alfalfa Quality and Yield
Fall Dormancy Effect on Three -cut Alfalfa Production
Fall Dormancy Effect on Four-cut First-year Alfalfa Quality and Yield
Fall Dormancy Effect on Four-cut Alfalfa Production
Occurance and Attempts to Control Clover and Winter Grain Mites in Central
Oregon Grass Pasture and Hay Field
III.
iii
Safe and Effective Management of Pests
Evaluation of the Potential for Systemic Infection of Carrot Seed Crops by s
Xanthornona campestris pv. carotae
Lygus Control on Seed Carrots in Central Oregon, 2003
Bacterial Blight of Carrot Seed Crops: Identification of Sources of Inoculum
Evaluation of Herbicides for Effect on Seed Set in Kentucky Bluegrass and Rough
Bluegrass Seed Production, 2002-2003
Peformance of Postemergence Herbicides on Eight Native Grass Species Grown
for Seed in Central Oregon, 2000-2002
Seedpiece and Soil Treatments to Reduce Powdery Scab Infection on Potatoes
Impact of Seedborne Potato Virus Y on Yield of Russet Norkotah Potatoes
II.
ii
150
Other
Evaluation of Simulated Hail Damage to Peppermint in Central Oregon, 2003
153
WEATHER INFORMATION: 2003 WATER YEAR, POWELL BUTFE, OREGON (SOURCE: AGRIMET)
AIR TEMPERATURE (°F)
Avg. maximum
Avg. minimum
Mean
AIR TEMP (no. of days)
Max. 90°F or above
Max. 32°F or below
Min.32°Forbelow
Miii. 0°F or below
SOIL TEMP (°F at 4 in.)
Avg. maximum
Avg. minimum
SOIL TEMP (°F at 8 in.)
Avg. maximum
Avg. minimum
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
54
54
52
57
71
72
23
33
37
59
42
40
35
40
34
43
42
50
49
60
79
56
65
26
57
34
65
18
54
25
44
15
69
65
45
59
0
0
0
7
0
1
23
0
10
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
14
0
0
0
21
0
1
1
0
0
17
0
0
3
1
0
4
23
0
0
23
0
0
17
53
45
36
42
36
45
36
44
46
49
59
62
66
66
64
35
36
40
46
56
59
61
55
45
39
42
37
44
37
44
36
45
36
49
58
61
41
41
46
56
66
59
66
62
64
56
0.01
0.00
0.04
0.05
0.03
0.02
0.04
0.06
0.00
0.00
0.02
0.01
0.11
0.07
0.03
0.03
0.06
0.09
0.11
0.18
0.30
0.33
0.25
0.20
1
38
54
0
3
0
PRECIPITATION (in.)
Monthly total
EVAPORATION (in.)
Dailyavg.
WIND SPEED (mph)
Daily avg.
SOLAR RADIATION (langley)
Dailyavg.
HUMIDITY (% relative humidity)
Daily avg.
.
3.2
4.7
5.5
4.9
4.0
6.3
5.2
4.3
4.3
3.8
3.5
3.5
323
188
94
115
241
262
335
513
707
700
562
460
62
58
77
79
70
63
67
65
52
46
56
52
Last day before
July 15
First day after
July 15
32°F or
June24
28°F or
May 19
May 19
Sept 13
Oct. 10
Oct. 10
GROWING SEASON
Total number of days
between temp. mins.
Air temp mm.
below
below
24°F or below
11
81
144
144
WEATHER INFORMATION: 2003 WATER YEAR, MADRAS, OREGON (SOURCE: AGRIMET)
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
AIR TEMPERATURE (°F)
Avg. maximum
56
55
54
55
74
82
76
78
21
27
28
59
35
68
19
47
24
55
Avg. minimum
37
40
51
58
63
Mean temp.
45
19
36
39
36
45
44
53
63
72
68
50
62
0
0
0
0
0
0
12
0
0
0
5
0
0
0
17
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
3
12
0
0
0
21
0
0
0
15
0
0
4
21
0
48
39
45
38
47
37
45
36
49
49
62
43
49
66
58
72
62
71
38
66
70
58
48
42
45
49
44
65
38
48
39
61
40
46
39
46
46
49
59
71
63
70
66
68
59
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.06
0.04
0.02
0.04
0.03
0.0
0.0
0.02
0.02
0.10
0.05
0.02
0.02
0.05
0.11
0.13
0.18
0.30
0.36
0.26
0.20
3.6
4.8
6.6
4.8
4.6
7.9
5.6
4.6
4.6
4.1
3.8
4.0
314
174
75
83
253
298
414
491
645
693
531
439
60
66
81
86
73
63
67
61
48
37
46
48
AIR TEMP (no. of days)
Max. 90°F or above
Max. 32°F or below
Min.32°Forbelow
Mm. 0°F or below
SOIL TEMP (°F at 4 in.)
Avg. maximum
Avg. minimum
SOIL TEMP (°F at 8 in.)
Avg. maximum
Avg. minimum
PRECIPITATION (in.)
Monthly total
EVAPORATION (in.)
Dailyavg.
WIND SPEED (mph)
Daily avg.
0
13
0
57
41
58
3
13
0
5
0
0
0
0
SOLAR RADIATION (langley)
Daily avg.
HUMIDITY (% relative humidity)
Daily avg.
Total number of days
between temp. mins.
Last day before
First day after
July 15
July 15
32°F or below
May 19
Oct. 10
144
28°F or below
May18
Oct.31
166
24°F or below
May 18
Oct. 31
166
GROWING SEASON
Air temp mm.
111
Evaluation of the Potential for Systemic Infection of Carrot Seed Crops by Xanthomonas
campestris pv. carotae
Fred Crowe and Rhonda Simmons
Introduction
Bacterial blight of carrot, caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae (Xcc), is commonly
found in carrot seed production fields in Washington and Oregon and in commercial fields in
California. Oregon and Washington produce most of the world's carrot seed, on about 3,000
acres per state, with much of this seed used in California.
Seed lots from Washington and Oregon are commonly infested with Xcc, incurring additional
expenses to growers and seed companies in the form of careful seed testing, selection and
handling, and seed treatment. Further, there is a lingering question whether traces of Xcc might
escape seed treatment (or be carried with seed containers and equipment) and serve as primary
inoculum for bacterial blight outbreaks in commercial and seed fields, in spite of no apparent
recovery of Xcc from treated seed lots. As we pointed out after the 2002 season, a similar
question applies to steckling carrots being brought into seed areas from commercial areas i.e.,
steckling carrots may be carriers of Xcc.
The overall objective of our research is to find methods to lower seed-borne levels of Xcc and
other pathogens in carrot seed leaving seed production regions, but we also wish to lower
bacterial blight incidence in seed fields. This proposal addressed the possibility that Xcc may
move systemically within carrot plants, and ultimately within seed. Movement of Xcc in the
xylem could provide access to stems, leaves, and umbels, and potentially lead to infection of
some developing seed — even a few such seeds could be important if they are less likely to be
impacted by seed treatments. Systemic infection by Xcc may be more difficult to control than
localized infections, as there are no systemic bactericides currently available for control of
bacterial blight.
Preliminary data in 2002 suggested that Xcc could become systemic, could move within the
plant, and multiply in plants (Crowe and Bafus 2003). This preliminary data suggested
movement might occur both up and down within the plant; if so, then movement might occurs
more than simply in xylem. In 2003, we hoped to verify and extend these preliminary findings,
using more precise tools that might be good enough to verify whether seed could become
infected internally.
Literature Review
The epidemiology of Xcc in carrot seed fields is poorly understood. Lesions appear on stems,
petioles, nodes, leaves, umbels, and flowers, and bacterial ooze may form in these lesions.
Potential sources of inoculum include seed, debris of previous carrot crops, neighboring infected
carrot crops or other Umbelliferous hosts (weeds/crops) of Xcc, irrigation water, equipment
1
moved from field to field, and insects (including pollinators such as bees and flies, as well as
lygus bugs and other insect pests). Once established in a field, Xcc theoretically may be
dispersed within the field by splashing and formation of aerosol droplets from rain or sprinkler
irrigation, by insects, and by equipment such as rolling wheel lines or tractors. However, while
survey research conducted by L. Du Toit, F. Crowe and others in 2001-2003 indicated that Xcc
increased on foliage during the season, this survey also suggested that increase of Xcc in carrot
seed fields was comparable for both furrow- and sprinkler-irrigated crops, was somewhat lower
on drip-irrigated crops, and that bees were not found to carry measurable Xcc. Thus, the mode
of spread within fields remains unclear. Xcc was found on some seed used to plant seed fields,
was found in some transplanted steckling, and may be found in the dust blowing from combines,
and at least some Xcc may blow onto nearby newly planted seed fields where new plantings are
close to old plantings.
Seed surface infestation probably occurs throughout seed development in the umbel and during
harvest operations. Deeper seed coat infestation or true infection of living seed tissues (if this
occurs) likely would occur earlier in seed development, perhaps while the immature seed still has
living connections to the mother plant or via pollen or nectar. Xanthomonas campestris pv.
vesicatoria has been demonstrated to infect pepper plants via dead flower parts, resulting in
contamination of seeds in the absence of any external symptoms (Bashan and Okun 1986). Hot
water treatments are superior to surface disinfestations by chorine in eradication of seed borne
Xcc (Pscheidt and Ocamb 2001). Because chlorine bleach does not penetrate easily into plant
tissues, the question remains just how deeply embedded bacteria might be into or beneath the
carrot seed surface.
It is also possible Xcc may move systemically through carrot plants without producing internal
symptoms of infection. Systemic movement in plants is well documented for several pathovars
ofX campestris, including X campestris pv. campestris (black rot of cabbage) (Cook et al.
1952) and X campestris pv. phaseoli (common blight of bean) (Weller and Saettler 1980).
However, the mechanisms of systemic movement of bacteria through plants and into seed
remains unclear. Note our preliminary report from 2002 that suggested both upward and
downward movement (Crowe and Baths 2003). Pfleger et a!. (1974) examined the potential for
systemic movement of Xcc in carrots, but their results were inconclusive. Vascular tissues in the
roots were colonized by Xcc when plants were inoculated by immersing the roots in an aerated
suspension of Xcc for 48 hours. In several of these plants the vascular tissue rotted severely and
Xcc was recovered from leaves that developed after inoculation. However, the authors did not
consider this as adequate demonstration of systemic movement of Xcc. Our own preliminary
data from 2002 strongly suggested that Xcc did sometimes move within carrots when roots were
wound inoculated, or if Xcc was applied to foliage, and that Xcc multiplied during or after
movement (Crowe and Bafus 2003). Thus, we both duplicated and extended the studies by
Pfleger, et al (1974), but (as they did) wish for stronger evidence of systemic movement and
reproduction as common and natural phenomenon.
Research Objectives
1.
Verify whether Xcc may move systemically and reproduce within carrot
plants.
2
2.
Determine the location of Xcc within plant tissues, including roots, foliage,
flower parts and seed.
Methods —Lab Studies
Our proposal depended on using strains of Xcc that had been transformed (genetically
engineered) to glow green (or some other color) when illuminated by fluorescence microscopy.
Such a tool would allow direct visualization of Xcc in fresh carrot tissues, and possibly in/on
seed. Such transformation typically has been relatively easy and straightforward for most
bacteria and other organisms. The transformation involves moving genes for expression of green
fluorescing protein (GFP), perhaps including genes that promote expression of the GFP, from
donor bacteria (typically Escherichia coli) to the target organism by one of several means, either
by electroporation or by conjugation mating. Electroporation temporarily alters the cell
membranes enough to allow DNA from the E. coli vector to be inserted into the target strain.
Mating involves natural transfer of DNA from similar or even different bacteria when such
bacteria form mating connections and exchange DNA (Sambrook and Russell 2001). In either
case, the stability of the transformed bacterium must be confirmed with respect to the inserted
genes — e.g., with electroporation, the genes can be lost easily. Similarly, the original character
of the strain must be reassessed — e.g., with conjugation, DNA might insert anywhere into the
bacterial chromosome and cause unwanted mutations. Once the desired type and stability have
been determined, the GFP-Xcc could be used as suggested above.
Five Xcc strains were obtained from Lindsey Du Toit of Washington State University. They
were initially checked for purity on YDC media and then stored at —80°C.
All vectors were both received and maintained in the bacterium E. coli. These are shown in
Table 1.
Table 1. Vectors used in transformation experiments.
Vector name
GFP type
&ntibiotic resistance
kpR, GmR
AGR2
)sRed
&pR,
AGC
GmR
)AGY
iellowFP
)AGY4O8
GFPuv
)UT mini-Tn5gfj
GFPmut2
)FP6301
GFPuv
FP6 158
)sRed
BurkPromoter+TIR+
Source
Fim Denny, UGA4
F im Denny, UGA'°
fim Denny, UGA'°
F im Denny, UGA'°
[im Denny, UGA'°
vlahaffee
vlahaffee
Electrocompetent cells of five Xcc strains were prepared for initial transformation experiments.
Cells were grown overnight in SOB medium then transferred to fresh medium, grown until an
optical density of 0.8 (A590nm), then centrifuged. The pellet was resuspended in 10 percent
glycerol, aliquoted, then snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -80°C. Electroporation (4k
resistance and 330uF capacitance) was conducted by mixing 5-2Oug of vector DNA with 20 ul of
3
electrocompetent cells. After electroporation, cells were transferred to Soc medium, shaken
(200pnn) for 90 mm, and then plated onto selective LB agar (Sambrook and Russell 2001).
In a follow-up study, electroporation also was attempted with all five Xcc strains with five
vectors that contained various variants of the GFP protein all within a miniTn5 transposon that
had been used with other Xanthomonas strains (other pathovars than carotae).
conjugation matings were attempted to transfer the GFP vectors into Xcc strains (Sambrook and
Russell 2001).
Methods
Field Studies
The lab studies above were to be followed by extensive greenhouse tracking of GFP-Xcc in
carrots grown in the greenhouse. Because the development of GFP-Xcc became delayed, we
attempted to gather at least some field data that might relate to the question of systemic activity
of Xcc. In retrospect, it would have been better to initiate such field studies earlier in the season.
Two carrot seed fields that were part of our broad field survey were selected based on our having
detected Xcc from foliage on about 40-50 percent of the plants in April and June of 2003. Both
fields had been planted with true seed from which no Xcc had been recovered. At the next fieldsampling period (mid-August 2003), we collected roots along with foliage from 20 female plants
from each field. At this time of year, plants were fully pollinated and seed was developing.
Plant sampling is described in the companion report, but was essentially random. Hands, gloves,
and tools were sterilized before handling each sampled plant, both in field and lab. Roots were
large, frequently cracked, with some decay present in many of them. Foliage was processed and
washed as per our companion field survey (see companion report by L. Du Toit, F. crowe, and
others), and roots were processed as per our report from the 2002 season (crowe and Bafus
2003) — the surface was trimmed away from the roots, removing most decay and cracked areas,
and roots were surface sterilized for 5 mm in 0.5 percent NaOcl. Roots were then chopped and
ground, and a sample was collected for dry weight determination and another sample was
assayed for Xcc as per foliage, using xcs medium, to determine colony-forming units (CFU)
per g dry weight of trimmed root.
Results — Lab Studies
Electroporation: No Xcc:GFP transformants were ever observed in initial and repeated
experiments using vectors pFP63O1 and pFP6 158, while controls using pUcl9 worked. This
indicated that the strains were electrocompetent but that transformation with GFP vectors was at
a very low frequency or that these particular constructs were not expressed in the Xcc strains.
Follow-up (and repeated) electroporation studies were not successful since we were unable to
differentiate Xcc from the E.coli donor strains using various antibiotics including Gentamycin,
Tetracyclin, Tobramycin, Amikacin, Streptomycin, Spectinomycin, Kanamycin, and
Vancomycin, or YDC or xcs media. xcs is highly selective for Xcc (Weller and Saettler
1980), but unfortunately E. coli seemed to grow on it equally well.
4
In repeated conjugation mating experiments, there was still no success in transforming any Xcc
strains.
Biparental matings were then attempted with these five vectors since they are promotorless and
not expressed in the E. coli host. After mating, cultures were placed on YDC or XCS to help
select for Xcc stains expressing the GFP protein. Al! fluorescent colonies selected were
subsequently identified as E. coli. No Xcc strains were transformed.
We concluded that we could not pursue the transformation of Xcc strains further until we had
suitable counter-selection (i.e., selective medium or spontaneous antibiotic resistant mutant of an
Xcc strain). Thus, we also screened for antibiotic resistant strains, using various concentrations
of rifampicin in both YDC and XCS media, similar to that conducted by Weller and Saettler
(1980). No resistant isolates were recovered after repeated attempts.
No further work was conducted, and we could not proceed with our primary investigations of
visualizing Xcc in carrot tissues. Except we did, however, inject GFP-transformed bacteria of
other types into carrot tissues and found that there were no complications of autoflourescence of
carrot tissues under the microscope at the wavelengths used. Such autoflourescence can be a
substantial problem with some plant tissues if fluorescing bacteria are obscured.
Results —Field Studies
Results for the mid-August assay from foliage and roots for two seed carrot fields in central
Oregon is shown in Tables 2a and 2b.
For Field A (Table 2a), June foliage sampling yielded Xcc from 6 of 20 plants (not shown),
whereas mid-August sampling yielded Xcc from 18 of 20 plants. Six of these plants at midAugust yielded abundant Xcc from root tissues. For 5 plants (nos. 4, 7, 16, 17, 20), there were
corresponding recoveries of Xcc from foliage and roots. For one plant (no. 13), Xcc was
recovered from the root only. For twelve plants, Xcc was recovered only from foliage. Two
plants were found free of Xcc.
For Field B (Table 2b), June foliage sampling yielded Xcc from 7 of 20 plants (not shown),
whereas mid-August sampling yielded Xcc from 14 of 20 plants. Four of these plants at midAugust yielded abundant Xcc from root tissues. For these four plants (nos. 12, 16, 18, 20), there
were corresponding recoveries from foliage and roots. No plants were found in which Xcc was
recovered from roots only. Xcc was recovered only from foliage of 10 plants. Xcc was not
recovered at all from six plants.
There was no direct relationship between the CFU from foliage and root recovery. Additionally,
as emphasized in our survey report, in 2003 there were no measurable bacterial blight symptoms
on surveyed plants, including those listed in Table 2.
5
Discussion
Clearly, things did not proceed smoothly in the lab as we anticipated. No stable transformed
isolates of Xcc were derived that fluoresced either green or red, and no rifampicin-antibiotic
resistant isolates were developed either. It was unusual and frustrating to encounter these
difficulties. We are not sure how to proceed further in developing a fluorescing isolate of Xcc.
We had hoped to obtain stable fluorescing isolates by about April, and have them tested for
competent to incite bacterial blight of carrots by the end of May. Attempts at both
transformation and finding antibiotic resistant isolates continued well into October.
It is interesting to note our failure here in relation to some earlier work, previously only
presented as a minor report (Parks and Crowe 1999). The central Oregon carrot industry became
concerned in the late 1990's that copper resistance might be present in Xcc populations,
following 20 years of use of copper pesticides to ameliorate bacterial blight in central Oregon
carrot fields. (Copper applications were never particularly successful on carrot bacterial blight
even in early years, so it wasn't necessarily easy to discern the reasons for control failures.)
Following the procedure of Scheck et al. (1996) who had found abundant copper tolerance in
Psuedomonas syringe in ornamental nurseries in Oregon, we recovered many isolates of Xcc
from central Oregon carrot fields and tested them for such tolerance. The tests included Xcc
isolates from regions with no history of copper application. We found no evidence for copper
tolerance or resistance in over 40 randomly selected isolates. These and our results above make
us wonder whether Xcc is less likely to form stable mutants than many other bacteria?
Our limited field studies should not be over-interpreted. We would rather have done root
sampling throughout the year, and before roots were so mature as they were in August to avoid
issues of whether bacteria recovered were strictly from sound, internal tissues. Nevertheless,
taken together, our 2002 and 2003 data do provide food for thought. In 2002, inoculation of Xcc
onto foliage or roots (either surface contact or via wounding) resulted in high populations of Xcc
recovered from root tissue some months later for some but not all roots. The simplest
explanation of our limited 2003 field data is that something similar occurred — i.e., that Xcc
moved either from naturally infestedlinfected foliage into roots, or perhaps that Xcc washed from
foliage onto crown or upper roots and entered roots in this manner. In any case, the CFU/g dry
tissue found in roots in both 2002 and 2003 strongly suggest reproduction by Xcc in root tissue,
without symptom development. The single plant from which Xcc was recovered from roots but
not foliage suggests that these Xcc did not arise from foliage.
Our 2002 and 2003 field data, when combined with our companion survey findings of Xcc
recovery from some strecklings entering seed fields from source fields in desert California,
suggest at least that roots can be substantial carriers of Xcc over long distances. Because our
2002 study also found that Xcc eventually could be recovered from the foliage on some rootinoculated plants, it may be reasonably assumed that such steckling-sourced bacteria reach the
foliage and become available for general field transmission. While eradication of Xcc from true
seed seems routine, movement of Xcc with stecklings could be an even more substantial and
untreatable problem than true seed — except that increase in Xcc foliar populations seems delayed
6
in steckling fields in the Pacific Northwest in comparison to seed-to-seed fields (see companion
report by L. Du Toit, F. Crowe, and others).
Our 2002 and 2003 data, taken together with the companion survey data, suggest that Xcc
commonly persist in and on carrot tissues without causing damage under conditions that are
generally cool in seed production regions.
We have provided no information about internal seed infection by Xcc. No further work to
verify systemic movement of Xcc is proposed at this time, but we may re-propose such work in
the future.
Literature Cited
Bashan, Y., and Y. Okun. 1986. Internal and external infections of fruits and seeds of peppers
by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria. Can. J. Bot. 64:2865-2871.
Cook, A.A., R.H, Larson, and J.C. Walker. 1952. Relation of the black rot pathogen to cabbage
seed. Phytopathology 88:416-421.
Crowe, F., and R. Bafus. 2003. Evaluation of the potential for systemic infection of carrot seed
crops byXanthomonas campestris pv. carotae. Progr. Rep. to the California Fresh Carrot
Advisory Board, 7 pages.
Matthysse, A.G, S. Stretton, C. Dandie, N.C. McClure, and A.E. Goodman. 1996. Construction
of GFP vectors for use in Gram-negative bacteria other than Escherichia coli. FEMS
Microbiology Letters 145:87-94.
Parks, R., and F. Crowe. 1999. Sensitivity of Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae to copper
pesticides in central Oregon carrot seed fields. Final Rep. to the Oregon State Univ. Integrated
Plant Protection Cent., 4 pages.
Pfleger, F.L., G.E. Harman, and G.A. Marx. 1974. Bacterial blight of carrots: Interaction of
temperature, light and inoculation procedures on disease development of various carrot varieties.
Phytopathology 64:746-749.
Pscheidt, J.W., and C.M. Ocamb. 2001. Pacific Northwest Disease Management Handbook.
Oregon State Univ., Washington State Univ., and Univ. of Idaho.
Sambrook, J., and D.W. Russell. 2001. Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual. Third ed.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, NY.
Scheck, H.J., J.W. Pscheidt, and L.W. Moore. 1996. Copper and streptomycin resistance in
strains of Psuedomonas syringe from Pacific Northwest nurseries. Plant Disease 80:1034-1039.
Suarez, A, A. GUttler, M. Strätz, L.H. Staendner, K.N. Timmis, and C.A. Guzmán.. 1997. Green
fluorescent protein-based reporter systems for genetic analysis of bacteria including monocopy
applications. Gene 196:69-74.
7
Weller. D.M., and A.W. Saettler. 1980. Evaluation of seed borne Xanthomonas phaseoli and X
phaseoli var.fuscans as primary inocula in bean blights. Phytopathology 70:148-152.
Williford, R.E., and N.W. Schaad. 1984. Agar medium for selective isolation of Xanthomonas
campestris pv. carotae from carrot seeds. Phytopathology 74:1142 (Abstract).
8
Table 2a. Recovery of Xcc from foliage and roots from Field A of two seed fields in central
Oregon, mid-August 2003.
Field A
Foliage
Plant # CFU/g dry wt
1
7.4x107
8.1
2
6
7
9.5x10ô
7.5x106
2.3x108
7.4x106
1.6x109
8
0
9
8.3xlOb
3
4
5
0
0
7.0
6.9
8.4
6.9
9.2
8.3
0
0
1.9x106
2.4x107
6.3
0
0
0
0
6.9
8.1
10
11
Roots
Foliage
Roots
Log{CFU/g dry wtj CFU/g dry wt Log[CFU/g dry wt
7.9
0
7.4
12
7.8
0
0
0
16
17
18
19
3.8x107
8.lx 106
6.9x
6.5x106
20
6.3 x
1.1x107
7.6
6.9
7.8
6.8
8.8
2.Ox 106
7.0
6.3
0
0
6.0 x 106
9
6.8
Table 2b. Recovery of Xcc from foliage and roots from Field B of two seed fields in central
Oregon, mid-August 2003.
Field B
Foliage
Plant # CFU/g dry wt
1
0
2
17.4x i07
3
0
Roots
Foliage
Roots
Log[CFU/g dry wt] CFU/g dry wt Log[CFU/g dry wt
0
0
0
7.9
4
5
6
7
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
9
0
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
1.4x
7.3x
20
1.Ox 106
8.9x 106
1.4x
1.2x
9.3x106
8.Ox
3.6x 106
8.9
7.9
6.9
7.1
7.1
7.0
5.9
6.6
8.8
8.1
0
0
0
1.Ox 106
6.0
0
2.3x
0
5.4x
10
7.4
Lygus Control on Seed Carrots in Central Oregon, 2003
Marvin Butler, Ted Hake, Mike Talkington, Rex Barber, and Claudia Campbell
Abstract
An evaluation of Dibrom® was conducted on seed carrots in central Oregon for lygus control just
prior to bees being brought into the field for pollination. There were no significant differences
between treatments in the number of lygus collected by sweep net. This may have been due to
the plots being too small to account for lygus movement. No phytotoxicity due to the treatments
was observed on the crop.
Introduction
Carrot seed production is important to sustained economic viability of the agricultural
community in central Oregon. Lygus is considered the major insect pest on carrots grown for
seed in this area. Orthene is available after bees are removed to clean up lygus populations, but
additional materials are needed to control lygus earlier in the season. Because lygus resistance to
pyrethroid insecticides is a concern, an insecticide of alternate chemistry to Capture® is needed
to use in rotation.
Methods and Materials
The objective of this research was to evaluate Dibrom at 0.75 pt/acre, 1.5 pt/acre and 3.0 pt/acre
for lygus control, the effect on beneficial insects, and crop phytotoxicity. Treatments were
applied June 26, 2003 with a C02-pressurized, hand-held, boom sprayer at 40 psi and 20 gallacre
water. Non-ionic surfactant was added to the treatments at lpt/100 gal. Plots 20 ft by 50 ft were
replicated three times in a randomized complete block design. Each replication included four
rows of females and two male rows with a blank row on each side. Treatments were evaluated
for female lygus, male lygus, big-eyed bugs, and ladybird beetles 1 day after treatment (DAT)
and 4 DAT using a sweep net at a rate of five sweeps per plot. Crop phytotoxicity was evaluated
by visual observation on July 3.
Results and Discussion
The numbers of lygus and beneficial insects evaluated were low in all the plots (Table 1), with
no significant differences between treatments. No phytotoxicity to the carrot seed crop was
observed from any of the treatments. The remainder of the field surrounding the plots was treated
commercially on the same day the treatments were made. The plot size was probably not
adequate to account for insect movement. This could explain the overall low number of insects
and lack of difference in the number of insects between the treated and untreated plots.
11
Table 1. The average nu mbe r of iy gus and predators fou nd per treatment 1 DAT and 4 DAT following Dibrom application to seed carrots in
central Oregon, 2003.
Beneficial predators
Lygus
Big-eyed bug
Ladybird beetle
Female2
Male'
Treatment
4 DAT
1 DAT
4 DAT
1 DAT
4 DAT
1 DAT
4 DAT
Rate/acre
1 DAT
0
0
0
0.75 Pt
Dibrom
1
0
0
0
0
Dibrom
0
1
'Male rows of hybrid carrots.
2Female rows of hybrid carrots.
3Based on five sweeps with sweep net per plot.
4Mean separation with LSD P 0.05.
12
0
0
0
NS
NS
1
0
NS
NS
0
Bacterial Blight of Carrot Seed Crops: Identification of Sources of Inoculum
Lindsey duToit, Fred Crowe, Mike Derie, and Rhonda Simmons
Introduction
Carrot seed crops in central Washington and central Oregon produce up to 75 percent of the
United States' carrot seed (Thomas et al. 1997) on 2,000 to 3,000 acres per state (Pelter 2001).
As a seedborne disease, bacterial blight is a concern to the carrot seed industry in the Pacific
Northwest (PNW) and to carrot growers in many regions of the United States and the world.
Infection can occur on foliage, stems, umbels, and seed of carrot or carrot seed crops. Leaf
symptoms start as small, irregular, chiorotic areas, and expand to water-soaked lesions that may
become a greasy green-black or tan color as they dry, and are surrounded by an irregular yellow
halo. Dark brown, linear lesions form on stems and petioles, and a gummy bacterial exudate may
develop. If flowers on a seed plant are infected early in development, entire umbels may be
blighted. Later umbel infection results in partial blighting. Seed yield (quality and quantity) may
be affected, and seed may be infected internally or contaminated on the seed surface. Infection of
seed by X campestris pv. carotae may also reduce germination, resulting in losses to seed
growers if germination is <85 percent. Seed companies, in turn, face expenses associated with
treating infected seed lots, and seed lots may be rejected from export markets.
Cultivated carrot is the only known host of X campestris pv. carotae. Being seedborne, the
pathogen can survive on/in carrot seed and spreads through the movement of infested or infected
seed. The bacterium persists in infested carrot residues in the soil for up to a year. Bacteria are
dispersed by splashing water and insects. The presence of water is necessary for infection to
occur, with the pathogen reproducing most rapidly under warm (77—86°F) and wet conditions.
Symptoms appear within 10 to 12 days of inoculation, and the disease develops rapidly under
warm and wet conditions. Planting healthy seed or treated seed is an important first step in
management of bacterial blight. Other management recommendations include a 2- to 3-year crop
rotation and incorporating residues into the soil promptly after harvest to reduce survival of the
pathogen. Overhead irrigation creates favorable conditions for bacterial blight and can increase
dispersal of the bacterium relative to furrow or drip irrigation. Seed can be disinfested by soaking
in hot water (122°F) for 30 minutes. Some resistance to bacterial leaf blight is available in
commercial cultivars.
Bacterial blight continues to cause losses to the carrot industry despite the ability to detect
seedborne infection (Kuan et al. 1985, Umesh et al. 1996), availability of treatments to eliminate
seedborne inoculum (Howard et al. 1994, Pscheidt and Ocamb 2001), and development of seed
contamination thresholds for some regions of carrot production (e.g., Umesh et al. 1998).
Empirical evidence suggests bacterial blight is more prevalent in carrot seed crops grown in
central Oregon than in central Washington, despite similarities between these two regions of seed
production. However, the relationship between incidence/severity of bacterial blight and
contamination of the harvested seed remains to be clarified for these semi-arid regions of seed
production in the PNW. The objectives of this project are to:
13
Identify primary sources of inoculum associated with bacterial blight of carrot seed
crops in central Oregon and central Washington.
2. Monitor development of X campestris pv. carotae in carrot seed crops in central
Oregon and central Washington.
3. Identify environmental and cultural factors associated with the differential prevalence
of bacterial blight in central Oregon and central Washington.
4. Trap and assay honey bees (used for seed crop pollination) for their potential to serve
as inadvertent vectors of X campestris pv. carotae in 2002-2003.
1.
The research was carried out over two seasons, 200 1-2002 and 2002-2003. This report
summarizes both seasons. Results for 200 1-2002 were presented at the 2003 Carrot Symposium
(du Toit et al. 2003).
Materials and Methods
2001-2002 Survey of Carrot Seed Crops. Ten and 12 direct-seeded crops were selected in
central Oregon and central Washington, respectively, to monitor development of X campestris
pv. carotae through the 200 1-2002 season under the diversity of production practices and in the
range of locations/environmental conditions representative of carrot seed production in the PNW
(Table 1). The first letter of the code for each field sampled in Oregon and Washington begins
with a "W" and an "0", respectively. Fields were sampled twice in the fall/winter: 1) between 2
and 10 October in Oregon, and on 28 September and 5 October in Washington (before fall
frosts); and 2) from 6 to 8 November in Oregon, and 30 November or 16 January in Washington
(after the first fall frosts). Snow cover in Washington prevented sampling of all fields in
November. On each sampling date, 20 plants were collected from each field in a 'W'-pattern.
Individuals collecting the plants disinfected their hands between samples using 70 percent ethyl
alcohol. Whole plants were sampled, placed in individual plastic bags, and stored on ice for
transportation to a refrigerated facility (4-8°C).
Steckling carrot seed crops in each of fields OK, OL, OM, ON, WN, and WO were added to the
survey in spring 2002 (Table 1). Twenty plants were sampled from the direct-seeded and
steckling fields between 1 and 9 April in Oregon, and between 28 March and 11 April in
Washington. For the steckling crops, plants were sampled directly from the crates in which the
stecklings had been shipped from California; and for the direct-seeded crops, plants were
sampled as described above. The direct-seeded crops in Fields OC, OD, WA, and WH were
dropped from the survey prior to this sampling period as the crops were not needed by the seed
companies and were plowed under by the growers. The crop in Field OK was dropped from the
survey after samples were collected in April.
Twenty plant samples were collected again from each field between 4 and 10 June in Oregon,
and on 3 or 10 June in Washington. Samples were collected from each field as described above.
However, in Washington, samples were collected from the perimeter of each open pollinated
crop as the crops were too dense to walk through. Individuals collecting samples walked 10 to 20
ft into the crop from the edge of the field at each sampling location. For hybrid seed crops in
Washington, samples were collected approximately 10 ft within the crop from the location of the
wheel-lines, irrigation pipes, or alleys between the rows of male and female parents. In both
14
states, whole plants were sampled or, where plants were >2.5 ft tall, samples of leaves (3-4 per
plant), stems (2-3 stem sections per plant, including nodes), and umbels (3-4 per plant) were
sampled. At each sampling location, plant tissue(s) showing symptoms suggestive of bacterial
blight were included in the sample. Field OJ was dropped from the survey after samples were
collected in June. A final set of 20 plants was sampled from each field between 15 and 24
August in Oregon, and 22 and 30 July in Washington, as described for samples collected in June.
The seed crops were swathed, windrowed, and harvested between mid-August and late
September 2002.
2002-2003 Survey of Carrot Seed Crops. Eight direct-seeded crops (WA to WH) and four
steckling crops (WI to WL) were sampled in Washington, and seven direct-seeded crops (OA to
OG) and seven steckling crops (OH to ON) were sampled in Oregon (Table 1). Samples were
collected during each of the following five sampling periods from each field in Washington: 7-8
October 2002, 8 November 2002, 26 March to 23 April 2003, 2-12 June 2003, and 28 July to 4
August 2003. Fields WC and WF were dropped from the survey after the second and first
sampling periods, respectively; and WH was added at the second sampling period. For the
steckling crops, stecklings were sampled directly out of the shipping crates prior to transplanting.
In Oregon, samples were collected during each of the following sampling periods: 4-10 October
2002, 13 November 2002, 31 March to 17 April 2003, 10-23 June 2003, and early to mid-August
2003. Field OD was dropped from the survey after the second sampling period; and steckling
crops OM and ON were added to the survey in June 2003.
Leaf, Stem, and Umbel Assays. Plant samples (foliage, stems, and umbels) were assayed for X
campestris pv. carotae within 2-14 hours of sampling in Oregon, and within 24-36 hours of
sampling in Washington. Plants sampled in Oregon were assayed at the Oregon State University
- Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center (OSU-COARC); plants sampled in Washington
were assayed at the Washington State University - Mount Vernon Research and Extension Unit
(WSU — Mount Vernon REU). Fresh plant weights were measured for plants sampled in
Washington in the fall/winter of 2001, and dry weights were determined after leaf extractions for
all plants sampled thereafter in Washington and for all plants sampled in Oregon. Samples were
oven-dried for 12-3 6 hours at 65-70°C. For the first two sets of plant samples in each season, the
entire foliage of each plant sampled was assayed, except for plants collected from field WG in
January 2002, from which a subsample of 3 g of the foliage of each plant was assayed. For the
third, fourth, and fifth sampling periods, a subsample of up to 50 g of leaves, umbels, and stems
per plant was assayed.
Carrot leaves were assayed for X campestris pv. carotae using the protocol described by Umesh
et al. (1998), with slight modifications. In Washington, foliage from each plant was cut into 1- to
4-mm pieces, placed in a 250-ml Erlenmeyer flask containing 30 ml sterile buffer (0.01-M
potassium phosphate), swirled on a rotary shaker for 60 minutes, and the suspension
concentrated 10-fold by centrifugation. The concentrate was assayed for X campestris pv.
carotae by: 1) plating a dilution series (three replications of a 0.1 -ml aliquot per dilution) onto
XCS agar, a semi-selective medium for X campestris pv. carotae (Williford and Schaad 1984);
and 2) the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay developed by Umesh et al. (1996). For the
PCR assay, DNA was extracted using the CTAB method (Zhang 1996) for the first set of plant
samples (October 2001), and the Dellaporta method (Dellaporta et al. 1983) for the second set of
15
plant samples (Nov 2001/Jan 2002). Direct PCR assays of the leaf/stem/umbel extracts were not
carried out for subsequent sets of samples as the plating assay proved more sensitive than the
PCR assay and enabled the bacterial population to be quantified (vs. the qualitative PCR assay).
For the third, fourth, and fifth sets of samples, the volume of buffer used in the extraction
procedure was increased to 100 ml per sample and the washes carried out in 500-mi Erienmeyer
flasks. The centrifugation step was also eliminated from the extraction procedure for the fourth
and fifth sets of samples each season. In Oregon, foliage of each sample was cut into pieces,
placed in a flask containing filtered deionized water (50, 100, or 150 ml depending on the
amount of foliage), swirled on a rotary shaker for 15 minutes at 250 rpm, and a dilution series
plated onto XCS agar (three replications of a 0.2-mi aliquot per dilution). Except for the first
two collections, in Oregon leaf extractions were carried out using sterile buffer (0.01 -M
potassium phosphate) instead of sterile deionized water, and the duration samples were placed on
a rotary shaker increased to 60 minutes. After incubation at 28°C for 5-10 days, colonies typical
of X campestris pv. carotae were counted. Representative colonies from each field were
transferred onto YDC agar (Schaad et al. 2001) for verification of colony morphology, and tested
using the PCR assay (Umesh et al. 1996). PCR assays were carried out at the WSU-Mount
Vernon REU, or at the University of California-Davis (by R.L. Gilbertson and R.M. Davis).
Seed Assays. Samples of stock seed for each seed crop surveyed (where available) were
collected from collaborating seed companies and assayed for X campestris pv. carotae using a
modified version of the dilution plating protocol described by Kuan et al. (1985) and Umesh et
al. (1998). Two or three 10-g subsamples of each stock seed lot were assayed for the bacterial
pathogen. Stock seed lots from Washington fields were also assayed twice by PCR in 200 1-2002.
Samples of stock seed of several crops were not provided. Samples of seed harvested from each
field in 2002 and 2003 were assayed for X campestris pv. carotae to determine the relationship
between populations of the pathogen on stock seed, development of the bacterial population on
plants in-season, and infection of the harvested seed. Seed samples from several 2002-2003
crops were still to be assayed at the time this report was prepared, and pathogenicity tests had not
been completed for all of the seed lots assayed.
