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Regardless of the irrigation system used in greenhouse floricultural operations, nutrient delivery should be optimized so that a lower level of fertilizer is used over the crop cycle, thereby minimizing fertilizer costs and environmental impacts. This novel and innovative approach calls for a constant lower level of nutrients to be delivered during vegetative growth only, and this lower level was optimized so that reproductive growth was primarily sustained by the mobilization of previously-acquired nutrients, rather than current supply from the root system.
This project by AAFC scientists looked at providing new commercial opportunities for the Canadian ornamental industry through the development of innovative and low maintenance indoor gardening eco-wall systems for home, residential and public buildings. The research included an evaluation of LED lighting systems and tested five distinctively different wall module systems, several growing medium, fertilization regimes (organic, conventional) and bio-stimulants, including Si, on a wide range of plant species grown under different light conditions (e.g. with or without LED supplementary lighting; under low PPFD).
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Final Report
There is a commonly held belief that high nitrate ratios produce smaller plants and high ammonium ratios produce larger plants. Research into the effect of nutrient ratios on plant height has shown this is not the case. Results of this research have provided recommendations on the practicality of plant nutrient management in limiting bedding plant height.
Evaluation of pre-and post-harvest treatments such as 1-methylcyclopropene as a means to successfully extend the shelf life of cut flowers. Results clearly demonstrated that treatment of 1-methylcyclopropene significantly delayed the senescence of cut flowers, especially for carnation, rose and gerbera.
Evaluation of a modified version of the CropAssist system developed for greenhouse tomatoes on other ornamental plants. Two greenhouse species and two nursery species, each of which differed in daily water requirements, were monitored for periods of up to 30 consecutive days. Results indicated that the CropAssist system effectively measured water uptake automatically and continuously.
Suppressing pathogens in the greenhouse setting was the focus of this study. Dr. Zheng selected composted and non-composted organic materials with potential pathogen suppression properties and mixed these materials with other components to form a variety of growing substrates. Pathogenprone ornamental plants such as begonia were then subjected to selected growing substrates. Substrates containing vermicasting or pine bark showed disease suppression, however results were not consistent.
A literature review was conducted and interviews with growers and water treatment companies to assemble information on available technologies. An interactive website will provide growers with an on-line decision process for choosing appropriate technology for their own operation.
a strategy to use Botanigard in combination with natural enemies for control of aphids in greenhouse floriculture. This research has enhanced the general understanding of how parasitoids used for biological control of aphids in ornamental systems interact with Botanigard. It has also identified some critical knowledge gaps and opportunities for future technology development.
Researchers have found that significant energy reductions of up to 20% can be achieved by a combination of reduced night time temperature, morning CO2 injections and ventilation control. The specific combination of these climatic adjustments enables average temperatures to be maintained at the optimal level and produces more vigorous plants that are ready for holiday delivery dates
Conserving energy is a top priority for flower greenhouse operators. With this objective in mind, Dr. Xiuming Hao with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada developed and assessed greenhouse heating and climate control strategies that would conserve energy without sacrificing timely production and maximum plant quality.
Communication Materials on the Latest Research