Evaluation of water uptake efficiency and growth of ornamental Gaillardia (Gaillardia grandiflora) and Marguerite (Leucanthemum × superbum) in different substrates

Document Type : Full Paper

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

2 Former B. Sc. Student, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

3 Former M. Sc. Student, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the water demand and growth traits of ornamental Gaillardia (Gaillardia grandiflora) and Marguerite (Leucanthemum × superbum) in peat-based substrates with different volume based ratios of field soil (Clay loam) and peat moss (100% peat, 80% peat + 20% soil, 60% peat + 40% soil, 20% peat + 80% soil and 100% soil) in a randomized complete block design with three replications in a greenhouse at the horticulture Department, University of Tehran. Irrigation applied based on plant demand (by weight) up to the end of the experiment, but the evaluation of the harvest took place between two specified intervals. The amount of water consumed, growth characteristics, shoot and root dry weight and root development traits were evaluated. Overall study results showed the root system of Gaillardia was more developed than Marguerite, so it was also more efficient in water uptake. Combining 40-60% (v/v) of peat with field soil resulted in progress of the root system and significantly increased the efficiency of water absorption. Therefore, the combination of at least 20% of peat with field soil is recommended with in the production and cultivation of garden plants (Gaillardia and Marguerite).

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References

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Iranian Journal of Horticultural Science
Volume 48, Issue 3 - Serial Number 3
January 2018
Pages 459-468

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  • Receive Date: 20 September 2017
  • Accept Date: 20 September 2017

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