Pathogenicity Tests. Representative bacterial colonies from Washington samples (plant and
seed samples) that resembled X campestris pv. carotae on XCS and YDC agar, and that tested
positive for X campestris pv. carotae by the PCR assay, were also tested for pathogenicity on
carrot seedlings in the greenhouse. A suspension of bacterial cells (approximately 1 cfu/ml) of
each isolate was atomized onto five seedlings. Inoculated plants were placed in plastic bags for 3
days in the greenhouse to create a humid environment, and monitored for up to 6 weeks for
symptoms of bacterial blight. A known pathogenic isolate of X campestris pv. carotae was
included in each pathogenicity test. Similar pathogenicity tests were carried out for
representative bacterial isolates obtained from Oregon samples and which resembled X
campestris pv. carotae on XCS and YDC agar.
Sampling of Dust/debris During Threshing of Carrot Seed Crops. A Thermo Andersen Two
Stage Viable Impactor (Thermo MIE, Bedford, MA) was used to determine whether clouds of
dust and debris generated during combining/threshing of carrot seed crops could generate a
source of airborne X campestris pv. carotae for infection of newly emerged carrot seedlings in
neighboring direct-seeded crops planted for the subsequent cropping season. The air sampler was
16
powered by a generator and placed on the back of a pickup truck. The truck was driven at
distances ranging from 25 ft to approximately 1 mile behind or downwind of a combine/thresher
during threshing of the seed crops in each of four locations in Oregon in September 2002 and
four locations in September 2003 (Table 3). Two Petri plates with XCS agar medium were
placed in the air sampler to trap airborne cells of X campestris pv. carotae at each distance, and
the air was sampled for durations ranging from 1 second to 15 minutes. A hand-held anemometer
was used to record the average wind speed and direction each time the air sampler was operated.
Sampling of Honey Bees. On 15 July 2003, honey bees were collected from four different
locations in field WA, using an insect net. Five bees were placed in 30 ml of sterile phosphate
buffer in each of 22 plastic centrifuge tubes (110 bees in total), and stored overnight on ice in a
cooler to assay for X camp estris pv. carotae. Bees were collected from WA because this field
had the highest incidence of plants infected with X campestris pv. carotae during the June 2003
sampling period. The contents of each centrifuge tube were poured through a double layer of
cheesecloth to remove the bees, and the buffer suspension was then centrifuged and a dilution
series prepared for plating onto XCS agar as described for the leaf and seed washes.
Cultural Practices and Environmental Conditions. Information on production practices
(irrigation system, cropping history, and pest management programs) associated with each carrot
seed crop sampled was requested from growers/seed companies to examine in relation to
development of bacterial blight and final seedborne populations ofX camp estris pv. carotae.
Data on regional weather conditions (minimum, maximum, and average daily temperatures; total
daily precipitation; frequency and timing of frosts relative to crop maturity; and wind speed)
were collected from local weather stations through both seasons to compare with development of
bacterial blight in the fields surveyed.
Results
2001-2002 Crop Survey. The 10 direct-seeded carrot seed crops surveyed in central Oregon
were planted between 1 and 19 August 2001, and the 12 direct-seeded crops sampled in central
Washington were planted 3-5 weeks later, between 20 August and 5 September 2001 (Table 1).
Symptoms of bacterial blight were not observed on any of the plants sampled during the first
(pre-fall frost) sampling period, and X campestris pv. carotae was not detected on any of the
plants sampled in Washington (Figs. 1 and 3); however, the pathogen was isolated from one
plant in one field in Oregon (Field OE, sprinkler irrigated) during this period (Fig. 2), at a
population of 1 x i05 CFU/g tissue (Fig. 4). During the second sampling period, X campestris
pv. carotae was found on one plant in one field in Washington (Field WH, furrow irrigated) at
2.4 x 102 CFU/g tissue (Fig. 3), and none of the plants displayed symptoms of bacterial blight.
Although symptoms of bacterial blight were not observed in central Oregon in November, X
campestris pv. carotae was detected in 8 of the 10 crops sampled after the first fall frosts (Fig.
2), including both sprinkler- and furrow-irrigated fields. The incidence of plants that tested
positive forX campestris pv. carotae in these crops ranged from 2 of 20 (10 percent) to 9 of 20
(45 percent), and the mean population ofX campestris pv. carotae per plant that tested positive
ranged from 1.7 x i03 to 4.6 x 108 CFU/g tissue (Fig. 4).
17
By spring (March/April) 2002, X campestris pv. carotae was detected in 3 of the 12 seed crops
sampled in Washington, i.e., from 1 of 20 plants sampled from the direct-seeded crops in each of
fields WD and WG, and from 3 of 20 plants from the steckling crop in Field WN (Fig. 1). The
plants in Field WN had been picked directly out of the crates in which the stecklings had been
shipped from the Imperial Valley, California, indicating the stecklings were probably a source of
inoculum in that crop. The population ofX campestris pv. carotae detected in Washington
during this sampling period ranged from 2.5 x i07 to 5.2 x 108 CFU/g tissue (Fig. 3), although
none of the plants showed obvious symptoms of bacterial blight. In Oregon, X campestris pv.
carotae was detected in 9 of the 12 crops sampled in April (all the direct-seeded crops and one of
four steckling crops), at an incidence ranging from 2 of 20 (10 percent) to 11 of 20 plants (55
percent) (Fig. 2), with a mean population on individual plants ranging from 1.8 x i04 to 8.9 x 108
CFU/g tissue (Fig. 4). Symptoms of bacterial blight were evident in several crops in Oregon.
By early June 2002, X campestris pv. carotae was detected in 5 of the 12 seed crops sampled in
Washington, at an incidence ranging from 1 of 20 (5 percent) to 5 of 20 (25 percent) plants per
field, and a mean population ranging from 1.4 x 1 to 4.1 x 1 CFU/g tissue (Fig. 3). The
pathogen was not detected in either of the steckling crops (fields WN and WO). As in April
2002, none of the plants sampled showed definitive symptoms of bacterial blight. In Oregon,
only the crop in field ON tested negative for X campestris pv. carotae in June (Fig. 2). The
incidence of the pathogen detected in the remaining 11 crops ranged from 2 of 20 (10 percent) to
18 of 20 (90 percent for field OF), with a population ranging from 8.1 x i04 to 1.7 x i09 CFU/g
tissue (Fig. 4). Symptoms of bacterial blight were evident in most fields sampled in Oregon in
June.
The incidence of carrot seed plants on which campestris pv. carotae was detected in
Washington increased from early June to late July 2002, when the pathogen was found in 11 of
the 12 crops sampled, at an incidence ranging from 2 of 20 plants (10 percent in field WN) to 20
of 20 plants (100 percent in field WD) (Fig. 1), and a mean population ranging from 1.9 x i03
(field WJ) to 1.8 x 108 CFU/g tissue (field WL) (Fig. 3). In August 2002, X campestris pv.
carotae was detected in all 10 crops sampled in central Oregon (Fig. 2), at an incidence ranging
from 3 of 20 plants (1 percent in field OM) to 20 of 20 plants (100 percent in fields OB and OF)
(Fig. 2), and a mean population ranging from 1.2 x
(field OM) to 1.0 x i09 CFU/g tissue
(field OG) (Fig. 4).
Although fewer steckling crops than direct-seeded crops were sampled in each state, the mean
incidence of plants that tested positive forX campestris pv. carotae was usually greater in the
direct-seeded crops than in the steckling crops. The average incidence of plants that tested
positive for X campestris pv. carotae by midsummer (July/August 2002) was 17.0 and 11.7 out
of 20 plants for the direct-seeded crops in Oregon and Washington, respectively, and 7.0 and 1.0
out of 20 plants for the steckling crops in Oregon and Washington, respectively (Table 2).
2002-2003 Crop Survey. Overall, results of the 2002-2003 survey followed a similar pattern as
the 200 1-2002 survey (graphs on the right of Figs. 1-4). However, in Washington X campestris
pv. carotae was detected on five of seven crops sampled in October 2003, unlike the early fall
sampling of 2001, when the bacterium was not detected in any crops. The incidence of plants on
which the bacterium was detected ranged from 0 of 20 to 9 of 20 (field WD), but none of the
18
crops showed symptoms of bacterial blight (Fig. 1). The highest population of the pathogen
detected on any individual plant was 6.9 x i05 cfu/g dry tissue (field WC). By November 2003,
the bacterium was found in only three of seven crops sampled in Washington, with the incidence
of positive plants ranging from 0 of 20 to 4 of 20 (field WA), and the population of the pathogen
remained
cfulg tissue. In Oregon, the pathogen was found in five of seven crops sampled in
October, and in six of seven crops sampled in November 2003; i.e., the pathogen was more
prevalent early in fall 2002 than in fall 2001. The population of X campestris pv. carotae on
individual plants reached as high as 2.3 x 108 cfu/g tissue in November (field OA) (Fig. 4).
In March/April 2003 in Washington, X campestris pv. carotae was detected in three directseeded crops at an incidence of
of 20 plants, and in one steckling crop (2 of 10 male
stecklings, but 0 of 10 female stecklings, sampled from the shipping crates for field WK) (Fig.
1). For those crops in which plants tested positive for campestris pv. carotae, the population
of the pathogen on individual plants ranged from 2.4 x i03 (field WK) to 3.0 x i07 cfulg dry
tissue (field WA) (Fig. 3). In contrast, samples tested in Oregon in April 2003 showed the
presence of the pathogen in six of seven direct-seeded crops and three of five steckling crops
(Fig. 2), at incidences ranging from 1 of 20 to 15 of 20 (field OA) plants infected, with
populations ranging from 2.2 x i04 (field OE) to 3.0 x i07 (field OC) (Fig. 4).
The prevalence ofX campestris pv. carotae increased through the summer of 2003 in both
Washington and Oregon. In both June and July/August sampling periods, the pathogen was
detected in five of six direct-seeded crops and two of four steckling crops in Washington, and in
every direct-seeded and steckling crop sampled in Oregon (Fig. 1). The highest population of the
pathogen detected on an individual plant was 6.6 x 1012 cfu/g dry tissue, in the furrow-irrigated
crop in field WA. The three crops that tested free of the pathogen in July/August 2003 were all
located in Washington, in fields WE (furrow irrigated), WJ (furrow irrigated), and WL (an
organic, drip-irrigated crop).
As for 2001-2002, the mean incidence of plants that tested positive forX campestris pv. carotae
in 2002-2003 was typically greater in direct-seeded crops than in steckling crops throughout the
spring and summer (Table 2). The mean incidence of plants that tested positive for X campestris
pv. carotae by July/August 2003 was 15.5 and 8.3 out of 20 plants for direct-seeded crops in
Oregon and Washington, respectively, and 9.9 and 2.3 out of 20 plants for steckling crops in
Oregon and Washington, respectively (Table 2).
2001-2002 Seed Assays. Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae was detected in stock seed
samples of five carrot seed crops in central Washington, i.e., fields WA, WE, WF, and WK (Fig.
5). The mean population of X campestris pv. carotae in these infected seed lots ranged from 1.9
x 102 to 2.6 x
CFU/g seed (Fig. 5). The pathogen was not detected in the seven stock seed
samples assayed in Oregon (Fig. 6). Stock seed lots for the steckling crops surveyed in
Washington and Oregon were not available to assay, and neither was the stock seed for field WL.
In Washington, X campestris pv. carotae was detected in 10 of the 12 harvested seed lots
assayed (Fig. 5), at populations ranging from 1.9 x 1 CFU/g seed (field WO) to 1.1 x 108
CFU/g seed (field WK). The pathogen was not detected in seed harvested from the steckling crop
in field WN, even though the pathogen was found on stecklings sampled directly out of the
19
shipping crates in April for this crop (Fig. 1). Harvested seed from only 1 (field WJ) of 10 directseeded crops sampled in Washington tested negative for X campestris pv. carotae. The pathogen
was detected in seven of nine harvested seed lots from Oregon available for testing, at
populations ranging from 2.5 x 102 CFU/g seed (steckling crop in field OL) to 7.3 x i07 CFU/g
seed (field OF). Two harvested seed lots tested negative, i.e., fields OJ ON (Fig. 6).
2002-2003 Seed Assays. At the time this report was prepared, seed assays had been completed
in Washington for at least one 1 0-g replication of stock seed for each crop surveyed in 20022003 except fields WI and WL, and at least one replication of harvested seed from all crops
surveyed through to July/August 2003 except field WL (Fig. 5). Only 2 of 14 stock seed lots
tested positive for X campestris pv. carotae, the male stock seed for the steckling crop in field
WJ (only for one of three replications, at a low population of 6.7 cfulg seed) and one of two
female stock seed lots for the steckling crop in field WK (7.8 x 1 cfulg seed). In comparison, 9
of 10 harvested seed lots tested positive for X campestris pv. carotae, at populations ranging
from 6.7 cfulg (furrow-irrigated crop in field WJ) to 8.7 x i07 cfulg (overhead-irrigated crop in
field WG). The population of the pathogen detected on the harvested seed generally reflected the
incidence of the pathogen detected in the crops in July/August 2003. For example, the pathogen
was not found in fields WE, WJ, and WL in July/August 2003, and seed harvested from WE was
clean of the pathogen, and WJ had the lowest infection level of the remaining crops. Harvested
seed from WL remains to be assayed.
Stock seed lots for the Oregon crops sampled in 2002-2003 were not available. Of 13 harvested
seed lots assayed, 2 were clean of X campestris pv. carotae (fields OB and OC, furrow and
overhead-irrigated crops, respectively) (Fig. 6). Populations of the pathogen detected in the other
11 seed lots ranged from 2.8 x i05 to (drip irrigated section of field OM) to 1.4 x 108 cfulg seed
(overhead irrigated crop in field OG). In fields OK and OL, seed harvested from the test plots
grown under drip irrigation had lower levels of the pathogen than seed sampled from the section
of the crop grown under sprinkler irrigation (Fig. 6). However, the opposite situation was
observed for seed harvested from drip vs. sprinkler irrigated sections of field ON.
Pathogenicity Tests. All bacterial isolates that formed colonies characteristic of X campestris
pv. carotae onXCS and YDC agar and that tested positive for this pathovar using the PCR
assay, also proved pathogenic when inoculated onto carrot seedlings in the greenhouse. A few
isolates that resembled X campestris pv. carotae on XCS agar did not test positive for this
pathovar using the PCR assay. These isolates were not pathogenic when inoculated onto carrot
seedlings, supporting the value of the PCR assay for identification of isolates of X campestris
pv. carotae.
Sampling of Dust/debris During Threshing of Carrot Seed Crops. Xanthomonas campestris
pv. carotae was detected in the clouds of dust/debris generated downwind of the seed threshers
in three of the four locations sampled (Table 3). The population of X. campestris pv. carotae
detected varied depending on the wind direction, wind speed, and location (ranging from 0.02 to
33.70 CFU/ft3 air). At location 2, the population of the pathogen detected with the air sampler
decreased with increasing distance from the thresher, and was not detected further than 200 ft
from the thresher. However, at location 4, the pathogen was detected approximately one mile
from the seed crop being threshed. This location was also within 1.5-5 miles of about 10 other
20
carrot seed crops being harvested, so the low population of X campestris pv. carotae detected
could have originated from any of these crops being harvested. Samples of harvested seed from
each location tested positive for the pathogen, at populations ranging from to 2.6 x i05 to 9.9 x
i07 CFU/g seed (Table 3).
Sampling of Honey Bees. Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae was not isolated onto XCS agar
from any of 110 honey bees collected from field WA in July 2003, suggesting that these
pollinators may not serve as vectors of the bacterial blight pathogen in carrot seed production.
However, it is possible that components of the bee wash may inhibit detection of X campestris
pv. carotae, precluding our ability to detect the pathogen on the bees. This could be tested by
adding a suspension of the pathogen to the bee wash prior to plating, and warrants further
investigation.
Cultural Practices and Environmental Conditions. Daily minimum and maximum
temperatures, and occurrence of frosts between 1 August and 31 December 2001 were similar for
central Oregon (measured in Madras) and central Washington (measured in Moses Lake) (data
not shown). Heat units [sum (average daily temperature — 50°F)] received in Madras during this
period totaled 1,005°F vs. 1,180°F received in Moses Lake. Total precipitation received in
Madras during this 5-month period was 4.10 inches, compared to 3.36 inches in Moses Lake.
Weather records for the two regions from 1 January to 31 December 2002 showed Madras
received a total of 5.70 inches precipitation vs. 7.01 inchees for Moses Lake. Although the
number of days in which the average temperature dropped below freezing was similar for the
two regions in 2002 (44 days in Madras and 43 days in Moses Lake), the total heat units received
in Madras during 2002 (1,973°F) was 28 percent less than that received in Moses Lake during
the same period (2,529°F). In fall 2001, two to three copper applications were made in most of
the carrot seed crops surveyed in central Oregon; fall copper applications were not made in any
of the seed crops surveyed in central Washington. Data are being collated on weather conditions
and copper applications for the 2002-2003 season.
Discussion
Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae was present in most carrot seed crops surveyed in central
Oregon and central Washington in 2001-2002 and in 2002-2003, although the pathogen was
generally more prevalent in Oregon than Washington. In both regions, most of the plants that
tested positive for the pathogen appeared to have been colonized epiphytically, as symptoms of
bacterial blight were not evident until early summer in Oregon and mid- to late summer in
Washington. This differential prevalence was most apparent in the spring/summer of each
season, but also in fall 2001. The routine application of copper sprays in the fall to seed crops in
Oregon (seldom done in the fall in Washington) may have limited efficacy against this pathogen.
In both states, the increase in incidence ofX campestris pv. carotae was most rapid from June
through August. The limited numbers of stock seed lots available to assay suggest infected stock
seed was not a primary source of inoculum, particularly as the stock seed lots tested in Oregon in
2001-2002 were all negative forX campestris pv. carotae. Furthermore, symptoms of bacterial
blight were not observed in crops in Washington that had been planted with infected stock seed
in 2001, even under sprinkler irrigation.
21
In 2001-2002 in Oregon, there was little evidence of greater increase in X campestris pv.
carotae in crops grown using overhead (sprinkler) irrigation vs. crops grown under furrow
irrigation. Similarly, only one of the two crops from which harvested seed was clean of the
pathogen in Oregon in 2002-2003 was grown under furrow irrigation. In contrast, for two of
three steckling crops in Oregon in 2002-2003 that had test plots with drip irrigation compared to
the rest of each crop grown under sprinkler irrigation, the population of X campestris pv.
carotae on the harvested seed was lower in the drip-irrigated test plots. Similarly, results from
crops surveyed in both seasons in Washington support the recommendation of using furrow or
drip irrigation to minimize development of bacterial blight, as the harvested seed lots that tested
negative for the pathogen were all grown using either drip or furrow irrigation. The difference in
overhead vs. furrow irrigation for Oregon compared to Washington may be related to higher
levels of alternative sources of inoculum in Oregon compared to Washington (e.g., infested
debris). Under such conditions, seedborne inoculum may play a less significant role than other
sources of inoculum in development of bacterial blight in carrot seed crops in the PNW. Weather
conditions were very similar between the two regions, although central Washington received 28
percent more heat units than central Oregon in 2002. Weather data will be examined in greater
detail relative to the increase in populations of X campestris pv. carotae detected in seed crops
in the two regions.
For both states and both seasons, the incidence/population of X campestris pv. carotae was
generally lower in steckling crops than in direct-seeded crops. The pathogen was isolated from
stecklings sampled directly out of the shipping crates for several crops surveyed, indicating that
infected stecklings could be a source of inoculum for seed production in the PNW. This may be
of particular concern when steckling crops are grown under overhead irrigation, and emphasizes
the importance of producing stecklings in regions where bacterial blight is not endemic, and/or
treating stecklings for X campestris pv. carotae (e.g., dipping stecklings in chlorine) prior to
cold storage or transplanting.
To prevent pollen contamination and ensure trueness-to-type of harvested seed, carrot seed crops
are separated spatially by distances ranging from Y4 to >3 miles, depending on the type/variety of
the seed crops. This spatial separation within seasons may provide some control of bacterial
blight by minimizing movement of inoculum among neighboring fields. However, carrot seed
crops are sometimes seeded in close (<V4 mile) proximity to mature seed crops from the previous
season. The availability of fewer irrigated acres in central Oregon than in central Washington has
resulted in more carrot seed crops in Oregon being planted close to mature crops of the previous
season compared to Washington. In addition, direct-seeded crops are typically planted 3-5 weeks
earlier in Oregon than in Washington. These conditions have led to a longer "green-bridge"
effect in Oregon compared to Washington, where carrot seedlings are more likely to have
emerged at the time nearby crops of the previous season are harvested, potentially exposing
young susceptible plants to windblown infested debris. Airborne X campestris pv. carotae was
detected up to a mile downwind of seed crops being harvested/threshed.
22
Literature Cited
Dellaporta, S.L., J. Woods, and J.B. Hicks. 1983. Isolation of DNA from higher plants.Plant
Mol. Biol. Rep. 1:19-21.
du Toit, L.J., F. Crowe, M.L. Derie, R. Baths, and G.Q. Pelter. 2003. Bacterial blight of carrot
seed crop: Identification of sources of inoculum. Pages 25-39 in 2002 Ann. Rep. of the
California Fresh Carrot Advisory Board, Dinuba, CA.
Howard, R.J., J.A. Garland, and W.L. Seaman, Editors. 1994. Diseases and Pests of Vegetable
Crops in Canada. The Can. Phytopath. Soc., Ottawa, Ontario.
Kuan, T.-L., G.V. Minsavage, and R.L. Gabrielson. 1985. Detection of Xanthomonas campestris
pv. carotae in carrot seed. Plant Dis. 69:758-760.
Pelter, G.Q. 2001. A recent history of Columbia Basin vegetable seed acreage: 1991-2000.
Washington StateUniv. Coop. Ext., Grant-Adams Area, WA.
Pscheidt, J.W., and C.M. Ocamb, Editors. 2001. Pacific Northwest Disease Management
Handbook. Oregon State Univ., Washington State Univ., and the Univ. of Idaho.
Schaad, N.W., J.B. Jones, and W. Chun. 2001. Laboratory Guide for Identification of Plant
Pathogenic Bacteria. Third Ed. APS Press, St. Paul, MN.
Thomas, J., A. Schreiber, G.Q. Pelter, and D. Havens. 1997. Washington's Small-seeded
Vegetable Seed Industry. Washington State Univ. Ext. Bull. 1829.
Umesh, K.C., R.M. Davis, and R.L. Gilbertson. 1996. Seed contamination thresholds associated
with occurrence of bacterial blight of carrots and development of a DNA based detection
method for Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae. (Abstr.) Phytopathology 86:S 11.
Umesh, K.C., R.M, Davis, and R.L. Gilbertson. 1998. Seed contamination thresholds for
development of carrot bacterial blight caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae. Plant
Dis. 82:1271-1275.
Williford, R.E., and N.W. Schaad. 1984. Agar medium for selective isolation of Xanthomonas
campestris pv. carotae from carrot seeds. Phytopathology 74:1142 (Abstract).
Zhang, Y.-P. 1996. Ph.D. Dissertation. Univ. of California, Davis, CA.
Acknowledgements
We thank the California Fresh Carrot Advisory Board for funding this project; Mike Davis, Bob
Gilbertson, Joe Nunez, and Shawn Meng for information on bacterial assays; the Columbia
Basin Vegetable Seed Association and carrot seed companies in Washington and Oregon for
information on carrot seed crop production and for access to carrot seed fields; and Brandi
Jorgensen, Barbara Holmes, Raina Spence, Kari Bergiund, Nathan Lloyd, Sarah Lloyd, Sam
Sampson, and Katie Baber for assistance in processing the plant/seed samples.
23
Table 1. Carrot seed crops monitored for development of Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae in 20012002 and 2002-2003 in central Oregon and central Washington.
Years, state
& field code
Type of carrot
2001/02 Oregon
Hybrid or open
pollinated
Direct-seeded
or steckling
OA
OB
OC
OD
OE
OF
OG
OH
01
OJ
OK
OL
OM
ON
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Steckling
Steckling
Steckling
Steckling
Overhead (fall); furrow (spring)
Furrow
Furrow
Furrow
Overhead
Overhead
Overhead
Overhead
Overhead
Overhead (fall); furrow (spring)
Open pollinated
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Open pollinated
Open pollinated
Open pollinated
Open pollinated
Open pollinated
Hybrid
Hybrid
Open pollinated
Hybrid
Hybrid
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Steckling
Steclding
Overhead
Furrow
Overhead
Furrow
Overhead
Furrow
Furrow
Furrow
Furrow
Overhead (fall); drip (spring)
Overhead
Furrow
Furrow
Overhead
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Hybrid
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Steckling
Steckling
Steckling
Steckling
Overhead
Furrow
Overhead
Open pollinated
Hybrid
Hybrid
Open pollinated
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Direct-seeded
Furrow
Overhead
Overhead
Furrow (fall); drip (spring)
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes x Amsterdam
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes x Amsterdam
2001/02 Washington
WA
Kuroda
WB
Nantes
WC
Nantes
WD
Nantes x Flakkee
WE
Amsterdam
WF
Chantenay
WG
Flakkee
WH
Chantenay
WI
Nantes
WJ
Imperator
WK
WL
Chantenay
WN
Nantes x Amsterdam
WO
Imperator
2002/03 Oregon
OA
Nantes
OB
Nantes
OC
Nantes
OD
OE
OF
OG
OH
Nantes
Nantes
Nantes
01
OJ
OK
Nantes
OL
Imperator
OM
Nantes
ON
Imperator
2002/03 Washington
WA
Chantenay
WB
Nantes
WC
WD
Lava!
24
Irrigation systema
Overhead
Overhead
Overhead
Overhead; + drip
Overhead; + drip
Overhead; + drip
Overhead; + drip
test plots
test plots
test plots
test plots
Years, state
Hybrid or open
Direct-seeded
Irrigation systema
& field code
Type of carrot
pollinated
or steckling
2002/03 Washington (continued)
WE
Chantenay
Open pollinated
Direct-seeded
Furrow
WF
Chantenay
Open pollinated
Furrow
Direct-seeded
WG
Flakkee x Flakkee
Hybrid
Direct-seeded
Overhead
WH
Imperator
Hybrid
Furrow
Direct-seeded
WI
Imperator
Hybrid
Steckling
Overhead
WJ
Imperator
Hybrid
Furrow
Steckling
WK
Nantes x Flakkee
Hybrid
Steckling
Overhead
WL
Imperator
Hybrid
Drip
Steckling
a Overhead irrigated by sprinkler irrigation, e.g., pivot, wheel-line, or solid-set irrigation systems. Test plots
within fields OK, OL, OM, and ON in 2002-2003 were grown using drip irrigation to compare with the rest of
each crop produced under sprinider irrigation.
Table 2. Mean incidence of plants on which Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae was detected
in direct-seeded and steckling carrot seed crops sampled through the 2001-2002 and 2002-2003
seasons in central Oregon and central Washington.
Oct
Nov/Jan
Mar/Apr
Jun
Jul/Aug
Oregon a
Direct-seeded
0.1
4.5
-
-
5.9
0.5
10.5
Steckling
17.0
7.0
0.0
0.1
0.2
1.1
-
-
1.5
0.0
11.7
1.0
1.4
0.9
-
-
6.0
2.6
9.0
3.7
15.5
9.9
2.4
1.1
1.5
-
-
0.5
State & method of planting
2001-2002
1.3
Washington b
Direct-seeded
Steckling
2002-2003
Oregon a
Direct-seeded
Steckling
Washington b
Direct-seeded
Steckling
a
b
7.5
8.3
2.3
1.3
The number of direct-seeded crops and steckling crops sampled in central Oregon ranged from 7 to 10 and 3 to 4,
respectively, in 2001-2002; and from 6 to 7 and 5 to 7 in 2002-2003, respectively.
In 2001-2002, the number of direct-seeded crops sampled in central Washington ranged from 10 to 12, and 2
steckling crops were sampled. In 2002-2003, the number of direct-seeded crops sampled ranged from 8 to 12, and
4 steckling crops were sampled.
25
Table 3. Population of airborne Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae detected in dust/debris
sampled downwind of carrot seed threshers in central Oregon in September of 2002 and 2003.
1
2
3
Mean CFU/g
No. of
samples
Mean CFU/ft3
Standard
airb
deviation
seedc
100 ft
150 ft
10
7
18.70
43.20
-
250ft
3
13.30
33.70
1.80
1.30
-
25fl
150 ift
1
200 ft
300 ft
800 ft
8
3
15.00
10.40
0.00
1.20
0.00
0.00
30.00
34.50
0.00
1.00
0.00
0.00
3.8x105
lOOft
4
12
900 ft
8
0.00
0.00
9.9 x i07
mile
5
0.02
0.03
2.6 x i05
10
2
0.80
0.10
1.03
-
0.04
-
4
4
2
0.60
0.33
3.00
0.28
0.14
4.24
-
4
0.04
0.04
-
Distance from
seed thresher a
Location
September 2002
1
-
-
-
September 2003
5
lOOft
500ft
6
lOOft
160ft
400ft
4
"
1 mile
-
Two Petri dishes with XCS agar medium were placed in a Thermo Andersen Two Stage Viable Impactor (Thermo
MIE, Bedford, MA) for each sampling period. At each location, the air sampler was placed on the back of a
pickup truck driven at the stated distances approximately downwind from a carrot seed thresher in operation. The
duration of sampling ranged from 1 second to 15 minutes.
Population of X campestris pv. carotae in colony-forming units(CFUs)/ft3 air sampled.
Population of X campestris pv. carotae detected on l0-g samples of seed harvested from the crops in which the
air sampling was carried out.
Location 4 was within 1.5-5.0 miles of about 10 other carrot seed crops being harvested during approximately the
same 1- to 2-week period each season.
26
20
18
16
14
a)
C
12
8'a
C
a)
6
4
2
Figure 1. Incidence of plants from which Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae was isolated
in carrot seed crops sampled through 200 1-2002 (left) and 2002-2003 (right) in central
Washington.
OS
oc
Figure 2. Incidence of plants from which Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae was isolated
in carrot seed crops sampled through 2001-2002 (left) and 2002-2003 (right) in central
Oregon.
27
_____________________
I
OO$Ol
WA
•
WG
Code
WJ
Figure 3. Mean population of Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae detected on plants from
which the pathogen was isolated in carrot seed crops sampled in 200 1-2002 (left) and 20022003 (right) in central Washington.
Figure 4. Mean population of Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae detected on plants from
which the bacterium was isolated in carrot seed crops sampled in 2001-2002 (left) and 20022003 (right) in central Oregon.
28
Fig. 5. Mean population of Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae detected in stock seed
and/or harvested seed samples from carrot seed crops grown in Washington in 2001-2002
(left) and 2002-2003 (right). Missing bars indicate seed samples were not available. 'F' and
'M' in the field codes indicate female and male stock seed lots, respectively. 'Fl' and 'F2' in
the field codes indicated two different female stock seed lots were planted in the same crop.
OOE.09
I
I HOE
10E08
I
OOE
tOE-.C5
OOE.04
1OE-.O4
I ODE
too
I OOE.Ol
10002
too
00
OH
Fi&d Code
Se.d000OO
sooo S.ed
Figure 6. Mean population of Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae detected in stock seed and
harvested seed samples of carrot seed crops grown in central Oregon in 200 1-2002 (left) and
2002-2003 (right, no stock seed results). Missing bars indicate seed samples were not
available. A section of each of fields OK, OL, and ON were grown under drip irrigation to
compare with sprinkler irrigation (separate trial by Fred Crowe).
29
Evaluation of Herbicides for Effect on Seed Set
in Kentucky Bluegrass and Rough Bluegrass
Seed Production, 2002-2003
Marvin Butler, Jim Carroll, Ron Burr, and Claudia Campbell
Abstract
Axiom® and Define® were applied to three Kentucky bluegrass cultivars across four
application dates to evaluate crop injury and seed set reduction. Both Axiom and Define
reduced seed set on Kentucky bluegrass. 'Shamrock' was the most sensitive cultivar,
followed by 'Geronimo' and 'Merit'. The November 11 and February 8 applications
generally had the greatest effect on seed set. In addition, Beacon® was evaluated on rough
bluegrass for crop injury and reduction in seed set. Of the four treatment dates, April 9 had
the greatest effect on seed set with the cultivar 'Saber'. The 'Saber' location appeared to be
more sensitive to herbicide applications in general than the 'Laser' location.
Introduction
Previous research evaluated a variety of fall-applied herbicides that included Axiom and
Beacon alone and in combination with other herbicides. Treatments were applied to
Kentucky bluegrass to determine crop injury and reduced seed set, and applied to rough
bluegrass to evaluate control of seedling and established plants. Treatments that included
Axiom provided the best seedling control (52-85 percent), depending on cultivar. Axiom
treatments had the greatest effect on reducing crop height. Treatments with Axiom reduced
seed set on 'Shamrock' by 83 to 88 percent at 11 ozlacre and 37 percent at 9 oz/acre, while
'Merit' and 'Geronimo' were generally unaffected.
Methods and Materials
Research was established during the 2002-2003 season to evaluate Axiom and Define on seed
set in Kentucky bluegrass cultivars 'Merit', 'Shamrock', and 'Geronimo'. Plots were
replicated three times in a randomized complete block design in three commercial Kentucky
bluegrass seed fields north of Madras, Oregon. Herbicide treatments were applied October 7
and November 11, 2002, February 18 and April 9, 2003.
Plots were also established at two locations to evaluate the effect of Beacon on crop injury
and seed set in rough bluegrass cultivars 'Sabre' and 'Laser'. Treatments were applied on the
same dates as Axiom and Define. Both sets of treatments were applied to 10-ft by 20-ft plots
with a C02-pressurized, hand-held boom sprayer at 40 psi and 20 gal/acre water. Plots were
evaluated May 8 for crop injury and June 11 for reduction in seed set.
30
Results and Discussion
Define did not provide an expected increase in margin of safety over Axiom when evaluating
seed set reduction in Kentucky bluegrass (Table 1). It appears that the cultivar 'Shamrock'
has the greatest sensitivity to both Axiom and Define, followed by 'Geronimo' and then
'Merit'. Applications made earlier in the fall may have less effect than late fall through early
spring applications across the three varieties.
The most damaging Beacon application to seed set was on the rough bluegrass cultivar
'Sabre' following the April 9 application. This supports previous evaluations of Beacon on
rough bluegrass where late applications in April had the greatest effect on seed head
development.
No crop injury was observed following any of the Axiom and Define treatments during the
May 8 evaluation of Kentucky bluegrass plots, except slight discoloration from the October 7
application of Axiom on 'Shamrock'. Beacon application to 'Laser' caused some stunting of
established plants compared to the untreated plots. The most severe stunting and some
burning were observed following the April 9 application.
Table 1. Effect of application timing for Axiom and Define on seed set in Kentucky bluegrass
cultivars near Madras, Oregon, 2002-2003.
Percent reduction in seed set
Treatment
Rate
Timing
'Geronimo'
'Shamrock'
'Merit'
26.7 bc
8.3
c
Axiom
9 oz
Oct 7
3.3 b'
3.3 d
23.3 c
Define
9 oz
Oct 7
6.7 ab
50.0 a
75.0 a
Axiom
9 oz
Nov 11
3.3 b
28.3 bc
Define
61.7 ab
9oz
Nov11
13.3 ab
5.0 d
Axiom
55.0 ab
9oz
Feb18
6.7 ab
16.7 cd
50.0 b
Define
9oz
Feb18
10.0 ab
28.3 bc
48.3 b
Axiom
9 oz
Apr 9
3.3 b
40.0 ab
20.0 c
Define
9 oz
Apr 9
18.3 a
0.0 d
0.0 c
Untreated
------0.0 b
'Mean separation with LSD P
0.05.
Table 2. Effect of application timing for Beacon on seed set in rough bluegrass cultivars near
Madras, Oregon, 2002-2003.
Percent reduction in seed set
Treatment
Rate
Application date
Beacon
Beacon
Beacon
Beacon
Untreated
0.75 oz
Oct 8
0.75oz
Nov11
0.75 oz
Feb 18
0.75oz
Apr9
----
----
'Mean separation with LSD P
'Sabre'
0.0 b'
3.3 b
5.0 ab
15.0 a
0.0 b
0.05.
31
'Laser'
8.3
6.7
5.0
3.3
0.0
NS
Performance of Postemergence Herbicides on Eight Native Grass Species Grown for
Seed in Central Oregon, 2000-2002
Marvin Butler and Claudia Campbell
Abstract
Herbicide screenings were conducted over two seasons on eight native grass species: great
basin wildrye, bluebunch wheatgrass, streambank wheatgrass, big bluegrass, Idaho fescue,
Indian ricegrass, squirreltail and prairie junegrass. Fall applications were made October 18,
2000 and October 14, 2001. These included lx and 2x label rates of Axiom®, Beacon®,
Clarity®, Diuron, Frontier®, Goal®, Kerb®, Maverick®, Sencor®, Sinbar®, and Surfian®.
Treatments were applied to the same plots 2 years in a row to increase confidence concerning
crop safety. During 2002 treatments producing the most negative effect were 2x rates of
Sinbar at 1.5 lb/acre and Kerb at 0.80 lb/acre. Treatments with the least effect on both stand
reduction and reduced heading across grass species were lx rates of Diuron at 1.80 lb/acre,
Goal at 10 fi oz/acre, and Sencor at 0.40 lb/acre. Stand reduction across herbicide treatments
was least for Great Basin wildiye, and was greatest for prairie junegrass and squirreltail. The
least herbicide impact on heading was observed with Great Basin wildrye and streambank
wheatgrass, while it was most severe for squirreltail and prairie junegrass.
Introduction
The demand for seed of native grasses used to reseed burned or otherwise disturbed forests
and rangelands continues to increase. Because agricultural production of native grasses is
relatively new, management practices are still being developed. A major factor in successful
production is adequate weed control. The objective of this project is to evaluate crop safety
for potential herbicides that may be used in native grass seed production.
Materials and Methods
Big bluegrass, bluebunch wheatgrass, squirreltail, Great Basin wildrye, streambank
wheatgrass, and Idaho fescue were planted at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research
Center, Madras, Oregon, on April 20, 2000 at a rate of 45 seeds/ft. Indian ricegrass was
planted at a rate of 90 seeds/ft and prairie junegrass was planted at 135 seeds/ft. A four-row
small-plot cone planter (Almaco Inc.) was used, with a planting depth of 0.25 inches. Plots
were a single row 80 ft long with a 2-ft row spacing placed in a randomized complete block
design. Plots were irrigated as needed to keep the seed zone moist for 2 weeks following
planting. Prior to treating the plots, weeds were controlled by hoeing and cultivation.
Herbicide treatments were fall-applied at both lx and 2x label rates on October 18, 2000 and
October 4, 2001. Treatments were applied with a CO2-pressurized, hand-held boom sprayer
at 40 psi and 20 gallacre water in a band perpendicular to the grass rows. A non-ionic
surfactant was not included with applications in 2000, but was added at 0.5 percent v/v in
2001.
Evaluations were conducted using a rating scale from 0 (no negative effect) to 5 (maximum
negative effect). Plots were evaluated for stunting, chlorosis, and mortality on March 27 and
28, 2001 and May 15, 2002. Reduced heading was evaluated June 16-19, 2001 and June 10,
2002. Stand reduction was evaluated following the first season on November 2, 2001 and
32
during the second season on May 15, 2002. No comparisons were made between grass
species.
Results and Discussion
The average effect of herbicide treatments at lx label rate on stand reduction and reduced
heading over the two seasons on eight native grass species is provided in Tables 1-4.
Treatments that consistently caused the most damage across grass species were 2x rates of
Sinbar at 1.5 lb/acre and Kerb at 0.80 lb/acre. Treatments with the least effect on both stand
reduction and reduced heading across grass species were lx rates of Diuron at 1.8 lb/acre,
Goal at 10 fi oz/acre, and Sencor at 0.4 lb/acre. An additional product with little effect on
stand reduction was a lx rate of Surfian at 3 qt/acre. Products that had the least effect on
heading across species were lx rates of Axiom at 11 oz/acre, Clarity at 4 pt/acre, Maverick at
0.67 oz/acre, and a 2x rate of Frontier at 64 fi oz/acre. The safest herbicide at the 2x rate
across grass species was Goal at 20 fi ozlacre.
