College of Agricultural Sciences

Researchers evaluated regionally available alternative substrates for ornamental crop production in the Pacific Northwest. The objective was to investigate the physiochemical properties of the substrate and ensure no biomass is phytotoxic to ornamental crops.

A discussion about cold hardiness and effective plant protection strategies to minimize cold damage. The Oregon State University affiliated author addresses how plants become cold hardy, stages of hardiness, and effective protection.

A look into the world of plant breeding and the tools ornamental plant breeders have at their disposal to expedite breeding for specific traits. Topics addressed in the article include flow cytometry and molecular genetics.

Researchers report on a study conducted to test the efficacy of soil additives in promoting plant growth and reducing mortality. The species included in the trial were Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Endless Summer’, Berberis thunbergii ‘Rose Glow’, and noble fir (Abies procera).

Plant pathologists track where Phytophthora ramorum came from and how it has managed to spread. The author specifically discusses Phytophthora ramorum clones and mating types and tracking the migration of the pathogen.

A systems approach for the production of healthy nursery stock. The manual, published by the Oregon Association of Nurseries, is divided into 3 main parts. A systems approach introduction, voluntary best practices for your nursery, and the next step: systems approach certification.

This study on interspecific hybridization in Tecoma Juss. was conducted to develop novel forms for the nursery industry. The selection of species used in the study included T. garrocha, T. stans, T. guarume, and T. capensis.

A review of the different means by which the potential for invasiveness in woody ornamentals can be reduced using genetic methods. Progress is reviewed in conventional breeding and transgenic biotechnology approaches to producing sterile forms of ornamental woody plants.

A recent report described a simple technique to double Cryptomeria japonica chromosomes. The objectives of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of the technique and determine optimal treatment duration for doubling chromosome numbers in oriental arborvitae, american arborvitae, and western red cedar.

Research was conducted to take advantage of the reduction in plant size and vigor often associated with induced polyploidy. The principle objectives were to induce polyploidy in seedlings from H. acetosella ‘Panama Red’ and to evaluate the effects on growth, morphology, and fecundity.