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Articles published from 1984-2014.

Description

Publishes original articles and commentaries on research in the fields of fundamental and applied soil and plant science. Original research papers, short communications including germplasm registrations, relevant book reviews, commentaries on papers recently published and, exceptionally, review articles will be considered for publication in the Journal. Manuscripts considered will address aspects of: Agronomical and Horticultural research including breeding and genetics, cultivar evaluation, management, nutrition, physiology, production, and quality; Soil Science research including biology, chemistry, classification, fertility, mineralogy, pedology and hydropedology, physics, and soil and land evaluation of agricultural and urban ecosystems; Weed Science research including biological control agents, biology, ecology, genetics, herbicide resistance and herbicide-resistant crops, and physiology and molecular action of herbicides and plant growth regulators; Agro-climatology; Agro-ecology; Forage, Pasture and Turfgrass science including production and utilisation; Plant and Soil Systems Modelling; Plant–Microbe Interactions; Plant–Pest Interactions; and Plant–Soil Relationships.

latest article added on October 2013

ArticleFirst AuthorPublished
Seasonal variations in carbohydrate content of Carica papaya plantsAllan, P.2001

Seasonal variations in carbohydrate content of Carica papaya plants

Keywords

Carbohydrate, Carica papaya, papaw, starch, sugar

Abstract

Monthly samples were collected of roots, stems, petioles and leaf blades of clonal female ‘Honey Gold’ papaw (Carica papaya L.) plants, in the cool subtropical Pietermaritzburg area, to study any seasonal variations in carbohydrate content of this tropical plant which grows continuously under favourable conditions. Under cool subtropical conditions, active leaf and stem growth ceased during autumn and winter, and there was a build up of sugars and starch at that time, in the petioles and stems in particular, and to a lesser extent in the roots. Most of the sugars were reducing sugars, especially in the leaf blade and petiole. The levels of starch attained were much lower than in deciduous fruit trees. Reducing sugar and starch levels dropped with the resumption of active growth during spring, summer and early autumn. Little accumulation would be expected under favourable tropical conditions.

Authors

Allan, P.

Year Published

2001

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.2001.10634402

This article contributed by:

Original

Macadamia cultivar evaluation in NatalAllan, P.1989

Macadamia cultivar evaluation in Natal

Keywords

Cultivars, macadamia, Natal

Abstract

Vegetatively propagated macadamia cultivars were grown in six ecologically different areas in Natal. Nut quality was tested over a number of years. The warm, moist north coast area is best for most cultivars tested with Keaau, Ka'u, Kakea and Beaumont giving nuts of best quality. The relatively newer Hawaiian cultivars Keaau and Ka'u produce nuts of reasonably acceptable quality in the cooler subtropical areas where the quality of the older cultivars Keauhou, Ikaika and Kakea is more limiting. The most recently released higher quality Hawaiian cultivars have yet to produce nuts. Hybrid cultivars are best for the cooler areas but their kernels and those of some other cultivars are more suitable for the dry kernel trade. Breeding of locally adapted M. integrifolia cultivars is an urgent priority. Sound management practices are essential to produce good quality kernels.

Authors

Allan, P.

Year Published

1989

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.1989.10634501

This article contributed by:

Original

Growth regulator manipulation of apple bud dormancy progressions under conditions of inadequate winter chillingAllderman, L.A.2011

Growth regulator manipulation of apple bud dormancy progressions under conditions of inadequate winter chilling

Keywords

cytokinin, abscisic acid, Malus x domestica Borkh, rest, South Africa

Abstract

Elgin (34°S, 19°E; 305 m.a.s.l.), typical of South African apple growing regions, accumulates 745 Utah Chill Units (CU) p.a. The chilling requirement of ‘Golden Delicious’ apple (Malus xdomesf/ca Borkh.) is c.a. 1100 CU. Consequently, the chilling requirement is not satisfied and delayed foliation is common. The aim of this study was to use plant growth regulators (PGR’s) to manipulate the progression of dormancy in order to reduce the chilling requirement of ‘Golden Delicious’ shoots in mature commercial orchards. A trial was conducted in a commercial orchard in Elgin during the winters of 2004, 2006 and 2007. To advance the onset of dormancy, 250 mg −1 abscisic acid (ABA) was sprayed several times during April and May of 2004 and 2006. To induce a shallower state of dormancy, cytokinins were applied during April and May of 2006 and 2007. Benzyl adenine (BA) was applied at concentrations between 250 and 1000 mg −1 and forchorfenuron (CPPU) at 15 mg −1. Progression of dormancy was assessed by harvesting shoots every 2–3 weeks from initial spray date until commercial rest breaking agents were applied in the orchard. The time interval for 50% of the shoots to exhibit budburst under controlled conditions was used as a parameter for depth of dormancy. Although shoots were sprayed on c.a. the same calendar dates each year and before any significant CU had accumulated, the physiological state of the buds at application varied from shallow to deep dormancy depending on the season. Therefore calendar dates were not a good criteria for spray applications and CU accumulation was not a prerequisite for the onset of dormancy. PGR’s altered the dormancy progression of ‘Golden Delicious’ shoots. However, their efficacy was dependant on the dormancy status of the buds at the time of application. Furthermore, the effect was not sustainable. The trees appeared to “normalize” after a short period of time and consequently the PGRs had no effect on the dormancy release or budburst the following spring.

