2013 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
To provide an update on the status of alternative nursery crop substrate research in the United States and to share new techniques for substrate analysis.

Alternative substrate (potting material) studies have been an important area of research for many years. Introduction of alternative substrates to growers has contributed to the continued growth and profitability of container-grown plant production. Over the past 10 years, wood-based substrates have been evaluated as alternatives to peat and pine bark substrates. Researchers across the United States have investigated locally available, sustainable resources as components of or alternatives to peat- and pine bark-based growing media.  These materials range from amendments to peat moss (up to 40% by volume) and pine bark supplements/extenders (more than 50% by volume). A variety of woody species have been evaluated for substrate use including pine (Pinus taeda) trees, eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana), and other low-cost tree species.  Additional research has also focused on the potential problems associated with recycling of media, including physical changes over time and the potential to reintroduce pathogens from recycled media. This workshop will focus on current research methods in traditional and alternative substrates including root growth, fertility, and water management, how mechanical processing changes the properties of wood and pine bark, the status of commercialization of these products, as well as potential problems associated with recycling substrates.