Determining optimal growth conditions for pot-in-pot tree production

• Main Author: Gunnell, JayDee
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01-01-2006
• Subjects: Plant propagation; Plant sciences; Soil sciences
• ISBN: 9780542830990; 054283099X

Two studies were conducted to establish optimal nitrogen (N) rates and growth medium for a pot-in-pot tree production system. In Study I, different levels of N in the form of urea (42-0-0) were applied to four different tree species. Overall, N applied at the rate of 12 lbs N/1000 square feet produced optimal tree growth. In Study II, transplanted bare root trees were planted in three different growing media (A, B, and C). Growth medium A was absent of any composted animal manure, while B contained some composted animal manure, and C contained pumice and plant-derived compost. Total trunk diameter growth was the parameter used to evaluate treatment response. There was no statistically significant different response in growth of either tree species due to N treatment levels; however, the chokecherries grown in medium C had significantly lower trunk diameter growth than those grown in medium A or B.