Overall, stand reduction was the least for Great Basin wildrye, and was the greatest for prairie
junegrass and squirreltail. Great Basin wildrye and streambank wheatgrass were largely
unaffected by the various herbicide treatments except 2x rates of Sinbar at 1.5 lb/acre and
Kerb at 0.8 lb/acre. Species where herbicides generally had the most effect on reducing
heading were squirreltail and prairie junegrass.
33
Table 1. Effect of herb jcides on stand reduction of native grass species grown for seed, Madras, Oregon, 2000-2002.
Herbicide
Axiom
Beacon
Clarity
Diuron
Frontier
Goal
Kerb
Maverick
Sencor
Sinbar
Surfian
untreated
Rate per acre
11 oz
0.76 oz
4 pt
1.8 lb
32 fi oz
10 fi oz
0.4 lb
0.67 oz
0.4 lb
0.75 lb
3 qt
---
Great Basin wildrye
0.41
ab2
0.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
1.8
ab
ab
ab
ab
ab
0.6
0.5
0.3
0.3
0.0
- Bluebunch
0.9
1.3
0.8
0.8
0.6
0.8
2.2
c
wheatgrass
ab
bc
ab
ab
ab
ab
c
ab
ab
0.8
ab
1.1
b
ab
be
b
a
0.0
a
b
1
1.6
Streambankwheatgrass
0.9 cd
0.8 bc
0.4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.5
0.4
0.3
1.3
0.3
0.0
abc
ab
ab
ab
be
abc
ab
d
ab
a
Big bluegrass
0.4 a
0.4 a
0.4 a
0.5
0.3
0.3
1.7
0.6
0.5
1.9
0.4
0.0
a
a
a
b
a
a
b
a
a
'Rating scale from 0 (no negative effect) to 5 (maximum negative effect).
2Mean separation with LSD P 0.05.
Table 2. Effect of herbicides on stand reduction of native grass species grown for seed, Madras, Oregon, 2000-2002.
Herbicide
Axiom
Beacon
Clarity
Diuron
Frontier
Goal
Kerb
Maverick
Sencor
Sinbar
Surfian
untreated
Rate per acre
11 oz
0.76 oz
4 pt
1.8 lb
32 fi oz
10 fi oz
0.4 lb
Idaho fescue
0.5' be2
0.8 bed
0.8 bed
0.6 be
0.8 bed
0.4 ab
0.67oz
1.9
1.2
e
d
0.4 lb
0.75 lb
0.5
0.9
be
ed
3qt
0.8
bed
---
0.0
a
Indian ricegrass
0.5 ab
0.6 abc
0.7 abc
0.9 be
1.4
0.5
c
ab
be
1.0 be
0.6 abc
0.4 ab
0.9 be
0.0 a
1.1
'Rating scale from 0 (no negative effect) to 5 (maximum negative effect).
2Mean separation with LSD P 0.05.
34
Squirreltail
2 be
2.6 bed
3.1 bcde
3.1 bcde
1.6 b
3.5 ede
4.4 e
3.1 bede
2.2 be
4.2 de
2.5 bed
0.0 a
Prairie junegrass
0.8 abc
1.6 ed
1.4 de
3.8
0.8
0.4
1.6
1.1
1.1
2.1
1.1
0.0
e
abe
ab
ed
be
be
d
be
a
Table 3. Effect of herbicides on reduced heading of native grass species grown for seed, Madras, Oregon, 2000-2002.
Herbicide
Axiom
Beacon
Clarity
Diuron
Frontier
Goal
Kerb
Maverick
Sencor
Sinbar
Surfian
untreated
Rate per acre
11 oz
0.76 oz
4pt
Great Basin wildrye
1.11
ab2
0.0
a
b
a
b
ab
ab
ab
ab
ab
ab
a
1.81
1.8 lb
0.0
32floz
lOfloz
1.8
1.0
1.8
1.3
0.41b
0.67oz
0.4 lb
0.75 lb
0.8
3qt
0.3
---
0.0
1.6
Bluebunch wheatgrass
0.8 ab
0.6 ab
1.3 bc
0.7 ab
0.6 ab
0.7 ab
2.3
c
0.6
ab
b
be
b
a
1.1
1.7
1.1
0.0
Streambank wheatgrass
1.1 bc
1.2 bcd
1.6 cd
1.2 bcd
1.0 be
0.9 be
1.7 cd
0.2 ab
0.3 ab
2.1
0.5
0.0
Bi g bluegrass
1.6 bc
d
ab
a
0.3
1.0
a
ab
0.6 ab
0.6 ab
0.3
3.8
0.5
0.8
2.3
0.5
0.0
a
d
a
ab
c
a
a
'Rating scale from 0 (no negative effect) to 5 (maximum negative effect).
2Mean separation with LSD P 0.05
Table 4. Effect of herbicides on reduced heading of native grass species grown for seed, Madras, Oregon, 2000-2002.
Herbicide
Axiom
Beacon
Clarity
Diuron
Frontier
Goal
Kerb
Maverick
Seneor
Sinbar
Surfian
untreated
Rate per acre
11 oz
0.76oz
4pt
1.8 lb
32 fi oz
l0floz
0.4 lb
0.67oz
0.4 lb
0.75 lb
3 qt
---
Idaho fescue
1.5' bed2
1.6 bed
2.9 e
1.0 b
2.4 de
0.9 b
2.3 de
2.1 ede
1.0 b
1.3 be
1.0 b
0.0
a
Indian ricegrass
1.8 bed
1.1 abc
2.4 ed
1.0 abc
2.9 d
1.9 bed
2.0 bed
2.3 ed
1.3 abe
0.6 ab
1.6 bed
0.0 a
'Rating scale from 0 (no negative effect) to 5 (maximum negative effect).
2Mean separation with LSD P 0.05.
35
Squirreltail
2.4 be
2.4 be
5.0 e
1.8 b
1.4 ab
3.9 cde
4.6 de
3.1 bed
2.7 be
5.0 e
2.2 be
0.0 a
Prairie junegrass
3.5
d
2.4
2.4
2.6
2.7
bed
bed
cd
1.3
cd
abed
2.0
2.3
bed
bed
1.1
abe
ed
ab
2.6
0.3
0.0
a
Seedpiece and Soil Treatments to Reduce Powdery Scab Infection on Potatoes
Steven R. James
Abstract
An experiment to evaluate the effects of five seedpiece and soil-applied treatments on
powdery scab infection and control was planted May 29, 2003 in an area known to be
infected with powdery scab at the Powell Butte site of Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center. Although there were no statistically significant differences among the
treatments, the Maxim® and Wet Sol Gro treatments reduced the number of potato tubers
with powdery scab lesions. The scab index for those treatments also trended lower than
the scab index for the Evolve® and meadowfoam meal treatments.
Introduction
Powdery scab, caused by Spongospora subterranea (Wallr.) Lagerh. f. sp. subterranea
Tomlinson, is believed to have originated in the Andean highlands of South America and
has spread to almost all potato growing regions in the world. The fungus continues to
spread primarily through infected seed tubers. In the past few years, the disease has been
observed on potatoes in areas of the United States where it was previously not known to
occur. It has the potential to cause significant economic losses to fresh market potato
producers by making tubers non-marketable or by lowering the grade. Tubers with
superficial scab lesions can be utilized for processing, but peeling costs for infected
tubers are greater than costs for uninfected tubers. Seed lots infected with powdery scab
may or may not be certified depending on the regulations of the certifying agency and the
degree of infection. Infected tubers may develop dry rot or more scab lesions in storage
and are predisposed to infection by other organisms that cause rot in storage.
The control of powdery scab with metallic compounds, fungicides, and other compounds
applied to the soil has generally not been successful under field conditions (Burnett et a!.
1991). However, tuber infections were reduced when infested soils were treated with soil
fumigants methyl bromide, metham sodium, and chloropicrin. Seed piece treatments
containing zinc compounds and seed piece dips with formalin and sodium hypochlorite
reduced the number of tuber surface spores but were largely ineffective on spores beneath
the tuber surfaces (Burnett et a!. 1991, Mohan et al. 1991).
Potato varieties differ in their susceptibility to powdery scab; generally light-skinned and
red-skinned varieties are most susceptible (Christ 1993). Powdery scab has been
observed in Oregon on several chipping varieties, reds, 'Shepody', and 'Ranger Russet'.
The trend toward growing varieties other than 'Russet Burbank' may, in part, contribute
to increased observations of powdery scab. If this trend continues, powdery scab could
become an increasing problem in Oregon.
This study was designed to explore the effect of various soil and seedpiece treatments in
controlling powdery scab infection.
36
Materials and Methods
An experiment to evaluate the effects of five treatments on powdery scab infection and
control was planted on May 29, 2003 in an area known to be infected with powdery scab
at the Powell Butte site of Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center. Thirty
seedpieces of the red-skinned variety 'Dark Red Norland' were planted 9 inches apart in
each of the two plot rows (60 seedpieces/plot). Seedpieces contained powdery scab
spores and lesions on the periderm surface. Treatments included an untreated check and
two seedpiece treatments; Evolve (thiophanate-methyl, mancozeb, cymoxanil, Gustafson)
applied at 0.75 lb/100 lb of cut seedpieces and Maxim (fludioxonil, Syngenta) applied at
a rate of 0.50 lb/l00 lb of cut seedpieces. A fourth treatment, meadowfoam meal, was
worked into the top 4 inches of soil at a rate of 5 lb/l00 ft2 prior to planting. Finally, Wet
Sol Gro solution (biodegradable non-toxic blended non-ionic surfactant type soil
conditioner that contains bio-stimulants, B-Complex vitamins, hormones and
fermentation products, Schaeffer) was applied to seedpieces at a rate of 4 oz/5 gal water,
allowed to dry overnight before planting. In addition, plot foliage was sprayed with WetSo! solution (2 oz Wet Sol/15 gallons water) on July 7, August 4, and Sept 2 (Wet Sol
Gro treatment only). The trial area was sprinkler irrigated and managed with cultural
practices common in central Oregon. The stand in each plot was recorded on July 7,
2003.
The experiment was desiccated with Reglone (1 1/2 pt/acre) on September 11 and
harvested on October 6. The tuber production from each plot was weighed and total
yield, U.S. No. 1 yield, and other grade categories were calculated. An unbiased sample
of 20 tubers from each plot was rated for tuber scab lesions.
Results and Discussion
Seed pieces treated with Maxim had the highest percent stands on July 7, 2003. Percent
stands were 70, 80, 83, 76, and 77 percent for the check, Evolve, Maxim, Wet Sol Gro,
and meadowfoam meal treatments, respectively.
There were no differences among the five treatments in yield, grade, or specific gravity
(Table 1). The plots treated with Wet Sol Gro produced the lowest yields, while the
yields of all other treatments were nearly identical.
Tuber powdery scab lesion ratings are shown in Table 2. Although there were no
statistically significant differences among the treatments, the Maxim and Wet Sol Gro
treatments reduced the number of tubers with powdery scab lesions. The scab index was
also lower for those treatments. Wet Sol Gro was applied directly to seedpieces prior to
planting. Performance of the product may be enhanced by applying the product in the
furrow prior to covering the seedpieces. Future research will explore that type of
application method.
37
Table 1. Yield and specific gravity for treatments applied to control powdery scab,
Powell Butte, Oregon, 2003.
>
Total
Specific
<---- No.
gravity
yield
No. 2s Culls
is
i2+
Treatment
<4 oz 4-6
oz
6-12
oz
cwt/acre
>
54
54
32
134
124
5
138
31
148
101
8
146
36
42
26
186
141
1
Wet-SolGro
35
129
108
1
Meadowfoam
37
23
124
157
LSD (5%)
ns
ns
ns
ns
Check
Evolve
Maxim
Table 2. Effects
1.070
5
97
137
142
487
488
488
453
489
ns
ns
ns
ns
1.067
1.071
1.068
1.070
of seedpiece and soil treatments on powdery scab, Powell Butte,
Oregon, 2003.
Treatment
Check
Evolve
Maxim
Wet-Sol Gro
Meadowfoam Meal
LSD (5%)
index =
Number of tubers
with powdery scab
Tuber scab rating
(1 = none, 5 =
severe)
Scab
index'
10.75
10.00
5.50
2.50
2.45
2.50
2.45
2.53
1.86
1.65
1.33
1.47
1.66
6.50
10.25
ns
ns
(1 x number of tubers rated 1) + (2 x number of tubers rated 2) + (3 x
number of tubers rated 3) + (4 x number of tubers rated 4) + (5 x number
of tubers rated 5)/ total number of tubers rated.
ns
References
Burnett, F.J., S.J. Wale, and A.H. Sinclair. 1991. The use of zinc compounds as soil and
seed treatments in the control of powdery scab. Pages 420-421 in Eleventh
Triennial Conf. Proc. of the European Association for Potato Research.
Edinburgh, Scotland.
Christ, B.J. 1993. Powdery scab of potatoes--what we know. Pages 24-25 in Proc.
Twelfth Ann. Nat. Potato Council Seed Seminar.
38
3.
Mohan, S.K., J.R. Davis, and S.L. Hafez. 1991. Powdery scab of potato. Pages
242-244 in Proc. of the Univ. of Idaho Winter Commodity Schools 1991.
Volume 23.
39
Impact of Seedborne Potato Virus Y on Yield of Russet Norkotah Potatoes
Steven R. James, Kenneth A. Rykbost, Brian A. Chariton, and Keny A. Locke
Summary
Experiments to investigate the impact of varying levels of Potato Virus Y (PVY)
infection on the yield of 'Russet Norkotah' potatoes grown in short-season areas were
planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center (COARC), Madras and Klamath
Experiment Station (KES), Klamath Falls in 2003. Seedlots with PVY readings of 0.74
and 27.45 percent were tested alone and blended to achieve a range of PVY infection
levels. Effects of PVY infection levels on yield and grade of 'Russet Norkotah' were
minor and not statistically significant at either site. The effect of early plant death at
COARC caused by hail damage may have masked any effects that could have occurred
later in the growing season.
Introduction
virus diseases of potato worldwide. It
Potato Virus Y (PVY) is one of the most
can impact production of certified seed and also crops grown for processing or fresh
market. Seed potato growers generally must meet established tolerances for PVY in
their crop. Significant time and resources are expended to produce seed
order to
potato crops that contain very low or undetectable levels of the virus. Seed certification
standards in Oregon require field inspection and post-harvest sampling and inspection to
determine disease incidence and ensure seed lots are relatively free from diseases of
concern. Commercial crops grown in Oregon must be planted using certified seed. Seed
crops for recertification must be planted using seed that meets minimum standards that
vary for different seed classes. Seed lots with PVY infection levels of 5 percent or more
are not eligible for recertification under Oregon seed certification standards.
Compounding the challenge to produce virus-free seed potatoes, several potato varieties
express visual PVY symptoms poorly, if at all. 'Russet Norkotah' is among the more
difficult varieties for visual detection of PVY symptoms. The lack of visual symptoms
creates a challenging situation for producing certified seed of 'Russet Norkotah', because
certification methods rely heavily on visual inspection procedures to detect and
subsequently remove PVY-infected plants. The mild or absent symptom expression
causes seed and commercial producers to conclude that PVY infection does not impact
yield.
A few studies have examined the effect of varying levels of PVY infection on yield in
areas with long growing seasons (Rykbost et al. 1999, Nolte et. al. 2004). Minimal
information is available for short-season areas such as Central Oregon and the Klamath
basin (Rykbost et al. 1999). The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of
PVY infection on the yield of 'Russet Norkotah' in short-season areas
40
Materials and Methods
Standard 'Russet Norkotah' seed lots with greenhouse PVY readings of 0.74 (Lot A) and
27.45 percent (Lot B) were obtained from a Klamath County seed grower. Seed was
hand cut, treated with Tops® MZ (thiophanate methyl-mancozeb, Gustafson) at KES or
Maxim® MZ (fludioxonil-mancozeb, Syngenta) at COARC, and suberized at
approximately 55°F and 95 percent relative humidity for 7 (COARC) to 10 (KES) days
before planting. Seed lots were kept separate until immediately before planting. Five
treatments included complete lots of each seed source and blended lots comprised of 1/32/3, 1/2-1/2, and 2/3-1/3 from each seed source. Plots were arranged in a randomized
complete block design with five replications. Individual plots were two rows with 30
seedpieces in each row. Border rows on each side of plot rows were planted with seed
from Lot A. Planting dates were May 7 at COARC and May 22 at KES.
At COARC, seed was spaced 9 inches in 36-inch rows. All fertilizer was banded at
planting at 195 lb/acre of N, P205, and 1(20, and 85 lb/acre of S. The insecticide
Admire® (imidacloprid, Bayer) was applied in the seed furrow at planting at 0.17 lb
ai/acre. Weed control was achieved with Eptam® (EPTC, Syngenta), Sencor®
(metribuzin, Bayer), and Matrix® (rimsulfuron, E.I. Dupont de Nemours and Co., Inc.)
applied at labeled rates. Irrigation was applied to meet crop needs with solid-set
sprinklers (17.25 inches). A hail storm on August 5 stripped most leaves and broke
stems, effectively killing the crop. Potatoes were harvested with a two-row level-bed
digger and hand picked on September 24. All tubers from each plot were graded to
USDA grade standards. Yield and grade data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA
procedures.
At KES, seed was spaced 9 inches in 32-inch rows. All fertilizer was banded at planting
at 160 lb/acre N, 80 lb/acre P205 and 1(20, and 140 lb/acre S. In-furrow applications of
Vydate® C-LV (oxamyl, Dupont) (1.0 lb ai/acre), Admire® (imidacloprid, Bayer) (0.17 lb
ai/acre), and Quadris® (azoxystrobin, Zeneca Ag Products) (0.10 lb ai/acre) were made to
control nematodes, insects, and fungal diseases. Weed control was achieved with Dual®
(metolachlor, Syngenta) (1.0 lb ai/acre) and Prowl® (pendimethalin, BASF) (1.0 lb
ai/acre) applied pre-emergence and incorporated with a rolling cultivator on June 3 and
Matrix® applied post-emergence at 2 oz/acre on July 2. Herbicide applications were
made with a conventional ground sprayer in 30 gallacre solution. Two additional
applications of Vydate® C-LV at 1.0 lb ai/acre were made through the solid-set irrigation
system on July 16 and August 1. Four foliar fungicide applications were made using
standard products during the growing season. Approximately 20 inches of irrigation was
applied with solid-set sprinklers. Vines were desiccated using Reglone® (diquat
dibromide, Seneca) at 1.5 pints/acre on September 5. Potatoes were harvested with a
one-row digger-bagger on September 24. All potatoes from each plot were weighed at
harvest. Approximately 120 lbs/plot were graded to USDA standards. Data were
statistically analyzed using MSUSTAT software.
When plants were approximately 10-12 inches tall, three leaflets per plant were collected
from 20 plants in each plot of the treatments comprised of either Lot A or Lot B.
41
Samples were ELISA tested at the Idaho Crop Improvement Laboratory for PVY content.
Sample dates were June 30 at COARC and July 7 at KES. As results were consistent
between replications and locations, it was decided it was not necessary to sample the
blended treatments.
Results
Laboratory plant analyses confirmed that the virus content in both seed lots of 'Russet
Norkotah' matched previously determined greenhouse PVY readings fairly well. At both
sites, 2 plants out of 100, or 2.0 percent of Lot A tested were positive for PVY, compared
with a greenhouse test of 0.7 percent. Lot B tests indicated 32 and 37 percent PVY
infection at COARC and KES, respectively, compared with the greenhouse reading of
27.5 percent. Because results were sufficiently consistent between replications, we
decided not to test the blended treatment plants.
At COARC, no PVY response trend was evident. The effect of early plant death caused
by hail damage may have masked any effects that could have occurred later in the
growing season. While yields were slightly higher at COARC, the yield of U.S. No. is
greater than 12 oz was about 1/3 lower than at KES.
Effects of PVY infection levels on yield and grade of 'Russet Norkotah' were minor and
not statistically significant at either site (Table 1). A trend was observed at KES for a
slight yield reduction with increasing proportion of Lot B seed. Total U.S. No. 1 yields
declined from 354 cwtlacre for Lot A to 324 cwt/acre for Lot B, a reduction of
approximately 1 cwt/acre for each percent of seedbome infection level. The reduction
was observed in larger U.S. No. 1 and off-grade tubers. Total yield was 48 cwtlacre
lower for Lot B. KES findings are similar to the results of 1996 and 1997 studies.
Literature Cited
Rykbost, K.A., D.C. Hane, P.B. Hamm, R. Voss, and D. Kirby. 1999. Effect of
seedbome Potato Virus Y on Russet Norkotah performance. Am. J. Potato Res. 75:9 196.
Nolte, P., J.L. Whitworth, M.K. Thornton, and C.S. McIntosh. 2004. Effect of
seedborne Potato Virus Y on performance of Russet Burbank, Russet Norkotah and
Shepody potato. Plant Disease 88:248-252.
Acknowledgments
Partial financial support for this study was provided by the Oregon Potato Commission.
42
Table 1. Impact of varying levels of seedbome PVY infection on yield and grade of
'Russet Norkotah' potatoes grown at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center
(COARC), Madras and Kiamath Experiment Station (KES), Kiamath Falls in 2003.
Yield
YieldU.S.No. l's
Culls Total
Twos
<4
Total
4-6 6-12 >12
Seed lot
oz
oz
oz
cwtlacre
oz
cwt/acre
COARC
100%LotA
44
47
50
100%LotB
49
247
216
233
220
233
LSD5%
ns
ns
2/3LotA+1/3LotB
1/2LotA+l/2LotB
1/3 Lot A + 2/3 Lot B
51
448
425
0
26
30
22
22
26
ns
ns
ns
ns
354
340
334
306
22
22
26
55
25
66
8
62
53
17
18
324
25
45
31
14
456
436
439
408
ns
ns
ns
ns
1
355
39
40
109
392
38
1
90
361
1
388
42
35
ns
90
381
91
105
ns
1
452
425
449
KES1
100%LotA
2/3LotA+l/3LotB
1/2LotA+1/2LotB
1/3LotA+2/3LotB
100
%LotB
LSD 5%
82
106
166
105
101
134
89
93
152
90
84
93
97
132
134
ns
ns
ns
'Size grades at KES were 4-8 oz and 8-12 oz.
43
408
ns
Peppermint Variety Trial, Central Oregon, 1999-2003
Fred Crowe and Rhonda Simmons
Summary
In 2003, Peppermint line B90-9 suffered wilt-related stand decline in both non-infested
(moderate) and infested (severe) parts of the variety trial. Lines M90-i 1 and M0109-1
manifested nearly no wilt symptoms and continued to yield very well in the presence of
Verticillium wilt infestations. M90-1 1 again showed no mite damage. For all varieties
and lines, menthol levels were somewhat low, and total menthone levels were high. Over
4 years, B90-9 yielded better than all other varieties when wilt was low (although wilt
became moderate even in noninfested B90-9 plots by year 4), but yields of B90-9
dropped off rapidly in infested plots and was nearly all dead by year 4. Advanced lines
M90-1 1, 87M0109-1 and 84M0107-7 ("gray" or "hairy" mint line) withstood wilt
pressure extremely well — far better than 'Todds'. Oil compositional analysis is discussed
for these wilt-resistant lines, and seemed acceptable for B90-9. Composition of varieties
that otherwise performed well might improve if harvested on a different schedule than
selected in these 4 years. Line 92(B37 x MOl 10)-i was nearly totally dead by year 4 in
both infested and noninfested plots — wilt was severe, but this line may also suffer from
other undetermined problems. Line M83-14 performed very similar to 'Black Mitcham'
in many respects, but this line offered only slight advantage with respect to yield or wilt
tolerance. In noninfested plots, the private variety 'McKellip' (a selection from 'Black
Mitcham') yielded better than 'Black Mitcham' over 4 years, but wilt tolerance was
nearly identical to 'Black Mitcham' and no yield advantage was measured in infested
plots.
Introduction
Mint Industry Research Council (MIRC)-Variety trials initiated in central Oregon and
elsewhere in 1994 and 1995 were the first public, replicated, and randomized such trials
under uniform management and in which statistical comparisons could be made. The
Oregon State University-Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center (OSU-COARC)
field at Madras was not cropped with irrigated crops until 1990, and even now has a
substantial area that is not infested with measurable levels of any strain of Verticillium
dahliae. This allowed us in 1994 to artificially infest part of the trial area with a uniform
level of only the mint strain of V. dahliae. This was an advantage over most fields in
which V. dahliae populations are non-uniform, and in which mixtures of strains can
confuse interpretation of soil assay measurements. This and other trials have proven
useful for wilt and yield comparisons, and should become more useful as a new
generation of mini-stills have been developed that may provide near-commercial
character for the oil distilled from small plots. A second trial was initiated in 1999 in a
field believed to be noninfested on the OSU-COARC farm at Madras. Half of the trial
was infested with V. dahliae in fall 1999. The growth, yield, oil quality, and Verticillium
44
wilt susceptibility of seven entrees and two standard varieties were being evaluated from
2000 through 2003. Previous reports have been presented, but this report summarizes
both results from 2003 and the full 4 years.
Materials and Methods
Plots were established from rooted cuttings in the summer of 1999. The trial area was
split into an artificially infested area and a noninfested area as per previous trials
conducted in 1994-1998. Plot sizes were 10 ft by 20 ft. All plots were managed
similarly in each year, as per local commercial practices.
Entrees totaled nine. The MIRC submitted six new entrees: 84M0107-7, M90-1 1,
87M0109-i, M83-14, 92(B37xMO1 10)-i, and B90-9. A privately developed variety
from L. McKellip (labeled 'McKeliip 98') was also included. Standard varieties included
'Black Mitcham' and 'Todds'. The field was divided into two randomized complete
block design trials: one-half of the field was noninfested and the other half was infested
with V. dahliae. Each variety was replicated four times within each trial.
In 1999, V. dahliae inoculum was produced in the laboratory by growing V. dahliae on a
modified, minimal agar (Puhalia 1979) overlain with sterile, uncoated cellophane. The
plots were infested at 4 microsclerotialg soil, a slightly higher initial rate than in 1994.
As in the previous trial, a mixture of sand and V. dahliae microsclerotia was spread over
half of the field on plot surfaces after fall dormancy. At that time, all plots were tilled to
both distribute rhizomes and place inoculum within the rooting zone of the mint. V.
dahliae soil populations were recovered from one edge of the non-artificially infested
trial in 2000, monitored by soil assay (Harris et a!. 1993), accounting for wilt symptoms
that occurred in that location. This "naturally" infested area (a result of locating this trial
too close to a previously infested trial), corresponded identically with one of the
noninfested replications. This allowed us to simply re-assign the naturally infested
replication within the "infested" trial, resulting in an experimental design with three
replications for the "noninfested" and five replications for the "infested" trial areas.
The trial area was propane flamed in the fall of 2001. Because water infiltration in the
trial area was considered suboptimal in 2001, contributing to undue water stress on the
peppermint before harvest in 2001, two subsoil shanks were passed through each plot
(noninfested plots first) in the late fall of 2001. Water infiltration was substantially better
in 2002, and plants did not suffer water stress during 2002 until within a week of harvest
when irrigation was intentionally briefly curtailed. Irrigation and fertility were as per
standard local practices. In response to an increase in two-spotted spider mite population
increase, Comite® was applied in early June, but no further mite buildup occurred
thereafter and miticide was not re-applied. No mite control was required in 2000, 2001,
or 2003, although there was evidence of mite feeding on some but not all varieties or
lines — this is further discussed below.
Wilt incidence, peppermint performance, powdery mildew, and rhizome development
were assessed as per MIRC guidelines. Oil from hay subsamples collected at harvest was
45
distilled using the McKellip-Newhouse mini-still located at OSU-Madras. This still was
converted from a high-pressure distillation in 2000-2002 to a low-pressure system in
2003. Oil was sent to I.P. Callison for analysis. Beginning in 2002, at the request of the
MIRC, oil collected from all replications in the infested trial were combined for
compositional analysis. Similarly, replications were combined from the nomnfested trial.
In 2000 and 2001, mean levels of oil components were statistically analyzed, but this was
not possible for 2002 and 2003.
Data for all response variables underwent an analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the
general linear model, PROC GLM, of SAS version 7.0 (SAS Institute 1988). The
noninfested and infested halves of the field were analyzed as separate experiments.
Treatment means were separated by Fisher's protected least significant difference (LSD)
test. See comment above concerning unbalanced number of replications for the two trial
areas, and previous years' discussions on prior analyses. No data analysis could be
performed on oil composition because oil from all replications was combined.
Results
2003: Plots were swathed on August 6, at about 8 percent bloom for the variety 'Black
Mitcham'. Other varieties/lines ranged from 3 to 15 percent bloom (Table 4). As per
MIRC recommendations, mint was distilled within a few days of swathing, when the
swathed hay was wilted but not dried. In addition to COARC mint, samples from the
Willamette Valley variety trial were distilled. A public field plot tour was offered on July
31.
Results for ground cover (percent stand), dry hay yield, and oil yield are shown in Table
4, as is the percent bloom at harvest for each variety. Wilt incidence is reported in Table
4 as a proportion of non-wilted standing mint. The proportion of the plot area occupied
by healthy mint was calculated by multiplying the percent stand by the percent healthy
mint. This number combines the concept of missing plants (primarily from past years'
wilt effects) with the current season's wilt impact into a single number for the amount of
healthy mint remaining at harvest as a proportion of original plot area. This number
represents the available oil-bearing mint plant per plot that oil yield depends upon.
'Black Mitcham' and 'Todds' were the varietal standards, and performed more or less as
expected with respect to wilt. Wilt incidence increased in 'Black Mitcham' and yields
were very depressed in 2003, whereas 'Todds' manifested mild to moderate wilt and
performed somewhat better than 'Black Mitcham' where V. dahliae was present. The
line 92(B37xMO11O)-l again performed poorly in both noninfested and infested trials,
and was nearly "wilted out" even by 2002 (year 3). The lines M90-1 1 and 87M0109-1
continued to manifest nearly no wilt symptoms for the fourth year. M90-1 1 continued to
actually perform better under wilt infestation than in the absence of V. dahliae. The line
84M0107-7 (a "gray" variety, one with abundant leaf hairs) also manifested no wilt, was
highly vigorous with abundant hay, but did not yield highly. For the first time in 4 years,
the variety B90-9 was not the superior yielder in "noninfested" plots. This was due to
loss of stand and presence of wilt that began to accumulate even though these plots were
46
not artificially infested. This is just another measure of the sensitivity of B 90-9 to wilt
infection. On the other hand, B90-9 did yield moderately well even in spite of stand loss
and wilt incidence, which emphasizes the high yield potential for this variety. The line
M83-14 performed rather average in all respects, and was similar to 'Todds' in wilt
tolerance. The private variety 'McKellip 98' performed similar to 'Black Mitcham' with
respect to hay yield; it out-yielded 'Black Mitcham' in both infested and noninfested
trials and manifested moderate wilt, less than did 'Black Mitcham'.
Oil compositional analysis for 2003 appears in Table 5. For noninfested plots, menthol
levels were low for standard varieties 'Black Mitcham' (34.8 percent) and 'Todds' (35.5
percent) compared to more optimum levels such as 45 percent or higher. Total menthone
(menthone + isomenthone) was 26.9 and 27.5 percent for 'Black Mitcham' and 'Todds',
respectively, which was somewhat higher than a preferred 15-18 percent. Menthofuran
for 'Black Mitcham' and 'Todds' was 4.0 and 2.7 percent, respectively. Taken together,
this suggests that harvest was not at optimum timing even though percent bloom was
rated at 8 and 3 percent for these varieties (Table 4). For B90-9, menthol, total
menthone, and menthofuran were 21.3, 38.4, and 1.1 percent, respectively, no closer to a
preferred balance than the other horticulturally interesting lines M90- 11(28.0, 32.6, and
4.5 percent, respectively) or 87M0109-1 (34.1, 29.9, and 3.1 percent, respectfully). For
infested plots, data were similar to noninfested (see Table 5).
Four-year summary: Seasonal performance data, including statistical analysis, for all 4
years appear in Tables 1-4. Included in Tables 1-4 are cumulative oil-yield figures —
Table 4 shows the 4-year accumulation. Annual oil compositional data appear in Tables
5-8. Most data from various tables are graphically displayed in Figures 1-6.
Various results and trends are discussed on a variety-by-variety basis below. For oil
character, only basic components such as menthol, total menthone, menthofuran, heads,
and pulegone are discussed.
Performance of "Standard" varieties 'Black Mitcham' and 'Todds':
Wilt disease progressed as designed for the standard variety 'Black Mitcham'.
Over 4 years, wilt levels greatly increased (Fig. 2), but hay yield (Fig. 4) and
oil yields (Fig. 5) diminished to "wilt-out" levels. Similarly, 'Todds' showed
moderate resistance based on wilt levels (Fig. 2) and diminished hay yield but
maintained oil yield over the 4 years.
b. Oil composition of major components is shown in Tables 5-8 and in Figure 6,
and is relatively typical for this variety and region. Oil composition of other
varieties is discussed in comparison to 'Black Mitcham', which is the industry
standard.
a.
Performance of 'McKellip' variety:
a. This variety was field selected from 'Black Mitcham' and is promoted as
yielding better than 'Black Mitcham' in the presence of V. dahliae. Over the
4 years in this study, 'McKellip' out-yielded 'Black Mitcham' in the
47
noninfested trial (P <5 percent) in both dry hay (Table 4, Fig. 4) and oil
(Table 4, Fig. 5). In the infested trial, 'McKellip' slightly out-yielded 'Black
Mitcham' but this was not statistical difference (P < 5 percent). Wilt levels
were nearly identical for both 'Black Mitcham' and 'McKellip', and both
were well along toward "wilt-out" by year 4 in the infested trial (Table 4).
Thus, while it seems reasonable to state that 'McKellip' did out-yield 'Black
Mitcham' in these trials, we cannot attribute the yield advantage to enhanced
wilt resistance, nor can we highly recommend 'McKellip' for highly wiltinfested soils.
b. 'McKellip' oil character, as expected, was found to be very close to that of
'Black Mitcham' (Tables 5-8, Fig. 6).
Perfonnance of the advanced line B90-9:
a. This line yielded an outstanding amount of oil in noninfested plots during the
first 3 years of the study, and had a favorable oil-to-hay ratio, somewhat like
'Black Mitcham', which would reduce distillation costs (Tables 1-3; Figs. 4
and 5). However, it proved to be highly susceptible to wilt (Tables 1-4, Figs.
1-3). It was nearly fully wilted out of infested plots by year 3 or 4, and
manifested abundant wilt and stand loss even in initially noninfested plots by
years 3 and 4 (Table 4, Figs. 1-3).
b. B90-9's basic oil compositional proportions for menthol, total menthone,
menthofuran, and pulegone were comparable to 'Black Mitcham', although
perhaps menthofuran levels were a little higher.
Performance of the advanced line 84M0107-7 ("gray" or "hairy" mint):
a. This line was the most highly wilt tolerant of all entrees in the trial. In 4
years, foliage on a few stems manifested only slight symptoms (Tables 1-4,
Figs. 1-5). However, it should be recognized that apparent wilt tolerance
based on symptoms can still result in some slight wilt-related yield loss (Figs.
4 and 5). Perhaps this line's biggest problem was simply low yield. (Figs. 4
and 5).
b. This line never did develop much menthofuran. Menthol was low and total
menthone was high.
Performance of the advanced lines M90- 11:
a. This line was nearly as wilt tolerant as the "gray" variety above (Tables 1-4,
Figs. 1-3). It also had no mite problems at times when other varieties/lines
required mite control. Further, it seemed to tolerate moisture stress at times
when irrigation was delayed. It did show some wilt-related depression of hay
yield (Fig. 4), as is typical of most wilt-tolerant/resistant mints, but it yielded
more oil in wilt-infested plots than in noninfested plots (Fig. 5).
b. Basic oil composition for M90-1 1 was a little low for menthol, and somewhat
elevated for pulegone.
48
Performance of the advanced line 87M0109-1:
a. This line performed similarly to M90- 11 with respect to wilt tolerance (Tables
1-4; Figs. 1-3) and moisture stress, but more average with respect to mite
activity. Yields were good, especially in wilt-infested plots (Figs. 4 and 5).
b. Basic oil character was a little low for menthol.
Performance of the advanced line M83-14:
a. M83-14 was less tolerant than 'Todds' but more tolerant than 'Black
Mitcham' to wilt infestation (Tables 1-4; Figs. 1-3). It yielded similarly to
'Black Mitcham' with respect to oil (Fig. 5), with somewhat more hay yield
(Fig. 4).
b. This line's basic oil character rather closely matched that of 'Black Mitcham'.
Performance of the advanced line 92(B37xMO1 10)-i:
a. This line was woefully susceptible to wilt (Tables 1-4, Figs. 1-3), and
essentially wilted out within a few years. Wilt and stand problems occurred
even in non-artificially infested plots, much greater than for other very
susceptible entrees such as B90-9 and 'Black Mitcham'. It is possible that this
line suffered from other unexplained problems in this trial. Adequate yields
never developed (Figs. 4 and 5).
b. Basic oil composition was similar to 'Black Mitcham'.
Discussion and Conclusions
B90-9 appears to be very promising for areas with little or no wilt pressure. Based on
relative tolerance to wilt and high yields under wilt pressure, mites and moisture stress,
M90-1 1 could be a valuable variety if oil composition proves acceptable. Similarly,
87M0109-1 could prove valuable in wilted soil and under drought stress. Both M90-1 1
and 87M0109-1 were included as optional choices within our new proposal to determine
optimum harvest times for newer varieties and lines, in case earlier or later harvest might
provide more andlor better oil character than was obtained when they were managed and
harvested as per 'Black Mitcham'. For regions with widespread wilt, it may be
advantageous to test such wilt-tolerance/resistant varieties more carefully rather than
simply discard them based ways of managing standard varieties.
Success Criteria and Timing: This is the final report of a 5-year study (5 funded years,
including the establishment year). A poster presentation will be available at the annual
winter MIRC research meetings.
Literature Cited
Harris, D.C., J.R. Yang, and M.S. Ridout. 1993. The detection and estimation of
Verticillium dahliae in naturally infested soil. Plant Pathol. 42:238-250.
Puhalla, J.E. 1979. Classification of isolates of Verticillium dahliae based on
heterokaryon incompatibility. Phytopathology 69:1186-1189.
49
SAS Institute. 1988. SAS guide for personal computers: Statistics. Version 6.0. SAS
Institute, Cary, NC.
Table 1. Peppermint performance in noninfested and infested variety trials, OSU- Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, 2000.
Non-infested
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
6/15/00
(%)
98.7 a
100 a
100 a
94.3 b
100 a
99.7 a
99 a
58.3 c
99.7 a
Infested
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMO11O)-1
B90-9
6/15/00
(%)
96.6 a
99.7 a
98.7 a
91.7 a
99.7 a
99.3 a
94.7 a
69.0 b
97.3 a
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
at harvest3
Non-wilted2
8/2/00
8/2/00
(%)
(%)
97
99
99
94
100
99
98
58
99
99
99
99
100
100
100
99
99
100
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
at harvest3
Non-wilted2
8/2/00
8/2/00
(%)
(%)
Hay yield
dry wt.
8/3/00
(lb/acre)
6,187 bc
6,982 bc
9,712 a
9,029 a
7,542 b
7,170 bc
7,362 d
4,694 d
6,016 bc
98
99
99
100
100
99
97
95
98
97
92
99
98
92
Hay yield
dry wt.
8/3/00
(lb/acre)
6,573
7,118
7,646
8,126
8,097
6,426
6,315
99
99
68
96
4,836
6,123
Oil yield
8/6/00
(lb/acre)
47 abc
27 cd
42 abcd
39 abcd
43 abcd
50 ab
32 bcd
24 d
58 a
Oil yield
8/6/00
(lb/acre)
54 a
52 ab
32 ab
54 ab
47 ab
56 a
34 ab
28 b
55a
1Stand = percent of plot area covered with new growth (percent ground cover).
