Volume 3 Issue 1 Sep2011
Sprouts A newsletter for R&D employees of East-West Seed Group
&
Bright Blooming The Marigold Special
Simon Jan’s Corner
COUNTRY HIGHLIGHTS
The Basics of Marigold Breeding
Marigold’s History and Cultural Meaning
Simon Jan’s Corner
A
t East-West Seed, there is always something new at every turn. This spirit of innovation and discovery has helped us become the leading tropical vegetable seed company. We are constantly finding new ways to do things, developing new technologies and better varieties, and responding to new demands.
Something New and Blossoming
This newsletter is one example. First of all, you will notice that we have created a new look for Sprouts. We hope you like the design and layout of our beautiful Marigold issue, but more importantly, we hope you find the articles interesting and informative. There are new and bigger things coming up for Sprouts. What started as an R&D newsletter will be expanded into a company-wide newsletter next year, with content from R&D, Sales and Marketing, possibly PDS and Seed Operations too. We will invite more writers and contributors from other units. Our readership and distribution will expand as well. Of course, we at R&D will always be proud of the fact that Sprouts is our baby. When the first issue of Sprouts came out in January 2011, our objective was to have a central source of updates for the rapidly growing R&D team spread across research stations in Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, India and China.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Francine Sayoc EDITORIAL ADVISOR Simon Jan de Hoop MANAGING EDITOR Karina Van Leeuwen NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR Tabeth Velasco PAGE EDITORS Katchie Panergayo (EWPH) Tian Jinlan (EW China) James Karuhakosol (EWTH) Cherry Relevante (EWPH) Anand BR (EW India) LAYOUT & DESIGN Christian Talavera
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In the last three issues of Sprouts, we’ve published news and highlights from our
R&D stations in different countries, useful information gathered from our travels, new varieties released, birthdays, a n d new staff. We will continue to do that, and more. We want Sprouts to support and reinforce company messages and directions as part of a larger organizational effort to communicate better. We welcome your inputs and we are more than happy to receive your article contributions for the next issue. Simon Jan de Hoop Editorial Advisor
EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you want to write for Sprouts? Or do you have a great picture for our front cover? Let me know! Email to: francine.sayoc@eastwestseed.com
s? h S r U o t y p W
Sprout(ing) - noun, the practice of soaking, draining, and then rinsing seeds at regular intervals until they germinate, or sprout. Much like seeds, we are growing, maturing, learning and enjoying the work we do. Something beautiful emerges from our daily efforts... and then it just SPROUTS!
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Country Country Highlights Highlights
T
he 3rd quarter of 2011 had been pretty hectic for R&D, particularly the Plant Pathology Department. A new batch of young, energetic and hardworking plant pathologists from EW India, EW China, EW Vietnam and EW Thailand came over for a short training under the supervision of the Plant Pathology team in July-August.
Trainees from EW India, EW China, EW Vietnam and EW Thailand together with the EWPH Plant Pathology team
Sushil Kumar works as Assistant Researcher in EW India and is responsible for the development of screening protocols for Geminivirus resistance in tomato and okra. Mr. Xu Sicheng and Ms. Huynh Thi Diem Phuc are both recently hired plant pathologists from EW China and EW Vietnam, respectively. They will be involved in the establishment of the plant pathology laboratory as well as implementation of pathology research-related activities in their respective countries. Lily Pushpam and Panisa Sarauthai are
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PHILIPPINES A Busy 3rd Quarter by Cherry A. Relevante
both Research Technicians from EW India and EW Thailand (Farm Suphan), respectively. Both of them assist in the implementation of pathology researchrelated activities in their respective countries.
and S&M on the latest updates on new product development. On the same week, the R&D Planning on Plant Pathology and Farming Operations were also conducted and then Tissue Culture Planning the following week.
