Physical and cultural properties of cedar mulch amended growth media affecting container grown ornamental plants.
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| Other Authors: | , , |
| Format: | Thesis Book |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
[College Station, Tex.] :
Fox,
1979.
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Link to ProQuest copy Link to OAKTrust copy |
| Abstract: | Shredded heartwood of the eastern redcedar tree (Juniperus virginiana L.) is produced as a by-product of a cedar oil extraction process. This fibrous residue is marketer as a landscape mulch and soil conditioner. Plant growth studies and laboratory analyses were conducted to evaluate the mulch as an organic ingredient of soilless growth media for use in production of container grown plants. Physical property determination indicated that cedar mulch has a low water holding capacity and, under certain conditions, can increase mix aeration porosity. Media stability is improved by the inclusion of cedar mulch which resists decomposition and the attendant reduction in bulk volume. Chemical analyses indicated that cedar mulch is slightly acidic, and low in soluble salt content. Plant growth experiments demonstrated that the mulch may possibly contain plant growth inhibitors, however, the inhibitory effects were not expressed when the mulch was composted and leached prior to its use in growth media. Tomato and geranium plants grown in mixes containing large proportions of cedar mulch exhibited foliar chlorosis; however, the disorder was readily corrected by supplemental Fe treatments. Mixes containing cedar mulch were successfully used for seed germination and vegetative propagation. Growth media containing up to 50% cedar mulch are recommended for container plant production provided that they contain suitable materials to provide adequate water holding capacity. |
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| Item Description: | "Major subject: Horticulture." Vita. |
| Physical Description: | ix, 76 leaves ; 29 c |
| Bibliography: | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 72-75). |