2Non-wilted = percent of stand without wilt symptoms at harvest.
3Proportion of plot with healthy mint at harvest = (percent stand) x (percent non-wilted mint).
50
Table 2. Peppermint performance in noninfested and infested variety trials OSU-Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, 2001.
Proportion of plot
Non-infested
with healthy mint
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
5/22/01
(%)
91
97
95
94
95
87
91
55
88
Non-wilted2
8/1/01
(%)
99.7
99
99.3
100
100
97.3
100
90.3
99.3
Infested
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOI1O)-1
B90-9
Stand1
5/22/01
(%)
80
94
92
95
96
87
90
43
95
Non-wilted2
8/1/01
(%)
82
97.7
100
97
98.3
95.7
at harvest3
8/1/01
(%)
91
96
94
94
95
85
91
50
87
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
at harvest3
75.3
92.3
Hay yield
dry wt.
Oil yield
8/5/01
8/5/01
(lb/acre)
(lb/acre)
6252 c
7114 bc
8,126 a
6804 bc
8127 ab
6280 c
6567 c
38.8 bc
45.7 bc
49.4 b
47.7 b
51 b
59.6 ab
42.5 bc
5725 C
25.1 C
5833 c
72.3 a
Hay yield
dry wt.
8/5/01
Oil yield
8/5/01
8/1/01
(%)
65.6
91.8
92.0
92.2
94.4
83.3
87.6
(lb/acre)
4,555 bc
5,086 bc
7,944 a
5,442 abc
6,787 ab
4,741 bc
5,617 abc
(lb/acre)
36.0 ab
32.4
87.7
3,389 c
4,725 bc
14.7 b
59.7 a
39.1 ab
34.1 ab
47.5
45.0
33.9
42.3
a
a
ab
a
1Stand = percent of plot area covered with new growth (percent ground cover).
2Non-wilted = percent of stand without wilt symptoms at harvest.
3Proportion of plot with healthy mint at harvest = (percent stand) x (percent non-wilted mint).
51
Total
oil yield
2000-2001
(lb/acre)
85.8 bc
72.7 cd
91.4 bc
86.7 bc
94.0 bc
109.6 ab
74.5 cd
49.1 d
122.3 a
Total
oil yield
2000-2001
(lb/acre)
90.0 ab
91.1 ab
66.1 bc
101.5 a
92 ab
89.9 ab
76.3 C
42.7 C
114.7 a
Table 3. Peppermint performance in noninfested and infested variety trials OSU-Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, 2002.
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
Non-infested
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
Kckellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOI 10)-I
B90-9
4/22/02
(%)
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
85
100
Non-wilted2
7/29/02
(%)
94.8 a
96.5 a
99.5 a
99.8 a
99.8 a
93.8 a
99.8 a
75.2 b
92.5 a
Infested
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-1I
87M0109-I
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
4/22/02
(%)
80
94
92
95
96
87
90
43
95
Non-wilted2
7/29/02
(%)
45.0 cd
80.2 b
98.6 a
97.2 a
94.2 a
52.8 c
77.6 b
dry wt.
8/2/02
(lb/acre)
Oil yield
8/7/02
(lb/acre)
8,133 bc
8,631 b
10,935 a
11,947 a
10,933 a
8,014 bc
7,467 bc
6,782 c
7,187 bc
39.6 abc
38.9 abc
32.0 c
32.5 bc
40.8 abc
50.9 ab
40.7 abc
36.5 abc
58.5 a
(%)
36.0
75.4
90.7
92.3
90.4
45.9
69.8
Hay yield
dry wt.
8/2/02
(lb/acre)
3,565 e
6,171 cd
10,482 a
8,796 b
8,232 b
4,461 de
6,399 c
Oil yield
8/7/02
(lb/acre)
31.6 b
45.3 ab
37.5 ab
51.3 a
39.8 ab
43.5 ab
45.6 ab
15.0
52.6
1,000 f
4,174 e
8.7 c
45.2 ab
at harvest3
7/29/02
(%)
94.8
96.5
99.5
99.8
99.8
93.8
99.8
63.9
92.5
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
at harvest3
7/29/02
35.0 d
55.4 c
Total
Hay yield
1Stand = percent of plot area covered with new growth (percent ground cover).
2Non-wilted = % of stand without wilt symptoms at harvest.
3Proportion of plot with healthy mint at harvest = (percent stand) x (percent non-wilted mint).
52
oil yield
2000-2002
(lb/acre)
132 C
118 cd
117 cd
126 c
141 bc
167 ab
121 Cd
92 d
195 a
Total
oil yield
2000-2002
(lb/acre)
133 ab
139 ab
105 b
155 a
137 ab
134 ab
108 b
46
C
169 a
Table 4. Peppermint performance in noninfested and infested variety trials OSU-Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, 2003.
Non-infested
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMO11O)-1
B90-9
7/7/03
(%)
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
at harvest3
Non-wilted2
7/29/03
7/29/03
(%)
(%)
94 ab
98 a
100 a
100 a
99 a
96 ab
100 a
72 c
83 bc
85 ab
96 a
100 a
98 a
99 a
88 ab
94 ab
31 c
73 b
7/7/03
(%)
Non-wilted2
7/29/03
(%)
Proportion of plot
with healthy mint
at harvest3
7/29/03
(%)
Bloom
8/4/03
(%)
27 cd
53 d
14 d
8
73 ab
99 a
97 a
100 a
51 be
63 b
13 d
56 bc
80 b
100 a
99 a
99 a
50 d
72 bc
57 cd
49 d
58 b
99 a
96 a
99 a
26 cd
45 bc
7d
28 cd
3
13
5
3
10
3
90 a
98 a
100 a
98 a
100 a
92 a
94 a
40 b
88 a
Infested
Stand1
Variety
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMO11O)-1
B90-9
Hay yield
Bloom
8/4/03
(%)
8
3
13
5
3
10
3
15
15
15
15
drywt.
8/4/03
Oil yield
8/6/03
(lb/acre)
26 c
48 ab
(lb/acre)
185 b
175 b
162 b
183 b
180 b
225 a
175 b
118 c
243 a
Oil yield
8/6/03
(lb/acre)
Total
oil yield
2000-2003
(lb/acre)
871 c
16 bc
149 ab
2,492 b
4,524 a
4,246 a
3,983 a
1,685 bc
1,732 bc
560 c
1,558 bc
41 ab
180 ab
151 b
204 ab
173 ab
164 ab
150 b
(lb/acre)
4,414 bc
3,622 c
5,520 ab
6,036 a
4,277 bc
3,107 cd
3,705 c
1,846 d
3,115 Cd
Hay yield
dry wt.
8/4/03
(lb/acre)
53 ab
56 a
45 ab
57 a
39 bc
57 a
52 ab
45 a
49 a
36 abc
30 abc
29 abc
8c
34 abc
1Stand = percent of plot area covered with new growth (percent ground cover).
2Non-wilted = percent of stand without wilt symptoms at
harvest.
3Proportion of plot with healthy mint at harvest = (percent stand) x (percent non-wilted mint).
53
Total
Oil yield
2000-2003
56 c
202 a
Table 5. First year peppermint oil partial compositional analysis from infested and noninfested variety trial, Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, 2000.
Variety
APIN1
(%)
—
SAB
BPIN
OCT
LIM
Total MONE
ISO
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
heads
(%)
(%)
(%)
0.65
0.38
0.34
0.46
0.49
0.58
0.65
0.58
0.70
0.32
0.08
0.00
0.00
0.39
0.00
0.04
0.08
0.07
0.07
2.96
3.15
2.80
2.89
3.96
2.84
17.57
21.60
30.20
15.92
22.23
16.98
21.54
22.62
3.15
3.53
13.57
9.27
10.02
2.75
Total
menthone
(%)
MF
(%)
NEOMOL
(%)
MOL PUL
(%)
(%)
4.87
3.19
36.52
27.44
26.83
23.50
38.83
37.98
1.58
1.17
4.67
2.73
PIP
Infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
0.86
0.70
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKelIip
0.73
0.97
0.75
0.63
0.79
0.82
M83-14
92(B37xMO1IO)-1
B90-9
0.61
0.21
0.33
0.37
0.32
0.30
0.32
0.39
0.34
1.68
2.70
2.71
8.72
7.00
7.22
8.94
8.48
8.23
7.07
7.89
8.46
17.49
3.21
4.24
3.38
20.72
25.14
43.77
25.19
32.25
19.73
24.75
26.85
20.87
3.04
1.09
4.67
1.89
4.26
3.36
1.71
4.67
1.98
6.24
4.84
5.40
5.06
5.18
39.01
38.52
1.41
1.54
0.84
1.47
0.57
0.66
0.37
0.45
0.58
0.56
0.67
0.49
Non-infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKeIIip
0.58
0.56
0.70
0.65
0.91
20.37
22.87
20.00
0.41
47.38
33.04
0.44
27.76
17.58
0.44
0.61
34.38
23.26
0.37
0.62
19.45
16.83
0.48
0.89
24.86
3.11
21.75
0.37
0.73
24.60
2.87
7.61
21.72
0.47
0.91
20.70
3.08
17.62
7.80
2.35
0.11
0.32
0.66
= Sabinene, BPIN = beta-Pinene, OCT = 3-Octanol, LIM = Limonene,
0.80
0.79
0.63
0.44
0.16
0.14
0.13
0.17
0.03
0.14
0.12
0.16
1.29
1.13
2.42
2.50
3.60
1.43
0.88
0.93
8.22
7.43
8.07
8.86
8.79
8.35
6.60
17.51
2.86
2.87
14.34
10.18
11.12
2.63
0.67
0.50
M83-14
0.67
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
0.74
B90-9
1APIN = alpha-pinene, SAB
Isomenthone,
MF = Menthofuran, NEOMOL = Neomenthol, MOL = Menthol, PUL = Pulegone, PIP = Piperitone.
54
39.66 1.30
4.46
37.67 1.08
5.03
25.26 1.27
2.96
26.85 6.23
2.52
6.85 24.51 3.24
4.58 39.39 1.55
5.80 38.15 1.66
4.84 39.85 0.78
2.61
39.97 1.45
4.08
4.26
MONE = Menthone, ISO =
3.64
2.83
0.99
5.39
1.89
5.04
3.06
0.61
0.60
0.57
0.45
0.51
0.59
0.60
0.75
Table 6. Second year peppermint oil partial compositional analysis from infested and noninfested soil, Central Oregon peppermint variety trial, Madras,
2001.
Variety
APIN1 SAB BPIN
OCT EUC
LIM
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
0.95
0.95 1.01
0.12 0.80
1.72 0.82
0.54 0.84
1.41 0.88
0.51 1.66 0.83
0.49 1.39 0.82
0.23
0.22
0.40
0.44
0.15
0.25
0.33
0.24
0.28
4.00
4.25
3.13
3.80
3.99
3.68
3.58
3.37
4.59
1.84
1.88
1.14
2.04
0.81
0.29
0.23
0.36
0.59
0.20
0.23
0.24
0.32
0.93
0.31
3.66
3.72
3.26
3.60
3.54
3.36
3.40
3.22
4.00
1.87
1.72
1.13
2.51
1.37
1.69
1.23
1.22
1.99
(%)
(%)
Total
heads
(%)
MONE ISO
(%)
(%)
Total
menthone
(%)
9.64
8.94
6.06
9.34
7.32
8.68
8.54
7.44
10.19
11.15
15.58
31.40
13.72
17.93
12.00
15.14
14.69
11.07
2.13
2.34
13.13
6.80
9.74
2.16
3.95
13.27
17.93
44.53
20.52
27.68
14.16
19.08
3.41
18.11
2.00
13.07
9.08
8.49
6.68
9.92
14.12
18.24
30.17
11.86
18.74
13.48
18.04
18.02
11.62
1.99
2.46
12.52
8.46
9.65
2.15
2.55
3.44
2.33
16.11
MF
NEO- MOL PUL
PIP
EST
BC GERMD
(%)
MOL
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
4.30
5.00
3.10
3.37
7.33
4.54
4.25
4.65
4.66
39.36 0.86
37.69 0.92
24.13 1.35
33.81 2.36
24.78 1.73
0.47
0.48
0.57
0.49
0.54
0.50
2.92
2.57
3.16
2.63
3.53
2.66
0.72
0.46
8.12
8.55
2.88
7.56
6.66
7.22
6.48
6.68
7.48
3.82
4.38
2.99
2.04
6.04
37.14
36.93
25.63
30.65
26.07
36.79
38.18
39.40
0.45
0.53
0.50
0.40
0.46
0.47
0.49
0.62
0.39
7.66
8.32
3.25
7.50
6.49
7.40
6.80
5.84
7.47
2.86
2.63
(%)
Infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKeIlip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
0.61
2.01
0.64
0.47
0.52
0.49
0.56
0.71
1.46
1.10
0.68
0.62
0.62
0.46
0.57
0.60
0.55
1.54
1.23
1.04
0.97
0.85
0.76
0.95
0.89
0.88
1.31
1.90
1.63
1.13
2.05
5.31
3.49
1.25
3.54
2.20
6.20
4.52
2.24
6.32
40.41
1.34
35.18 1.98
41.52 1.00
40.27 0.82
0.51
1.39
2.96
2.07
2.71
2.75
2.41
2.36
2.31
2.81
2.80
2.77
3.20
Non-infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKeIIip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
0.51
0.66
0.48
2.00
0.99
1.73
1.13
1.32
1.17
7.61
8.49
7.42
7.40
9.06
20.70
42.70
20.31
28.39
15.63
20.59
21.46
13.96
7.03
4.30
1.57
6.59
3.16
7.82
5.20
3.51
8.06
3.91
5.22
4.12
4.76
39.61
0.98
0.90
1.01
4.80
1.76
1.28
1.24
1.70
1.06
1.39
3.24
2.32
2.67
2.57
2.56
2.43
1APIN = alpha-pinene, SAB = Sabinene, BPIN = beta-Pinene, OCT = 3-Octanol, LIM = Limonene, EUC = Eucalyptol, MONE = Menthone, ISO =
Isomenthone,
MF = Menthofuran, NEOMOL = Neomenthol, MOL = Menthol, PUL = Pulegone, PIP = Piperitone, EST = Menthyl acetate, BC = betacaryophyllene, GERMD = Germacrene-D.
55
3.15
2.68
3.50
2.60
2.61
2.88
2.73
3.27
3.29
Table 7. Third year peppermint oil partial compositional analysis from infested and noninfested variety trials OSU-Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Madras, 2002.
Variety
APIN1 SAB BPIN OCT EUC LIM
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
Total
heads
(%)
MONE ISO
(%)
Total
menthone
(%)
(%)
MF
NEO- MOL PUL
PIP
EST BC GERMD
(%)
MOL
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
34.8
35.5
19.4
27.5
21.3
37.9
1.1
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
5.7
5.7
1.8
3.9
4.4
6.4
4.3
4.2
4.9
2.8
3.0
1.4
3.4
2.3
3.0
2.7
2.6
2.2
3.1
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.6
4.3
4.9
2.5
2.7
3.2
Infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M83-14
B90-9
92(B-37XM0110)-1
87M0109-1
M90-11
McKellip
0.78 2.39
0.74 1.83
0.74
0
0.77 3.62
0.82 0.74
0.71 2.26
0.82 1.46
0.76 1.52
0.79 1.51
1.15
1.12
1.12
1.16
1.32
1.05
4.7 1.73 10.8
0.06 4.65 1.53 9.9
23.2
3.89 1.53
5.16 2.39
5.77 1.84
4.26 1.83
4.77 1.56
4.95 1.77
5.24 1.64
7.5
13.7
10.6
10.2
9.9
10.3
10.5
38.9
17.6
25.4
17.7
25.0
23.8
4.77 1.53
0.05 4.78 1.59
10.4
10.3
3.72 1.25
4.62 2.17
5.69 1.62
4.59 1.88
4.43 1.26
4.56 1.57
4.78 1.68
21.6
23.3
39.3
12.4
10.4
10.7
9.2
9.8
10.3
0.09
0.21
0.56
0.07
0.07
1.21 0.08
1.19 0.12
1.2 0.09
24.1
22.1
3.7
3.4
15.5
12.7
12.9
2.9
4.9
8.7
6.2
26.9
27.5
54.4
30.2
38.4
20.5
29.9
32.6
28.3
4.0
2.7
4.6
3.4
26.2
26.7
54.5
5.6
3.5
1.5
5.7
1.1
3.5
3.8
2.3
4.0
1.6
1.1
7.2
3.8
4.8
3.3
3.8
5.1
3.1
4.5
4.9
0.9
1.1
4.5
34.1
1.4
1.7
1.4
28.0
32.8
3.3
2.2
34.6
36.3
18.9
24.3
21.8
36.8
36.3
34.2
2.7
1.5
3.5
3.9
2.9
2.5
3.4
2.8
3.0
3.2
Non-infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84MO107-7
M83-14
B90-9
92(B-37XM0110)-1
87M0109-1
M90-11
McKellip
0.72
0.74
0.71
0.73
0.8
0.75
0.74
0.73
0.76
2.17
2
0.1
3.25
0.88
2.29
1.59
1.73
1.85
1.09
1.12
0.1
0.2
0.5
1.3 0.08
1.09 0.08
1.11 0.07
1.11 0.08
1.14 0.09
1.1
1.11
7.1
19.2
25.1
18.0
15.3
11.9
13.1
25.0
24.4
3.6
3.5
4.0
19.8
3.1
31.1
38.2
21.6
28.4
28.4
22.9
1.8
6.5
4.2
5.2
7.7
3.1
3.8
2.0
1.6
5.7
3.6
4.2
3.6
3.4
37.1
1.6
7.0
2.5
2.7
2.1
2.5
2.7
1.9
1.4
3.5
3.9
4.9
3.8
4.0
3.0
2.4
2.6
2.5
2.5
4.1
2.1
3.1
4.1
3.0
2.6
2.9
2.9
2.9
3.4
1APIN = alpha-pinene, SAB = Sabinene, BPIN = beta-Pinene, OCT = 3-Octanol, LIM = Limonene, EUC = Eucalyptol, MONE = Menthone, ISO =
Isomenthone,
MF = Menthofuran, NEOMOL = Neomenthol, MOL = Menthol, PUL = Pulegone, PIP = Piperitone, EST = Menthyl acetate, BC = beta-caryophyllene,
GERMD = Germacrene-D.
56
Table 8. Fourth year peppermint oil partial compositional analysis from infested and noninfested soil, Central Oregon peppermint variety trial, Madras,
2003.
Variety
APIN1 SAB BPIN OCT EUC
(%)
LIM
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
2.39 1.15
1.83 1.12
0.09
0.06
0 1.12
0.21
1.73
1.53
1.53
1.16
1.32
1.05
0.56
0.07
0.07
0.08
0.12
0.09
4.70
4.65
3.89
5.16
5.77
4.26
4.77
4.95
5.24
(%)
Total
Total MONE ISO
menthone
heads
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
MF
NEO- MOL PUL
PIP
EST
BC GERMD
(%)
MOL
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
1.1
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
5.7
5.7
2.8
3.0
3.1
1.8
1.4
3.9
4.4
6.4
4.3
4.2
4.9
3.4
2.3
3.0
2.7
2.6
2.2
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.6
4.3
4.9
2.5
2.7
1.9
1.4
3.5
3.9
4.9
3.8
4.0
3.0
2.4
2.6
2.5
2.5
4.1
2.1
(%)
Infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
M90-11
87M0109-1
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
0.78
0.74
0.74
0.77
0.82
0.71
0.82
0.76
0.79
3.62
0.74
2.26
1.46
1.21
1.52 1.19
1.51
1.2
2.17
2.00
0.10
3.25
0.88
2.29
1.59
1.73
1.85
1.09
1.12
1.10
2.39
1.84
1.83
1.56
1.77
1.64
26.9
27.5
54.4
30.2
38.4
20.5
29.9
32.6
28.3
4.0
2.7
22.1
3.7
3.4
15.5
12.7
12.9
2.9
4.9
8.7
6.2
21.6
23.3
39.3
19.2
4.6
3.4
15.3
11.9
26.2
26.7
54.5
25.1
18.0
13.1
38.2
21.6
28.4
28.4
22.9
10.8
9.9
7.5
13.7
10.6
10.2
9.9
10.3
10.5
23.2
10.4
10.3
24.1
38.9
17.6
25.4
17.7
25.0
23.8
1.1
3.5
3.8
2.3
4.0
1.6
1.1
4.5
4.9
7.2
3.8
4.8
3.3
3.8
5.6
3.1
3.5
3.8
2.0
5.1
3.1
34.8
35.5
19.4
27.5
21.3
37.9
0.9
1.1
4.5
34.1
1.4
1.7
1.4
28.0
32.8
3.3
2.2
34.6
36.3
18.9
24.3
21.8
36.8
36.3
34.2
2.7
1.5
3.5
3.9
2.9
2.5
3.4
2.8
3.0
3.2
Non-infested
Black Mitcham
Todds
84M0107-7
0.72
0.74
M90-11
87M0109-1
0.73
0.80
0.75
0.74
0.73
0.76
KcKellip
M83-14
92(B37xMOIIO)-1
B90-9
0.71
1.11
1.30
1.09
1.11
1.11
1.14
0.10
0.05
0.20
0.50
0.08
0.08
0.07
0.08
0.09
4.77
4.78
3.72
4.62
5.69
4.59
4.43
4.56
4.78
1.53
1.59
1.25
2.17
1.62
1.88
1.26
1.57
1.68
7.1
12.4
10.4
10.7
9.2
9.8
10.3
25.0
24.4
3.6
3.5
4.0
19.8
3.1
31.1
1.5
5.7
1.8
6.5
4.2
5.2
7.7
1.6
5.7
3.6
4.2
3.6
3.4
37.1
1.6
7.0
2.5
2.7
2.1
2.5
2.7
1APIN = aipha-pinene, SAB = Sabiriene, BPIN = beta-Pinene, OCT = 3-Octanol, LIM = Limonene, EUC = Eucalyptol, MONE = Menthone, ISO =
Isomenthone,
MF = Menthofuran, NEOMOL = Neomenthol, MOL = Menthol, PU L= Pulegone, PIP = Piperitone, EST = Menthyl acetate, BC = betacaryophyllene, GERMD = Germacrene-D.
57
3.2
3.1
4.1
3.0
2.6
2.9
2.9
2.9
3.4
Figure 1. Spring plant stand (percent plot area with mint ground cover) in noninfested and infested variety trials at OSU-Central
Oregon A gricultural Researc h Center, Madras, 2002-2003.
Tbdds
87M0109-1
84M0107-7
hISS- 14
92(B37xMO1 10)-i
I_
•
2000
• 2001
2002
2003
58
Figure 2. percent of mint standing at harvest that was not wilted in noninfested and infested variety trials at OSU-Central
Oregon A gricultural Rese arch Center, Madras, 20 00-2003.
98
Non
84M0107-7
87M0109.1
Non kifont,d
Non I,*.tod
M83-14
92(B37dL1 1 0)-i
2000
2001
t
2002
4°
20
2003
0
Non h*st.d
Non
59
____—-
Figure 3. Percent of plot area at harveSt with heal thy mint in noninfested and infested variety trials at OSU-Central
Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, 20 00-2003.
Todds
--
84M0107-7
too
40
klfe40ed
Non
92(B37XMOI 10)-i
1183-14
•
2000
• 2001
2002
2003
Non Wezted
Non k*stod
60
Fig 4. Accumulated dry hay yield for peppermint in non-infested and infested variety trials OSU-COARC, Madras, 2000-2003
20
I
16
14
87M0109-1
84M0107-7
18
Black
Mitcham
M90-11
—
Todds
•
I
12
M83-14
McKeilip 98
I
QQfl.Q
I
•2003 -i
2002
—
U2000
0
6
4
2
0
I I I I I I I
.,
61
I
Fig 5. Accumulated oil yield for peppermint in non-infested and infested variety trials OSU-COARC, Madras, 2000-2003
250
M90-11
200
Black
Mltcflam
M83-14
I I
•2003
92(B37xMOI 10)-I
.5
•2000
I
100
—
50
0
b
I I I I I I I I I
b
62
02002
•2001
Triticale Cereal Testing Trial, Central Oregon 2003
Rhonda Simmons, John Bassinette, and Mylen Bohle
Introduction
Cereals are an important rotational crop for central Oregon. Soft white wheat,
historically, has been the most important species for grain, but hard red spring wheat
acreage has dominated in the last 3 years. There has been some additional interest in
triticale. Central Oregon is well situated to the markets in Portland, Oregon. Public, and
private Pacific Northwest plant breeders release new cereal varieties each year. To
provide growers with accurate, up-to-date information on variety performance, a
statewide variety-testing program was initiated in 1993 with funding provided by the
Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service, OSU Agricultural Experiment
Station, Oregon Wheat Commission, and Oregon Grains Commission. Height, lodging,
yield, test weight, thousand-kernel weight, and protein data are determined for all sites,
including Madras. Other information is collected as time and labor allows. Data are
summarized in extension publications and county extension newsletters as well as in
other popular press media. Data for all trials are on the OSU Cereals Extension web page
(http://www.css.orst.edu/cereals). For future reference, use the web page for earliest
access to data, as trial results are posted as soon as they are available.
Materials and Methods
Plots (4.5 ft by 20 ft) were planted at a rate of 30 seeds/ft2 (unless otherwise noted) in 6inch row spacing with an Oyjord plot drill. Winter triticale trials were planted on October
15, 2002.
Soil samples were taken on March 15, 2003 and were analyzed by Agri-Check
Laboratory at Umatilla, Oregon. Soil test results are presented in Table 1. The nitrogen
(N) supply goal for triticale is 200 lb N/acre.
Table 1. Soil test results from samples taken on March 15, 2003, state-wide variety test
trial, at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
S
K
Soil depth
P
pH
NO3
Nth
(ppm)
(ppm)
(ppm)
(lb/a)
(lb/a)
18.4
333
0-12
7.8
38
18
17
12-24
0-24 Total
7.9
14
31
19
37
18
309
The triticale variety trials were fertilized with 575 lb/acre of 30-10-0-7 on March 17,
2003. Total N (soil + fertilizer N) available to the plants was 209 lb/acre.
Weed control for the trials included applying 1.5 pints/acre of 2,4-D, on March 24, 2003.
63
6.0
The trials were irrigated as needed with a 30-ft by 40-ft spacing, solid-set sprinkler
heads) irrigation system. Date of first irrigation for the triticale variety trial
occurred April 29, 2003 and last irrigation occurred on July 2, 2003.
Heading dates were recorded when 50 percent heading occurred. Just prior to harvest,
lodging scores (percent plot) and plant height (inches) measurements were taken. The
trials were harvested with a Hege plot combine. Harvest dates were August 14, 2003.
The grain samples were shipped to the OSU Hyslop Farm at Corvallis, Oregon.
Unfortunately, samples were inadvertantly discarded before yield, test weights, protein
and moisture could be assessed.
Results and Discussion
'Fidellio' and 'OR 72020140' were the last varieties to head out, which is same heading
date as 'Stephens'. The earliest heading date was 6 days earlier ('Decor' and 'Enot') than
'Fidellio'. Great strides have been made in breeding earlier heading cultivars.
Lodging was significantly higher than the previous year. The 2003 trial average was 11.0
percent lodging compaired to the 2002 trial average of 3 percent. Hail damaged occurred
in early August on mature fields, causing on average a 30 percent loss of seed.
Table 1. Statewide variety testing program for winter triticale, Madras, Oregon, 2003.
Lodging
Height
Heading
Market
(%)
(inch)
(doy)
class2
Variety or line'
5.0
43.7
152
Tnt
Alzo
8.0
41.8
151
Tnt
Bogo
17.3
39.0
146
Trit
Decor
35.0
41.3
148
Tnt
EFOO-5337-1.8-9
14.0
38.5
146
Tnt
Enot
13.3
42.0
153
Trit
Fidellio
3.3
44.0
148
Tnt
OR 72020133
OR 72020140
Trit
153
31.0
0.7
RSI 530
RSI 626
Tnt
Tnt
152
41.5
2.3
150
44.2
14
Stephens
SW
154
40.2
1.7
8.3
Sturdy
Trit
148
45.5
Titan
Trit
147
40.3
8.3
Trical 336
Tnt
147
152
152
152
44.3
39.7
41.8
40.2
8.3
2.7
38.3
150.2
1.76
0.7
41.1
3.7
5.5
11.0
17.5
95
0.000 1
0.00 1
0.0027
Bogo @
10
seeds/ft
Trit
Bogo@20 seeds/ft
Bogo @ 40 seeds/ft
Trit
Trialmean
PLSD (0.05)
CV
Pr> F
64
7.0
The Influence of Nitrogen Application on Carrot Seed Yield
John Hart, Marvin Butler, and Claudia Campbell
Central Oregon is the major hybrid carrot seed production area supplying the domestic
fresh market carrot industry. Hybrid carrot seed yield is low, typically less than 500
lb/acre. However, the price paid to the grower is $8- 15/lb. Relatively small changes in
yield make a substantial difference to income, often making the difference between
break-even and a substantial profit.
Nitrogen (N) is needed for carrot seed production and has been given credit for both
increasing and decreasing seed yield. No record of replicated N rate evaluation is known
for Central Oregon. Our objective was to measure carrot seed yield when 0, 50, and 90 lb
N/acre were spring-applied to a commercial field of Nantes-type hybrid seed carrots,
following the standard fall application of 50 lb N/acre.
Three replications of the N rates were applied to four rows (15 ft wide by 1,325 ft long)
areas of a commercial field near Madras, Oregon in a completely randomized design.
Cleaned seed yields are given in Table 1.
Table 1. Nantes-type hybrid carrot seed yield influence by nitrogen fertilizer rates in a
commercial field near Madras, Oregon in 2003.
Nitrogen rate
lb/acre
0
50
90
Seed yield
-lb/acre223 b'
331 a
242 b
1Mean separation with LSD at P 0.50.
Application of 50 lb N/acre produced significantly more carrot seed than application of 0
or 90 lb N/acre. For most crops, 50 lb N/acre is a low spring application rate and would
not be sufficient for optimum yield. Verification that a low rate of N is appropriate in this
situation was found in the reminder of the commercial field. Approximately 15 acres of
the field received 75 lb N/acre and produced a seed yield of 328 lb/acre, approximately
the same yield attained when 50 lb N/acre was applied. These data demonstrate the need
for a relatively low rate of N and that an over-application of N can be detrimental. The
addition of only 15-40 lb N/acre above the amount needed for maximum yield reduced
yield by 89 lb/acre, and would have cost the producer approximately $1,000/acre.
To support the data in Table 1, measurements of above-ground N accumulation,
determined by earlier studies in 2001 (Butler et al. 2002) and 2002 (Hart and Butler
2003), and soil test measurements will be used. Between 150 and 225 lb/acre were
found in the carrot seed crop at harvest in 2001 and 2002. The variety in this study was
similar to the one that accumulated only 150 lb N/acre during 2001. Table 2 provides a
ledger approach to the crop N needs and the amount supplied by the soil.
65
Soil from the plots was sampled from the top foot of soil in early May. Data from
200 1/2002 nutrient accumulation measurements were used to estimate the amount of N in
the crop when the soil was sampled. The previous crop was roughstalk bluegrass. Crops
following grass grown for seed in the Willamette Valley typically receive 50 to 100 lb
N/acre from the decomposing perennial grass roots. The "Balance needed" by the carrot
crop in Table 2 should be easily supplied by the decomposing grass roots.
Table 2. A ledger approach to carrot seed N supply in 2003.
Amount of N
lb/acre
System Component
Crop use
In crop on Mayl
Amount needed for remainder of season
Amount available in soil on May 1
Amount needed for remainder of season
From fertilizer
Balance needed
175
-25
150
-50
100
-50
50
Carrots grown for seed benefit from N fertilizer application. Following a roughstalk
bluegrass crop, application of 50-75 lb N/acre was sufficient for optimum carrot seed
yield. The N rate is critical since a small, 15-40 lb/acre over-application depresses seed
yield and can cost growers $1,000/acre.
The amount of N supplied by the previous crop is difficult to estimate. A site and year
specific test that predicts the amount of N needed for a spring application for carrot seed
production is desirable.
Literature Cited
Butler, M.D., J.M. Hart, B.R. Martens, and C.K. Campbell. 2002. Seed carrot above
ground biomass and nutrient accumulation, 2001. In W.C. Young III (ed.). 2001 Seed
Production Research at Oregon State University, USDA-ARS Cooperating, Dept. Crop
and Soil Sci. ExtJCrS 121, 4/02, Corvallis, OR.
Hart, J.M., and M.D. Butler. 2003. Seed carrot above ground biomass and nutrient
accumulation, 2001/2002 growing season. In W.C. Young III (ed.). 2002 Seed
Production Research at Oregon State University, USDA-ARS Cooperating, Dep. Crop
and Soil Sci. Ext/CrS 121, 4/03, Corvallis, OR.
66
Fall Dormancy Effect on Three-cut First-year Alfalfa Quality and Yield
Mylen Bohie, Rhonda Simmons, Jim Smith, and Rich Roseberg
Abstract
Alfalfa is an important crop for central Oregon. Six varieties, representing fall dormancy
(FD) 1-6, were planted in August of 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research
Center, Powell Butte, Oregon. The trial was conducted as a three-cut harvest
management system. There were no total yield or total digestible yield differences
between varieties. There were significant differences in first and third cutting. As FD
number increased, yield decreased and quality and energy increased for first cutting; and
as FD increased on third cutting, yield increased and quality and energy decreased in
general. There were quality differences between varieties on all cuttings.
Introduction
Alfalfa continues to be an important crop for central and eastern Oregon. Over the years,
there has been a range of perhaps 35,000 to 50,000 acres of alfalfa grown in Crook,
Deschutes, and Jefferson counties. The alfalfa is grown in pure stands and grass/alfalfa
mixtures for hay. The hay is marketed to livestock producers, dairies, and feed stores in
Oregon, Washington, and California. Some alfalfa is exported to Pacific Rim countries.
Alfalfa is an important rotational crop to help break up disease and insect cycles, and it
adds nitrogen (N) to the soil for subsequent crops through nitrogen fixation Seed
companies continue to develop and market numerous varieties.
In past years, varieties with a fall dormancy (FD) rating of 1-3 have normally been
planted in this area. In recent years, some producers have begun planting more FD 4
varieties, with an occasional FD 5 variety planted. The higher rated fall dormancy
varieties need to be tested locally for their adaptability and yield potential. The
information generated by these trials is important to producers, fieldmen, seed suppliers,
and the seed companies.
"The expression of fall dormancy is dependant upon the combination of shortening day
length and cool temperatures. Under short day conditions, differences among dormant
and nondormant cultivars are more pronounced at low temperatures. At cool
temperatures, dormant cultivars have the greatest dormancy response and nondormant
cultivars have the least response. Maximum dormancy seems to be induced at a
temperature of 15.5°C and a photoperiod of 12 hours. Accordingly a decrease in
photoperiod and temperature causes a greater decrease in top growth of fall dormant
cultivars than in the non fall-dormant cultivars. Under long day conditions there is little
difference in regrowth between dormant and nondormant cultivars."
"In general, American alfalfa cultivars trace to nine different distinct sources of
germplasm from different regions of the world. These germplasm sources are Medicago
falcate, Ladak; M varia, Turkistan; and Flemish, Chilean, Peruvian, Indian, and African
67
varieties listed in their approximate descending order of winter hardiness and fall
dormancy characteristics. A tenth source of nondormant germplasm from Saudi Arabia
has generally gone unrecognized."
"Fall dormancy is classified on the basis of vegetative growth observed in the autumn,
particularily in northern latitudes. Dormants are northern types and nondormants are
southern types." (Mckenzie, et al.)
Selecting an alfalfa variety is important. Since fall dormancy and winter hardiness genes
in alfalfa have been recently delinked, there has been more interest in planting alfalfa
varieties with higher fall dormancy ratings because of the potential of increased yield on
last cutting.
The information generated by this trial is limited because only one entry represented each
fall dormancy rating. However, it will begin to build an information base that is
important to producers, fieldmen, seed suppliers, and the seed companies who are
involved in central Oregon forage production.
Materials and Methods
Soil samples were taken and analyzed by the Oregon State University Central Analytical
Laboratory, Corvallis (see Table 1). Based on the soil test results, lime, phosphorus,
potassium, sulfur, and boron were applied and disked into the top 6 inches of soil on
April 18, 1998 in a field at the COARC, Powell Butte, OR (see Table 2.). The field was
then leveled and rolled prior to planting.
Table 1. Soil test analyses from alfalfa variety trial soil samples taken at the Central
Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
Depth
Date
7/10/1995
8/3/1998
(in)
0-12
0-10
OM
(%)
3.33
pH
5.7
5.8
P
(ppm)
40
47
K
(ppm)
Ca
(meq/
Mg
(meq/
bOg)
lOOg)
6.0
6.0
2.6
2.5
230
177
(ppm)
Zn
(ppm)
0.34
0.40
0.6
B
Sol
Salts
(Mmhos
/cm)
0.50
Mn
(ppm)
Total
Bases
15
9.0
Table 2. Nutrient applications made to the alfalfa variety trial at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
Date applied
N
(lb/acre)
4/11/1998
19
28
4/17/1998
3/241999
0
2.5 ton/acre lime
P205
K20
Ca
S
B
(lb/acre)
(lb/acre)
217
(lb/acre?
(lb/acre)
2.5 ton
14
(lb/acre)
2.2
0
144
172
32
38
0
0
72
202
68
0
0
Zn
(lb/acre)
0
0
0
Six alfalfa varieties, representing FD 1-6, were planted at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center (COARC) at the Powell Butte site, on August 24, 1998 (Table 3). The
trial site is located 7 miles west of Prineville and 12 miles east of Redmond and the
elevation is 3,180 ft. Eighteen pounds of inoculated seed were planted with a small plot
cone type drill with 9 rows, 6-inch row spacing. The field was rolled after planting. Plot
size was 5 ft by 20 ft, while harvested area was 3.5 ft by 15 ft. The trial was laid out in a
randomized complete block design with four replications for yield data.
Table 3. The fall dormancy, winter hardiness, disease, insect, and pest ratings for the
1998 planted alfalfa fall dormancy variety trial conducted at Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center. Powell Butte, Oregon.
Variety
2
Spredor
III
W
3
SA
A
P
A
BA
A
N
AP
H
SNK
N
NRK
N
RL
N
1
1
4
2
1
3
1
1
1
1
W
A
N
V
1
4
1
4
W
R
w
S
5262
2
5
2
3
1
4
4
4
1
3
1
1
1
1
Innovato
r +Z
3
5
4
5
5
5
3
4
1
4
4
1
1
1
4
4
4
4
4
1
4
1
1
3
1
5
5
1
4
1
4
4
4
1
4
4
4
1
1
1
1
5396
4
4
4
4
5
Archer
5
3
3
5
4
Lobo
6
3
4
5
4
'PD = Fall dormancy, BW = Bacteriai wilt, VW = Verticillium wilt, FW = Fusanum wilt, AN =
Anthracnose race 1, PRR = Phytophthora rootrRot, SAA = Spotted alfalfa aphid. PA = Pea aphid, BAA =
Blue alfalfa aphid, SN = Stem nematode, APH = Aphanomyces, SKN = Southern root knot nematode,
NRKN = Northern root knot nematode, RLN = Root lesion nematode.
2Fall dormancy (FD) ratings: 1 = most dormant, 11 = least dormant.
3Resistance Ratings: 1 = Susceptible (S) (0-5% of plants) or has not been tested, 2 = Low resistance (LR)
(5-15%), 3 = Moderate resistance (MR) (15-30% of plants), 4 = Resistance (R) (30-50% of plants), 5 =
High resistance (HR) (>50% of plants).
