ISHS Acta Horticulturae 181: III International Symposium on Postharvest Physiology of Ornamentals
INFLUENCE OF PRODUCTION PRACTICES ON POST-PRODUCTION LIFE OF BEDDING PLANTS |
| Author: | Allan M. Armitage |
| Abstract:
Experiments were conducted to determine if various plant production practices influenced the post-production life of bedding plants. There was little difference in post-production life due to media tested. If plant quality during production was not affected due to media, no significant differences in post-production life occurred. Petunias (Petunia hybrida) which received no fertilizer once visible bud stage occurred, had reduced post-production life compared with those which received constant 100 ppm N fertilizer until anthesis. There was no difference between 100 ppm N and 200 ppm N. A high frequency of irrigation reduced post-production life in petunias compared with a low frequency rate. Marigolds (Tagetes patula) had the greatest post-production life when production night temperatures were 10°C for approximately 2 weeks prior to anthesis, while Impatiens had the greatest post-production life when night temperatures during production were 15°C. All plants declined rapidly when stored under high temperatures (32°C) compared to cool temperatures (15° or 21°C). Few significant differences due to production practices occurred when plants were stored at 32°C. | |
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