Authors

Allderman, L.A., Steyn, W.J. and Cook, N.C.

Year Published

2011

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.2011.10640020

This article contributed by:

Original

Screening of some South African maize (Zea mays L.) cultivars for acetochlor toleranceAllemann, J.2010

Screening of some South African maize (Zea mays L.) cultivars for acetochlor tolerance

Keywords

Acetochlor, corn, cultivar, phytotoxicity, tolerance

Abstract

Acetochlor containing a safener is registered for pre-emergence use on maize to control mainly annual grasses. It is applied at rates of between 0.49 and 1.89 kg ai ha-~ on soils with a clay content from <10% to 55%. Some cases of acetochlor injury to maize have occurred in the field despite the correct application rates being used. A randomised complete block design trial was conducted in a glasshouse set at 28/18°C day/night to screen 21 maize cultivars for their tolerance to acetochlor (WENNER 700 S EC®). Maize was planted in pots containing a sandy loam soil (15% clay). Five acetochlor rates (0, 0.74, 1.47, 2.94 and 5.88 kg ai ha ~) were applied the next day and leached into the soil. Characteristic symptoms of acetochlor phytotoxicity occurred, particularly at higher application rates. Most cultivars showed significant decreases in both plant height and dry mass at the recommended application rate. Significant differences were noted between cultivars, with slight variations in results for seedling height and dry mass. cultivars were grouped into tolerant, intermediate and sensitive classes based on their reaction to the herbicide. Most cultivars were rated as intermediate, although both tolerantand sensitive cultivars were found, so proving the existence of cultivar differences with respect to acetochlor tolerance.

Authors

Allemann, J. and Mphundi, P.M.

Year Published

2010

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.2010.10639992

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Original

Screening of South African sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) cultivars for alachlor sensitivityAllemann, J.2007

Screening of South African sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) cultivars for alachlor sensitivity

Keywords

Alachlor, sensitivity, sunflower, tolerance

Abstract

Occasionally a herbicide that is considered safe to use at prescribed rates causes damage to crop plants at those same rates. Alachlor (Lasso EC®) is registered for use on sunflower at a rate of 1.5 to 1.92 kg ai ha−1. Occasional injury to sunflower plants at these rates is usually caused by incorrect application or unsuitable weather conditions, but sometimes no explanation can be found. In many crops it has been shown that genetic differences can make specific cultivars more susceptible to alachlor injury. The objective of this study was to screen 22 of the available sunflower cultivars for sensitivity to alachlor in a glasshouse trial. Planting took place in pots filled with a sandy loam soil (20% clay). Five rates of alachlor (0, 0.96, 1.92, 3.84 and 7.68 kg ai ha−1) were applied and leached into the soil with 100 ml of water. Pots were laid out in an air-conditioned glasshouse set to 28/18°C day/night in a randomised block design with three replicates. Plants were harvested 38 days after planting, at which stage plant height and mass were determined. The results indicated that cultivar differences with respect to alachlor tolerance were present. Plant height appeared to be the best predictor of alachlor activity in sunflower. Cultivars were divided into three classes (tolerant, intermediate and sensitive) based on their reaction to the herbicide.

Authors

Allemann, J. and Ceronio, G. M.

Year Published

2007

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.2007.10634775

This article contributed by:

Original

Allelopathic influence of soils planted to Amaranthus cruentus L. on two tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) cultivarsAllemann, J.2006

Allelopathic influence of soils planted to Amaranthus cruentus L. on two tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) cultivars

Keywords

Allelopathy, Amaranthus cruentus, amaranth, tomato

Abstract

Amaranthus cruentus L. is being evaluated as a potential high value niche market crop for small-scale farmers in South Africa. This is largely due to the demand for organically produced seed for the European health food market where it is used in a variety of products. Tomatoes were planted six months after a pilot planting of amaranth at Rust de Winter, near Pretoria. Problems with the growth and development of the tomato plants were noticed within a fairly short period. Investigations revealed no nutritional or pest and disease problems. Soil was collected from the problem field, as well as from an adjacent field with similar soil to investigate possible soil problems. Two tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) cultivars (Rodade and Floradade) were grown in pots containing these soils in an air-conditioned glasshouse under natural light conditions. Both cultivars exhibited signs of significantly inhibited growth (reduced height, leaf area, leaf number and shoot mass) when grown in soil from the amaranth field. It was concluded that A cruentus residues were probably allelopathic to these two cultivars of tomato.

Authors

Allemann, J. and Denner, F. D.N.