The alfalfa was harvested with a sickle bar forage plot harvester, and fresh wet yield was
weighed directly in the field. Aftermath from the plots were swathed, raked, and baled at
a fairly high moisture content (rather than waiting for typical moisture to bale) to help
clear the field and get the irrigation water back on the field as soon as possible. Harvest
dates are listed for each cutting in the annual yield tables.
Moist samples (0.5 to 1.0 lb) were taken for each plot and dried at 145°Fahrenheit until
no further change in weight occurred. Yields were calculated on an oven-dry basis. SAS
statistical software program was used for analysis of variance and the results are reported
using Protected Least Significant Difference (PLSD) for mean separation at the P = 0.10,
0.05, and 0.01 probability levels (SAS Institute, 1988).
For quality tests, the dry samples were ground with a Wiley mill with a 1.0-mm screen
and then reground in a Udy mill with a 0.5-mm screen. The samples were submitted to
the NIRS at the Kiamath Experiment Station for quality analysis. The NIRS has not been
calibrated for every variable predicted. No chemical analyses were conducted on any of
these alfalfa samples.
69
Statistical analysis was performed with MSTAT, Michigan State University software
program.
The trial was irrigated with solid-set spriniders a 30- by 40-ft spacing as needed for
establishment and during the season. Nelson rotating head Windfighter 2000 7/64-inch
nozzles were used. Irrigation was determined by crop water use prediction by the
Agrimet weather station program and by probing the soil with a soil probe and using feel
method. There is an Agrimet weather station located at the COARC, Powell Butte. The
trial was usually irrigated twice per week, depending upon time of year.
Pursuit® (1 DG Eco Pak bag), Poast® (0.47 lb ai/acre), and 2 quarts of crop oil were
applied for weed control September 17, 1998 of the establishment year.
Term definitions are as follows:
TDN = total digestible nutrients (Penn State calculation)
TDN CA = total digestible nutrients (California calculation)
TDN = PNW total digestible nutrients (Tn-state calculation)
RFV = relative feed value
Moist. = moisture percent
DM = dry matter percent
Protein = crude protein percent
AV Protein = available protein percent
DProtein = digestible protein percent
NIEL = net energy of lactation (mcaL'lb)
ENE = energy estimate (therms per cwt. weight)
ME = metabolizable energy (mcalllb)
NEM = net energy of maintenance (mcalllb)
NEG = net energy of gain (mcalllb)
DDM = digestible dry matter percent
DM1 = dry matter intake percent
NDF = neutral detergent fiber percent
ADF = acid detergent fiber v
ADP = available digestible protein percent
NDFD =48 hour in vitro NDF digestibility as percent of NDF
NFC = non fibrous carbohydrate (percent of DM)
TDNL total digestible nutrients for alfalfa, clovers, and legume/grass mixtures
RFQ = relative forage quality
Fat = Fatty acids as % of DM = ether exztract - 1
Ash = %DM residue after burning at 600 degrees C for 2 hours.
Lignin = undigestible plant compound
Definition of calculation equations:
TDN = 4.898 + (89.796 * NEL)
TDN CA = (82.38- (.75 15 * ADF)) * 0.9
TDN TRIST = (54.32 + (0.73 87 * protein)) — (0.29 15 * ADF)
RFV =(DMI * DDM)/ 1.29
Moist. = 100.0 — dry matter
70
AV Protein = (1.16 * protein) —(1.6 * ADP)
D Protein = 1.44 + (0.68 * protein) — (1.28 * ADP)
NEL= 1.044—(0.0119 * ADF)
ENE = 82.6 * NEL
ME = 0.01642 * TDN
NEM = -0.508 + (1.37 * ME) — (0.3042 * MB *ME) + (0.051 * ME * ME * ME)
NEG = -0.7484 + (1.42 * ME) - (0.3836 * ME * ME) + (0.0593* ME * ME *ME)
DDM = 88.90 — (0.779 * ADF)
DMI= 120/NDF
If (AV Protein > Protein) AV Protein = Protein
If (D Protein> Protein) D Protein = Protein
NDFD=dNDF48hour/NDF* 100
NFC = 100 — ((NDF —2) + Protein + 2.5+ Ash)
TDNL = (NFC * 0.98) + (Protein * 0.93) + (1.5 * 0.97
*
2.25) + ((NDF —2) * (NDFD /
100))— 7
DM11 = [(0.0 120 * 1350) / ((NDF / 100) + (NDFD —45) * 0.374)]! 1350 * 100
RFQ = (DM11 * TDNL) / 1.23
Table 4 presents the present quality classifications for alfalfa hay.
Table 4. USDA alfalfa quality guidelines for domestic livestock use and not more than
10 percent grass.
Quality class
Supreme
Premium
Good
Fair
Low
RFV'
TDN2
TDN2
<27
NDF
(%)
<34
>185
(100% DM)
>62
(90% DM)
>55.9
Crude
protein
(%)
>22
27 —29
34 — 36
170— 185
60.5 — 62
54.5 — 55.9
20 —22
29—32
32—35
>35
36—40
40—44
150—170
130—150
<130
58—60
56—58
52.5—54.5
50.5—52.5
18—20
16—18
<56
<50.5
<16
ADF
(%)
>44
'RFV calculated using the Wis./Minn. Formula.
2
TDN calculated using the western formula. Quantitative factors are approximate and many factors can
affect feeding value. Values based on 100 percent dry matter (TDN showing both 100 percent and 90
percent dry matter). Guidelines are to be used with visual appearance and intent of sale (usage).
Results
Weed control was excellent for the trial. The winter was relatively mild.
Cutting by Variety (FD)
Cutting by variety (FD) interactions were run for the trial. All variables tested were
significantly different among cuftings. Out of the 43 variables tested, 33 were
significantly different for varieties (FD). For the cutting by variety interaction, 35
variables were
significantly different. Interatcion data are not presented,.
71
Total Yield and Other Total Variables
For total season values, the only variables that were significantly different between varieites were total yield and Phosphorus uptake at
the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 5). In general, the more dormant varieties (lower FD number) were higher yielding and had greater
phosphorus uptake than the nondormant varieties.
Table 5. 1999 total yield, total N Uptake, total protein yield, total TDN yield, total TDN CA, total TDN PNW yield, total Ca uptake,
total P uptake, total K uptake, and total Mg uptake data for the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
Total
CA
TDN
yield
(lb/acre)
7,054
Total
6
6.35
6.33
6.39
6.27
6.19
6.18
Total
N
uptake
(lb/acre)
446.5
438.3
465.5
435.2
447.7
440.4
Total
protein
yield
(lb/acre)
2,790
2,739
2,909
2,720
2,798
2,752
Total
TDN
yield
(lb/acre)
8,802
8,704
8,900
8,578
8,498
8,441
6,790
PNW
TDN
yield
(lb/acre)
7,841
7,769
7,921
7,663
7,585
7,543
Mean
6.28
445.6
2,785
8,654
6,948
7,720
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
4.9
0.1048
4.9
0.1052
4.9
0.2180
4.8
NS
NS
NS
0.2956
4.8
NS
NS
NS
0.2922
4.8
Treatment
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Total
yield
(f/acre)
Prob. >F
CV%
6,991
7,129
6,897
6,826
72
43.9
43.0
372.1
374.7
361.8
361.1
362.1
Total
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
43.0
42.7
43.7
42.3
42.4
41.9
210.8
44.3
368.9
42.7
NS
NS
NS
NS
2.0
0.0655
5.4
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
6.6
6.4
Total
Total
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
213.9
210.4
213.8
210.5
208.4
207.9
P
NS
6.3
uptake
(lb/acre)
45.2
44.4
46.3
43.1
Total
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
381.4
First Cutting
First-cut yield was significantly different among varieties at the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 6.). As dormancy number increased, yield
decreased on first cutting. FD entries 3, 5, and 6 were higher in protein, RFV, RFQ, and lower in ADF, NDF, dNDF. FD-4 entry had
lower NDFD than the rest of the entries.
Table 6. 1999 first-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NIDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ data for the fall dormancy
alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
FD / Variety
Yield
(t/acre)
Dry
matter
(%)
Moist.
(%)
Protein
80.8
80.8
79.8
NDF
(%)
ADF
(%)
28.7
28.9
28.2
29.6
27.8
28.0
36.4
36.6
35.4
37.4
34.9
dNDF
(%)
NDFD
(%)
RFV
RFQ
53.3
53.1
53.8
51.4
53.7
53.1
171
191
169
176
164
179
178
190
199
35.1
19.4
19.4
19.0
19.2
18.7
18.6
(%)
4
3.19
3.02
3.00
2.99
5
2.81
20.2
18.9
20.1
6
2.82
19.2
79.9
80.8
21.0
20.9
22.2
20.9
22.5
22.0
Mean
2.97
19.4
80.6
21.6
28.5
35.9
19.0
53.0
173
193
NS
NS
0.23
0.0807
8.9
NS
NS
NS
0.3535
7.4
NS
NS
NS
0.3535
1.1
NS
NS
0.6
11
13
1.0
1.6
1.2
1.0
NS
0.8
0.7
0.0001
3.6
8
10
7
8
0.0007
3.2
0.0439
3.0
1.4
0.2
0.0189
2.6
0.0022
0.0028
5.0
1
2
3
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. >F
CV%
19.2
19.2
81.1
1.8
0.9
0.0148
3.6
73
0.5
4.5
181
200
198
There were significant differences among varieties for first-cut TDN, DDM, DM1, DM1 1, CA TDN, and PNW TDN at the PLSD 0.10
level or higher (Table 7). Varieties FD 3, 5, and 6 had higher TDN, DDM, CA TDN, and PNW TDN compared to FD 1, 2, and 4. FD
3 had the highest DM1, but FD 5 and 6 were similar to FD 3 for DM1 1.
Table 7. 1999 First-cut TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, TDN CA, and TDN PNW data for the 1998 fall
dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
55.4
55.2
60.8
60.7
61.2
60.2
61.5
61.3
3.57
32.9
66.5
53.6
59.6
0.18
0.14
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.1472
NS
NS
0.7
0.6
0.0120
3.6
1.7
1.9
0.8
0.6
0.0108
1.9
(%)
66.5
66.4
66.9
65.9
67.3
67.1
9.12
8.95
8.98
6.66
6.64
6.60
3.31
3.28
3.54
8.81
7.01
9.46
9.33
6.59
6.43
1.87
1.87
1.84
1.84
1.74
1.80
3.96
3.22
3.44
3.42
3.64
3.39
3.68
3.64
33.0
32.4
32.6
68.2
66.8
9.11
6.66
1.82
3.34
NS
NS
0.8
0.7
0.0159
1.2
NS
NS
NS
0.3392
9.0
7.5
NS
NS
NS
0.3270
6.7
0.15
1.1
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
CV%
54.7
54.6
33.1
67.5
66.5
67.1
65.6
66.8
66.7
(%)
Mean
Prob.>F
33.1
33.1
(%)
4
5
6
3
TDN PNW
DM11
68.0
67.7
68.5
67.0
69.0
68.7
2
TDN CA
(%)
DM1
(%)
1
TDNL
(%)
Fat
(%)
Ash
FD/Variety
NFC
(%)
Lignin
(%)
DDM
(%)
TDN
0.9
0.0129
1.6
3.51
0.11
0.09
0.0012
0.0010
3.3
3.7
74
0.11
55.1
54.1
(%)
First-cut NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and pounds of N/ton of DM were all significantly different among varieties at the PLSD 0.10
level or higher (Table 8). Varieties FD 3, 5, and 6 had higher NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, and NEG than did FD 1, 2 and 4. FD 4 had the
lowest NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, and NEG. FD 5 had the greatest amount of N/ton of dry matter yield.
Table 8. 1999 First-cut protein yield, TDN yield, TDN CA yield, TDN PNW yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N fixed/ton of DM data for the 1998 fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research
Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
TDN
TDN
PNW
DDM
TDN
CA
Protein
yield
yield
NEL
yield
yield
yield
FDNariety (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (mcal/lb)
0.712
0.709
0.720
0.700
0.728
0.724
0.440
0.437
0.447
0.430
67.0
66.8
71.0
66.9
0.454
72.1
0.450
70.5
3,456
58.71
3,257
3,619
3,959
0.704
58.18
1.119
0.715
0.443
69.0
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
*
*
*
NS
1.04
0.86
NS
NS
*
*
NS
*
*
3.4
2.5
0.3358
0.1162
0.1092
0.1076
0.1052
0.0053
0.0153
0.0131
0.0311
0.0195
0.0001
8.1
8.6
8.7
8.7
8.7
1.8
1.8
1.6
2.4
3.2
3.6
6
1,328
1,250
1,266
1,242
3,111
Mean
1,279
4,046
NS
NS
NS
3
4
CV%
Lb N/
ton DM
1.115
1.111
1.126
1.101
1.131
1.129
2
Prob.>F
NEG
(mcalllb)
58.01
3,872
3,660
3,668
3,595
3,460
1,257
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
NEM
(mcalllb)
0.700
0.700
0.709
0.690
0.714
0.710
3,484
3,294
3,302
3,236
3,114
1,331
PLSD 0.01
ME
(mcal/lb)
4,237
4,006
4,013
3,937
3,783
3,780
4,328
4,087
4,106
4,007
3,880
3,871
1
5
ENE
(mcal/lb)
* mean squares were too small to calculate a PLSD
75
57.80
58.49
57.16
58.93
2.1
There were significant differences among varieties for first-cut N percentage, P uptake, K uptake, and Mg percentage at the PLSD
0.10 level or higher (Table 9). Variety effect on percent N difference is the same as protein percentage differences. The nondormants
had lower P uptake and K uptake than the more dormant entries, due to the similar pattern seen in. Varieties FD 5 and 6 had higher
Mg percentage than FD 1-3, and FD 4 had the lowest percent of Mg.
Table 9. 1999 first-cut percent N, N uptake, percent Ca, Ca uptake, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake data for the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte,
Oregon.
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
N
(%)
N
uptake
(lb/acre)
Ca
(%)
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
P
(%)
uptake
(lb/acre)
K
(%)
213.0
201.0
212.4
200.0
202.6
198.7
1.63
1.61
1.61
1.62
1.65
1.68
103.8
96.7
96.8
96.6
92.4
94.4
0.346
0.339
0.353
0.331
0.345
0.336
22.1
19.8
19.4
18.9
2.85
2.81
2.80
2.69
2.79
2.82
181.5
169.6
167.7
160.8
157.1
158.9
0.345
0.341
0.345
0.335
0.358
0.355
22.0
20.6
20.7
6
3.35
3.34
3.55
3.35
3.61
3.52
Mean
3.45
204.6
1.63
96.8
0.342
20.3
2.79
165.9
0.346
20.6
0.17
0.12
0.10
0.0001
3.6
NS
NS
NS
0.3358
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.3384
NS
NS
NS
0.1874
4.5
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
5.7
2.3
1.7
1.4
0.0073
8.3
NS
NS
8.1
NS
NS
NS
0.2102
4.5
FD /Variety
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob.>F
CV%
10.3
P
76
20.4
21.1
Mg
(%)
14.3
0.0659
10.2
0.0716
4.6
20.1
20.1
20.0
10.6
Second Cutting
There were significant differences among varieties for second-cut protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, RFV, and RFQ at the PLSD 0.10 level
or higher (Table 10). The differences in protein, although stistically significant, did not follow any pattern in FD. In general, FD 4-6
had higher ADF, NDF, dNDF, RFV, and RFQ than FD 1-3. There no doubt were other factors that influenced these results beyond
FD.
Table 10. 1999 second-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ data for the fall dormancy
alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
Dry
matter
ADF
(%)
NDF
(%)
dNDF
(%)
NDFD
(%)
RFV
RFQ
22.8
22.0
23.0
21.9
22.5
22.3
29.4
30.3
28.9
31.0
31.1
31.4
36.6
37.7
35.9
38.5
38.4
38.6
20.5
21.0
20.6
21.2
21.3
21.3
56.2
55.8
57.5
55.0
55.4
55.2
169
162
173
157
157
156
197
190
205
183
185
183
82.7
22.4
30.4
37.6
21.0
55.9
162
190
NS
NS
NS
0.1598
NS
NS
0.7
0.0984
3.9
NS
NS
NS
1.9
1.5
NS
NS
NS
0.1049
3.3
NS
1.6
NS
0.6
0.5
0.0463
2.9
11.3
14.5
12.1
Protein
(%)
Moist.
(%)
6
1.91
1.83
1.81
1.82
1.81
16.8
17.8
17.3
17.2
17.6
17.0
83.2
82.2
82.7
82.8
82.4
83.0
Mean
1.82
17.3
NS
NS
NS
0.4115
7.4
NS
NS
NS
0.1598
4.9
FD IVariety
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob.>F
CV%
Yield
(t/acre)
1.76
1.0
(%)
1.3
0.0123
5.1
77
0.0216
4.9
9.4
0.0174
6.9
0.0231
7.5
There were significant differences among varieties for second-cut TDN, DDM, lignin, fat, DM1, DM1 1, NFC, TDNL CA TDN, and
PNW TDN at the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 11). The more dormant varieties FD 1-3 had higher TDN, DDM, DM1, DM1 1, NFC,
TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN than the FD 4-6 entries.
Table 11. 1999 second-cut TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, TDN CA, and TDN PNW data for the 1998 fall
dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
5
(%)
67.2
66.3
67.8
65.6
65.4
6
65.1
DDM
(%)
66.0
65.3
66.4
64.8
64.7
64.4
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
66.2
NS
65.3
NS
1.7
1.4
1.2
1.0
0.0116
0.0133
2.5
1.8
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
TDN
Lignin
(%)
5.06
5.39
4.97
Ash
(%)
9.18
9.03
NS
NS
NS
5.26
NS
0.33
0.28
5.8
0.0 137
6.2
8.98
9.08
8.85
9.02
9.06
5.53
5.23
5.37
Fat
(%)
1.87
1.80
1.94
1.79
1.72
1.78
DM1
DM11
(%)
3.29
3.19
3.35
3.12
3.13
(%)
3.60
3.49
3.70
3.40
3.42
3.40
1.82
NS
0.13
0.11
0.0247
3.20
NS
0.16
0.14
0.0223
7.1
5.1
3.11
78
3.50
NS
NFC
(%)
31.0
30.9
31.5
30.3
29.6
29.5
TDNL
(%)
67.2
66.9
68.0
66.4
30.4
66.8
NS
1.5
0.21
1.1
0.17
0.0262
5.9
0.9
0.0042
3.6
66.3
66.2
1.2
1.0
TDN
CA
(%)
TDN
PNW
(%)
54.3
53.6
54.6
53.2
53.1
52.9
60.3
59.6
60.7
59.1
59.0
58.8
55.6
61.8
1.4
1.0
1.6
1.2
1.0
0.0275
0.9
0.0000
0.0000
1.7
1.4
1.4
There were significant differences among the varieties (FD) for second-cut NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and pounds of N/ton of dry
matter at the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 12). The more dormant varieties FD 1-3 had higher NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, and NEG than the
less dormant entries FD 4-6.
Table 12. 1999 second-cut protein yield, TDN yield, TDN CA yield, TDN PNW yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N fixed/ton of DM data for the 1998 fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research
Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Protein
yield
(lb/acre)
800
838
843
788
813
806
815
TDN
TDN
CA
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre)
2,364
1,909
2,526
2,046
2,484
2,001
2,368
1,920
2,371
2,351
1,925
1,911
2,411
NS
NS
NS
0.2756
7.6
1,952
NS
NS
NS
0.3138
7.5
TDN
PNW
yield
(lb/acre)
2,121
2,273
2,223
2,133
2,139
2,123
2,169
NS
NS
NS
0.3147
DDM
yield
(lb/acre)
2,322
NEL
(mcal/lb)
0.694
0.685
0.699
0.678
0.674
2,491
2,433
2,339
2,345
2,327
ENE
(mcal/lb)
ME
(mcal/lb)
57.3
56.4
57.8
55.8
55.7
55.4
1.104
1.089
1.112
1.076
1.074
1.069
0.701
0.683
NS
*
56.4
NS
0.0244
2.7
0.0130
2.7
1.087
NS
0.032
0.027
0.0143
2.5
0.687
NS
0.032
0.027
0.0131
0.671
2,376
NS
NS
NS
0.3196
NS
NS
NS
Prob.>F
0.3815
CV%
7.2
7.5
7.5
* Mean square numbers were too small to generate PLSD's.
79
1.53
1.27
NEM
(mcal/lb)
0.689
0.710
0.679
0.676
0.669
3.5
NEG
(mcal/lb)
0.432
0.419
0.439
0.409
0.409
0.404
Lb N/
ton DM
72.9
70.4
73.6
70.0
72.0
0.419
NS
*
*
0.0121
5.2
71.7
NS
NS
2.4
0.0984
3.9
71.5
There were significant differences among varieties for second-cut percent N at the PLSD 0.10 level, which followed the same pattern
as the protein data (Table 13).
Table 13. 1999 second-cut percent N, N uptake, percent Ca, Ca uptake, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake data for the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte,
Oregon.
FD / Variety
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
N
(%)
3.65
3.52
3.68
3.50
3.60
3.57
3.59
NS
NS
0.12
0.0952
3.9
N
uptake
(lb/acre)
128.0
134.2
134.9
126.2
130.1
129.0
130.4
NS
NS
NS
0.3828
7.2
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
P
uptake
(lb/acre)
57.0
56.7
P
(%)
0.38
0.38
0.39
0.37
0.38
0.38
0.380
NS
NS
NS
13.8
NS
NS
57.4
NS
NS
NS
4.4
8.6
4.8
Ca
(%)
1.60
1.57
1.58
1.57
1.57
1.58
1.58
NS
56.3
59.7
58.1
56.9
80
13.5
14.3
14.3
13.4
13.7
13.8
NS
NS
NS
0.3687
7.7
K
(%)
3.27
3.12
3.15
3.15
3.10
3.12
3.15
NS
NS
NS
0.3955
5.4
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
115.0
119.2
115.5
113.6
112.1
112.9
Mg
(%)
0.325
0.325
0.339
0.328
0.328
0.324
114.7
NS
NS
NS
0.328
NS
NS
NS
8.2
5.5
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
11.4
12.4
12.4
11.8
11.9
11.7
11.9
NS
NS
NS
0.3279
8.8
Third Cutting
There were significant differences among varieties for yield, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ at the PLSD 0.10
level or higher (Table 14). Varieties FD 3, 5, and 6 were higher yielding than FD 4, 2, and 1, so in general the nondormants were
higher yielding on the last cutting. Treatment differences in protein did not follow a pattern related to FD. In general though, as the
fall dormancy number increased (especially to FD 5 and 6), ADF, NDF, dNDF increased, but NDFD, RFV and RFQ decreased.
Varieties FD 5 and 6 had significantly higher ADF and NDF, dNDF, and NDFD values and lower RFV and RFQ values than the more
dormant entries. RFQ values were on average 29 points higher than those for RFV, but would not have changed the quality class for
any of the entries.
Table 14. 1999 third-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ data for the fall dormancy
alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
FDI Variety
Yield
(t/acre)
Dry
matter
(%)
Moist.
(%)
Protein
(%)
ADF
(%)
NDF
77.7
77.9
77.7
78.0
77.9
77.5
23.6
23.0
23.7
23.0
23.1
22.7
NDFD
(%)
dNDF
(%)
(%)
RFV
RFQ
21.7
22.8
22.9
22.6
24.8
25.3
27.0
28.5
28.2
28.3
30.4
31.3
15.9
16.6
16.3
16.2
17.3
17.3
59.2
58.1
57.9
57.4
56.7
55.2
249
233
235
235
213
206
281
262
28.9
16.6
57.4
228
257
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.0000
2.7
2.2
1.7
1.4
13.6
10.1
8.4
16.6
12.4
10.3
0.0007
2.9
0.0000
4.4
0.0000
1
1.40
2
1.41
3
6
1.56
1.48
1.56
1.55
22.3
22.1
22.3
22.0
22.1
22.5
Mean
1.49
22.2
77.8
22.2
23.4
0.10
0.07
0.06
0.0000
4.8
NS
NS
NS
0.1465
2.0
NS
NS
NS
0.1465
0.6
0.7
0.5
0.4
0.0013
2.1
1.2
1.3
0.9
0.8
0.0000
3.9
0.9
0.8
0.0000
3.4
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
81
266
263
241
231
4.7
There were significant differences among varieties for third-cut TDN, DDM, lignin, fat, DM1, DM1 1, NFC, TDNL, CA TDN, and
PNW TDN at the PLSD 0.10 level or higher (Table 15). As the dormancy number increased, the TDN, DDM, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC,
TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN decreased. Significant treatment differences for lignin did not follow a pattern related to FD.
Table 15. 1999 third-cut TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, TDN CA, and TDN PNW data for the 1998 fall
dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
TDN
CA
(%)
TDN
PNW
(%)
TDN
(%)
DDM
(%)
Ash
(%)
Lignin
(%)
Fat
(%)
DM1
(%)
DM11
(%)
NFC
(%)
TDNL
(%)
72.0
71.2
71.0
71.3
69.6
69.2
9.94
9.94
9.68
9.82
9.77
9.51
5.47
5.94
5.72
5.83
5.83
6.01
2.05
2.04
2.00
1.90
1.87
1.86
4.46
4.22
4.27
4.25
3.95
3.84
4.85
4.58
4.63
4.60
4.27
4.13
39.0
38.2
37.9
38.4
36.2
36.0
71.2
70.4
70.6
70.4
69.4
68.8
59.5
58.7
58.6
58.8
57.4
57.0
66.1
65.3
65.1
6
75.5
74.3
74.1
74.5
72.1
71.6
Mean
73.7
70.7
9.78
5.80
1.95
4.16
4.51
37.6
70.1
58.3
64.8
1.3
1.0
0.7
NS
NS
NS
0.33
0.25
0.21
0.24
0.18
0.15
0.0000
3.9
1.0
0.8
0.8
0.6
0.5
5.1
0.19
0.14
0.12
0.0000
3.4
1.2
0.0020
4.2
0.10
0.07
0.06
0.0000
3.6
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
1.0
0.8
0.0000
1.3
0.6
0.0000
1.0
82
0.9
0.7
0.0000
2.3
65.4
63.8
63.3
0.6
0.0000
0.0000
0.9
0.7
0.6
0.0000
1.1
1.1
1.1
There were significant differences among varieties for all of the third-cut variables in Table 16. In general, as fall dormancy rating
increased, the NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, and NEG values decreased.
Table 16. 1999 third-cut protein yield, TDN yield, TDN CA yield, TDN PNW yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N fixed/ton of DM data for the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research
Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
Protein
yield
FD/Variety (lb/acre)
1
659
2
3
4
5
6
645
739
682
719
705
TDN
TDN
CA
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre)
2,109
1,662
2,091
1,652
2,310
1,826
2,203
1,741
2,248
1,788
2,220
1,768
TDN
PNW
yield
(lb/acre)
1,847
1,836
2,029
1,934
1,986
1,964
DDM
yield
(lb/acre)
2,013
2,002
2,213
2,108
2,168
2,145
NEL
(mcal/lb)
0.786
0.775
0.771
0.775
0.749
0.743
Mean
691
2,197
1,739
1,933
2108
0.766
*
47
PLSD 0.01
150
117
130
142
*
PLSD 0.05
35
112
87
106
97
PLSD 0.10
29
93
73
81
88
Prob. > F
0.0000
0.0025
0.00 10
0.0011
0.0009
0.0000
5.0
5.0
4.9
CV%
5.0
4.9
1.6
* mean square numbers were not large enough to generate PLSD's.
83
ENE
(mcal/lb)
65.0
63.9
63.7
64.0
61.9
61.3
ME
(mcal/lb)
63.3
1.210
1.239
1.221
1.218
1.223
1.185
1.175
*
*
0.794
*
*
*
0.513
*
*
*
0.0000
0.0000
1.3
1.8
0.0000
2.4
1.2
0.9
0.8
0.0000
1.4
NEM
NEG
(mcalllb) (mcalllb)
0.820
0.535
0.804
0.521
0.801
0.519
0.805
0.522
0.774
0.494
0.762
0.486
Lb N/
ton DM
75.6
73.4
75.9
73.7
73.8
72.8
74.2
2.1
1.6
1.3
0.00 12
2.1
There were significant differences among varieties for percent N, N uptake, Ca uptake, P uptake, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake at the PLSD 0.10 level or higher in Table 17. Percent N followed the same pattern as protein. FD 3 had the highest N fixed.
The PD 1-2 entries had less Ca, P, K, and Mg uptake than the FD 3-6 entries because of decreased yield. There were differences for
percent magnesium, but they did not follow a pattern rleated to FD.
Table 17. 1999 third-cut percent N, N uptake, percent Ca, Ca uptake, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake data for the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted in 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte,
Oregon.
5
84.9
83.2
91.4
87.6
92.0
90.3
0.344
0.345
0.337
0.351
0.335
0.329
9.6
9.7
10.5
10.4
10.5
10.2
0.343
10.2
2.96
88.2
0.340
10.1
NS
NS
NS
0.2792
1.0
0.7
0.6
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.6
0.0042
7.2
0.0132
3.6
0.0243
5.1
NS
6.0
5.0
0.0244
6.7
1.93
1.92
1.90
1.93
1.88
1.84
53.9
53.9
59.0
57.0
58.7
57.0
0.348
0.344
0.349
0.335
0.348
0.332
3.71
110.6
1.90
56.6
0.11
0.08
7.6
5.6
4.7
NS
NS
NS
0.2163
4.3
NS
4.0
3.3
0.0422
6.9
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
4
3.03
2.95
2.94
2.96
2.96
2.92
105.5
103.2
118.2
109.0
114.9
112.8
Mean
3
9.7
9.7
10.8
9.9
10.8
10.3
uptake
(lb/acre)
6
2
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
P
(%)
3.78
3.67
3.79
3.69
3.69
3.64
1
Mg
(%)
Ca
(%)
N
(%)
PD /Variety
K
(%)
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
N
uptake
(lb/acre)
0.07
0.0011
2.1
0.0000
5.0
P
84
5.0
0.5
6.3
Discussion
Yield increased as FD number increased in general on the third cutting, as one might
expect, but the inverse was true on first cutting. Quality and energy variables, in general,
increased as FD number increased, although there may have been other factors also
contributing on first cutting. Quality and energy decreased, in general, as FD number
increased on second cuffing, and there were no yield differences. On third cutting,
quality and energy decreased as FD number increased, in general. There were no total
yield differences, nor were there any total annual digestible and protein yield differences
between the the different FD's (varieties) in the first year of production.
Percent nutrients (P, Ca, K, and Mg) and nutrient uptake (for P, Ca, K, and Mg) are
presented, for purposes of comparison. FD did not seem to have any effect on annual
total nutrient uptake for the nutrients predicted. The higher yielding entries had the
highest P and K nutrient uptake on first cutting. P, K, and Mg uptake were highest for
the higher numbered FD entires on third cutting. The numbers are within the range of
previously published values.
The quality tests were performed by NIRS. The present calibrations are more robust than
just a few years ago, but none of the samples were tested by wet chemistry for
comparison. While the resulting numbers may not be completely accurate, we believe
the ability of the NTRS to discern relative differences between varieties is good.
Selection of an alfalfa variety is based on yield and quality potential, FD, and pest
resistance ratings. This 1 year of data allowed a glimpse at the quality of some alfalfa
varieties with different FD's. It is unwise to base a selection of a variety on 1 year of
data, but within these limitis, this study does allow limited comparisons.
Acknowledgements
Seed was donated by ABI and Americas Alfalfa, Pioneer Hibred Intl., Eureka Seed, and
Northrup King. Mark Smith, Breeder for Pioneer Hibred Intl. and Don Miller, Breeder
for ABI, are acknowledged for their help in selecting the varieties for this trial.
Literature Cited
McKenzie, J.S., Paquin, R., and Duke, S.H. 1988 Chapter 8: Cold and Heat Tolerance.
Alfalfa and Alfalfa Improvement, ASA Monograph 29. pp. 265-266.
85
Fall Dormancy Effect on Three-cut Alfalfa Production
Mylen Bohie and Rhonda Simmons
Abstract
Alfalfa is an important crop for central Oregon. Six varieties, representing fall
dormancies (FD) 1-6, were planted in August of 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon. The trial was conducted as a three-cut harvest
management system for 5 years. The 5-year yield ranged from a high of 33.98 ton/acre
(FD 2) to a low of 31.95 ton/acre (FD 5). FD had no effect on annual average thirdcutting yield and only affected third-cutting yield the first year of the trial, under a threecut harvest regime.
Introduction
Alfalfa continues to be an important crop for central and eastern Oregon. Over the years,
there has been a range of perhaps 35,000 to 50,000 acres of alfalfa grown in the counties
of Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson. The alfalfa is grown in pure stands and grass/alfalfa
mixtures for hay. Locally the hay produced is fed on-ranch or farm or marketed to
livestock producers, dairies, and feed stores in Oregon, Washington, and California.
Some alfalfa is exported to Pacific Rim countries. Alfalfa is an important rotational crop
to help break disease and insect cycles, and adds nitrogen (N) to the soil for subsequent
crops through nitrogen fixation.
Seed companies continue to develop and market numerous varieties. In past years,
varieties with an FD rating of 1-3, and some with 4 have typically been planted, but
recently some producers in central Oregon have begun planting more FD-4 varieties, with
an occasional FD-5 variety planted.
'The expression of fall dormancy depends on the combination of shortening day length
and cool temperatures. Under short day conditions, differences among dormant and
nondormant cultivars are more pronounced at low temperatures. At cool temperatures,
dormant cultivars have the greatest dormancy response and nondormant cultivars have
the least response. Maximum dormancy seems to be induced at a temperature of 15.5°C
and a photoperiod of 12 hours. Accordingly, a decrease in photoperiod and temperature
causes a greater decrease in top growth of fall dormant cultivars than in the non falldormant cultivars. Under long day conditions there is little difference in regrowth
between dormant and nondormant cultivars."
"In general, American alfalfa cultivars trace to nine different distinct sources of
germplasm from different regions of the world. These germplasm sources are Medicago
falcate, Ladak; M varia, Turkistan; and Flemish, Chilean, Peruvian, Indian, and African
varieties listed in their approximate descending order of winter hardiness and fall
dormancy characteristics. A tenth source of nondormant germplasm from Saudi Arabia
has generally gone unrecognized."
86
Fall dormancy is classified on the basis of vegetative growth observed in the autumn,
particularly in northern latitudes. Dormants are northern types and nonodormants are
southern types (Mckenzie, et al).
Selecting an alfalfa variety is important. Since fall dormancy and winter hardiness genes
in alfalfa have been recently delinked, there has been more interest in planting alfalfa
varieties with higher fall dormancy ratings because of the potential of increased yield on
last cutting.
The information generated by this trial is limited because only one entry represents each
fall dormancy rating. It will begin to build an information base that is important to
producers, fleidmen, seed suppliers, and the seed companies who are involved in central
Oregon forage production.
Materials and Methods
Soil samples were taken and analyzed by the Oregon State University Central Analytical
Laboratory, Corvallis Oregon (see Table 1). Based on the soil test results, lime,
phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and boron were applied and disked into the top 6 inches of
soil on April 18, 1998 (see Table 2.). The field was then leveled and rolled prior to
planting.
Table 1. Soil test analyses from alfalfa variety trial soil samples taken at the Central
Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
Date
7/10/1995
8/3/1998
3/2000
4/2002
Depth
(in)
0-12
0-10
0-10
0-10
OM
(%)
P
pH
(ppm)
3.33
5.7
5.8
7.2
6.6
* below the minimum detectable level.
K
(ppm)
Ca
(meq/
Mg
(meq/
bOg)
lOOg)
2.6
2.5
2.4
2.6
40
47
230
177
6.0
6.0
33
48
216
7.1
238
9.3
B
(ppm)
Zn
(ppm)
So!
salts
Mmhos
Se
(ppm)
0
336
0
87
Total
Bases
/cm
0.50
0.34
0.40
0.50
0.59
0.6
0.32
5.57
--
0.50
-<0.10*
Table 2. Nutrient applications made to the alfalfa variety trial at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
Zn
B
Date applied
N
P205
Ca
S
1(20
(lb/ac)
(lb/ac)
(lb/ac)
(lb/ac)
(lb/ac)
(lb/ac)
2.2
0
14
4/11/1998
19
2.5 ton'
0
217
0
4/17/1998
32
0
28
172
0
0
0
0
3/241999
38
0
72
144
202
0
0
3/24/2000
38
0
72
144
202
7.7
34
1.5
3/23/2001
0
96
191
183
0
34
0
3/29/2002
183
0
96
191
2003
0
2.5 ton per acre of lime
Mn
(ppm)
64
0
0
15
9.0
_____
Six alfalfa varieties, representing FD 1-6, were planted at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center (COARC) at the Powell Butte site on August 24, 1998 (Table 3). The
trial site is located 7 miles west of Prineville and 12 miles east of Redmond and the
elevation is 3,180 ft. Eighteen pounds/acre of inoculated seed were planted with a small
plot cone-type drill with nine rows, 6-inch row spacing. The field was rolled after
planting. Plot size was 5 ft by 20 ft, while the harvested area was 3.5 ft by 15 ft. The trial
was laid out in a randomized complete block design with four replications.
Table 3. The fall dormancy, winter hardiness, disease, insect, and pest ratings for the
1998 planted alfalfa fall dormancy variety trial conducted at Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Powell Butte, Oregon.
Variety
Spredor
III
5262
Innovator
+z
5396
FD"2
VW
FW
AN
PRR
SAA
PA
BAA
SN
APH
SNXN
NRKN
RLN
1
4
1
4
1
1
4
2
1
3
1
1
1
1
2
5
2
3
1
4
4
1
3
1
1
1
1
5
4
5
5
5
3
4
4
1
4
4
1
1
1
3
3
1
4
1
4
1
1
4
4
5
5
3
5
4
Archer
5
3
1
1
1
4
4
4
4
4
4
5
4
Lobo
6
3
'FD = Fall dormancy; BW = Bacterial wilt, VW = Verticillium wilt, FW = Fusanum wilt, AN
Anthracnose race I, PRR = Phytophthora root rot, SAA = Spotted alfalfa aphid, PA = Pea aphid, BAA =
Blue alfalfa aphid, SN = StemnNematode, APH = Aphanomyces, SKN = Southern root knot nematode,
NRKN = Northern root knot nematode, RLN = Root lesion nematode.
4
4
4
4
5
4
4
4
4
1
2Fall dormancy (FD) ratings: 1 = most dormant, 11 = least dormant.
3Resistance ratings: 1 = Susceptible (S) (0-5 percent of plants) or has not been tested, 2 = Low resistance
(LR) (5-15 percent), 3 = Moderate resistance (MR) (15-30 percent of plants), 4 = Resistance (R) (30-50
percent of plants), 5 = High resistance (HR) (>50 percent of plants).
The alfalfa was harvested with a sickle bar forage plot harvester, and fresh wet yield was
weighed directly in the field. Aftermath from the plots was swathed, raked, and baled
with fairly high moisture content (rather than waiting for typical moisture to bale) to help
clear the field and get the irrigation water back on the field as soon as possible. Harvest
dates are listed for each cutting in the annual yield tables.
Moist samples (0.5-1.0 lb) were taken for each plot and dried at 145°F until no further
change in weight occurred. Yields were calculated on an oven-dry basis. SAS statistical
software program was used for analysis of variance and results are reported using
Protected Least Significant Difference (PLSD) for mean separation at the P = 0.10, 0.05,
and 0.01 probability levels. Discussion in the results and discussion are limited to the
PLSD 0.10 level.
The trial was sprinkler irrigated with solid set sprinklers with a 30- by 40-ft spacing as
needed for establishment and during the season. Nelson rotating head Windfighter 2000
nozzles were used. Irrigation was determined by crop water use prediction by the
Agrimet weather station program and by probing the soil with a soil probe and using the
88
1
1
1
feel test method. There is an Agrimet weather station located at the COARC. The trial
was usually irrigated twice per week, depending upon time of year.
Between the second and third cutting in 2001, the irrigation heads/nozzles were changed
from 7/64-inch to 9/64-inch Nelson rotating head wind fighter 2000 nozzles. We saw no
problems with irrigation coverage up to the switch, even though the smaller size head had
been used since the start of the trial.
