Effect of Broadleaf P4 on Fertilizer Use Efficiency on the Growth of Marguerite Daisies (Chrysanthemum frutescens)

• Main Author: Rousan, Laith Mohammed
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01-01-1990
• Subjects: Agricultural economics; Agriculture; Horticulture; Plant sciences; Polymer chemistry; Soil sciences
• ISBN: 9798802740583

Polyacrylamide soil conditioners have been shown to improve both the water holding and nutrient holding abilities of potting soils. This study focused on the ability of one commercial polymer, Broadleaf P4, to improve fertilizer efficiency in the production of Marguerite daisies (Chrysanthemum frutescens). Two different potting media were amended with P4, a standard and a premium, at three different fertilizer rates, 6, 9, and 12 pounds per cubic yard of Osmocote 17-7-12. A control was established for each potting media. It was not amended with P4 but was fertilized with 12 pounds of Osmocote per cubic yard, as is common for most nursery production. Daisy growth was evaluated for mean plant height, mean plant diameter, mean number of blooms, and relative vigor. There were no significant differences between means for the treatments and the control observed in either the standard or the premium potting media for any of the parameters tested. However, based on "t"-test analysis, there were significant differences between the two medias in plant height, diameter, and vigor. There was no' significant difference between the two for the number of blooms. Plant height and diameter were significantly greater in the premium medium. Additionally, vigor was rated higher in the premium medium. The results indicate that with the incorporation of Broadleaf P4, fertilization rates can be cut 50% . Even though growth parameter differences between the two media were significant, the higher cost of the premium media may not make its use economically feasible.