Use of willow (Salix sp.) sawdust as a potting medium for calendula (Calendula officinalis) and marigold (Tagetes erecta) plant production
Gariglio, N.F.; Buyatti, M.A.; Bouzo, C.A.; Weber, M.E.; Pilatti, R.A.
New Zealand Journal of Crop and Horticultural Science 32(1): 147-151
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0114-0671 DOI: 10.1080/01140671.2004.9514289
Accession: 004378847
The growth of 'Fiesta Gitana' calendula (C. officinalis) in a growth medium prepared from 75% (v/v) composted willow (Salix sp.) sawdust (WS), with or without additional nitrogen (N) (4% w/w) during composting, and 25% (v/v) perlite was examined. Total plant dry matter, dry matter partitioning to flowers, and plant height at 77 days after planting were similar in media containing composted WS to values achieved in the sphagnum peat:perlite (75:25, v/v) control medium. Relative to these media, non-composted WS:perlite (75:25, v/v) resulted in average reductions of total dry matter (57%), dry matter partitioning to flowers (50%), plant height (43%), flower diameter (73%), and flower buds per plant (82%).