Apart from learning routine disease diagnosis techniques, they also had the opportunity to do actual planning and implementation of routine disease screening programs, which will be useful in their future activities. In July 26-29, the Plant Pathology team hosted another training course and workshop on identification, control and management of diseases and insect pests of vegetables, which was participated by PDS staff from EWIT (4), China (1), India (1) and Philippines (3), including the new plant pathologists from India, China, Vietnam and Thailand. It was another successful and challenging event, a great opportunity for learning as well as promoting camaraderie and teamwork among EW group. After the busy weeks, the R&D team once again spearheaded and organized the annual R&D Planning and Product Portfolio Review on August 17-19. The activity was participated by R&D (breeders and researchers), PDS and Sales and Marketing team, Seed Operations key managers and Corporate Management represented by our GM Mary Ann Sayoc. The major output of this activity was the discussion and finalization of the 2012 new products for launching and outlook for new products from 2013-2016. This annual activity gives S&M the opportunity to provide breeders with the updated market information and trends on market development, and also gives breeders the opportunity to update PDS
Participants of the ‘Training Course & Workshop on Identification, Control & Management of Diseases & Insect Pests of Vegetables’ together with the Plant Pathology team
And finally, who would have thought that our very last visitor for the quarter would be no other than our beloved Chairman Mr. Simon N. Groot accompanied by our former General Manager Mr. Domingo M. de Guzman? As this is a very rare opportunity for SNG to visit the R&D farm, everybody got excited and majority reported for duty on the weekend to welcome our beloved Chairman.
Mr. Simon N. Groot together with Mr. Domingo M. De Guzman and the R&D family in HRC
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F
EATURE:
Gold in Marigold
by Prachuab Bamrungsri and Katchie Panergayo
M
arigold, a name derived from “Mary’s Gold” is a perennial or annual plant belonging to the genus Ta getes, named after Etruscan god Tages. The plants come in a variety of forms depend ing on the species, daylength, tempera ture and other environmental factors. Plant height ranges from 30 cm to 120 cm. The flowers vary depending on the color, size and number of florets.
The marigold flower is characterized by a group of true flowers or florest which arise from a common receptacle that generally consists of tubular disk flowers in the center of the receptacle, surrounded at the edge by more flashy ray flowers that can either be creamy white, yellow, golden or orange in color. Receptacles with only ray flowers are so-called full-double flowers. The diploid species Tagetes erecta, or American marigold, and the tetraploid Tagetes patula, or French marigold, are the species most commonly used as ornamental plants. Because marigolds are easy to grow ornamentals that adopt well to the tropics and because the colors yellow and especially orange have important significance in Buddhism and Hinduism (representing humility, renunciation and desirelessness) the large flowering American marigolds have become an important commercial crop. Bright golden or orange marigold garlands are a common sight in roadside markets in India and Thailand.
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The development of marigold as a major commercial crop in this region can to a large extent be ascribed to Simon Groot who initiated the testing of Bodger’s Gold Coin and Galore hybrid series in Thailand during the mid-nineties. Our first seed sales of Bodger marigolds were generated in 1996. Marigold is presently one of the largest product groups in India and feature in the top 10 in Thailand in terms of seed sales. Full-double flowering hybrids have replaced the single or semi-double flowering local varieties because of the better flower quality.
The imported varieties do especially well during the cool season at shorter day-lengths and more moderate temperatures. Performance of the varieties is significantly reduced when the crop is planted during the rainy season when plants grow too tall and spindly, lodging often-times.