Pursuit® (1 DG Eco Pak bag), Poast® (0.47 lb ai/acre) and 2 quarts of crop oil were
applied for weed control September 17, 1998 of the establishment year. The first winter
dormant weed control included applying Velpar L® (0.75 lb ai/acre), Gramoxone Extra®
(0.5 lb ai/acre), and Kerb® (1 lb ai/acre) on February 9, 2000. Velpar L (0.75 lb ai/acre),
Kerb (1 lb ai/acre), and Gramoxone Extra (0.5 lb ai/acre) were applied on December 6,
2000 for the third production year. Velpar (0.5 lb ai/acre),Gramoxone Extra (0.5 lb
ai/acre), and Spredor® 90(1 pint/lOOgal) were applied in January 15, 2002 for the fourth
production year. On June 30, 2000, Baythroid® (2.88 oz/acre) was applied by aerial
application to control alfalfa weevil.
Results
Weed control was excellent and winters were relatively mild for the 5 years of the trial.
Exremely cold winter weather was not a factor in the trial.
It is important to note that that the results are only from a single variety representing an
FD level. Other varietal genetic factors could be modifying the results.
89
Total Cumulative Yield
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) for total cumulative yield at the
PLSD 0.10 level or higher (Table 4.). Total yield ranking was FD 2 3 4> 1 6=5.
Variety '5262' (FD 2) had the highest yield at 33.98tons/acre and 'Archer' (FD 5) had the
lowest total yield at 31.93 tons/acre. There were approximately 2 tons/acre difference
between the entries after 5 years of production. The middle donnants (FD 2-4) appear to
be better choices for planting under the climatic conditions of Powell Butte, Oregon, for
the 5 year period of this trial.
Table 4. Total cumulative yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on
August 24, 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Powell Butte,
Oregon.
1999
1999-2000
1999-2001
1999-2002
1999-2003
yield
(ton/acre)
total yield
total yield
total yield
total yield
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
6.33
6.39
6.27
13.84
13.92
13.79
13.26
12.99
13.08
22.32
22.25
21.93
21.24
20.76
20.94
28.69
28.56
28.03
27.37
26.75
26.77
33.98
33.83
33.39
32.61
32.03
31.95
13.48
0.86
0.63
0.53
4.7
0.0 109
21.57
27.69
32.97
1.01
0.75
1.16
0.87
1.63
1.22
0.62
0.72
1.02
3.4
0.0002
3.1
0.000 1
3.6
0.0032
total
Fall
dormancy
2
3
4
1
6
5
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
6.34
6.18
6.19
CV %
6.28
NS
NS
NS
4.9
Pr. > F
0.663 5
90
Annual Average Yield
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) for annual average yield for first
and second cutting, and total yield at the PLSD 0.10 level or higher (Table 5). Total yield
ranking was FD 2 = 3 = 4> 1 = 6 = 5, which was the same as total 5 year cumulative
yield.
Average annual first cutting yield ranking was FD 2 = 1 3, 2 and 1 >4, 3 4>5 =6
(PLSD 0.10). It is interesting that the lower FD varieties were higher yielding on the first
cutting than the higher-FD-rated varieties.
Average annual second cutting yield ranking was FD 2 3 4=6, 2 >5, 4=6=5, 4
and 6> 1, 5 = 1 (PLSD > 0.10), which was significantly different. We do not believe that
FD had any effect on second-cutting yield.
Average annual third-cutting yield ranking was FD 3 =6 = 5 =4 =2 = 1 (not significant
{NS]).
Table 5. Average annual yield of each cutting, across 1999-2003, and average total
annual yield of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 24, 1998 at the Central
Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Powell Butte, Oregon.
Total yield
cut yield
cut yield
cut yield
annual 5-year
annual 5-year
annual 5-year
annual 5-year
mean
Fall
mean
mean
mean
(ton/acre)
dormancy
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Pr.>F
CV %
2.61
2.71
1.81
2.60
2.58
2.32
2.26
2.11
2.23
2.21
2.19
2.15
2.19
2.51
0.18
0.13
0.11
0.0001
5.2
2.18
NS
0.08
0.06
0.0411
3.5
1.90
NS
NS
NS
91
1.86
1.96
1.91
1.92
1.95
0.1966
6.8
6.52
6.80
6.77
6.68
6.39
6.41
6.59
NS
0.24
0.20
0.0032
3.6
1999 Results
There was a significant difference among varieties (FD) only on third-cutting yield
(Table 6). This was the only third cutting out of the 5 years that FD affected its yield.
PD 3 yield equaled yields of FD 5 and 6, perhaps due to cultivar factors and harvest
management unrelated to PD.
First-cutting ranking was PD 1 =2=3 =6=5 4 (NS).
Second-cutting ranking was PD 2= 3 = 5 =6=4= 1 (NS).
Third cutting ranking was PD 3 =6 = 5 >4>2 = 1 (S).
Total yield ranking was PD 3 = 1 =2=4= 5 =6 (NS).
There were no moisture differences among varieties at harvest.
Table 6. 1999 yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 24, 1998
at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Powell Butte, Oregon.
3rd
2nd
2nd
1st
1st
Total
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
yield
moisture
yield
moisture
yield
moisture
yield
Fall
(ton/acre)
(%)
(ton/acre)
(%)
(ton/acre)
(%)
dormancy (tonlacre)
1.56
1.48
1.56
1.55
77.7
77.9
77.7
78.0
77.9
77.5
6.34
6.33
6.39
6.27
6.19
6.18
82.7
NS
1.49
0.10
77.8
NS
6.28
NS
NS
NS
0.07
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.06
NS
NS
0.2190
0.7304
0.3502
3.5
10.1
8/3
1.2
0.0001
4.9
9/30
0.2419
0.6
0.6635
4.9
1.40
1.81
1.81
83.2
82.2
82.7
82.8
82.4
83.0
80.9
NS
1.82
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.2861
16.2
6/18
80.8
80.8
79.8
83.2
79.9
80.8
1.76
6
3.18
3.02
3.00
2.65
2.81
2.82
Mean
PLSD
2.91
NS
1
2
3
4
5
1.91
1.83
1.80
1.41
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
Pr. > P
CV%
Harvest
date
92
2000 Results
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) on first cutting, second cutting,
total yield, and third-cut moisture in 2000 (Table 7).
First-cutting yield ranking was FD 2 = 4 = 3,2 and 4> 1,3>5 and 6,3 1, 1 >6,5 = 6
(S). The middle-FD-rated varieties yielded the highest.
Second-cutting yield ranking was FD 3 =4, 3 >2,4=2 = 6, 2= 6 = 5, 6= 5 = 1 (S).
Third-cutting yield ranking was FD 3 =5 =6 =2 = 1 4 (NS).
Total yield ranking was FD 3 =2 4> 1 =
5
=6 (5).
Table 7. 2000 yield and moisture content by cuttings results of the fall dormancy alfalfa
trial planted on August 24, 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at
Powell Butte, Oregon.
1St
3rd
3rd
2nd
2nd
cut
Total
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
Fall
yield
moisture
yield
moisture
yield
yield
moisture
dormancy (tonlacre)
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(%)
(%)
(%)
79.8
79.4
79.5
79.0
79.8
79.5
2.10
2.28
2.44
2.37
2.20
2.23
83.4
83.3
83.0
82.9
82.9
82.8
2.23
2.28
2.33
2.11
2.33
2.32
78.9
78.7
78.9
79.2
77.9
78.0
6.92
6
2.59
2.95
2.77
2.94
2.38
2.26
Mean
PLSD
2.65
0.36
79.5
NS
2.27
0.26
83.0
NS
2.26
NS
78.6
NS
7.20
0.65
0.27
NS
0.18
NS
NS
0.9
0.49
0.22
NS
0.15
0.4
NS
0.7
0.41
0.0001
10.0
6/6
0.4233
0.0066
7.6
7/19
0.0928
0.6
0.5264
0.028 1
11.8
9/13
1.1
0.0033
6.6
1
2
3
4
5
7.51
7.53
7.42
6.90
6.81
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
Pr. > F
CV%
Harvest
date
1.0
93
2001 Results
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) on first-cutting and secondcutting yield, only, in 2001 (Table 8).
First-cutting ranking was FD 2 = 3, 2> 1, 3 =
1,
1=4 >
5
=
6
(S).
Second-cutting ranking was FD 1 =2 =4 =6=3 = 5 (NS).
Third-cutting ranking was FD 3 =6=5 =2 =4 = 1 (NS).
Total yield ranking was FD 2 =3 = 1 =4=65 (NS).
Table 8. 2001 yield and moisture content by cuttings results of the fall dormancy alfalfa
trial planted on August 24, 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at
Powell Butte, Oregon.
3rd
3rd
2nd
2nd
Total
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
yield
moisture
yield
moisture
Fall
yield
moisture
yield
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(%)
dormancy (ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(%)
(%)
80.3
79.3
79.0
2.03
NS
79.6
NS
8.12
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.83 50
10.4
8/1
0.5794
0.2090
0.7760
1.8
14.4
9/19
2.3
0.2207
6.7
3.06
3.00
3.04
2.07
2.14
1.99
2.10
2.13
22.7
NS
3.08
NS
79.3
NS
0.22
NS
NS
0.16
NS
0.0029
9.9
6/13
0.3479
3.20
6
77.8
77.5
78.0
77.3
77.4
76.0
Mean
PLSD
3.01
0.25
2
3
4
5
79.4
79.8
79.4
8.12
8.47
8.33
8.03
7.86
7.94
78.4
79.8
79.5
79.2
79.5
79.4
3.12
3.29
3.16
2.98
2.76
2.76
1
3.11
3.03
1.81
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
Pr. > F
CV %
Harvest
date
8.3
94
2002 Results
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) on first-cutting yield, and
second- and third-cutting moisture in 2002 (Table 9).
First-cutting ranking was FD 2 = 1 = 3 =4> 5 = 6 (S). The higher yields seemed to be
correlated to the lower FD ratings, and yield decreased as the dormancy number
increased. There probably were other factors affecting yield as well.
Second-cutting ranking was FD 2 =6 = 3 =5 =4 = 1 (NS).
Third-cutting ranking was FD 6=3 =5 = 1 =2 4 (NS).
Total yield ranking was FD 2 =3 = 1 =4=6 = 5 (NS).
Table 9. 2002 yield and moisture content by cuttings results of the fall dormancy alfalfa
trial planted on August 24, 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at
Powell Butte, Oregon.
3rd
3rd
1St
1St
2nd
2nd
Total
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
yield
moisture
yield
yield
moisture
Fall
moisture
yield
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(%)
dormancy (ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(%)
(%)
1.75
1.95
1.89
1.85
1.86
1.94
83.0
82.7
82.7
81.7
82.2
81.6
2.04
2.02
2.13
81.1
80.6
2.07
NS
81.3
NS
6.12
NS
0.6
NS
0.9
NS
4
5
1.91
6
1.90
80.2
79.8
79.6
79.3
79.8
79.3
Mean
PLSD
2.18
0.35
79.7
NS
1.87
0.13
82.3
0.9
0.26
NS
0.10
3
81.7
81.9
81.3
81.2
6.13
6.38
6.31
6.10
5.83
5.99
2.34
2.40
2.28
2.25
1
2
1.99
2.05
2.15
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
Pr. > F
0.22
NS
0.08
0.5
NS
0.7
NS
0.0005
0.2825
1.0
0.0003
0.8
1.0
9.3
Harvest
date
6/12
0.23 59
7.2
9/3
0.4297
11.8
0.0023
5.2
7/17
0.0464
CV%
95
2003 Results
There were no significant differences among varieties (FD) for yield, but there were
significant differences between varieties (FD) for first and third-cutting moisture in 2003
(Table 10).
First-cutting ranking was FD 2 = 3 = 1 =6=4= 5 (NS).
Second-cutting ranking was FD 6= 5 =2 = 1 =3 =4 (NS).
Third-cutting ranking was FD 4=3 =6= 1 =5 =2 (NS).
Total yield ranking was FD 4=2 =6 = 3 = 1 5 (NS).
Table 10. 2003 yield and moisture content by cuttings results of the fall dormancy alfalfa
trial planted on August 24, 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at
Powell Butte, Oregon.
3rd
3rd
2nd
2nd
1st
1st
Total
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
cut
yield
moisture
yield
moisture
moisture
yield
yield
Fall
(ton/acre)
(%)
(ton/acre)
(ton/acre)
(%)
dormancy (ton/acre)
(%)
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD
1.61
78.9
78.3
78.8
77.4
78.7
77.7
5.24
5.29
5.27
5.36
5.18
5.29
NS
81.8
NS
1.62
NS
78.3
NS
5.27
NS
0.7
NS
NS
NS
1.0
NS
NS
0.6
NS
NS
NS
0.9
NS
8.5
0.9
0.0001
6.5
0.9
0.1484
25.2
0.8493
9/16
1.3
10.1
0.0305
0.9917
1.80
1.88
1.80
1.73
1.72
1.74
81.3
80.7
80.7
79.9
79.6
79.7
1.86
1.88
1.85
1.84
1.89
1.94
82.3
81.8
81.9
81.3
81.6
81.6
1.58
1.53
1.62
1.79
1.57
1.77
80.4
1.88
NS
1.0
NS
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
CV %
Pr. > F
Harvest
date
0.2763
6/16
0.6475
7/25
96
Discussion
Selecting an alfalfa variety for an individual field is important. Part of that process is
selecting a variety for its yield and quality potential, pest resistance ratings, as well as for
its FD rating. How the variety yields on each cutting over the years may be important, or
perhaps only the total yield at the end of its production cycle is the biggest justification.
There was a yield disadvantage for the higher-rated nondormants on first cutting at this
location under our harvest management regime. Variety genetics and pest resistance
could also be just as responsible for the differences between varieties than FD.
The mid-rated FD varieties were, in general, the highest yielding. One would expect
more differences between the different FD varieties yield on the third (last) cutting, but
this occurred only 1 year out of the 5 years (first year, Table 6.). Because of the date of
the second cutting and the long third-cutting growing interval, the varieties were not
intensively managed. Any advantage that higher-rated nondormants are purported to
offer on last cutting was not realized in this trial, under this management regime.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the trial results is that the FD-1 and 2 entries were
not the lowest yielding in the fifth year. Most of the time (but not always), the varieties
with little or no resistance to Verticillium wilt tend to be the lowest yielding in the later
years of production (Table 10). That was not the case in this trial. The FD-2 entry, 5262,
has a two or low resistance rating (LR) for Verticillium wilt while Spredor III has a one,
or susceptible resistance (S) rating, (or has not been adequately tested) (Table 3).
It is important to note that only one variety was used to represent each FD rating, because
these results show that FD is not very important under the management and weather
conditions that this trial was conducted. The trial does begin to add to the information
data base for the production of alfalfa in central Oregon.
Acknowledgements
Seed for the trial was provided by ABI Alfalfa and America's Alfalfa, Eureka Seeds, Inc.,
Northrup King, and Pioneer Hi-bred International. Mark Smith, Breeder for Pioneer
Hibred Intl. and Don Miller, Breeder for ABI, are acknowledged for their help in
selecting the varieties for this trial.
Literature Cited
Mckenzie, J.S., Paquin, R,. and Duke, S.H. 1988. Chapter 8: Cold and Heat Tolerance.
Alfalfa and Alfalfa Improvement, ASA Monograph 29. Pages 265-266.
97
Fall Dormancy Effect on Four-cut First-year Alfalfa Quality and Yield
Mylen Bohle, Rhonda Simmons, Jim Smith, and Rich Roseberg
Abstract
Alfalfa is an important crop for central Oregon. Six varieties, representing fall
dormancies (FD) 1-6, were planted in August of 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Madras, Oregon. The trial was conducted as a four-cut harvest
management trial. There was no total yield difference between the FD's. There were
differences in yield and quality (protein, digestibility, and energy) on last cutting.
Introduction
Alfalfa continues to be an important crop for central and eastern Oregon. Over the years,
there has been a range of perhaps 35,000 to 50,000 acres of alfalfa grown in the counties
of Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson. The alfalfa is grown in pure stands and grass/alfalfa
mixtures for hay. Locally the hay produced is marketed to livestock producers, dairies,
and feed stores in Oregon, Washington, and California. Some alfalfa is exported to
Pacific Rim countries. Alfalfa is an important rotational crop to help break disease and
insect cycles, and adds nitrogen (N) to the soil for subsequent crops, through nitrgoen
fixation. Seed companies continue to develop and market numerous varieties.
In past years, varieties with a FD rating of 1-3 have normally been planted in the area.
More recently, some producers have begun planting FD-4 varieties, with an occasional
FD-5 variety planted. The higher rated fall dormancy varieties need to be tested locally
for their adaptability and yield potential. The information generated by these trials is
important to producers, fieldmen, seed suppliers, and the seed companies.
"The expression of fall dormancy depends on the combination of shortening day length
and cool temperatures. Under short day conditions, differences among dormant and
nondormant cultivars are more pronounced at low temperatures. At cool temperatures,
dormant cultivars have the greatest dormancy response and nondormant cultivars have
the least response. Maximum dormancy seems to be induced at a temperature of 15.5°C
and a photoperiod of 12 hours. Accordingly, a decrease in photoperiod and temperature
causes a greater decrease in top growth of fall dormant cultivars than in the non falldormant cultivars. Under long day conditions there is little difference in regrowth
between dormant and nondormant cultivars."
"In general, American alfalfa cultivars trace to nine different distinct sources of
germplasm from different regions of the world. These germplasm sources are Medicago
falcate, Ladak; M varia, Turkistan, and Flemish, Chilean, Peruvian, Indian, and African
varieties listed in their approximate descending order of winter hardiness and fall
dormancy characteristics. A tenth source of very nondormant germplasm from Saudi
Arabia has generally gone unrecognized."
98
Fall dormancy is classified on the basis of vegetative growth observed in the autumn,
particularily in northern latitudes. Dormants are northern types and nonodormants are
southern types. (Mckenzie, et a!.)
Selecting an alfalfa variety is important. Fall dormancy and winter hardiness genes in
alfalfa have been delinked in recent years. There has been more interest in planting
alfalfa varieties with higher fall dormancy ratings because of the potential o thigher on
last cutting.
The information generated by this trial is limited, because only one entry represented
each fall dormancy rating. However, it will begin to build an information base that is
important to producers, fleidmen, seed suppliers, and the seed companies who are
involved in central Oregon forage production.
Materials and Methods
'Trical 102' triticale was planted in the field in the fall of 1997, and then was plowed
down at late heading as a green manure crop in the early summer. Soil samples were
taken in August, 1998 and analyzed by Agri-check, Inc., Umatilla, Oregon (Table 1).
Fertilizer was applied prior to planting and disked into the top 6 inches of soil (Table 2).
The field was leveled, rolled, and planted on August 21, 1998. Based on soil test results,
phosphorus, sulfur, boron and potassium were applied and disked into the soil prior to
planting.
Table 1. Soil test analyses from alfalfa variety trial soil samples taken at the Central
Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
P
K
Depth pH
N
(lb/acre) (ppm) (ppm)
(inch)
25
539
27
1998 0-10
6.7
* below the minimum detectable level
Date
Ca
(meq
/lOOg)
10..3
Mg
(meq
B
/lOOg)
5.4
(ppm)
0.4
Zn
(ppm)
0.5
Total
Bases
17.4
Na
(ppm)
0.37
Table 2. Nutrient applications made to the alfalfa variety trial at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
Six alfalfa varieties, representing FD 1-6, were planted at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center (COARC) at the Madras site, on August 25, 1998 (Table 3.). The fall
dormancy, disease, insect, and pest ratings are presented in Table 3. The trial site was
located about two miles north of Madras at an elevation of 2,440 ft. Eighteen
99
pounds/acre of inoculated seed were planted with a small plot cone type drill with 9 rows,
6-inch row spacing. The field was rolled after planting. Plot size was 5 ft by 20 ft, while
the harvested area was 3.5 ft by 15 ft. The trial was laid out in a randomized complete
block design with eight replications.
Table 3. The fall dormancy, winter hardiness, disease, insect, and pest ratings for the
1998 planted alfalfa variety trial conducted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research
Center, Madras, Oregon.
Variety
Spredor
III
5262
Innovato
F
W
A
N
PR
R
SA
A
P
A
BA
A
N
AP
H
SNK
N
NRK
N
RL
N
3
1
1
1
1
3
4
1
1
1
1
4
1
1
1
1
4
1
4
1
1
4
2
1
2
5
2
3
1
4
4
4
1
3
5
4
5
5
5
3
4
1
S
r+Z
1
3
1
1
4
1
4
4
4
4
4
5
4
4
5396
1
4
1
1
4
4
5
4
5
5
4
Archer
5
3
3
1
1
1
1
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
5
Lobo
6
3
'FD = Fall dormancy, BW = Bacteriai wilt, VW = Verticillium wilt, FW = Fusarium wilt, AN =
Anthracnose race 1, PRR = Phytophthora root rot, SAA = Spotted alfalfa aphid, PA = Pea aphid, BAA =
Blue alfalfa aphid, SN = Stem nematode, APH = Aphanomyces, SKN = Southern root knot nematode,
NRKN = Northern root knot nematode, RLN = Root lesion nematode.
2Fall dormancy (FD) ratings: 1 = most dormant, 11 = least dormant.
3Resistance ratings: 1 = Susceptible (0-5 percent of plants) or has not been tested, 2 = Low Resistance (5-15
percent), 3 = Moderate Resistance (15-30 percent of plants), 4 = Resistance (30-50 percent of plants), 5 =
High Resistance (> 50 percent of plants).
The alfalfa was harvested with a sickle-bar forage plot harvester, and fresh wet yield was
weighed directly in the field on June 6, July 13, August 18, and October 14, 1999 for the
first through fourth cuttings. Aftermath from the plots was removed from the field the
following day with a large tractor (125 hp) and grass seed "vac". Within a day or 2 after
harvest, the irrigation water was reapplied.
Moist samples (0.5-1.0 ib) were taken for each plot and dried at 145°F until no further
change in weight occurred. Yield data are calculated on an oven-dry basis. The samples
were ground with a Wiley mill with a 1 .0-mm screen and then reground in an Udy mill
with a 0.5-mm screen. The samples were submitted to the NIRS at the Kiamath
Experiment Station for quality analysis. The MRS has not been calibrated for every
variable predicted. No wet chemistry tests were conducted on any of these alfalfa
samples.
An MSTAT statistical software program was used for analyis of variance and results are
reported using Protected Least Significant Difference (PLSD) for mean separation at the
P > F = 0.01, 0.05, and 0.10 levels.
100
The trial was solid-set, sprinkler irrigated with 30- by 40-ft spacing as needed for
establishment and during the season. Nelson rotating head Windfighter 2000, 7/64-inch
size nozzles were used. The nozzles were used by mistake; we typically use a nozzle size
of 9/64-inch. The7/64 inch nozzles were changed to 9/64 inch nozzles after the third
cuffing of the third production year Irrigation was determined by crop water use
predicted by the Agrimet weather station program and by probing the soil with a soil
probe and using the feel test method. There is an Agrimet weather station located at the
COARC, Madras. The trial was usually irrigated twice per week, depending upon time
of year.
Pursuit® (1 DG Eco Pak bag), Poast® (0.47 lb ai/acre) and 2 quarts of crop oil were
applied for weed control on September 18, 1998 of the establishment year. Poast (2
pints/acre) was also applied on April 7, 1999 to control volunteer tritic ale
Table 4 presents the present quality classifications for alfalfa hay.
Table 4. USDA alfalfa quality guidelines for domestic livestock use and not more than
10 percent grass.
Quality class
Supreme
Premium
Good
Fair
Low
TDN2
TDN2
Crude
protein
(100% DM)
(90% DM)
>55.9
>22
56—58
54.5—55.9
52.5—54.5
50.5—52.5
20—22
18—20
16—18
<56
<50.5
<16
ADF
(%)
NDF
<27
<34
>185
>62
27—29
29—32
32—35
>35
34—36
36—40
40—44
>44
170—185
150—170
130—150
<130
60.5—62
58—60
RFV'
(%)
(%)
'RFV calculated using the Wis./Minn. Formula.
TDN calculated using the western formula. Quantitative factors are approximate and many factors can
affect feeding value. Values based on 100 percent dry matter (TDN showing both 100 percent and 90
percent dry matter). Guidelines are to be used with visual appearance and intent of sale (usage).
2
Term definitions are as follows:
TDN = total digestible nutrients (Penn State calculation)
TDN CA = total digestible nutrients (California calculation)
TDN PNW = total digestible nutrients (Tri state calculation)
RFV = relative feed value
Moist. = moisture percent
DM = dry matter percent
Protein = crude protein percent
AV Protein available protein percent
DProtein = digestible protein percent
NEL = net energy of lactation (mcalllb)
ENE = energy estimate (therms per cwt. weight)
ME = metabolizable energy (mcalllb)
101
NEM = net energy of maintenance (mcal/lb)
NEG = net energy of gain (mcalllb)
DDM = digestible dry matter percent
DM1 = dry matter intake percent
NDF = neutral detergent fiber percent
ADF = acid detergent fiber percent
ADP = available digestible protein percent
NDFD =48 hour in vitro NDF digestibility as percent of NDF
NFC = non fibrous carbohydrate (percent of DM)
TDNL total digestible nutrients for alfalfa, clovers, and legume/grass mixtures
RFQ = relative forage quality
Fat = fatty acids as % of DM = ether extract - 1
Ash = % DM residue after burning at 600 degrees for 2 hours
Lignin = undigestible plant compund
Definition of calculation equations:
TDN = 4.898 + (89.796 * NEL)
TDN CA = (82.38- (.75 15 * ADF)) * 0.9
TDN TRIST = (54.32 + (0.7387 * protein)) — (0.29 15 * ADF)
RFV=(DMI * DDM)/ 1.29
Moist. = 100.0 — dry matter
AV Protein = (1.16 * protein) —(1.6 * ADP)
D Protein = 1.44 + (0.68 * protein) —(1.28 * ADP)
NEL = 1.044 —(0.0119 * ADF)
ENE = 82.6 * NEL
ME = 0.01642 * TDN
NIEM = -0.508 + (1.37 * ME) — (0.3042 * ME *ME) + (0.05 1 * ME * ME * ME)
NEG = -0.7484 + (1.42 * ME) - (0.3836 * ME * ME) + (0.0593 * ME * ME *ME)
DDM = 88.90 — (0.779 * ADF)
DMI= 120/NDF
If (AV Protein> Protein) AV Protein = Protein
If (D Protein > Protein) D Protein = Protein
NDFD=dNDF48hour/NDF* 100
NFC = 100 — ((NDF —2) + Protein + 2.5 + Ash)
TDNL = (NFC * 0.98) + (Protein * 0.93) + (1.5 * 0.97 * 2.25) + ((NDF —2) * (NDFD /
100))—7
DM11 = [(0.0120 * 1350) / ((NDF / 100) + (NDFD —45) * 0.374)1/ 1350 * 100
RFQ = (DM11 * TDNL) / 1.23
Results
There was an irrigation problem with this year of the trial with unequal coverage.
Coverage was uneven due to the smaller than ideal nozzle size. There was an irrigation
that was missed during the growth interval before second cutting. Weed control was
excellent for the trial. The winter was relatively mild.
102
Cut by Variety (FD)
The cutting by variety (FD) statistics were run for the trial, but the results are not
presented. Comparing cuttings, all yield and quality variables tested were significantly
different.
All of the variety variables tested were significantly different with the exception of yield,
ash, protein yield, TDN yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, and DDM yield, N
recovery, Ca uptake, P uptake, K uptake, and Mg uptake. There were many cutting by
variety (FD) interactions. None of those interactions or data will be presented or
discussed.
103
Total Yield and Other Total Variables
There was no difference in total yield, N recovery, protein yield, TDN yield, DDM yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, Ca uptake,
P uptake, K uptake, or Mg uptake among varieties for the first crop year (Table 4).
Table 4. 1999 total yield, N recovery, protein yield, TDN yield, DDM yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, Ca uptake, P uptake, K
uptake, and Mg uptake data for the 1998 alfalfa fall dormancy trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center,
Madras, Oregon.
Fall
dormancy
1
2
3
Total
yield
(lb/acre)
8.47
8.66
8.50
Total
Total
N
protein
uptake
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre)
613.0
3,832
614.7
3,842
623.4
3,896
618.5
3,866
616.4
3,852
619.4
3,871
Total
CA
Total
Total
TDN
TDN
DDM
yield
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre)
9,376
11,682
11,391
11,804
9,499
11,547
9,456
11.798
11,488
9,626
11,974
11,699
9,380
11,671
11,400
9,418
11,712
11,447
Total
PNW
TDN
yield
(lb/acre)
10,418
10,554
Total
10,508
10,695
10,423
10,463
Total
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
309.7
302.0
296.8
300.9
298.3
297.4
uptake
(lb/acre)
60.9
60.3
59.2
58.9
58.8
58.7
P
Total
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
541.9
Total
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
539.1
521.0
540.2
528.9
526.8
56.5
56.1
56.3
56.8
57.1
56.3
6
8.75
8.51
8.56
Mean
8.57
617.6
3,860
11,773
11,495
9,459
10,510
300.8
59.5
533.0
56.5
PLSD
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
5.0
4.6
4.6
4.7
4.7
4.7
4.7
6.2
5.5
4.5
5.5
4
5
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
104
First Cutting
There were no significant differences among varieties for yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, or
RFQ (Table 5).
Table 5. 1999 first-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ data for the 1998 alfalfa fall
dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
FD/Variety
1
2
3
Yield
(t/acre)
3.32
3.39
3.32
Dry
matter
(%)
19.4
18.9
19.1
81.0
81.4
22.5
21.5
22.5
22.5
29.1
30.1
28.7
29.7
28.6
28.6
NDF
(%)
35.9
37.2
35.9
37.0
35.3
35.7
Moist.
(%)
81.6
81.1
80.9
80.3
Protein
(%)
21.9
21.6
ADF
(%)
dNDF
(%)
NDFD
(%)
51.7
RFV
18.9
18.9
18.6
18.7
51.3
52.6
51.1
52.8
52.4
172
164
173
166
177
175
18.6
19.1
RFQ
188
181
193
183
196
194
6
3.43
3.23
3.18
19.7
19.0
18.6
Mean
3.31
19.0
81.0
22.1
29.2
36.2
18.8
52.0
171
189
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
9.1
0.8
2.5
NS
NS
NS
0.1683
4.7
6.6
6.6
5.2
0.1131
8.7
8.7
4
5
Prob.>F
CV%
105
There were significant differences among the varieties in ash content at the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 6.)
Table 6. 1999 first-cutting TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN data for the 1998 alfalfa
fall dormancy trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
TDN
(%)
DDM
(%)
Ash
Lignin
(%)
(%)
66.2
65.4
66.5
65.8
66.7
66.6
9.68
9.40
8.95
8.79
9.57
9.05
6.56
6.70
6
67.5
66.4
67.9
66.9
68.1
68.0
Mean
67.5
66.2
9.24
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
3.1
2.3
NS
NS
0.59
0.0853
7.6
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
DM11
TDN
CA
(%)
TDN
PNW
(%)
32.1
32.3
65.8
66.2
66.5
54.5
53.8
54.7
54.0
54.8
54.8
60.5
59.7
60.8
60.1
60.9
60.8
NFC
TDNL
(%)
Fat
(%)
DM1
(%)
1.97
1.89
1.97
1.86
1.87
3.54
1.91
3.35
3.24
3.35
3.25
3.42
3.38
6.47
1.91
3.33
3.53
32.0
65.9
54.4
60.5
NS
NS
NS
0.3295
7.0
NS
NS
NS
0.1486
5.3
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.3595
6.9
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.2044
2.0
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
2.4
2.4
6.41
6.61
6.27
6.30
6.5
106
3.41
3.56
3.42
3.64
3.59
32.1
31.3
32.2
32.2
4.3
65.6
65.1
66.5
There were no significant differences among varieties for any of the variables in Table 7.
Table 7. 1999 first-cut protein yield, TDN yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N/ton of DM for the 1998 planted alfalfa fall dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras,
Oregon.
TDN
CA
Protein
TDN
yield
FD/Variety
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre)
TDN
PNW
DDM
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre)
4,480
4,503
4,514
4,586
4,380
4,329
3,614
3,644
3,633
3,705
3,528
3,485
4,014
4,047
4,038
4,117
6
1,449
1,464
1,491
1,475
1,438
1,433
Mean
1,458
4,465
NS
NS
NS
8.9
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
ENE
NEL
(mcal/lb) (mcal/lb)
ME
NEM
(mcalllb) (mcal/lb)
NEG
(mcal/lb)
Lb NI
ton
DM
3,921
3,871
4,392
4,434
4,418
4,508
4,291
4,237
0.697
0.685
0.701
0.690
0.705
0.704
57.60
56.61
57.96
57.04
58.16
58.08
1.106
1.091
1.115
1.100
1.117
1.116
0.708
0.689
0.712
0.698
0.715
0.713
0.435
0.420
0.440
0.426
0.441
0.441
69.9
69.1
71.9
68.8
71.8
3,601
4,002
4,380
0.697
57.58
1.108
0.706
0.434
70.6
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
8.9
8.8
8.8
8.8
3.4
3.3
3.0
4.3
6.1
NS
NS
NS
0.1663
4.7
107
72.1
There were significant differences for percent Ca and percent K between the varieties (FD) (Table 8).
Table 8. 1999 first-cut percent N, N fixed, percent Ca, Ca uptake, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake for the 1998 fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
FD/Variety
N
(%)
N
uptake
(lb/acre)
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
Mg
(%)
Mg uptake
(lb/acre)
190.1
197.2
191.8
185.9
0.314
0.299
0.301
0.294
0.324
0.309
20.8
20.3
20.0
20.1
20.8
Ca
(%)
Ca uptake
(lb/acre)
P
(%)
P uptake
(lb/acre)
K
(%)
1.86
0.371
0.355
0.354
0.366
0.354
0.353
24.7
22.7
22.4
3.10
2.99
2.87
2.88
2.99
2.92
205.5
202.5
1.70
1.68
1.75
1.73
123.8
116.1
112.8
115.2
111.9
109.7
5
3.50
3.46
3.60
3.44
3.59
6
3.61
231.9
234.3
238.6
236.0
230.1
229.2
Mean
3.53
233.3
1.74
115.0
0.354
23.4
2.96
195.5
0.0307
20.3
NS
NS
NS
0.1682
4.7
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.11
0.09
0.0326
NS
NS
NS
0.2998
10.7
NS
NS
NS
0.1586
8.4
NS
NS
NS
0.1462
7.6
NS
NS
NS
6.3
NS
NS
NS
0.3603
9.8
0.17
0.13
8.9
NS
NS
NS
0.1408
6.6
1
2
3
4
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
1.71
108
24.1
23.4
23.1
0.11
0.0094
4.3
19.6
10.9
Second Cutting
There were significant differences among varieties for dry matter, moisture, dNDF, and RFV (Table 9). It is interesting that the RFV
was significantly different, but the RFQ was not. RFQ is a better quality indicator than RFV. RFV and FD 2, 3, and 4 were
significantly higher than FD 1, 5, and 6. There were significant differences among FD for percent NDF and dNDF, and RFV.
Table 9. 1999 second-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV and RFQ data for the 1998 alfalfa
fall dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
FD/Variety
Yield
(t/acre)
Dry
matter
(%)
19.4
22.2
Moist.
(%)
Protein
(%)
ADF
(%)
NDF
(%)
dNDF
(%)
NDFD
(%)
RFV
RFQ
191
191
29.1
29.2
27.6
27.8
27.6
29.1
36.3
36.7
34.4
35.2
34.5
36.3
19.4
19.7
18.2
18.7
18.5
19.3
53.5
53.6
53.1
53.2
53.7
53.1
171
169
184
178
182
170
203
199
203
79.4
22.8
22.8
23.4
23.0
23.5
23.4
80.6
77.8
76.3
76.6
4
2.02
2.06
2.01
2.04
5
1.98
6
2.08
23.7
23.4
22.9
20.6
Mean
2.03
22.0
78.0
23.2
28.4
35.6
19.0
53.4
176
196
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
NS
NS
NS
NS
3.0
2.5
0.0421
13.6
NS
3.0
NS
NS
NS
0.2743
3.44
NS
NS
NS
0.1063
5.8
NS
NS
1.1
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.0865
0.3 128
7.5
1
2
3
9.3
77.1
2.5
0.0421
3.8
109
1.6
0.0724
5.4
0.8
0.7
0.0085
4.4
3.4
7.1
191
Ash content, DM1, and NFC were significantly different among varieties (Table 10). FD 1, 3, and 5 had higher ash contents than did
FD 2,4, and 6. FD 2,3, and 4 had higher NFC than did FD 1,5, and 6. FD 2,3, and 4 had higher DM1 than did FD 1,5, and 6.
Table 10. 1999 second-cutting TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN data for the 1998
alfalfa fall dormancy trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
TDN
CA
(%)
TDN
PNW
(%)
66.4
54.5
54.4
55.5
55.3
55.5
54.4
60.5
60.5
61.7
61.5
61.6
60.5
NFC
(%)
TDNL
3.55
3.53
3.73
3.65
3.72
3.54
30.9
66.1
31.1
32.3
32.5
32.1
66.6
66.9
30.9
Fat
(%)
DM1
(%)
DM11
5.17
1.85
1.94
1.87
1.87
1.83
1.78
3.32
3.29
3.51
3.42
3.48
3.32
TDN
(%)
DDM
(%)
Ash
(%)
Lignin
(%)
66.2
66.2
67.4
67.2
67.4
66.2
9.47
5.26
5.33
5.28
5.15
6
67.6
67.5
69.2
68.9
69.2
67.5
Mean
68.3
66.8
9.18
5.20
1.86
3.39
3.62
31.6
66.7
54.9
61.0
NS
NS
NS
0.1057
2.6
NS
NS
NS
0.1079
NS
NS
0.46
0.0952
6.0
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.15
0.0746
5.2
NS
NS
NS
0.2115
5.8
NS
NS
1.1
NS
NS
NS
0.0563
4.3
1.9
NS
NS
NS
0.1037
2.0
NS
NS
NS
0.1127
2.0
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. >F
CV%
1.9
8.91
9.44
8.86
9.36
9.02
5.01
7.0
8.6
110
(%)
(%)
67.1
67.1
There were no significant differences among varieties (FD) for the variables in Table 11.
Table 11. 1999 second-cut protein yield, TDN yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N/ton of DM for the 1998 planted alfalfa fall dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras,
Oregon.
TDN
TDN
Lb N/
DDM
TDN
CA
PNW
Protein
NEL
ENE
ME
NEM
ton DM
yield
yield
NEG
FD/Variety
yield
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre) (mcalllb) (mcal/lb) (mcal/lb) (mcal/lb) (mcal/lb)
971
2,711
2,776
2,765
2,807
2,738
2,803
2,189
2,240
2,221
2,254
2,197
2,262
2,431
2,490
2,467
2,504
2,440
2,514
2,661
2,725
2,698
2,738
2,669
2,750
0.698
0.698
0.715
0.711
0.715
0.697
57.63
57.58
59.14
58.89
59.11
57.59
1.110
1.109
1.136
1.131
1.136
1.109
0.707
0.708
0.731
0.726
0.730
0.706
0.436
0.435
0.455
0.453
0.457
0.436
72.8
73.0
74.9
73.7
75.3
74.8
Mean
939
2,767
2,227
2,474
2707
0.706
58.32
1.122
0.718
0.445
74.1
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.1392
0.1070
0.1171
0.1449
0.1580
0.2812
2.7
2.8
2.6
3.6
5.2
3.4
1
914
2
941
3
5
937
938
933
6
4
Prob.>F
CV%
7.8
8.1
8.4
8.3
8.4
111
There were significant differences among varieties (PD) for percent K and percent Mg (Table 12
Table 12. 1999 second-cut percent N, N uptake, percent Ca, Ca uptakç, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake for the 1998 fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
uptake
(lb/acre)
K
(%)
71.0
0.366
0.352
0.349
0.344
0.355
0.350
14.7
14.6
14.0
14.1
14.1
14.5
3.35
3.14
3.14
3.16
3.16
3.15
135.0
130.0
126.5
129.1
125.4
130.9
0.328
0.318
0.336
0.330
0.340
0.324
13.1
13.1
13.5
13.5
13.5
13.5
70.0
0.353
14.3
3.18
129.5
0.329
13.3
NS
NS
NS
0.17
0.12
0.10
0.0070
3.8
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
146.3
150.5
149.3
150.1
149.3
155.3
1.74
1.69
1.77
1.70
1.77
69.7
69.5
70.6
69.3
6
3.64
3.65
3.74
3.68
3.76
3.74
1.71
Mean
3.70
150.2
1.73
PD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
Mg
(%)
(%)
N
(%)
Ca
(%)
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
N
Uptake
(lb/acre)
70.1
P
P
NS
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.01
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.05
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.10
0.1130
0.2773
Prob. > F
7.2
9.2
4.2
3.4
7.8
CV%
* error mean square was too small (<0.000) to determine PLSD's.
