Inoculation of container-grown plants with vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae

Studies were conducted on inoculation of container-grown plants with vesicular-arbuscular (VA) mycorrhizae. Intraradical vesicles formed in colonized roots were found to serve as propagules and significantly contribute to the infectivity of these roots. A procedure was developed for separating intraradical vesicles from roots; isolated intraradical vesicles were able to colonize new host roots. Extraradical vesicles of Gigaspora margarita were not infective propagules. Treatment of mycorrhizal roots with sodium hypochlorite as a surface-sterilant reduced their infectivity. Pre-transplant inoculation of geranium with Glomus fasciculatum resulted in spread of the endophyte within the root system and greater and more uniform growth at flowering. Mycorrhizae were sufficiently established on most seedlings at a minimum of 2 weeks after emergence to persist after transplanting. Pre-transplant inoculation increased geranium growth over that of controls transplanted into heavily inoculated soil, even when growth did not differ at the time of transplanting. Soilless plant growth media such as peat, bark, perlite and vermiculite inhibited formation of VA mycorrhizae and host growth response compared to media containing soil. Peats from different sources varied in effects on mycorrhizal growth response of geranium. Utilization of rock phoshate or bonemeal instead of sodium phosphate as a fertilizer P source did not improve establishment of mycorrhizae and host growth response in various media. Addition of 5-10% Turface, bentonite, silt loam soil or clay subsoil to peat or vermiculite resulted in increased colonization of host roots and significant mycorrhizal growth response, but amendment with liquid sludge inhibited mycorrhiza formation. Differential VA mycorrhiza formation and host growth enhancement in different growth media were attributed to differences in equilibrium solution P concentration after media had been saturated with fertilizer. Growth response of geranium to inoculation with G. fasciculatum increased with increasing pre-inoculation soil heat treatment temperatures from 45°C to 120°C. Colonization of roots of geraniums inoculated with G. fasciculatum was not affected by soil treatment temperature, but treatment for 30 min at 55°C or higher eliminated colonization by indigenous mycorrhizal fungi. The shoot P concentration of inoculated plants relative to controls increased with increasing temperature of soil treatment

The horn quartets of Michael Kallstrom - a performance guide

The horn is very versatile and has a home in a variety of chamber ensembles, which makes studying and performing quartets an invaluable component for horn players. Horn quartets not only provide performers with chamber music experience, but are an extension of large ensemble playing and can be an excellent way to enhance a horn section's playing abilities. Today there are a number of active professional quartets who are committed to expanding the library of original compositions for this ensemble. One of the most today's most significant composers of original compositions for horn quartet is Michael Kallstrom, who has composed works for the TransAtlantic Horn Quartet and Quadre. For the past decade, Kallstrom's horn quartets have proven to be valuable additions to the repertoire in many settings, including recitals and competitions. This document will discuss the history of the horn quartet, Michael Kallstrom's creative process, his relationship with the TransAtlantic Horn Quartet and it will examine his two most recognized horn quartets: STARFLAME and HEADBANGER. The document will provide readers with a practical application of these quartets and will discuss their compositional style, forms and motives. It will also include pedagogical instructions in regard to phrasing, fingerings and extended techniques. There will also be a brief discussion regarding Kallstrom's other horn quartets, which include two arrangements of JEEPERS, SOULS MADE OF MUSIC and CRAZY RHYTHM. (Published By University of Alabama Libraries