Water Use of Nursery Plants Grown in Alternative Containers: Implications for Sustainability

To improve nursery sustainability, nursery containers constructed of wood fiber, woven recycled plastic, keratin and coir were compared to standard high density polypropylene containers in 4 states. Containers were used for a one-year growing season. Plants were irrigated based on daily water use determined with moisture sensors. Plant growth, quality and mortality and container physical properties were measured over the growing season. Plant and container performance will be discussed in relation to water use and implications on sustainable nursery production.