Yield and Quality of Pathogen-Free Horseradish (Armoracia Rusticana) Planting Stock

We first demonstrated that TuMV and Verticillium can be removed from horseradish plants by meristem tip culture in vitro. We also developed a sensitive, streamlined PCR-based testing protocol for Verticillium and a reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR-based technique for TuMV to assess the pathogen status of horseradish cultivars, even in symptomless tissues. In the field, PF horseradish plants were more vigorous and productive than plants propagated by sets in the traditional manner (control). PF planting material produced higher yields than the control in all fields (high and low disease pressure). In many cases, PF plants produced two to three times the yield of the control. Additionally, 90% of the PF plants remained symptom-free (marketable) after one season in a high disease pressure field. Finally, we outline a field-based production protocol for rapid and cost effective propagation of PF horseradish sets. Using PF plants combined with complimentary cultural modifications, growers can regain yields and quality of roots, even into a second season.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Natural Resrouces and Environmental Sciences

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2015

Author dc:creator

• Uchanski, Mark E.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Skirvin, Robert M.

• Engineering, Agricultural

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

(MiAaPQ)AAI3290409

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/83122