SUNFLOWER COMPETITION

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "SUNFLOWER COMPETITION"

Transcription

1 School of Agriculture and Food Sciences SUNFLOWER COMPETITION Experiment Booklet 2017 uq.edu.au/agriculture/sunflower-competition

2 With sunflower seeds, some simple steps and expert information, the UQ Sunflower Competition is a fun and interactive way for Australian high school students to get into the science behind growing our food. The activities in the competition can be tied into key areas of the curriculum, giving students an opportunity for hands-on learning about how plants interact with the environment to give us the food on our table. As part of the competition, your class could investigate: Water and plant nutrition: using potting mixes and soils; Plant nutrition using fertilizers (organic and inorganic); or Impact of light on photosynthesis and growth using light regimes. The following booklet provides six detailed experiments that have been prepared by academic and technical staff from the UQ School of Agriculture and Food Sciences. Key dates for your class diary: Planting Day: Tuesday 28 February 2017 Weigh in Day: Tuesday 16 May 2017 Enquiries: UQ Sunflower Competition Team telephone science.events@uq.edu.au The 2016 Overall Grand Champions from Glasshouse Christian College with a sunflower weighing 2.023kg.

3 Dear Teachers The following series of experiments aim to demonstrate how the environment and other variables can affect plant growth and development in the context of food production. The experiments are designed to be aligned with both curriculum topics in your subjects and development of knowledge around scientific investigation. The experiments vary in complexity and explore different themes including: photosynthesis and growth, importance of soils, nutrients, water and climate change on crop production. The experiments are designed for a range of levels across the high school science curriculum, enabling you to tailor the experiments to a level appropriate to your class. The experiments should provide a platform for students to develop questions and hypotheses that can be investigated scientifically, with replicated treatments enabling analysis of data to identify explanations for findings. The design of the experiments should provide an opportunity to develop the concepts of replication and randomisation for advanced students. Having multiple pots for each treatment is also useful in the case of accidental damage or attack from pests. The main aim of the competition is to have fun and to help your students increase their understanding of the science and the principles of scientific investigation. Happy growing and I wish you all the best throughout the competition. DR MARISA COLLINS Senior Lecturer UQ School of Agriculture and Food Sciences MS KARLI KOLLEGGER First Year Coordinator UQ School of Agriculture and Food Sciences

4 Introduction Agronomy is the science behind growing plants to produce food, fuel and fibre. The main aim in growing crops is to maximize yield and profit whilst minimizing environmental impacts. To maximize yield many variables contribute to successful growth of plants including: 1. Genetics / breeding 2. Soil or growing substrate 3. Water availability 4. Nutrients 5. Light 6. Presence of pests and diseases. The experiments described in this booklet investigate one (or more) of these variables using sunflowers as our crop. The following are suggested experiments you can run without any experimental design. They can be easily modified using some of the variables discussed above. Why not design your own experiment! Visit the UQ sunflower website for suggestions on designing your own experiment: uq.edu.au/agriculture/sunflower-competition

5 Experimental Notes Some general notes on running an experiment with sunflowers: To initiate sunflowers: Plant four seeds towards the centre of each pot at a depth of 3 4 cm and water well to initiate germination. Depending upon soil temperature, seedlings should emerge in 5 7 days. Pots should be thinned to one plant per pot 7 days after emergence. Depending upon temperature and variety, your plants should flower in about 7 8 weeks. Prior to that, you will notice a star shape structure in the apex which swells and eventually becomes the flower bud. Plants should be grown in full sun and are best protected from wind if possible. You will need to water your pots regularly. Standard procedure is to water until replete (water flows freely from the bottom of the pot). If water is one of your experimental variables, you may need to measure the amount you add, e.g. 100ml per pot per day. When handling potting mixes, ensure that you and your students wear protective masks and gloves to minimise the risk of disease (the risk is low). Observe the plants for any pests or disease and take control measures as necessary. This will not invalidate your experiment! Take note in the results and discussion.

6 UQ Experiment 1 Seed Germination Experiment Aim To compare the effect of two seed treatments on successful germination rates of sunflower seeds. Level and Context BASIC Seeds need to break dormancy before they will germinate. This can sometimes be a problem for agronomists and plant breeders who need to ensure stored seed will germinate. Materials and Methods You will need at least 12 sunflower seeds. The more seeds you use, the more robust the experiment. Treatments include: Control (no treatment) Scarification (cut the tip of the seed open with a sharp knife, or nail clippers) Freeze-thaw (place the seeds in a freezer for 30 mins then allow to return to room temperature. This may be repeated several times) Seeds can then be germinated on moistened paper towels or on the surface of moist potting mix. Emergence should occur within a week. Take daily observations. Observations and Data Collection Get your class to observe the type of germination (epigeal) and draw a diagram. Count the days until the hypocotyl (the plant) and the first root emerges. Students can write a report on the experiment comparing the three germination rates and time to emergence. Did any treatments cause them to emerge faster? What was the seed germination rate?

