Articles
Redefining phosphorus nutrition and deficiency symptomology for floriculture crops grown in soilless substrates
Article number
1266_48
Pages
345 – 352
Language
English
Abstract
With the increased popularity of low phosphorus (P) fertilization strategies, there is a need to redefine P nutrition and optimal P concentrations for plants grown in soilless substrates.
In several experiments, maximum growth was achieved for a variety of ornamental species with lower P concentrations than those historically used in floriculture production.
It was found that P concentrations between 3 and 5 mg L‑1 P resulted in growth control of these species.
Lower P concentrations rapidly led to the development of P deficiency symptoms.
These symptoms have typically been described as a foliar reddening of the lower leaves, a darker green coloration, and overall stunting.
Other symptoms have recently been identified, including olive-green and necrotic leaf spotting.
Descriptions of symptomology and P recommendations for commercial production are presented.
In several experiments, maximum growth was achieved for a variety of ornamental species with lower P concentrations than those historically used in floriculture production.
It was found that P concentrations between 3 and 5 mg L‑1 P resulted in growth control of these species.
Lower P concentrations rapidly led to the development of P deficiency symptoms.
These symptoms have typically been described as a foliar reddening of the lower leaves, a darker green coloration, and overall stunting.
Other symptoms have recently been identified, including olive-green and necrotic leaf spotting.
Descriptions of symptomology and P recommendations for commercial production are presented.
Publication
Authors
J.B. Henry, I. McCall, B.E. Whipker
Keywords
plant growth, sufficiency ranges, fertilization, tissue analysis
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