ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1153: International Symposium on Carrot and Other Apiaceae
The CIOA (Carrot Improvement for Organic Agriculture) project: location, cropping system and genetic background influence carrot performance including top height and flavour |
| Authors: | P.W. Simon, J.P. Navazio, M. Colley, C. McCluskey, J. Zystro, L. Hoagland, P.A. Roberts, L.J. du Toit, T. Waters, E. Silva, J. Colquhoun, J. Nunez |
| Keywords: | Daucus carota L., weed competition, root-knot nematodes, Alternaria leaf blight, nutritional value, flavour |
| DOI: | 10.17660/ActaHortic.2017.1153.1 |
| Abstract:
U.S. organic farmers surveyed listed improved seedling germination and Alternaria leaf blight resistance as top breeding priorities for production of organic carrots. Nematode resistance is also very important for growers. Flavour was deemed the most important consumer trait to improve in carrots, and nutrition the most important product quality for consumers. To address these needs, field trials of diverse carrots varying in top size, disease and pest resistance, root shape and colour, flavour, and nutritional value are being evaluated by the Carrot Improvement for Organic Agriculture (CIOA) Project on both organic and conventional farms in California, Indiana, Washington, and Wisconsin. Wide ranges of canopy sizes were observed in this diverse carrot germplasm that includes, not only orange carrots, but also novel purple, yellow, and red root colours. Top height varied widely among entries at a given location, and fresh carrot flavour (sweetness and harsh, turpentine flavour) also varied widely among the genetic stocks evaluated across the locations and production systems (organic vs. conventional). Relative top height ranking and ranking of flavour scores among genetic stocks was relatively consistent across locations. Nematode and Alternaria leaf blight resistance trials demonstrated wide variation among genetic stocks. Other diseases observed in some of the trials were bacterial blight, Cercospora leaf spot, and powdery mildew. The CIOA Project reached approximately 160 farmers in 2012-13 with education on organic breeding and variety trials. | |
Download Adobe Acrobat Reader (free software to read PDF files) | |