7 UQ Experiment 2 Comparison of Potting Mixes Aim To compare the effect of three potting mixes on the growth and development of sunflower plants. Level and context BASIC The soil or substrate in which plants grow is one of the most important determinants in overall health and yield of crops. Soils supply essential macro- and micro-nutrients and soils have differing capacities to store moisture, influencing the water available for growth. Materials and Methods You will need three potting mixes (treatments): Organic High quality mix (added fertilizer, trace elements, ph adjusted and perhaps water crystals) (Nursery Association red ticks) Lower quality mix (Nursery Association black ticks) 12 plastic pots of 14 litres capacity Fill four pots with each of the potting mixes ensuring you use the same volume of potting mix in each. Observations and Data Collection Get your class to observe the type of germination (epigeal) and draw a diagram. Each week get your class to measure the following for each of the treatments (best if all measurements were done on the same day each week): Plant height (from soil surface to growing apex) Stem diameter at the height of the first true leaf Number of leaves (exclude the cotyledons) Observe the colour and size of leaves and note the differences among treatments. Observe biological variability even within the same treatment. Students can write a report on the experiment and draw three graphs (height, stem diameter and leaf number against time). They can explore and discuss how plant nutrition and water availability (or water stress) can influence crop growth.

8 UQ Experiment 3 Comparison of Potting Mixes and Fertilizers Aim To compare the effect of three potting mixes and a fertilizer on the growth and development of sunflower plants. Level and context INTERMEDIATE In most Australian farming systems native soil fertility levels are decreasing in response to intensive cropping, leading farmers to increasingly rely on fertilizers to provide crops with the nutrients they require for good growth. Maximising the efficiency of fertilizer use is very important as using too little limits crop growth and lowers yield, while using too much reduces profits and has negative consequences for the environment. Materials and Methods Three potting mixes (treatments) as for Experiment 2 24 plastic pots of 14 litres capacity Fill eight pots by volume with each of the potting mixes. Fertilizer None A general fertilizer such as Q5 (5.3%N, 5.8%P, 5.0%K, 13.3%S) Add the recommended rate of Q5 to four pots for each of the potting mixes. The other four pots will be the controls (no added fertilizer). Remember there are nutrients in the potting mix. (This experiment can be varied by adding fertilizer at different times during plant growth, for example, four weeks after planting or at flowering, etc). Observations and Data Collection Observe the colour and size of leaves and note differences among treatments. Fresh weight (and dry weight if drying facilities are available: 60ºC for two days or until fully dry) may be measured once plants are mature (back of the head turns brown). Students can write a report on the experiment and draw three graphs (height, stem diameter and leaf number against time) for each of the six treatments. Are there any interactions between the treatments? What might be causing these interactions? Students can also weigh a set volume of each soil substrate dry and wet (ie. a pot full), and analyse the differences in soil water holding capacity between the soil types. You should water the soils till water runs freely out the bottom of the pot and then wait 30 mins before weighing the wet soil. Class results for the trial can be collated and the importance of soil water holding capacities can be discussed.

9 UQ Experiment 4 Interaction of Potting Mixes and Fertilizers Aim To compare the effect of three potting mixes and two fertilizers on the growth and development of sunflower plants. Level and context ADVANCED In addition to increasing dependence on fertilizers to provide crops with the necessary nutrients, the properties of the soil can have a significant influence on the availability of nutrients from fertilizers after they are applied. Chemical and physical properties of soil such as organic matter, ph, texture and water-holding capacity can significantly change the effectiveness of applied fertilizers. Materials and Methods Three potting mixes (treatments) as for Experiment 2 36 plastic pots of 14 litres capacity Fill eight pots by volume with each of the potting mixes. Fertilizer None Liquid fertilizer (e.g. Thrive or Aquasol) Solid fertilizer such as Q5 (5.3%N, 5.8%P, 5.0%K, 13.3%S) Add the recommended rate of Q5 to four pots for each of the potting mixes. Another four pots will be the controls (no added fertilizer). Remember there are nutrients in the potting mix. The liquid fertilizer will be added weekly using a watering can to the final four pots at the recommended rate, starting two weeks after emergence. Try to ensure you add the same volume of water to each plant. All other pots should receive the same volume of water without fertilizer added. Observations and Data Collection Note when the star shaped structure first appears. Observe the colour and size of leaves and note differences among treatments. Fresh weight (and dry weight if drying facilities are available: 60ºC for two days or until fully dry) may be measured once plants are mature (back of the head turns brown). Students can write a report on the experiment and draw three graphs (height, stem diameter and leaf number against time) for each of the nine treatments. Are there any treatment interactions? Students can also express the results of each treatment as a mean and standard deviation. Students can weigh a set volume of each soil substrate dry and wet (ie. a pot full), and analyse the differences in soil water holding capacity between substrates. Water the soils till water runs freely out the bottom of the pot and then wait 30 mins before weighing the wet soil. Class results for the trial can be collated and the importance of soil water holding capacities discussed. Also discuss the chemical differences between soils and how this can affect nutrient availability (ie. acid soils, clay soils).

