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Title: IMPROVEMENTS IN SEED YIELD AND SEED RETENTION IN VERNONIA GALAMENSIS

Author
item Dierig, David
item Coffelt, Terry
item Kaiser, Aaron
item TOMASI, PERNELL - ARIZONA STATE UNIV

Submitted to: Association for the Advancement of Industrial Crops Conference
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/5/1997
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Fifteen advanced vernonia lines were field planted in 1996 at Phoenix, Arizona to compare field germination, plant stands, plant growth, and seed yields between lines. Seed was sown on April 22, in four row plots, 4.5 meters long, one meter between rows, and three replications. Stand counts were taken at 43 days after planting (DAP). Plant heights were measured at 102 DAP, while plants were in full flower. Plants were harvested at 146 and 176 DAP for comparison of harvest dates. A plant pathogen was identified on stems of mature plants at mid-season. However, it was controlled using a soil drench fungicide.The seed heads of vernonia contain petals called involucres that surround the seeds. As seeds mature, involucres dry and fold downward, allowing seed to disperse. Plants of one line displayed a new trait that allowed seed to remain on the plant for a longer period. Involucres dry in the same manner as normal plants but do not fold down. As a result, seed is held on the seed head longer and harvestable seed yields are increased.