Title:

Molecular Studies of Floral Initiation in Kentucky Bluegrass

Objectives:

1. Clone and analyze genes expressed in the apex of Kentucky bluegrass during the transition from a vegetative meristem to a floral meristem.

2. Characterize the fructan biochemistry of Kentucky bluegrass plants during regrowth, vernalization, and floral initiation, and evaluate the importance of fructan reserves in realizing yield potential.

Principal Investigators:

Jeff Griffin, Assistant Professor, Grass Molecular Physiology
Dept. PSES, University of Idaho

John Fellman, Associate Professor, Postharvest Physiology
Horticulture Dept., Washington State University

Cooperators:

Glen Murray, Professor, Crop Physiology
Dept. PSES, University of Idaho

Anne Sylvester, Assistant Professor, Botany
Biol. Sci. Dept, University of Idaho

Abstract:

We have completed a developmental study of the Poa species that will be used for our initial gene cloning experiments, and used that information to collect and store samples of meristematic tissue at selected stages of development. These tissues will be used to clone genes based on differential expression. We have completed a study of fructan storage and utilization in bluegrass stubble following clipping that points out the role of stored carbohydrate in maintaining a sucrose pool for plant growth. Differences among varieties are being investigated further.

Justification:

The development of yield potential in Kentucky bluegrass is a complex process that occurs over a 9- to 12-month period. A better understanding of the physiological and molecular processes occurring during that period may help us to design more efficient and sustainable management strategies. One portion of this project, supported 100% by this program, is the cloning and analysis of genes expressed during floral development. Another portion of this project, supported 33% by this program, is an investigation of the physiology of carbohydrate storage and utilization during development. Both lines of work further our understanding of the development of yield potential.