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Changes in the characteristics of potting media with time

1981; Taylor & Francis; Volume: 12; Issue: 10 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1080/00103628109367213

1532-2416

V. E. Nash, Adolph J. Laiche,

Seedling growth and survival studies

Abstract Growing media for container plants composed of pine bark, peat and sand were evaluated before, during and after five months with ryegrass as the test plant in the greenhouse. Hydraulic conductivity of these materials is very rapid resulting in rapid loss of nutrients, even for the controlled‐release type fertilizers. Channels developed on the perimeter of the growing medium ball adjacent to the container wall resulting in a concentration of plant roots in this zone. Considerable shrinkage or compaction of the media occurred during the five months growth period, especially for peat. Movement of sand was observed for the very porous materials and found to accumulate as a layer lower in the container. All nutrients added were exhausted after 3 months, even for the controlled‐release types of fertilizers.