9.5
112
*
*
0.0356
9.0
4.3
8.2
Third Cutting
There were significant differences among varieties for percent protein, ADF, NIDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ. The values for
RFQ, which places greater value on the forage, were almost all 20 points over compared to RFV feed value. All of the entries then
would be considered "supreme" quality.
Table 13. 1999 third-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ data for the 1998 alfalfa fall
dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
Yield
(t/acre)
Dry
matter
(%)
Moist.
(%)
Protein
(%)
ADF
(%)
NDF
17.6
18.2
18.2
18.4
18.3
18.6
82.4
81.8
81.8
81.6
81.7
81.4
24.0
23.2
23.7
22.8
23.2
23.3
27.7
29.0
28.2
6
1.66
1.65
1.73
1.67
1.66
1.68
Mean
1.67
18.2
81.8
NS
NS
NS
0.3911
NS
NS
NS
0.1953
4.2
NS
NS
NS
0.1894
0.9
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. >F
CV%
5.2
dNDF
(%)
NDFD
(%)
18.1
53.1
52.6
28.7
34.0
35.6
34.7
35.9
36.9
35.5
23.3
28.8
35.4
0.8
0.6
0.5
1.6
1.2
1.0
1.8
1.4
0.0030
0.0048
4.0
0.0037
2.5
29.1
30.1
113
(%)
1.1
3.8
RFV
RFQ
203
53.7
52.7
52.6
53.8
185
174
180
172
166
175
18.8
53.1
175
194
NS
0.7
0.6
0.0135
3.7
NS
NS
0.6
0.0643
12
9
7
12
9
0.0034
5.0
0.0028
4.6
18.7
18.6
18.9
19.4
19.1
1.8
191
200
190
185
196
8
Varieties significantly differed from one another for TDN, DDM, fat, DM1, DM1 1, NFC, TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN (Table
14).
Table 14. 1999 third-cutting TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN data for the 1998
alfalfa fall dormancy trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
TDN
(%)
DDM
(%)
Ash
(%)
Lignin
(%)
67.3
66.3
10.03
9.95
9.88
4.91
5.14
6
69.0
67.7
68.5
67.5
66.5
68.0
Mean
67.9
1.7
1.2
1.0
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. >F
CV%
TDN
CA
TDN
PNW
(%)
NFC
(%)
TDNL
(%)
3.56
3.48
3.63
31.5
30.8
31.3
31.1
30.0
31.2
66.5
65.7
66.5
65.7
65.4
66.5
53.8
54.7
61.6
60.6
61.2
60.5
59.8
60.8
Fat
(%)
DM1
DM11
(%)
(%)
3.53
3.38
3.47
3.35
3.27
3.39
3.76
3.59
(%)
55.4
54.5
9.80
9.58
9.55
4.90
5.10
5.09
4.87
1.72
1.74
1.75
1.63
1.60
1.77
66.5
9.80
5.00
1.70
3.40
3.62
31.0
66.0
54.7
60.7
1.2
0.9
NS
NS
NS
0.2835
4.9
NS
NS
NS
0.12
0.09
0.08
0.0025
5.4
0.17
0.13
0.12
0.0033
3.7
0.19
0.14
0.11
0.0030
3.8
1.3
NS
0.8
0.6
0.0136
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.0055
1.4
0.9
0.7
0.0052
1.4.
67.0
66.2
65.5
66.6
0.0052
0.7
0.0046
1.8
1.3
0.126 1
5.0
114
3.71
0.9
0.8
0.0326
3.0
1.1
55.1
54.5
1.2
All of the energy variables NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, and NEG were significantly different among varieties (Table 15). The protein
yield and pounds of N needed to produce a ton of dry matter were also significantly different.
Table 15. 1999 third-cut protein yield, TDN yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, MB, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N/ton of DM for the 1998 planted alfalfa fall dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras,
Oregon.
TDN
Protein
yield
yield
FD/Variety (lb/acre) (lb/acre)
TDN
CA
yield
(lb/acre)
TDN
PNW
yield
(lb/acre)
DDM
yield
(lb/acre)
NEL
(mcal/lb)
1,833
1,795
1,909
1,814
1,790
1,838
2,037
1,994
2,122
2,015
1,989
2,042
2,228
2,182
2,321
2,206
2,178
2,235
0.715
0.700
0.709
0.697
0.686
0.702
59.01
57.75
58.56
57.61
56.69
58.01
1.134
Lb N/
ton
DM
NEM
(mcalllb)
NEG
(mcal/lb)
0.455
0.439
0.449
0.436
76.7
1.110
0.728
0.709
0.720
0.705
1.093
0.691
0.422
74.1
1.116
0.714
0.440
74.5
1.115
0.711
0.440
74.7
*
*
*
*
2.5
*
*
ENE
ME
(mcalllb) (mcalllb)
2
792
762
3
821
4
6
758
770
782
2,284
2,228
2,376
2,250
2,213
2,283
Mean
781
2,272
1,830
2,033
2,225
0.702
57.9
PLSD 0.01
NS
NS
36
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
*
*
*
1.55
0.96
0.0575
0.1544
0.2001
0.1954
0.2045
0.0058
0.0053
0.0093
0.0043
0.0072
0.0030
2.0
2.0
1.9
2.5
3.7
2.5
1
5
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
5.4
5.4
5.4
5.5
5.5
CV%
* error mean square too small (<0.000) to determine PLSD's.
115
1.111
1.124
1.15
74.1
75.8
72.8
1.9
1.5
The variables percent N, N fixed, and percent K were all significantly different among the varieties (FD) (Table 16
Table 16.1999 third-cut percent N, N uptake, percent Ca, Ca uptake, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake for the 1998 fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
0.370
0.365
0.369
0.355
0.361
0.360
12.3
12.0
12.8
11.8
12.0
12.1
3.55
3.53
3.47
3.52
3.45
3.39
117.6
116.0
120.3
117.3
114.7
113.8
0.359
0.349
0.352
0.349
0.340
0.354
11.9
11.5
12.2
11.6
11.3
11.9
1.72
57.4
0.363
12.2
3.49
116.6
0.350
11.7
NS
NS
NS
0.1688
4.4
NS
NS
NS
0.3724
6.7
NS
NS
NS
0.4300
4.4
NS
NS
NS
0.2157
NS
0.10
0.08
0.0124
2.7
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
0.3439
7.0
3.73
124.9
0.12
0.09
0.08
0.0026
2.5
NS
NS
Mean
2
58.9
56.4
59.3
56.6
55.7
57.9
1.78
1.71
1.71
1.70
1.68
1.72
6
1
(%)
K
(%)
126.8
121.9
131.4
121.3
123.2
125.1
3.83
3.70
3.79
3.64
3.71
3.72
FD/Variety
5.8
0.0587
5.5
Mg
(%)
uptake
(lb/acre)
Ca
(%)
N
(%)
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
N
Uptake
(lb/acre)
P
P
116
6.3
0.243 1
6.1
4.3
Fourth Cutting
The varieties (FD) differed significantly for yield, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV, and RFQ (Table 17). The highest
yielding varieties were FD 5, 6, 4, and 2. In general, the higher nondormants had decreased protein, higher ADF, NDF, dNDF,
decreased NDFD, lower RFV, and lower RFQ.
Table 17. 1999 fourth-cut yield, dry matter, moisture, protein, ADF, NDF, dNDF, NDFD, RFV and RFQ data for the 1998 alfalfa fall
dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
FD/Variety
Yield
(t/acre)
Dry
matter
(%)
Moist.
(%)
Protein
(%)
NDF
ADF
(%)
(%)
dNDF
(%)
NDFD
(%)
RFV
RFQ
22.3
22.6
22.3
23.2
23.0
23.8
77.7
77.4
77.7
76.8
77.0
76.2
22.9
21.6
22.5
21.6
21.7
21.2
22.3
23.6
22.6
24.6
25.5
26.0
28.9
30.7
29.2
31.7
32.5
33.3
16.5
17.3
16.7
17.5
17.7
18.3
57.1
56.3
57.1
55.2
231
214
228
205
259
240
256
229
6
1.48
1.56
1.44
1.61
1.64
1.62
54.6
54.8
198
192
221
215
Mean
1.56
22.9
77.1
21.9
24.1
31.1
17.3
55.8
211
237
NS
0.13
0.11
0.0141
8.3
NS
NS
NS
0.1054
NS
NS
NS
0.1054
1.5
1.1
0.8
0.6
0.5
1.6
1.2
1.0
16
12
10
17
13
0.9
0.0000
1.8
1.3
1.0
0.0000
0.0000
1.5
4.5
4.3
3.5
0.0001
2.0
0.0000
5.4
0.0000
5.1
0.9
0.7
0.6
0.0000
3.0
1
2
3
4
5
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
117
11
5.3
The varieties (FD) differed significantly for TDN, DDM, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, TDNL CA TDN, and PNW TDN (Table 18). The
higher nondormants had lower TDN, DDM, fat, DM1, DM11, TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN. The higher nondormants had higher
lignin with the exception of FD 2.
Table 18. 1999 fourth-cutting TDN, DDM, ash, lignin, fat, DM1, DM11, NFC, TDNL, CA TDN, and PNW TDN data for the 1998
alfalfa fall dormancy trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
TDN
(%)
74.8
73.4
74.6
72.4
71.4
70.9
72.9
DDM
(%)
Ash
Lignin
(%)
(%)
Fat
(%)
DM1
DM11
(%)
(%)
NFC
(%)
TDNL
TDN
CA
(%)
(%)
68.7
68.2
59.0
58.2
58.9
57.5
56.9
56.6
65.6
64.7
65.4
63.9
63.3
62.8
69.5
57.8
64.3
1.1
1.0
71.5
70.5
71.3
69.8
69.0
68.7
8.89
9.20
9.08
9.10
8.98
9.27
5.53
5.84
5.39
5.79
5.72
5.75
2.01
4.16
2.00
1.98
1.88
1.79
1.72
3.91
4.12
3.79
3.70
3.61
4.50
4.23
4.45
4.08
3.96
3.88
38.8
38.0
38.7
71.0
69.8
70.6
37.1
36.3
35.8
69.1
70.1
9.08
5.57
1.90
3.88
4.18
37.5
1.1
NS
NS
NS
0.35
0.26
0.22
0.0082
4.5
0.16
0.12
0.10
0.0000
6.0
0.23
0.17
0.14
0.25
0.19
0.16
0.0000
4.5
1.6
1.2
1.0
1.6
1.2
1.0
0.9
0.7
0.0000
0.0000
1.6
1.2
6.2
0.0000
4.3
118
0.0000
2.2
TDN
PNW
(%)
0.7
0.6
0.0000 0.0000
0.8
0.7
1.1
1.3
1.1
0.8
0.7
0.0000
1.3
Among varieties (FD), there were significant differences for NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and lb of N/ton of dry matter (Table 19.).
In general, as the FD increased, all of these values decreased. Pounds of N/ton DM was not affected the same way, although FD 1 and
3 had higher N rates.
Table 19. 1999 fourth-cut protein yield, TDN yield, CA TDN yield, PNW TDN yield, DDM yield, NEL, ENE, ME, NEM, NEG, and
pounds of N/ton of DM for the 1998 planted alfalfa fall dormancy trial at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras,
Oregon.
Protein TDN
yield
yield
FD/Variety (lb/acre) (lb/acre)
4
676
675
647
695
5
711
6
685
2,207
2,297
2,144
2,331
2,341
2,296
681.5
2,269
1
2
3
Mean
TDN
TDN
DDM
CA
PNW
yield
yield
yield
(lb/acre) (lb/acre) (lb/acre)
1,741
1,820
1,693
1,853
1,865
1,833
1,811
NEL
(mcal/lb)
Lb N/
NEG
ton
ME
NEM
ENE
(mcal/lb) (mcalllb) (mcal/lb) (mcalllb) DM
2,059
2,073
2,036
2,110
2,205
2,051
2,247
2,263
2,225
0.779
0.762
0.774
0.751
0.740
0.734
64.29
63.01
64.06
62.11
61.19
60.69
1.228
1.206
1.225
1.189
1.172
1.165
0.809
0.790
0.807
0.776
0.762
0.756
0.529
0.509
0.524
0.496
0.485
0.479
73.3
69.0
72.0
69.1
69.4
67.7
2,001
2,183
0.757
62.6
1.198
0.784
0.504
70.1
*
1.4
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
0.0000
2.2
0.0000
2.7
0.0000
3.0
1,935
2,022
1,881
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.01
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.05
NS
NS
NS
NS
PLSD 0.10
NS
0.1474
0.1338
0.2334
0.1437
Prob. > F
0.2906
8.1
8.1
8.1
8.1
7.9
CV%
* error mean square too small (<0.000) to determine PLSD's.
*
*
0.0000
0.9
0.0000
0.0000
1.7
1.7
1.6
119
1.1
Among varieties (FD), there were significant differences for percent N, percent Ca, and K uptake (Table 20).
Table 20. 1999 fourth-cut percent N, N fixed, percent Ca, Ca uptake, percent P, P uptake, percent K, K uptake, percent Mg, and Mg
uptake for the 1998 fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted at Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
(%)
P
uptake
(lb/acre)
K
(%)
K
uptake
(lb/acre)
Mg
(%)
Mg
uptake
(lb/acre)
60.6
58.8
0.316
0.306
0.313
0.310
0.304
0.299
9.3
9.6
9.0
10.0
10.0
9.7
2.84
2.90
2.93
3.00
2.96
2.98
83.9
90.7
84.1
96.5
97.1
96.4
0.364
0.361
0.367
0.361
0.354
0.351
10.7
11.3
10.6
11.7
11.6
11.4
1.88
58.4
0.308
9.6
2.93
91.4
0.360
11.2
NS
NS
0.08
0.0535
4.7
NS
NS
NS
0.1217
NS
NS
NS
0.1844
4.6
NS
NS
NS
0.2092
9.2
NS
NS
NS
0.1362
11.8
8.8
7.3
0.0047
NS
NS
NS
0.1481
4.1
9.5
NS
NS
NS
0.3208
4.4
N
(%)
N
uptake
(lb/acre)
Ca
(%)
108.1
108.0
103.5
111.2
113.8
109.7
1.94
1.92
1.89
1.86
1.85
1.82
57.4
60.0
6
3.66
3.45
3.60
3.45
3.47
3.39
Mean
3.51
109.1
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Prob. > F
CV%
0.14
NS
NS
NS
0.2892
7.9
FD/Variety
1
2
3
4
5
0.11
0.09
0.0000
3.0
Ca
uptake
(lb/acre)
54.1
59.8
8.5
P
120
8.8
Discussion
Yield increased, quality and energy variable values decreased as FD increased, in
general, on fourth cutting. There were no significant differences for quality variables on
first cutting. There were a few quality variables that were significantly different on
second cutting and third cutting, but these did not follow a pattern related to FD rating in
any obvious way.
Percent nutrients (P, Ca, K, and Mg) and nutrient uptake (P, Ca, K, and Mg) data were
presented, for purposes of comparison. The values are within the range of previously
published values.
The quality and nutrient tests were performed by NIRS. The current calibrations are
more robust than just a few years ago, but none of the samples were tested by chemical;
analyses for comparison. While the predicted numbers may not be completely accurate,
we believe that NIRS is able tp discern differences among the samples.
Selection of an alfalfa variety is based on yield and quality potential, FD, and pest
resistance ratings. This 1 year of data allowed a glimpse at the quality of some alfalfa
varieties with different FD's. It is unwise to base selection of a variety on 1 year's data.
Acknowledgements
Seed was donated by ABI and Americas Alfalfa, Pioneer Hibred Intl., Eureka Seed, and
Northrup King. Mark Smith, Breeder for Pioneer Hibred Intl. and Don Miller Breeder
for ABI, are acknowledged for their help in selecting varieties for this trial.
Literature Cited
Mckenzie, J.S., Paquin, R., and Duke, S.H. 1988. Chapter 8: Cold and Heat Tolerance.
Alfalfa and Alfalfa Improvement, ASA Monograph 29. Pages 265-266.
SAS Institute. 1988. SAS guide for personal computers: Statistics. Version 6.0. SAS
Institute, Cary, NC. SAS Institute. 1988.
121
Fall Dormancy Effect on Four-cut Alfalfa Production
Mylen Bohie and Rhonda Simmons
Abstract
Alfalfa is an important crop for central Oregon. Six varieties, representing fall
dormancies (FD)1-6, were planted in August of 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center, Madras, Oregon. The trial was conducted as a four-cut harvest
management trial and run for 4 years. Variety FD 4 produced the highest total 5-year
yield at 44.97 tons/acre, which was significantly higher than FD 2, 3, 5, and 6 yields;
these were significantly higher yielding than FD 1 at 39.88 tons/acre. There was 4.09
tons per acre yield difference. The varieties (FD) ranked 5, 6, 4, 3, 2, 1 for 5-year
average yields on fourth cutting.
Introduction
Alfalfa continues to be an important crop for central and eastern Oregon. Over the years,
there has been a range of perhaps 35,000 to 50,000 acres of alfalfa grown in the three
counties. The alfalfa is grown in pure stands and grass/alfalfa mixtures for hay. Locally
the hay produced is marketed to livestock producers, dairies and feed stores in Oregon,
Washington, and California. Some alfalfa is exported to Pacific Rim countries. Alfalfa is
an important rotational crop to help break disease and insect cycles, and adds nitrogen
(N) to the soil for subsequent crops through nitrogen fixation.
Seed companies continue to develop and market numerous varieties. In past years,
varieties with an PD rating of 1-3, and some with 4 have typically been planted, but
recently, some producers in central Oregon have begun planting more FD-4 varieties,
with an occasional PD-S variety planted.
"The expression of fall dormancy depends on the combination of shortening day length
and cool temperatures. Under short day conditions, differences among dormant and
nondormant cultivars are more pronounced at low temperatures. At cool temperatures,
dormant cultivars have the greatest dormancy response and nondormant cultivars have
the least response. Maximum dormancy seems to be induced at a temperature of 15.5°C
and a photopenod of 12 hours. Accordingly a decrease in photoperiod and temperature
causes a greater decrease in top growth of fall dormant cultivars than in the non fall
dormant cultivars. Under long day conditions there is little difference in regrowth
between dormant and nondormant cultivars."
"In general, American alfalfa cultivars trace to nine different distinct sources of
germplasm from different regions of the world. These germplasm sources are Medicago
falcate, Ladak; M varia, Turkistan, and Flemish, Chilean, Peruvian, Indian, and African
varieties listed in their approximate descending order of winter hardiness and fall
dormancy characteristics. A tenth source of very nondormant germplasm from Saudi
Arabia has generally gone unrecognized."
122
"Fall dormancy is classified on the basis of vegetative growth observed in the autumn,
particularily in northern latitudes. Dormants are northern types and nonodormants are
southern types." (Mckenzie, et al.).
Selecting an alfalfa variety is important. Fall dormancy and winter hardiness genes in
alfalfa have been delinked in recent years. There has been more interest in planting
alfalfa varieties with higher fall dormancy ratings because of the potential of higher yield
on last cutting.
The information generated by this trial is limited because only one entry represents each
fall dormancy rating. It will begin to build an information base that is important to
producers, fieldmen, seed suppliers, and the seed companies who are involved in central
Oregon alfalfa forage production.
Materials and Methods
'Trical 102' triticale was planted in the field in the fall of 1997 and was then plowed
down as a green manure crop. Soil samples were taken in August, 1998 and analyzed by
Agri-check, Inc., Umatilla, Oregon (Table 1). Fertilizer was applied prior to planting and
disked into the top 6 inches of soil (Table 2). The field was then leveled and rolled prior
to planting. Based on soil test results, phosphorus, sulfur, boron and potassium were
applied and worked into the soil prior to planting on August 21, 1998
Table 1. Soil test analyses from alfalfa variety trial soil samples taken at the Central
Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
Depth
Date
!998
2000
2002
(in)
0-10
P
pH
(ppm)
K
(ppm)
6.7
25
539
6.7
29
215
3/2003
0-12
7.4
29
386
* below the minimum detectable
Ca
(meq
Mg
(meq
/lOOg)
IlOOg)
5.4
!0.3
--
--
10.9
4.7
B
(ppm)
Zn
(ppm)
So! Salts
Mmhos
Se
NA
(ppm)
MeqIlOO
g
1cm
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.52
0.37
<0.10*
0.7
Table 2. Nutrient applications made to the alfalfa variety trial at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center, Madras, Oregon.
Date
applied
8/21/1998
3/24/2000
3/22/2001
3/21/2002
3/12/2003
N
(lb/acre)
33
P205
(lb/acre)
259
94
90
90
K70
(lb/acre)
Ca
(lb/acre)
180
180
210
210
252
123
S
B
(lb/acre)
72
47
40
40
48
(lb/acre)
2.6
2.0
Zn
(lb/acre)
10
Six alfalfa varieties, representing FD 1-6 were planted at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center (COARC) Madras, on August 25, 1998. The fall dormancy, disease,
insect, and pest ratings are presented in Table 3.
Table 3. The fall dormancy, winter hardiness, disease, insect, and pest ratings for the
1998 planted fall dormancy alfalfa variety trial conducted at COARC, Madras, OR.
Variety
Spreador
III
5262
Innovator
FD
1
2
3
Vw
Fw
4
1
4
5
2
3
5
4
Bw
5
SNKN
NRKN
RLN
3
1
1
1
1
3
4
1
1
1
1
4
1
1
1
SN
2
1
4
4
1
3
4
SAA
PA
1
1
4
1
4
5
5
APH
BAA
PRR
An
1
+z
1
3
1
4
1
1
4
4
4
4
4
5
4
4
5396
1
4
1
1
4
4
5
4
5
4
5
3
3
Archer
5
1
1
1
1
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
5
3
Lobo
6
Wilt,
AN
=
FD = Fall Dormancy, 13W = Bacterial Wilt, VW = Verticillium Wilt, FW = Fusanum
Anthracnose Race 1, PRR = Phytophthora Root Rot, SAA = Spotted Alfalfa Aphid, PA = Pea Aphid, BAA
= Blue Alfalfa Aphid, SN = Stem Nematode, APH = Aphanomyces, SKN = Southern Root Knot
Nematode, NRKN = Northern Root Knot Nematode, RLN = Root Lesion Nematode.
Fall Dormancy (FD) Ratings: 1 = most dormant, 11 = least dormant. Winter Hardiness (WH): 1
winter hardy, 6 = least winter hardy.
most
Resistance Ratings: 1 = Susceptible (S) (0-5% of plants) or has not been tested, 2 = Low Resistance (LR)
(5-15%), 3 = Moderate Resistance (MR) (15-30% of plants), 4 = Resistance (R) (30-50% of plants), 5 =
High Resistance (HR) (> 50% of plants)
The trial site is located about two miles north of Madras at an elevation of 2,440 ft.
Eighteen pounds/acre of inoculated seed were planted with a small plot cone-type drill
with 9 rows, 6-inch row spacing. The field was rolled after planting. Plot size was 5 ft
by 20 ft, while harvested area was 3.5 ft by 15 ft. The trial was laid out in a randomized
complete block design with eight replications.
The alfalfa was harvested with a sickle bar forage plot harvester, and fresh wet yield was
weighed directly in the field. Aftermath from the plots was removed from the field the
following day with a large tractor (125 hp) and grass seed "vac". Within a day or 2 after
harvest, the irrigation water was reapplied.
Moist samples (0.5-1.0 lb) were taken for each plot and dried at 145°F until no further
change in weight occurred. Yields are presented on an oven-dry basis. SAS statistical
software program was used for analysis of variance and results are reported using
Protected Least Significant Difference (PLSD) for mean separation at the P > F = 0.01,
0.05, and 0.10 levels (SAS Institute, 1988)
The trial was solid-set, sprinkler irrigated with a 30 by 40-ft spacing as needed for
establishment and during the season. Nelson rotating head Windfighter 2000 nozzles
were used. Nelson rotating head Windfighter 2000, 7/64-inch size nozzles were used.
The nozzles were used by mistake; we typically use a nozzle size f 9/64-inch. The7/64
124
Average Annual Cutting Yields
For annual average yield (5 years), the variety (FD) ranking was 4 > 2 = 3 = 5 = 6> 1
based on PLSD 0.10 level (Table 5), which was the same ranking as total cumulative
yield. The varieties (FD) were significantly different for the four individual cuttings
averaged over the 5 years at the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 5.) While we somewhat
expected that the higher FD rated varieties would be significantly higher yielding for the
fourth cutting, there were also significant differences among the varieties for average
annual yield for cuttings 1-3 as well.
For first-cutting annual average yield, the variety (FD) ranking was 4=2 > 3 > 5 =6>1
(significant [Si). It seems that the middle three dormancies performed better than the
lower and upper FD varieties.
For second-cutting annual average yield, the variety (FD) ranking was 4>6 =2 =
1 (S). FD 1 was significantly lower yielding than the rest of the entries.
For third-cutting annual average yield, the variety (FD) ranking was 3 = 5
(S). FD 1 was significantly lower yielding than the rest of the entries.
5
3>
=4=2 =6>1
For fourth-cutting annual average yield, the variety (FD) ranking was 5 =6>4> 3 =2>
1 (S). The differences were close to what was expected for results; the higher dormancy
rated entries produced more yield on average on the last cutting.
Table 5. Mean yield of each cutting, across 1999-2003, and total annual yield of the fall
dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 25, 1998 at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center at Madras, Oregon.
Fall
dormancy
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Pr. > F
CV%
1st
cut
2nd
3rd
cut
cut
4th
cut
yield
5-yr avg.
(ton/acre)
yield
5-yr avg.
(ton/acre)
yield
5-yr avg.
(ton/acre)
yield
5-yr avg.
(ton/acre)
2.79
1.96
2.10
2.07
2.20
2.08
2.13
1.53
1.74
1.77
1.74
1.74
1.72
1.55
1.64
2.09
1.71
0.11
0.14
0.10
0.08
0.0004
5.9
1.73
0.11
3.11
2.93
3.17
2.71
2.67
2.90
0.20
0.15
0.12
0.0001
5.1
0.08
0.06
0.0001
3.8
127
1.86
1.84
0.09
0.07
0.0001
5.0
5-yr avg.
(ton/acre)
7.98
8.66
8.56
8.99
8.48
8.46
8.52
0.40
0.30
0.25
0.0001
3.4
1999 Results
First cutting was ranked 4=2 =3 = I =
5
=6 (not significant [NS]).
Second cutting was ranked 6=2=4= 1 = 3 = 5 (NS).
Third cutting was ranked 3 =6 =4= 5 =2 =
1
(NS).
Fourth cutting was ranked 5 =6=4=2 >3 =1(S). In general, the higher FD entries had
higher yield than did the lower don-nant entries. The FD 2 variety was a bit of a surprise,
having equal yield compared to the higher nondormant entries. The fourth cutting was
the only cutting in 1999 with significant differences between varieties (FD) at the PLSD
0.10 level (Table 6.).
Total yield ranking for 1999 was 4=2 =6 =5
3
1 (NS).
There were no differences in moisture between varieties for any of the cuttings.
Table 6. 1999 yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 25, 1998
at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Madras, Oregon.
Fall
dormancy
1
2
3
4
5
6
Mean
PLSD 0.01
PLSD 0.05
PLSD 0.10
Pr.>F
CV%
Harvest
date
cut
yield
(t/ac)
cut
moist.
(%)
3.32
3.39
3.32
3.43
3.23
3.18
81.6
3.31
81.1
NS
NS
NS
0.5744
NS
NS
NS
0.8360
9.1
2.5
6/4
81.1
80.9
80.3
81.0
81.4
2nd
cut
yield
(t/ac)
2nd
cut
moist.
(%)
3rd
cut
yield
(t/ac)
3rd
cut
moist.
(%)
4th
cut
yield
(t/ac)
4th
cut
moist.
(%)
Total
yield
(t/ac)
2.08
83.2
82.2
82.8
82.8
82.43
83.02
1.65
1.65
1.73
1.67
1.66
1.68
82.4
81.8
81.7
81.6
81.6
81.4
1.48
1.56
1.44
1.61
1.64
1.62
77.7
77.4
77.7
76.8
77.0
76.2
8.47
8.66
8.50
8.74
8.51
8.56
2.03
NS
NS
NS
0.9131
82.7
NS
NS
NS
0.1661
1.67
NS
NS
NS
0.4035
81.8
NS
NS
NS
0.1769
1.58
77.1
NS
0.13
NS
NS
NS
0.109
9.3
7/13
1.0
5.1
0.9
8.57
NS
NS
NS
0.772
2
5.0
2.02
2.06
2.01
2.04
1.98
8/18
128
0.11
0.015
5
3
8.3
10/14
1.5
2000 Results
There were significant differences between yields on first cutting, fourth cutting, and total
yield (Table 7).
First cutting ranked PD (varieties) 2 = 4 > 3 =
and the higher nondormants did not produce.
Second cutting ranked FD 6 =4=2 =3 = 5 =
1
> 6 —5 (S). There were three yield levels
1
(NS).
Third cutting ranked FD 2=3 =5 =4 = 6 = 1 (NS).
On the fourth cutting, the varieties were ranked FD 4=5 =6 =2; 5 =6 =2 3, 3> 1 (5).
In general, the higher nondormant varieties yielded more than the dormant varieties on
the last cutting.
For total yield, the varieties (FD) ranked 4 = 2 > 3 = 6 = 5 >1(5).
There were significant moisture differences among varieties on the second, third, and
fourth cuttings.
Table 7. 2000 yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa thai planted on August 25, 1998 at the
Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Madras, Oregon.
1St
cut
1St
cut
2nd
cut
yield
(t/ac)
yield
(t/ac)
moist.
(%)
79.3
78.2
78.4
77.7
78.8
77.9
2.22
2.38
6
2.75
3.14
2.86
3.10
2.57
2.60
Mean
PLSD
2.84
0.33
Fall
dormancy
2nd
cut
moist.
(%)
3rd
cut
yield
(t/ac)
cut
moist.
(%)
Total
yield
(t/ac)
1.94
1.89
72.1
80.8
NS
1.90
NS
74.8
3.59
1.97
0.36
74.3
3.29
9.06
0.69
NS
1.42
NS
2.67
0.27
2.46
0.52
NS
NS
1.18
NS
2.22
0.22
2.04
0.43
0.1697
0.3011
10.2
7/5
0.0003
0.0104
0.0005
0.0004
3.5
13.5
3.3
5.6
2.35
NS
0.18
NS
PLSD
0.10
0.15
Pr.> F
0.0001
6.3
5/24
5
4th
8.39
9.50
9.01
9.61
8.89
9.00
78.4
NS
4
cut
yield
(t/ac)
76.2
75.6
76.5
71.8
73.7
2.28
2.47
3
4th
1.66
1.99
1.89
2.15
2.09
2.05
1.76
1.98
1.96
2
cut
moist.
(%)
77.5
76.1
76.2
71.1
74.2
73.6
82.2
81.4
81.0
79.9
80.5
79.8
1
3rd
2.31
2.45
1.91
0.01
PLSD
0.05
CV%
Harvest
date
1.7
0.0136 0.4522
1.7
129
11.9
8/9
9/27
2001 Results
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) on the first, third, and fourth
cutting, and total yield based on PLSD 0.10 level (Table 8).
First cutting ranked FD 4=2>3
5
6 (S).
1
Second cutting ranked FD 4= 5 =6=2 =3 =
1
(NS).
Thirdcutting ranked FD2=4=5 =6>3 = 1(S).
Fourth cutting ranked FD 6= 5 >3 =4> 1 =2 (S). The higher nondormants yielded
more in general than the more dormant varieties.
Total yield ranked FD 4>2 >5 =6=3> 1 (S). Perhaps the surprise here is the ranking
of FD 2, especially when taken into account its rating of 2 (low resistance) for
Verticilium wilt.
There was a significant difference among varieties (FD) for moisture on the first cutting.
Table 8. 2O01 yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 25, 1998
at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Madras, Oregon.
1st
cut
1st
cut
2nd
cut
2nd
3rd
cut
Yield
(t/ac)
Yield
(t/ac)
Moist.
(%)
Yield
(t/ac)
cut
Moist.
(%)
80.1
79.0
2.30
2.54
2.48
2.62
2.38
2.38
80.2
81.9
81.9
79.6
81.5
80.6
1.24
6
2.66
3.06
2.76
3.26
2.65
2.53
Mean
PLSD
2.82
0.33
78.8
2.8
2.45
NS
80.9
NS
1.41
0.25
2.1
NS
0.21
1.7
NS
0.0001
8.6
5/31
0.0072
2.6
0.1846
2.7
Fall
dormancy
1
2
3
4
5
78.8
79.7
76.0
79.1
3rd
cut
Moist.
(%)
4th
cut
Yield
(t/ac)
4th
cut
Moist.
(%)
Total
Yield
(t/ac)
77.4
74.2
74.9
71.3
75.0
74.7
1.59
1.58
1.63
1.75
1.86
1.82
76.9
77.3
77.4
76.7
76.6
76.2
7.78
8.69
8.21
9.13
8.35
8.17
NS
74.6
NS
1.70
0.13
76.9
NS
8.38
0.51
NS
0.17
NS
0.10
NS
0.38
NS
0.14
NS
0.08
NS
0.31
0.1267
5.4
0.0001
5.8
10/15
0.4749
0.0001
4.5
1.51
1.33
1.50
1.46
1.43
0.01
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
Pr. > F
CV%
Harvest
date
0.1846 0.0200
2.7
11.9
8/13
7/11
130
1.7
2002 Results
There were significant differences among varieties (FD) on all four cuttings and total
yield (Table 9). First cutting ranked FD 4=2 =3> 1 = 6=5 (S). The mid-rated
dormancies were higher yielding than the lower and higher numbered FD varieties.
Second cutting ranked FD 4= 5 =6 >2 =3 >1(S). The nondormants were higher
yielding than the three lower numbered dormant varieties. Third cutting ranked FD 3
= 6 = 4 = 2> 1 (5). The FD 1 variety was lower yielding than the rest of the entries.
Fourth cutting ranked FD 6=5 > 3 =4> 1 =2 (5). There were three yield levels and
they were significantly different. In general, as FD number increased, yield increased.
5
Total yield ranked FD 4 (almost > than, but) =3, 3 =2= 6=5> 1 (S). The mid-range
FD varieties were the highest yielding, with the lower and higher numbered FD varieties
the lowest yielding.
There were no significant differences in moisture among varieties (FD) for moisture in
any cutting.
Table 9. 2002 yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 25, 1998
at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Madras, Oregon.
1st
Fall
dormancy
1
2
cut
yield
(t/ac)
2.64
3.14
4th
4th
yield
(t/ac)
moist.
(%)
Total
yield
(tlac)
1.81
78.5
80.1
78.7
79.1
79.1
78.3
1.71
1.68
1.82
1.80
1.93
1.96
76.9
76.1
76.2
76.6
76.0
76.6
7.39
8.29
8.39
8.75
8.03
8.05
1.77
0.24
78.9
NS
1.81
0.14
76.4
NS
8.15
0.89
cut
moist.
(%)
cut
yield
(t/ac)
cut
moist.
(%)
cut
yield
(t/ac)
cut
moist.
(%)
79.0
77.3
78.3
77.4
78.5
78.2
1.53
1.70
1.63
1.84
1.79
1.78
84.9
84.9
85.0
84.4
84.5
84.6
1.51
1.78
1.93
1.71
cut
cut
6
3.01
3.31
2.48
2.51
Mean
PLSD
2.85
0.41
78.1
NS
0.13
84.7
NS
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
0.31
NS
0.10
NS
0.18
NS
0.11
NS
0.45
0.25
NS
0.08
NS
0.15
NS
0.09
NS
0.37
Pr. >F
0.0001
0.1291
0.0001
0.1141
0.6
0.0014
9.9
0.2977
2.0
0.0001
5.7
10/8
0.6326
0.0001
5.4
3
4
5
1.80
1.83
0.01
CV%
Harvest
deate
10.5
6/3
1.8
5.5
7/3
8/7
131
1.5
2003 Results
There were significant differences among the first, second, and fourth cutting, and total
yield at the PLSD 0.10 level (Table 10).
First cutting ranked 2 =4=3, 3
5, 5 =
1
=6 (S). The mid-range FD types outyielded
the more "extreme" FD types.
Second cutting ranked 4 5 =6 =3 >2 =1(S). The nondormants, in general, outyielded
the more dormant varieties.
Thirdcuttingranked 3=4=6=5=1=2(NS).
Fourth cutting ranked 5 =6=3, 5 and 6>4, 3 =4>2 = 1 (S). In general, the higher
nondormant varieties were higher yielding on the last cutting.
Totalyieldranked 4=3=5=6,3>2,5>1,2=5,2=1(S).
There were significant differences among FD varieties for moisture in the first and fourth
cutting.
Table 10. 2003 yield results of the fall dormancy alfalfa trial planted on August 25, 1998
at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center at Madras, Oregon.
(%)
(%)
2.17
2.40
2.35
2.28
2.29
70.1
70.9
71.3
70.4
70.4
70.6
1.33
1.37
1.67
1.60
1.76
1.75
77.0
76.3
77.8
77.5
77.6
77.7
7.85
8.18
8.69
8.74
8.62
8.51
2.28
NS
70.6
NS
1.58
0.21
82.7
NS
0.22
77.3
NS
8.43
NS
0.91
0.16
NS
NS
NS
0.16
0.74
0.56
0.16
0.76
0.13
NS
NS
NS
0.13
0.62
0.45
0.0298
0.0202
0.0012
0.9
0.0179
6.6
5
6
2.51
78.7
77.9
78.2
77.0
77.7
78.0
Mean
PLSD
2.66
NS
77.9
NS
PLSD
0.05
PLSD
0.10
0.20
Pr.>F
3
4
4th
Total
yield
(t/ac)
2.58
2.82
2.69
2.74
2.59
1
2
4th
moist.
cut
moist.
Fall
dormancy
3rd
yield
(t/ac)
cut
yield
(t/ac)
(%)
cut
yield
(t/ac)
1.72
1.79
1.93
2.04
1.99
1.96
1.91
cut
moist.
3" cut
yield
(%)
(t/ac)
83.2
82.7
82.7
81.9
82.6
82.9
2.21
cut
moist.
cut
cut
0.01
CV%
Harvest
date
7.3
6/5
1.2
0.0014 0.7215
8.1
1.9
0.3356
16
8/13
7/9
132
0.7139 0.0001
2.2
10.0
10/20
Discussion
Selecting an alfalfa variety for an individual field is important. Part of that selection
process is selecting a variety for its yield and quality potential, pest resistance rating, and
as well as its fall dormancy rating. How the variety yields on each cutting over the years
may be important, or maybe only total yield at the end of each year or at the end of the
production cycle is usually the biggest justification for selection.
Selecting a higher rated nondormant variety that yields more on last cutting may or may
not be justified, if the variety is lower yielding on earlier cuttings. Potential income
would need to be considered for the value of the hay on each cutting (based on quality).