The best way to address the challenge was to develop improved varieties adapted to local growing conditions. East-West Seed utilized its expertise in breeding by pioneering the development of garland marigold hybrids in Asia. Although success did not come overnight, we were ultimately able to develop new marigold varieties that not only perform well under local conditions but also meet the needs of the market. Breeding of marigold is directed towards the development of new varieties which have improved tolerance to fungal and bacterial diseases, compact canopy, uniform flowering and better flower quality. In 2009, Mr. Prachuab Bamrungsri, flower breeder, and his group released three new hybrid varieties. Several other new hybrids are in the pipeline, which means we can look forward to more beautiful and better marigold varieties in the near future. An important aspect of the successful development of our own range of marigold hybrids has been the establishment of a good seed production facility in Tanzania under Jeroen Baas and Mathe Bastiaansen. The EW marigold program was further boosted by the acquisition of the Bodger marigolds last year. As a result of the expertise and germplasm we have acquired and developed during the last 10 years, the Marigold Crop Circle is very bullish about gaining market share in the still growing garland marigold market in Asia.
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F
EATURE:
A True Classic
History and Cultural Significance of the Marigold Flower by Francine Sayoc
B
right, bold and cheerful, marigolds are among the most commonly grown and beloved ornamental bedding plants in the world. Their vibrant colors, resilient nature, and ease of culture make them popular in various corners of the world.
The modern marigold owes much of its development to the vision and persistence of a man named David Burpee. He is recognized as the pioneer in the field and set the standards for marigold breeding.
In India, no other flower is as important as the marigold. They are common in many Hindu religious ceremonies, and are made into wreaths, swags and garlands to decorate temples. They also have culinary, industrial, and medicinal uses.
Born in 1893, his father was a known Philadelphia seedsman W.Atlee Burpee. But while his father’s main interest was vegetables, David gradually shifted the company’s focus to flowers when he took over around the time World War I began.
A garland of marigold flowers for Buddhist worship. (Photo by Francine Sayoc)
In South East Asia, it is used in Buddhism worship and other ceremonies such as weddings, festivals and religious events. It is sold regularly in the market for daily worships and rituals. In Mexico, marigolds are known as flor de muertos (flower of the dead) and are offered during the Day of the Dead to commemorate ancestors’ spirits.
Marigolds were David’s passion – and to this day remain his company’s most popular flower seeds. A great number of the world’s most outstanding marigold varieties have been developed at Burpee. By the 1960s, he had catapulted marigolds to become America’s most popular flower. He even lobbied at Washington DC to have the marigold officially named the national flower, but lost to the time-honored Rose. Burpee was a creative and steadfast promoter of the flower. In 1954, he sponsored a contest with a $10,000 prize to the first gardener who could provide seeds for a white marigold, which at the time did not exist. His professional breeders could only come up with a pale lemon color. During the next two decades, more than 80,000 customers sent in seeds for testing. Burpee gave $100 for good tries, but the big price went to Alice Vonk, the widow of an Iowa farmer. Taking into account the contest costs, the prizes, and the development of the “Snowbird”, the marigold was the world’s most expensive flower, but it was well worth it for the huge popularity gained by the now well-loved bloom.
The earliest record of the marigold was written by two Spanish historians in Historia General de las Cosas de Nueva Espana, written between 1540 and 1585. It indicated Mexico and Central America as the origin. The Aztecs used marigolds as a cure for hiccups, for being struck by lightning, or “for one who wishes to cross a river or water safely”. The natives named it cempoalxochitl. During the 1500s, native marigold seeds were taken by early Spanish explorers to Spain and were cultivated in monastery gardens. From Spain, marigold seeds were brought to France and northern Africa. The taller varieties became naturalized in North Africa.
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In Mexico, where it originated, marigolds are called flor de muertos (Photo from Katchie Panergayo)
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INDIA In Full Bloom This Season
T
his quarter was in full bloom with activities, parties, festivals & trainings. With the inception of rain, we began the next season of breeding trials. The farm is turning into lush green from its former dry appearance. The whole farm is lively, covered with different crops.