Year Published

2006

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.2006.10634745

This article contributed by:

Original

Suitability of two types of plastic covering on mini-tunnels for paprika seedling production in warm areasAllemann, J.2004

Suitability of two types of plastic covering on mini-tunnels for paprika seedling production in warm areas

Keywords

Paprika, plastic type, seedling production, temperature, tunnels

Abstract

A trial was conducted at the ARC-Roodeplaat Vegetable and Ornamental Plant Institute to determine the difference between the two types of plastic (clear and opaque) used as covering for mini-tunnels during paprika (Capsicum anuum L.) seedling production. Two cultivars (PapriKing and PapriQueen) were tested in a split-plot experiment, with type of plastic allocated to main plots and cultivar to sub-plots. Tunnels were opened 33 days after planting and seedling survival rates determined. Seed germination tests were conducted in order to eliminate differences in germination between the two cultivars, and temperature sensitivity of the seed during germination was also determined. No differences between cultivars was noted, and both reacted in the same way. Type of plastic used to cover the tunnels significantly affected seedling survival, and position in the tunnel also played a role. Temperatures above 32°C during germination had a detrimental effect, resulting in reduced germination and abnormal seedlings. Temperatures below the opaque plastic were lower than those below the clear plastic, and it was concluded that the opaque plastic should be used when temperatures are high.

Authors

Allemann, J., Viljoen, J. and Niederwieser, J. G.

Year Published

2004

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.2004.10635036

This article contributed by:

Original

High availability of alachlor affects the roots and general growth of sunflower seedlingsAllemann, J.1995

High availability of alachlor affects the roots and general growth of sunflower seedlings

Keywords

Alachlor, phytotoxicity, sunflower, tolerance

Abstract

The tolerance to alachlor [α-chloro-2′,6′?diethyl-N-(metoxy- methyl) acetanilide] of three sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) cultivars was evaluated in an aqueous medium in a glass- house. Alachlor (0.79 - 6.32 mg L−1) caused significant reductions in the root and shoot growth of sunflower seedlings exposed to the herbicide in nutrient solution. The roots of seed- lings exposed to alachlor became progressively shorter, thicker and darker in colour as the herbicide concentration increased. Differential cultivar tolerance was demonstrated.

Authors

Allemann, J. and Reinhardt, C. F.

Year Published

1995

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
DOI

10.1080/02571862.1995.10634333

This article contributed by:

Original

Evidence that alachlor selectivity in sunflower is based on depth-protectionAllemann, J.1994

Evidence that alachlor selectivity in sunflower is based on depth-protection

Keywords

Absorption, alachlor, selectivity, sunflower, tolerance

Abstract

The relative importance of the underground shoot parts (hypocotyl) and roots of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seedlings on the absorption of alachlor [a-chloro-2′,6′-diethyl- N-(methoxymethyl) acetanilide] was studied in a glasshouse experiment. A layer of activated charcoal divided the soil in each pot into a shoot and a root zone. Three herbicide treatments entailed the mixing of alachlor with soil from either the shoot or the root zone, as well as with soil from both zones. Exposure of sunflower roots, or roots plus shoots, to alachlor caused significant reductions in growth. Alachlor, present in the shoot zone only, had little or no effect. Results indicate that alachlor absorption occurred primarily in the root zone, thus implying that selectivity of the herbicide in sunflower may, at least partly, be dependent on depth-protection.

Authors

Allemann, J. and Reinhardt, C. F.

Year Published

1994

Publication

South African Journal of Plant and Soil

Locations
    DOI

    10.1080/02571862.1994.10634324

    This article contributed by:

    Original

    Effect of nitrogen supply on the production and distribution of dry matter in sugarcaneAllison, J. C.S.2002

    Effect of nitrogen supply on the production and distribution of dry matter in sugarcane

    Keywords

    Nitrogen supply, productivity, sugarcane

    Abstract

    Sugarcane productivity is probably limited by characteristically slow early growth and, later, by progressively decreasing leaf nitrogen (N) concentration. Increasing the N supply might increase productivity by influencing these attributes. In a pot experiment on two cultivars N was supplied at either a level corresponding to normal field supply (‘low’), or a level twice this (‘high’). Plants were sampled at 173 days, and then N level supplied to the remaining plants was either maintained or decreased until a final harvest at 270 days. Stem and total dry mass at 173 days were increased by c. 20% by high N, and at 270 days by c. 60%. Dry masses at 270 days were not affected by decreasing N supply at 173 days. Crop growth rate (C) between 173 and 270 days was increased about two and a half-fold by high N, because of both greater leaf area index (L) and net assimilation rate (E); variation in E was related to leaf N concentration. Sucrose yield was increased by c. 60% by high N supply because of greater stem dry mass rather than of increased sucrose concentration. The results suggest that augmenting the N supply during the early part of the growth period should increase productivity, but results from pots should be confirmed in the field.

    Authors

    Allison, J. C.S. and Pammenter, N. W.

    Year Published

    2002

    Publication

    South African Journal of Plant and Soil

    Locations
    DOI

    10.1080/02571862.2002.10634430

    This article contributed by:

    Original

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