While we had significantly higher yield for the higher rated nondormants on last cutting,
we also had significantly less yield on first cutting.
It is important to note that the results are only from a single variety representing a FD
rating. There are other variety genetic factors that could influencethe results. However,
the trial does begin to add to the information database for the production of alfalfa in
central Oregon.
Acknowledgements
Seed for the trial was provided by ABI Alfalfa and America's Alfalfa, Eureka Seeds, Inc.,
Northrup King, and Pioneer Hi-bred Intl. Don Miller, ABI breeder, and Mark Smith are
gratefully acknowledged for their help in selecting the entries.
Literature Cited
1988. Alfalfa and Alfalfa Improvement, Pages 265-266 in ASA Monograph 29.
SAS Institute. 1988. SAS guide for personal computers: Statistics. Version 6.0. SAS
Institute, Cary, NC.
133
Occurance and Attempts to Control Clover and Winter Grain Mites
in Central Oregon Grass Pasture and Hay Fields
Mylen Bohie and Glenn Fisher
Introduction
Clover mite (Byobiapraet!osa) is a cool season mite. Populations begin to increase in
late September from over-summered eggs. Some of theses mites produced from summer
eggs remain active, even through the winter to lay eggs the following spring. Others lay
eggs that will overwinter and hatch next spring. Populations of this mite may reach large
numbers in March, April, and or May in some years. Populations "crash" in June and
usually stay low until the Fall.. A portion of the population oversummers as eggs on
grasses. They hatch to produce the Fall generation mentioned iniatially.
This mite probably should be controlled in April to prevent damage in more pastures with
a history of imjury. Populations on certain orchardgrass pastures have steadily increased
over the past 5 years in central Oregon; 2,000-3,000 mites/6-inch orchardgrass crown
have been extracted from some pastures in April and May. Poor growth, chlorotic leaves,
and even dead areas in pastures have been attributed to these mites. From a distance
pasture grass injured by Clover mite is a more "yellowish" chlorotic than winter grain
mite (Penthaleus major) damage and may resemble a fertilizer burn. The damage is
particular noticeable shortly after spring regrowth should have begun. We began noticing
large populations of this mite in orchardgrass pastures and hay fields in the Tumalo,
Oregon area in 2000. Serious damage has resulted in the removal of many pastures and
hay fields.
Winter grain mite is also a cool season mite common on grasses and cereals in central
Oregon in the fall and late winter. One generation occurs in the fall from eggs that
oversummered in the field; a second generation occurs in late winter and early spring.
The mites are most active at night and on cloudy, overcast days. Cereals, grasses, and
many broadleaved plants are hosts. Over-summering eggs hatch in October. Mites have
usually matured, mated and begin laying eggs in November. A female can lay 2-3
eggs/day and up to 60 in a lifetime. Ideal temperature for this mite is between 50 and
60°F. Peak activity usually occurs in December and again in February and March. It had
been the only pest mite observed in any significant numbers on grasses and cereals up
until 2000 in central Oregon. Feeding by this mite causes grasses to silver or turn dull
gray. Often the leaf tips brown and die. Winter grain mite has damaged some
orchardgrass and timothy hay fields in central Oregon. It seems to cause more damage to
the grasses and cereals in the Jefferson County area, although more recently, winter grain
mite and imjury has been identified in Deschutes and Crook County.
Because significant damage has been attributed to the clover mite on these pastures, we
surveyed chemicals and fertilizers that are registered for use on pasture grass in an
attempt to select one or two for control of this mite. There are few products labeled with
134
potential for mite activity based on available literature. Examples of chemicals found
include malathion, cinnamaldehyde, diatomaceous earth, pyrethrins, carbaryl, and methyl
parathion. We chose to evaluate sulfur products and Malathion because of their
availability and familiarity to fieldmen and producers.
Materials and Methods
A portion of an orchardgrass hay field on the Triple D Ranch near Tumalo, Oregon in
Deschtues County was divided into plots measuring 20 by 30 ft. Four rates of elemental
sulfur were applied on April 20, 2000. Malathion (1.5 pints/acre), Thiosol (30 lb/acre S)
(12-0-0-26), and a mixture of Malathion (1.5 pints/acre) and Thiosol (30 lb/acre S) were
applied on April 26. The 3 liquid treatments had an appropriate rate of Activator 90® in
the mixture. The liquid treatments were applied at 60°F, on a cloudy afternoon day with
no wind. The notes were lost on gallons per acre water applied. Many mites were
observed feeding on the leaves. These treatments were not replicated.
On May 4, 2000,4 orchardgrass crowns, 6 inches in diameter, were dug randomly from
each plot, bagged, and driven to Corvallis, Oregon. Only 3 grass crowns were used to
extract mites and not all treatments were analyzed. Grass crowns were placed in Berlese
funnels and clover mites and other arthropods were extracted into 60 percent ethanol.
Numbers of mites were determined by diluting all samples of mites from plots to a
standard volume of 200 ml. Jars were thoroughly stirred to evenly disperse mites and 5
2-ml samples were taken and observed under a microscope. All winter grain and clover
mites were counted in the 2-mi samples. Total mites extracted per treatment were then
determined by simple ratio.
A second pasture was evaluated for presence of mites in two sections that differed
because of an escaped fire that burned a portion of the pasture. Two paired sets of 3, 6inch crown samples were taken approximately 2 ft on each side of the fire line across
from each other. These crowns were processed as above.
Results
Effect of Open Field Burn
Winter grain mite was the predominant species in this pasture. Very few clover mites
were extracted from the samples. The mean number of winter grain mites, per 6-inch
crown were burn: 42, no burn: 270.
Sulfur, Malathion, Thiosol Treatments
Pretreatment numbers of clover mites in plots were similar to those for the check,
Malathion, and sulfur treatments. Pretreatment counts of this mite in the thiosol
treatment averaged about 1,100 clover mites and 100 winter grain mites per 6-inch crown
area. The effect of the thiosol, malathion, and elemental sulfur treatments are presented
in Table 1.
135
Table 1. The effect of Thiosol, Malathion, and elemental sulfur on clover and winter
grain mites in an orchardgrass field at the Triple D Ranch, near Tumalo,Oregon in May,
2000.
Treatment
Untreated check
Thiosol
Malathion
Malathion + Thiosol
Elemental Sulfur 90 lb/acre
Elemental Sulfur 60 lb/acre
Elemental Sulfur 30 lb/acre
Elemental Sulfur 15 lb/acre
Mean number of live mites/6-inch core
of orchardgrass crown
Winter grain mites
Clover mites
250
3,150
125
200
150
3,500
---1,425
2,000
1,050
----
---200
300
325
----
Discussion
At the Triple D Ranch, Thiosol was the only treatment that resulted in a dramatic
reduction of clover mites compared to the untreated check. It had a only a moderate
effect on the winter grain mite, reducing the populations to 50% of the check.
Malathion had little effect on either mite species, which is also confirmed in the
literature. Malathion has not been effective on this mite in other states, either.
Miticidal attributes of sulfur compounds have been known for years and certain species
of mites are more susceptible to certain forms of sulfur than others. Elemental sulfur at
different rates used in this trial appear to have had some effect on clover mite but
probably are of little economic value. The sulfur fertilizer in flour/granule form did very
little to reduce clover mite numbers. This was perhaps due to the fact the granules
generally fell to the soil and did not contact the mites or "fume" sufficiently to kill them.
At the second site, populations of winter grain mite in burned sections of an orchardgrass
hay field were substantially reduced in the burned areas of the field. Differences in
population numbers probably would have been even more dramatic had samples been
taken deeper into the respective plots. However, we felt the close proximity of the
burned vs. non burned samples from the field allowed for less potential variability in
pretreatment numbers of mites.
Clover mite is a serious dooryard pest throughout the United States. It migrates to houses
as host plants dry, and temperatures drop in the fall. The adult mites crawl over floors
and walls. When "squashed" they leave orange—reddish stains. They can also become a
nuisance in the spring. Adult mites recolonize hosts in late winter and early spring.
Populations of clover mite are resistant to most organophosphate and carbamate
insecticides that previously controlled this pest.
136
Sulfur sprays are effective in controlling many related species of mites on many different
crops. Thiosul seemed to have effected control of clover mite in this observation trial.
Malathion did not.
Spring flaming or burning has been shown to delay spider mite problems by up to a
month or more in peppermint. Flaming spring regrowth in the spring kills many
prefertilized, overwintering two-spotted spider mite females fefore she begins laying
eggs. Two-spotted spider mite populations in burned plots generally take from 4 to 6
weeks to catch up with the unburned checks' populations. We don't know if winter grain
mite was the predominant species prior to burning, as pretreatment samples were not
taken.
Thiosul and other liquid or powder formulations of sulfur labeled for use on grass
pastures and hay fields need to be further evaluated for possible control of mites.
Note: local chemical applicators used Thiosol and Malathion as a mixture in the spring
of 2000 to control clover mites, but with little or no economic success.
137
Evaluation of Apogee® and Palisade® on 'Stephens' Wheat, 2003
Robert Crocker and Marvin Butler
Abstract
The growth regulators, Apogee® (BASF) and Palisade® (Syngenta) were evaluated in
nonreplicated plots on a commercial 'Stephens' wheat field near Madras, Oregon. One
application of Apogee and Palisade was made at the second node stage on May 19, 2003
to evaluate the effect on yield. Results were similar for the two treated and untreated
plots.
Introduction
Previous research evaluating Apogee and Palisade on grass seed has indicated reduced
lodging and increased yield with the application of the growth regulators. A costeffective method of increasing yield and reducing lodging in wheat would generate
interest in the industry for Apogee and Palisade. These products have been evaluated on
Kentucky and rough bluegrass in central Oregon with positive results. The objective of
this project was to evaluate these two products on 'Stephens' wheat.
Methods and Materials
Three nonreplicated plots 200 ft by 1,089 ft (5 acres) were layed out to evaluate Apogee
and Palisade compared to an untreated check in a commercial 'Stephens' wheat field near
Madras, Oregon. Apogee was applied at Soz/acre and Palisade was applied at 1 loz/acre
on May 19, 2003 at the second node stage. Treatments were applied by airplane at 10
gallacre. Plots were harvested on August 6, 2003 by commercial combine and weighed.
Results and Discussion
The application of Apogee and Palisade did not effect yield or lodging in this trial based
on results from this single year, nonreplicated trial. The yield for Apogee was 155.5
bulacre, Palisade produced 151.9 bu/acre, and the untreated check was 157.6 bu/acre.
There was no observed effect on lodging for either product compared to the check.
138
Drip Irrigation on Commercial Seed Carrots
and Onions in Central Oregon, 2003
Marvin Butler, Caroline Weber, Claudia Campbell, Rhonda Simmons,
Mike Weber, Brad Holliday, and Jim Kiauzer
Abstract
Drip irrigation was imposed May 2003 on portions of three existing sprinkler-irrigated
carrot seed fields, one existing furrow-irrigated carrot seed field, and one existing
sprinkler-irrigated onion seed field. The carrot seed fields were spring-planted stecklings.
The onion seed field was established from seed in 2002. Soil moisture in both the dripirrigated and sprinkler-irrigated plots was monitored with Watermark® sensors, which
were used for irrigation scheduling in the drip-irrigated plots. Plots were farmed and
harvested by the grower cooperators with commercial equipment following standard
practices. Harvested seed was kept separate throughout the cleaning process. Carrot seed
yields varied from a 135 percent increase to a 4 percent and 28 percent decrease under
drip irrigation. Onion seed yields increased by 11 percent.
Introduction
In a cooperative effort with the vegetable seed industry, research was conducted to
evaluate drip irrigation on seed carrots and onions at the Central Oregon Agricultural
Research Center (COARC) during the 2000 and 2001 seasons. Results across the two
seasons indicated a 100 percent increase in onion seed yield under drip irrigation
compared to sprinkler irrigation, while carrots saw a 50 percent increase in seed yield
under drip irrigation. During the 2001 season when disease was present in the plots,
incidence of Botrytis was reduced five-fold in seed onions and Xanthomonas was reduced
two-fold in seed carrots.
The project at the COARC generated a significant amount of interest from growers and
the vegetable seed industry, spurring a commercial-sized evaluation of drip irrigation in
2002. The objective of the project was to take what was learned in these small plots and
evaluate the potential for drip irrigation to increase seed yields, control disease, and
reduce water consumption in seed carrots and onions with grower cooperators. Carrot
seed yields consistently increased under drip irrigation compared to sprinkler irrigation.
Increases were 15, 32, and 133 percent for each of the three locations, for an average
increase of 45 percent. Onion seed yields decreased by 5 percent under drip irrigation.
Water usage under drip irrigation was generally half of that used under sprinkler
irrigation. The disease results were inconclusive. With promising results under
commercial conditions, the experiment expanded in 2003 to four carrot fields and one
onion field.
139
Methods and Materials
This study was conducted on four commercial carrot seed fields and one onion seed field.
The carrot fields included a 19.1-acre field located north of Culver, a 17.9-acre field
located south of Culver, a 22.8-acre field located on the Little Agency Plains, and a 24acre field located on Agency Plains. The 5.4-acre onion field was located on Agency
Plains. The sprinkler- and furrow-irrigated comparison plots were side by side with the
drip-irrigated plots in the same field. The drip-irrigated portions were 55-88 percent of
each field. The exception was the drip field located south of Culver whose sprinklercomparison was a nearby 6.5-acre field. Variables evaluated in this study include yield,
water usage, and disease pressure.
The carrot fields were grown from spring-planted stecklings. The onion field was planted
according to the seed contractor's specifications in mid-July, 2002. Fields were sprinkleror furrow-irrigated through the end of April 2002. In May 2002, a drip-irrigation system
designed specifically for each field was assembled and installed by grower cooperators,
under the direction of Jim Klauzer of Clearwater Supply. Fertilizer and pesticide
treatments for onions and carrots were applied equally on both the drip-irrigated and
sprinkler-irrigated plots.
The drip-tape delivered water at the rate of 0.15 galIminllOO ft. The tape was installed 24 inches below the soil surface and offset 6-10 inches from the carrot row to minimize
disturbing the roots. After installation, the drip tape was flushed and the ends rolled over
and secured. The first irrigation with the drip tape was for 24-48 hours in order to set the
wetting pattern.
Watermark soil moisture sensors were installed 8 inches deep in groups of three at
multiple locations in each of the drip-irrigated plots to track soil moisture and determine
irrigation scheduling. Installation was either in the carrot row or offset toward the drip
tape, 2 to 3 inches. The target soil moisture level for carrot and onion seed was -4OkPa
throughout the season.
Moisture readings were taken three times per week from mid-May to mid-August.
Whenever the average of the readings reached the target level, growers were requested to
irrigate the drip carrots or onions for 8-12 hours. If the water did not sub close enough to
the carrots, growers were asked to water for another 12-hour set. The sprinkler-irrigated
plots were managed by growers according to their standard practices. Six Watermark soil
moisture sensors were randomly placed in the sprinkler-irrigated plots to track the soil
moisture and compare with the drip-irrigated plots.
Disease monitoring was conducted during the growing season. Initial samples of
stecklings shipped into Oregon were assayed for Xanthomonas campestris pv. carotae to
determine whether stecklings provided inoculum for infection of the fields included in the
study. Plants were sampled in June and August from drip- and sprinkle-irrigated portions
of each field. Foliage from 20 plants was collected from each location April 3, June 3,
and August 3. The plant collectors disinfected their hands between samples to prevent
140
cross contamination. The bagged plants from each field were stored on ice in a cooler for
transportation to a refrigerated facility (40-45°F) at the COARC for processing. The
presence or absence of symptoms of bacterial leaf blight was recorded for each plant
sampled.
Plots were harvested by grower cooperators using commercial equipment. Onion seed
was harvested in mid-August while carrot fields were harvested in September. Seed from
the drip- and sprinkler-irrigated plots at each location were kept separate throughout
harvest, storage, and seed cleaning. Seed cleaning was conducted by Central Oregon
Seed (COSI) according to the specifications in the contract. Seed testing was conducted
following Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) standards.
Results and Discussion
Onion seed yields were increased by 11 percent under drip irrigation compared to
sprinkler irrigation (Table 1). Unlike the previous year, carrot seed yields did not
consistently increase in 2003. The only carrot field that experienced an increase was the
field on Agency Plains whose yields rose by 135 percent compared to sprinkler irrigation.
The carrot field north of Culver experienced the largest decrease, 28 percent. According
to local industry thinking, this decrease was not due to drip irrigation, but rather to the
layout of the field. The field had a slope of up to 8 percent and wide soil variations,
including some very gravelly areas. It produced near its maximum capacity, but showed a
decrease in the drip portion of the field because the drip portion had poorer soil
conditions and included most of the hill. In contrast, the sprinkler-irrigated portion was
more level and had better soil conditions. In early August the field was hit with hail,
which may or may not have had a uniform effect. The carrot field south of Culver
experienced a decrease of 4 percent, also thought to be due to soil differences. The
sprinkler comparison for this field was in a nearby field with better soil and superior crop
rotation. Alternaria radicina was a significant problem in the fourth carrot field located
on the Little Agency Plains. Because the severity and extent of the root rot was variable
throughout the field, both the drip and flood portions were harvested together and could
not be evaluated for disease and yield differences.
Switching the type of drip tape used in 2003 may have adversely affected all the dripirrigated fields. In 2002, water was delivered at 0.22 galIminIlOO ft, whereas in 2003 it
was delivered at 0.15 galIminIlOO ft. Jim Klauzer felt this change would increase the
effectiveness of the drip system, but due to central Oregon soil types this change was
problematic. A flow of 0.15 gal/min/l00 ft. was not enough for the water to properly sub
over to the carrots. Often the water was still 4-6 inches from the carrot root at the end of
the watering set. Even with some of the sensors placed closer to the drip tape than in
2002, average sensor readings were -5kPa higher.
Drip-irrigated plots used 36, 48, and 54 percent of the water of sprinkle-irrigated plots
(Table 1). Much of the variation in water usage between fields was due to different row
spacing and various male and female row configurations. When there are wider row
spacings or more blank rows, less ground is watered, allowing even more water to be
141
conserved. When comparing water use on the furrow-irrigated field, drip-irrigation used
only 26 percent of the water used to furrow-irrigate. On the onion seed, water use in the
drip-irrigated plot was 44 percent of the sprinkler-irrigated plot.
Symptoms of bacterial blight were not observed on any of the stecklings sampled, but the
pathogen was isolated from one root sample. During the second sampling period,
Xanthomonas was detected in seven of the eight fields. The incidence of plants that
tested positive ranged from 0 to 10 percent in drip-irrigated fields compared to 5 to 20
percent in the sprinkler-irrigated field. During the third sampling period, Xanthomonas
was detected in all of the fields of the study. The incidence of plants that tested positive
ranged from 5 to 70 percent in drip fields and 25 to 80 percent in the sprinkler fields.
Symptoms of bacterial blight were not widely evident in most fields sampled, although
occasional plants could be identified. The incidence of carrot seed plants on which
Xanthomonas was detected increased rapidly from early June to August 2003, when the
pathogen was found in all fields sampled. In general, incidence of infested plants Was
greater in sprinkler-irrigated fields compared to drip-irrigated fields. Samples of seed
harvested from each field surveyed were assayed for Xanthomonas and detected in each
of the harvested seed lots. The population of the pathogen detected in these seed lots was
similar, but slightly less for drip-irrigated fields than the sprinkler-irrigated fields.
Potential benefits associated with using drip-irrigation compared to sprinkler-irrigation
include reduced fertilizer application when compared to broadcast application and the
time spent to irrigate the field is much less during the busiest times of the year.
Additionally, less area watered reduces the area of active weed growth and cuts weeding
time in half. In 2003, percent germination of seed was the same under both drip and
sprinkler-irrigation. The overall economic impact of drip irrigation was inconclusive in
2003.
142
Table 1. Comparison of yield, water usage, and soil moisture in carrot seed and onion seed grown under drip-irrigation and sprinklerirrigation regimes, near Madras, Oregon. 2003.
Average
Agency Plains
North of Culver
South of Culver
Agency Plains
Carrot seed
Onion seed
Sprinkled Drip Sprinkled
Drip
Drip
Sprinkled Drip Sprinkled Drip Sprinkled
Acreage
3.0
2.4
17.9
6.5
14
5.0
17
8.0
16
6.5
Yield (lbs/acre)
232
209
604
%of Sprinkled
111
100
580
96
100
498
72
692
100
301
235
128
100
460
97
475
100
%Germination
85
86
90
89
93
94
91
90
91
91
%of Sprinkled
99
100
101
100
99
100
101
100
100
100
Waterusage (acre ft/acre)
0.4
44
0.9
1.8
0.8
1.6
1.1
2
0.8
1.8
100
0.6
36
100
48
100
54
100
46
100
Soil moisture; low —kPa'
Soil moisture; high -kPa
0.8
6.8
64
3.5
45
22
28
64
40
2.6
45
12
3
63
29
0.3
62
25
3
Soil moisture average -kPa
0.5
76
32
18
35
52
22
%of Sprinkled
55
66
27
40
'Kilopascal: when the soil is nearly saturated the reading is -15 kPa. As the —kPa gets higher the soil is getting drier.
143
0,
C.
E
0,
0,
C
0,
C.
0
Aug-03
Jun-03
Apr-03
Figure 1. Number of samples from twenty carrot plants that tested positive for Xanthomonas in drip and non-drip plots, near Madras,
Oregon, 2003.
1.OE+08
1 OE+07
1.OE+06
1 .OE
1 .OE+04
I .OE+03
I .0E+02
Aug-03
Jun-03
1 .OE+01
Apr-03
Aug-03
Jun-03
Apr-03
Figure 2. The population of Xanthomonas spores detected on carrot foliage in drip and non-drip plots, near Madras, Oregon, 2003.
145
Evaluation of Palisade® on Kentucky and Rough Bluegrass, 2003
Marvin Butler, John On, Claudia Campbell, H & T Farms, and K & S Farm
Abstract
The growth regulator Palisade® (Syngenta) was evaluated on a commercial Kentucky bluegrass
seed field (var. 'Geronimo') and rough bluegrass seed field (var. 'Laser') near Madras, Oregon.
Treatments were applied at the two-node stage. Palisade increased yields (P 0.10) on Kentucky
bluegrass by about 30 percent at both 2.1 pt/acre and 2.8 pt/acre. Although not statistically
different (P 0.10), the trend was for Palisade to increase yield by 10-20 percent on rough
bluegrass. Seed yield on the growth regulator Apogee® (BASF) plots was similar to the untreated
for both Kentucky and rough bluegrass.
Introduction
Research to evaluate Palisade on Kentucky bluegrass has been conducted annually since 1999.
Yields have been increased by 32-36 percent 3 of the 4 years compared to untreated plots when
Palisade was applied at 22 ozJacre from detection of the first and second node (Feekes 7) to
when the head just becomes visible (Feekes 10.1). Late application, when the head is extended
just above the flag leaf (Feekes 10.4), produced the greatest reduction in plant size, while plants
tended to outgrow the effect of earlier Palisade applications. There were no differences between
treatments in weight per 1,000 seeds. Percent germination, while variable, does not appear to be
related to Palisade or Apogee treatments.
Methods and Materials
Plots 10 ft by 25 ft were replicated four times in a randomized complete block design in
commercial fields of 'Geronimo' Kentucky bluegrass and 'Laser' rough bluegrass near Culver and
Madras, Oregon. Palisade was applied at 1.5 pt/acre, 2.1 pint/acre, and 2.8 pint/acre, and
Apogee was applied at 0.9 lb/acre. Treatments were applied May 9 (second node detectable) to
both Kentucky and rough bluegrass. Treatments were applied with a CO2-pressurized, hand-held
boom sprayer at 40 psi and 20 gallacre water using TeeJet 8002 nozzles. Prior to harvest, a Jan
mower was used to cut 3-ft alleyways across the front and back of each row of plots. A researchsized swather was used to harvest a 40-inch by 22-ft portion of each Kentucky bluegrass plot on
July 1. Rough bluegrass plots were harvested July 7. Samples were placed in large canvas bags
and hung in an equipment shed to dry, then transported to Corvallis, Oregon for threshing with a
Hege 180 at the Oregon State University Crop and Soil Science's Hyslop Farm. Thousand-seed
counts were conducted at the seed-conditioning lab with the National Forage Seed Production
Research Center in Corvallis, and germination testing was done at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center near Madras.
146
Results and Discussion
At the 90 percent confidence level, Palisade increased seed yield on Kentucky bluegrass by
about 30 percent at either 2.1 ptlacre or 2.8 pt/acre. Although not significantly different
(P 0.10), the trend in rough bluegrass was for Palisade at 1.5 pt/acre to increase seed yield by
19 percent, as good or better than the two higher rates. Seed yield from the Apogee plots was
similar to the untreated for both Kentucky and rough bluegrass.
Palisade has been evaluated in central Oregon from 1999 to 2003. Seed yields averaged across
these dates for the same application rates indicate that 2.1- to 2.8-pt/acre rates consistently give
positive results. Increases in seed yield for the best treatments have generally been in the 30
percent range. At times it has appeared that lower rates can give similar results, but not
consistently. Application at the two-node stage has been quite consistent in providing the best
results.
Palisade evaluation on rough bluegrass began in 2001. It appears that the two-node stage is the
best timing, but there has been variability as to the best rate and level of yield increase one can
expect. Overall, it appears that the effects may be somewhat less than for Kentucky bluegrass.
Table 1. Effect of Palisade growth regulator on yield of Kentucky bluegrass, Madras, Oregon,
2003.
Germination
Weight
Seed yield
Treatment
Rate
%
g/1,000
seed
%
check
product/acre
--lb/acre-Palisade
Palisade
Palisade
Apogee
Untreated
1.5 Pt
2.1 Pt
2.8pt
0.9 lb
----
1,544 ab'
1,891 a
1,858 a
1,438 b
1,441 b
107
131
129
99
100
.3760
.3721
.3873
.3782
.3811
NS
79
76
81
84
83
NS
'Mean separation with LSD P
Table 2. Effect of Palisade growlh regulator on yield of rough bl uegrass, Madras, Oregon, 2003.
Germination
Weight
Seed Yield
Treatment
Rate
%
gil ,000 seed
% check
product/acre
lb/acre
Palisade
Palisade
Palisade
Apogee
Untreated
1.5 pt
2.1 Pt
2.8 Pt
0.9 lb
----
1,445
1,363
1,382
1,263
1,213
119
112
114
104
100
NS'
separation with LSD P
147
.2218
.2275
.2210
.2207
.2216
NS
96
ab
94 b
99
96
97
a
ab
a
Jefferson County Smoke Management
Piball Observations, 2003
Claudia Campbell and Marvin Butler
Abstract
Piball observations used to track local wind direction and speed have become a standard practice
component in the daily decision-making process to allow open-field burning. Piball releases at
potential burn sites were increased during 2003, allowing for more accurate decisions under
marginal conditions when errors are most likely to occur.
Introduction
The Pilot Balloon (piball) program incorporates the weather balloon information into the daily
routine of the Jefferson County Smoke Management Program. A new software program, Piball
Analyzer, developed by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) was used to interpret
piball wind data and transmit them to the smoke management coordinator. Emphasis was put on
burning more acres on the better burn days and not allowing burning on the marginal days.
Materials and Methods
Daily balloon releases occurred in the morning between 11:00 and 12:00 and, at the request of
the smoke management coordinator, in the afternoon generally between 1:00 and 2:00. The
piball was used to verify the burn forecast for upper level wind direction and speed and provide
an indication of the mixing height. The ODA developed a three-part software program to aid in
the analyzing of the piball information. The first component is the Piball Sounding, a
spreadsheet translating the azimuth and elevation readings from the piball into wind direction
and average speed. The hodagraph visually charts the wind direction and the Profile page graphs
wind speed. The Piball soundings were entered into the Piball Analyzer and transmitted to the
Jefferson County Smoke Management website for the smoke management program coordinator,
who then used these data in conjunction with the aircraft soundings and the ODA burn forecast
to determine the field burning status for the day.
Wind directions and speeds were determined at 1-minute intervals for a period of 10 minutes
during each balloon release using an observation Theodolite System and 26-inch-diameter
helium-filled balloons. Each minute corresponds with the following above-ground level
elevations in feet: 709, 1,358, 2,008, 2,628, 3,248, 3,839, 4,429, 5,020, 5,610, and 6,201. Air
temperature, relative humidity, surface wind direction and speed were documented for each day
at the time of the balloon releases using the Agrimet weather station at the Central Oregon
Agricultural Research Center (COARC).
Results
The open field burning season was 40 days long. Timing daily balloon releases for the late
morning worked well in refining the weather forecast and minimizing adverse smoke impacts on
local communities. In addition to the daily balloon releases at the COARC, balloon releases were
148
made on 7 days at the request of the program coordinator in the Culver area in an attempt to
prevent smoke intrusion to the Crooked River Ranch and yet allow growers to burn their fields in
a timely manner.
The piball was also a valuable tool for determining the mixing height for smoke during the
optimal burn times. There was surface inversion extending from the surface up to as high as
5,000 ft on 70 percent of the mornings, as indicated by the temperature readings provided by the
airplane flights. A counter-clockwise direction of travel by the piball would indicate an
inversion or stable air layer. At the time of the morning piballs, the stable air layer was still in
evidence 57 percent of the time. Afternoon piballs showed the stable air layer to be in effect 50
percent of the time. Morning piballs indicated the transport wind direction was significantly
different from that predicted 35 percent of the time, whereas 33 percent of the time the afternoon
piball release indicated transport wind and/or speed to be different than predicted. Actual surface
wind directions were significantly different than predicted 42 percent of the time at 11:00 am and
38 percent of the time at 2:00 pm.
The piball program was useful as a daily indicator of real-time, on-site conditions and
complimented the weather forecast provided by the ODA meteorologist in Salem. However, it
was particularly helpful on marginal days to assist the program coordinator in making the
decision whether or not to allow burning when conditions were changing or hard to discern.
These marginal days, where the conditions are unclear, create the most risk for smoke intrusion
into populated areas. To have the piball available for release at the site of the potential burn prior
to making a final decision has proved to be a valuable tool.
149
Evaluation of Fungicides for Control of Powdery Mildew
in Kentucky Bluegrass Seed Production in Central Oregon, 2003
Marvin Butler, John On, and Claudia Campbell
Abstract
Fungicides were evaluated for control of powdery mildew in a commercial Kentucky bluegrass
seed field near Madras, Oregon. Of the single-application treatments, Microthiol® and stylet oil
were no different than the untreated. Laredo® at 8 oz/acre plus Microthiol at 3 lb/acre provided
the best control 19 days after treatment (DAT), while Bayleton® at 4 oz/acre was the highest
performer 34 DAT. The first treatment for all the double-application treatments was Tilt® at 4
oz/acre plus Bravo® at 16 oz/acre. The highest performing treatment 23 DAT included Stratego®
at 10 ozJacre as the second treatment.
Introduction
Fungicides have been evaluated yearly for control of powdery mildew in Kentucky bluegrass
seed production fields in central Oregon since 1998. Products have included the industry
standards Bayleton, Tilt, Tilt plus Bravo, and new products such as Laredo, Folicur®, and
Stratego, numbered compounds like BAS500, alternative materials like Microthiol (sulfi.ir) and
sylet oil.
Methods and Materials
Fungicides were evaluated for control of powdery mildew in a commercial field of 'Merit'
Kentucky bluegrass grown for seed near Madras, Oregon. The project consisted of two
components. The first was a single-application comparison of products that included Bayleton,
Laredo, Tilt, Folicur, Microthiol, and sylet oil applied alone, and Laredo plus Microthiol.
The second component was evaluation of double fungicide applications that consisted of Tilt
plus Bravo followed by various products alone or in combination applied 3 weeks later. Second
treatments included Tilt, Stratego, Quadris®, Folicur, the numbered compounds A13705 and
BAS500, and crop oil concentrate (COC). These materials were applied either alone or in
combination.
All treatments were applied April 9 to 10-ft by 25-ft plots replicated three times in a randomized
complete block design. Plots receiving a second application were treated April 30, 2003.
Applications were made using Tee Jet 8002 nozzles on a 9-fl, CO2-pressurized, hand-held boom
sprayer at 40 psi and 20 gal of water/acre. A silicon surfactant was included with all treatments at
0.25 percent v/v.
Plots were evaluated using a rating scale from 0 to 5, with 0 being no mildew present and 5
indicating total foliar coverage. The single-application portion of the study was evaluated April
28 (19 DAT), May 13 (34 DAT), and May 23 (44 DAT). The double-application treatments were
evaluated April 28 (19 DAT) and May 23 (23 DAT).
150
Results and Discussion
Of the single-application treatments, all but Microthiol and sylet oil significantly reduced
powdery mildew compared to the untreated plots (Table 1). Nineteen DAT Laredo at
8 oz/acre plus Microthiol at 3 lb/acre provided the highest level of control, while Bayleton at 4
oz/acre provided the best control 34 DAT. It appears that Laredo, and perhaps other fungicides,
applied in combination with Microthiol may have increased efficacy. By 44 DAT there were no
differences in powdery mildew levels among any of the treated or untreated plots, despite the
level of powdery mildew remaining nearly the same during that period in untreated plots.
Results from the first of the double-application treatments were the same (Table 2), as indicated
by no significant differences between treatments 19 DAT. However, there was significantly less
powdery mildew in the treated plots compared to the untreated. Twenty-three days after the
second applications, Stratego at 10 oz/acre provided the best control. Crop oil concentrate did not
appear to increase fungicide efficacy.
Table 1. Severity of powdery mildew on Kentucky bluegrass near Madras, Oregon following a
single fungicide application on April 9, evaluated on April 28 and May 23, 2003.
Treatments
Bayleton
Laredo + Microthiol
Tilt
Laredo
Folicur
Microthiol
Stylet oil
Untreated
Application
April 9
4 oz
8 oz + 3 lb
4 oz
8 oz
6oz
3 lb
2 qt
----
April 28 (19 DAT)
1.251
Evaluation
May 13 (34 DAT)
bc2
c
1.00
1.06 bc
1.25 bc
1.17 bc
2.00 ab
1.39 bc
2.49 a
1.08 c
1.17 c
1.36 c
1.42 bc
1.86 bc
1.94 abc
2.28 ab
2.81 a
May 23 (44 DAT)
1.64
1.28
1.69
2.06
2.17
2.50
2.39
2.42
NS
'Rating scale was 0 (no mildew) to 5 (total leaf coverage).
separation with LSD P <0.05.
2
151
Table 2. Severity of powdery mildew on Kentucky bluegrass near Madras, Oregon following
combined fungicide applications on April 9, and April 30, and evaluated April 28 and May 23,
2003.
Evaluation
Application Date
May 23 (23 DAT)
April 28 (19 DAT)
April 9
April 30
Treatments
Tilt
Bravo
+ Stratego
Tilt
Bravo
+A13705
Tilt
Bravo
+A13705
Tilt
Bravo
+A13705
COC
Tilt
Bravo
+Tilt
Quadris
Tilt
Bravo
+A13705
COC
Tilt
Bravo
+Tilt
Quadns
COC
Tilt
Bravo
+ Tilt
Tilt
Bravo
÷ Folicur
Tilt
Bravo
+ BAS500
Untreated
4oz
l6oz
----
10
0.921
oz
b2
0.14
d
4oz
l6oz
----
3Ooz
1.39 b
0.33
cd
2Ooz
1.17 b
0.33
cd
0.86
b
0.36 cd
1.17
b
0.36
cd
1.36 b
0.42
cd
b
0.47
bcd
4oz
l6oz
----
4oz
l6oz
-------
3Ooz
1%
v/v
4oz
l6oz
-------
4oz
4oz
4oz
l6oz
-------
2Ooz
1%
v/v
4oz
l6oz
----------
4oz
4oz
1%
v/v
1.22
4oz
l6oz
----
1.06 b
4 oz
0.56 bcd
4oz
l6oz
----
bc
6
oz
1.58
b
0.75
9
oz
0.89
----
2.49
b
a
1.06 b
2.42 a
4 oz
l6oz
----
'Rating scale was 0 (no mildew) to 5 (total leaf coverage).
separation with LSD P
2
152
Evaluation of Simulated Hail Damage
to Peppermint in Central Oregon, 2003
Marvin Butler, Mark Zarnstorff, Claudia Campbell, and Macy Farms
Abstract
This is the third year of a multi-year study to determine the effect of simulated hail damage on
oil yield of peppermint. Damage levels were 33, 67, and 100 percent inflicted 17 and 35 days
before harvest. There was a yield loss for all levels of damage inflicted both 17 and 35 day prior
to harvest. The amount of oil per biomass was increased by all treatments 35 days prior to
harvest and by 33 percent damage 17 days prior to harvest.
Introduction
Peppermint oil production has historically been an integral part of agriculture in central Oregon.
In recent years there has been a decline in acreage due to reduction in price from an over supply
of peppermint oil. Locally there is also an increasing amount of verticillium wilt that persists in
the soil and reduces yields. The objective of this project was to determine the impact of hail
damage timing and severity on peppermint grown for oil. This information will assist the
National Crop Insurance Service in developing methodology to evaluate hail damage on
peppermint.
Methods and Materials
This is the third year of a multiple year evaluation on the effect of simulated hail damage to
peppermint grown for oil. The study was conducted in a commercial first-year field under solidset sprinklers near Culver, Oregon. Plots were 5 ft by 10 ft. with 3-ft alleyways, replicated three
times in a randomized complete block design.
Variables established for this study included three treatment timings and four levels of damage.
Projected timing of damage was 6, 4, and 2 weeks prior to harvest, with the actual timing being
37 and 17 days prior to harvest. Severity of damage included 33, 67, and 100 percent damage,
compared to undamaged plots.
A Jari mower was used to cut 3-ft alleyways across the front and back of each row of plots on
July 14. Treatments were made on July 14 and August 1 using a battery-powered hedger to
remove either one-third of the growth, two-thirds of the growth, or all but the bottom 3 inches of
growth. A weed eater held on edge and running slowly was used to damage the remaining
foliage at the same rate as the growth reduction applied to each plot. A 40-inch by 10-ft portion
from the center of each plot was harvested with a plot-sized swather August 16, just prior to
commercial harvest of the field. The oil was distilled at the Oregon State University Crop and
Soil Science's Hyslop Farm in Corvallis.
153
Results and Discussion
The earlier the damage and the less severe the damage, the more time the crop had to recover
before harvest (Table 1). There were statistical differences in oil yield and biomass harvested
between the untreated control and all damaged plots. However, biomass was reduced to a greater
degree than oil yield. This is indicated by the increase in oil per biomass by 10-19 percent for the
three damage treatments 35 days prior to harvest. From visual observation it would appear that
this is the result of increased numbers of leaves on the new growth following the simulated hail
damage.
The most significant factor one should consider when evaluating a reduction in oil yield is the
time between the damage event and harvest. The longer one can postpone harvest, the more time
the crop has to recover. However, the later in the season the damage occurs the more weather
limitations there are to providing adequate time for the crop to recover. It appears that biomass
following damage does not have to fully recover to get the same yield as undamaged mint, as
indicated by increased oil per biomass in damaged plots.
Table 1. Simulated hail damage on peppermint grown for oil with damage inflicted 35 and 17
days prior to harvest on August 16, 2003, near Culver, Oregon.
Hail damage
% damage days before harvest
0
33
67
100
33
67
--35
35
35
17
17
Oil yield
--lb/acre-- % check
100.0
70.9
45.8
33.0
47.8
14.6
55.0 a1
39.0 b
25.2 c
18.2 c
26.3 c
8.0 d
Oil / biomass
% check
--lb/t-7.2 b
8.0 ab
8.5 a
8.6 a
7.6 ab
5.6 c
Mean separation with Least Significant Difference (LSD) at P S 0.05.
154
100.0
110.4
118.2
119.1
105.3
77.0
Biomass
--t/acre-7.6 a
4.9 b
3.0 b
2.1 b
3.5 b
1.4 b