Project Number: 1230-21000-052-04
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Sep 27, 2007
End Date: Sep 26, 2012

Objective:
Develop new and improved ornamental trees and shrubs for the U.S. nursery industry. Develop basic genetic and physiological information related to nursery crop species. Reduce pesticide use and fertilizer run-off during nursery crop production. Develop improved nursery crop propagation methods. Evaluate existing germplasm of ornamental trees and shrubs for pest resistance, tolerance of environmental stress, and superior ornamental value. Develop methods for control of imported fire ant on field-grown nursery stock.

Approach:
Make intra- and interspecific hybrids in selected genera of ornamental trees and shrubs. Select plants with disease and insect resistance, tolerance to environmental stress, and superior landscape and ornamental characteristics. Conduct physiological studies related to traits important for nursery crop production. Conduct field studies related to developing more efficient and environmentally sound nursery crop production practices. Develop superior propagation methods for nursery crop species. Evaluate new and existing germplasm for disease and insect resistance, environmental stress tolerance, and ornamental characteristics. Develop methods for control of imported fire ant on field-grown nursery stock.