Celebrating with cakes and sweets
Our tradition calls for prayer at the time of sowing. While farmers traditionally pray for a good cropping season, we at R&D pray for many other reasons: for breeders to develop good hybrids, and for plant pathologists to get good dis-
by Anand BR
Country Country Highlights Highlights
ease pressure for their field screening material. We identified two old labours who are consistent performers, and two newly hired sharp and motivated labours. We encouraged them by presenting a gift which we hope would make others strive harder and become motivated, in turn leading to better output. We also celebrated the birthdays of two breeders, Asha & Manikya, one Admin officer, Mukhtar Khan, and one farm supervisor, Ramesh M, by having a small but fun-filled party with cakes & sweets which gave a welcome break to our routine. Parties also continued towards welcoming new Senior Breeder Dr. Makarand Pande who joined the team to look after the breeding activities for Tomato. Mr. Sushil Kumar & Mrs. Lilly Pushpam from Plant Pathology Department flew to EWPH & EWTH for the first time to
get training from the experts for a period of five weeks. The experience enriched them with knowledge from all the trainers. Today, they are very happy to use their training knowledge in their routine activities here.
Listening intently during a crash course on Microsoft Excel
On our request, Mr. Ashish from Finance Dept gave a two-day training on Microsoft Excel tips and tricks. He taught us so many things, a lot of which were new to us, and were indeed helpful for increased efficiency at work.
TIPS FOR GROWING MARIGOLD by Sirinun Phusuwan
G
enerally, marigolds are easy to grow. To fully enjoy the beauty of this flower, here are some useful tips.
• It is recommended to sow the seeds in plastic trays for easier seedling management. Transplanting is done 15-18 days after sowing especially for new varieties which flower early. • Two weeks after transplanting, it is recommended to pinch off the shoot. This is done to encourage branching, less cracking of peduncle and more uniform flowers. • Provide nitrogen for vegetative growth plus calcium and boron to minimize curling of flower stalk and hollow stem. • Avoid too much water, especially on leaves and flowers as this will encourage pathogen growth resulting to low quality of flowers. • Regularly check the plants especially on flower bud stage for insects.
And always remember that many varieties respond differently depending on the season. So, it is highly recommended to use East-West Seed’s semi tall marigold varieties that can be planted year round.
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Country Country Highlights Highlights
CHINA
Recruitment and DHT Training
A
s our breeding trials increased, our team is faced with the challenge of labor shortage. It became even more difficult after spring festival as one quarter of workers resigned due to rising living costs or other physical reasons.
On August 26, after a full discussion and detailed preparation, assistant farm manager Mr. Wen, breeder Ms.Yang and PDS Ms. Lei set out to recruit new workers from the countryside outside of Nanning.
Mobile recruitment for workers in the countryside
We took alternative measures to reduce the trial area and arrange the trial as best as possible to reduce the need for labor. Meanwhile, we made the salaries of workers more competitive in order to retain and attract more people. In a rapidly expanding city like Nanning, where new horticulture companies are emerging, we found that it’s not as easy to recruit workers as before since they now have more choices.
Talking to potential hirees
A vehicle with company posters and brochures became our temporary recruitment office. Our enthusiastic communication attracted more and more villagers to come and inquire. After four days of work, we got some good feedback. Although some are still under negotiation before we make final hiring agreement, the experience proved to be a good exercise in re-
by Tian Jinlan and Xu Shicheng
cruitment and promotion. Another memorable event in August was the face-to-face introduction of the dry heat treatment (DHT) machine. The application of the DHT is necessary and effective in controlling seed-borne disease. After extensive testing and research in EW group, a final detailed guidebook came out and was shared with us. Frank Mallari from Philippines, Weerachart Thongteera from Thailand and Prem Mehta from India came to China on 16 August to teach us the step-bystep operation of the DHT machine. Thanks to their help, the machine works well finally.
A step-by-step introduction of the DHT machine
THE WONDERS OF MARIGOLD by Sirinun Phusuwan
M
arigold is, no doubt, more than a beautiful flower. Many researches have shown that marigold can be used as:
Medicinal herb. The marigold flower, when rubbed on the affected part, is a good remedy for pain and swelling caused by the sting of wasps and bees. The lotion from its flowers is useful for wounds and sprain and other skin infections. Water distilled from them is good for inflamed and sore eyes. Culinary. Marigold is used in teas and juices. Its leaves and petals are safe to eat in salads. A yellow pigment can be extracted by boiling and can be use as food coloring. Nutritional value. Marigold is also abundant with “lutein”, a yellow carotenoid pigment. It works as an antioxidant to reduce the damage done by free radicals in your body, prevent cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration. It is great for the skin and helps keep it healthy.
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THAILAND
A String of Lectures, Seminars, and Meetings
I
by PoPo Than
t has been raining in Chiang Mai almost every day these past few weeks, and despite having cold and wet weather, the R&D team in Thailand are keeping themselves warm with a continuous flow of lectures, seminars and meetings in addition to the daily grind.
Visiting students from Phayao University
The third quarter of the year started with an interesting, high-level lecture on chromosome biology given by Professor Dr. Hans de Jong from Wageningen University. Prof. de Jong explained reverse breeding, a novel breeding approach based on engineered meiosis. We were greatly impressed by Dr. de Jong’s research on cross-species multicolor BAC-FISH (Bacterial artificial ChromosomeFlorescence in Situ hybridization) for the Solanum species and its application on tomato BACs of chromosome 6 on potato chromosome 6 and vice versa. From that very technical and informative lecture, we learned that the cross-species multicolor FISH strategy could be a powerful tool for comparative genetics in the genus Solanum. Following the chromosome biology lecture, our internal group lectures and seminars from R & D were successively conducted by our research teams from molecular marker, tissue culture and plant pathology. We gained a lot of knowledge from the bioinformatics lecture given by Dr. Rabuesak Khumthong, from journal session seminars from Nanfon Onmanee (Fon), Chittima Thangsiri-
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Country Country Highlights Highlights
mongkol (Kae), Janya Laepong (Noi) and Nipaporn Insuan (Mae). There is no doubt that we are in the right track to becoming a successful research-oriented team by developing, incubating and applying new ideas. In addition to the usual flow of visitors from our sister companies within the EWS group, we received visitors from Phayao University and Maejo University. We are proud to have been chosen as the universities’ first choice for their excursion tours. It is truly an indication of our reputation as one of the leading seed companies in the region.
and Vietnam. But it’s not all serious work for the two groups as they enjoyed soaring around the jungle of Chiang Mai in the afternoon of 22 September. The joint meeting on 23 September 2011 was a strategic move to finally put two different sets of minds together to shape the future of the company. Jungle Flight
Dr. Rabuesak gives Maejo University students a tour of the lab
BIRTHDAY CALENDAR
We closed this quarter with the R&D and S&M meeting. For the first time, R&D and S&M got together for strategic meetings last 21-23 September at Le Meridien Hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand. There were 38 participants from different countries – Thailand, Philippines, India, Indonesia, China
NEW STAFF Dr. Makarand Pande Sr.Breeder based in Bangalore
Mr.Anilkumar Asst.Breeder based at Rajpura
OCTOBER 2 JIARA 3 PICHET 6 PIYAPORN 8 MARIVEL 13 TIANCHAI 15 NAVEEN 23 PIAPONG 26 SOMNATH
PH TH TH PH TH INDIA TH INDIA
NOVEMBER 4 JAKKRAPONG 7 BOONANAN 18 SIRIRAT 23 LADDAWAN 26 RENITA 27 KEDSADAPORN 27 PRAKIT 27 VANLA
TH TH TH TH PH TH TH TH
DECEMBER 1 SURASAK 2 ANAND 3 THANANOP 6 SEVERO 7 SAENGCHIT 8 SOMSAMAI 10 NITIPONG 13 SAWANG 13 SHARON 15 TANWA 16 CHERRY 16 PATCHARIN 24 MICHELLE 28 AREERAT 30 SURA
TH INDIA TH PH TH TH TH TH PH TH PH TH PH TH TH
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