10 UQ Experiment 5 Comparison of Light Regimes Aim To compare the effect of two light regimes on the growth and development of sunflower plants. Level and context ADVANCED Plants require light for photosynthesis and via phytochrome use it as a signal for physiological changes such as when to flower (photoperiodism), germination of seeds and to set circadian rhythms. Plants will adapt physically when exposed to lower-than-optimal light conditions. Materials and Methods You will need a high quality mix (added fertilizer, trace elements, ph adjusted and perhaps water crystals) (Nursery Association red ticks) Eight plastic pots of 14 litres capacity Fill the pots by volume with potting mix. Light Regimes Natural light 70% shade cloth (shade house or structure supporting the shade cloth, simple frames can be erected using pvc pipe and shade cloth) Observations and Data Collection Each week the class is to measure the following for each of the treatments (best if the measurements are done the same day each week): Plant height (from soil surface to growing apex) Stem diameter Number of leaves Note when the star shaped structure first appears. Observe the colour and the size of the leaves and note the differences between the treatments. Plants that are in the shade will use less water and grow slower. Ask students to investigate and discuss why this could be the case. Students can write a report on the experiment and draw three graphs (height, stem diameter and leaf number against time). On each graph, compare the natural and reduced light. Students can discuss why reducing light would affect growth and photosynthesis.

11 UQ Experiment 6 Interaction of Light Regimes and Fertilizer Aim To compare the effect of two light regimes on the growth and development of sunflower plants with and without fertilizer. Level and context ADVANCED Both light and nutrient are essential for plant growth. Light is required for photosynthesis and provides energy for growth, while nutrients provide the building blocks for growth and all biological processes. In addition, plant nutrient and water uptake is closely linked to light exposure with water moving from the soil to the leaves in response to light-driven stomatal opening. Materials and Methods You will need a high quality mix (added fertilizer, trace elements, ph adjusted and perhaps water crystals) (Nursery Association red ticks) 16 plastic pots of 14 litres capacity Fill the pots by volume with potting mix. Light Regimes Natural light 70% shade cloth (shade house or structure supporting the shade cloth, simple frames can be erected using pvc pipe and shade cloth) Fertilizer None A general fertilizer such as Q5 (5.3%N, 5.8%P, 5.0%K, 13.3%S) The Q5 will be added at the recommended rate to eight pots (four pots will be placed in natural light and four under shade). Pots without fertilizer will be equally distributed between the shade house and natural light. Observations and Data Collection Note when the star shaped structure first appears. Observe the colour and size of leaves and note differences among treatments. Under shade, plants will use less water and also grow slower. Students can write a report on the experiment and draw three graphs (height, stem diameter and leaf number against time). On each graph, compare natural and reduced light with and without fertilizer. Are there any interactions between treatments? Students can investigate and discuss how and why photosynthesis and plant nutrition are linked.

12 CRICOS Provider No B Enquiries: UQ Sunflower Competition Team telephone

ACHIEVEMENT LEVEL DESCRIPTORS

ACHIEVEMENT LEVEL DESCRIPTORS ACHIEVEMENT LEVEL DESCRIPTORS FOR THE PLANT SYSTEMS ASSESSMENT Please note: Students performing at the Meets Expectations level also meet all standards at the Approaches Expectations level, and students

More information

Demonstrate that inoculation can increase the yield of legumes.

Demonstrate that inoculation can increase the yield of legumes. MODULE 7: DEMONSTRATION 1 EFFECT OF FARM MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON THE YIELD RESPONSE TO LEGUME INOCULATION PURPOSE Demonstrate that inoculation can increase the yield of legumes. Demonstrate how farm management

More information

Introduction to Horticulture 5th Edition, 2014

Introduction to Horticulture 5th Edition, 2014 A Correlation of 5th Edition, 2014 To the 2010 CTE Agriculture Frameworks A Correlation of,, to the for Horticulture Unit 1: Horticulture Orientation and Leadership Development Competency 1: Identify school

More information

An Inquiry into Seed Germination

An Inquiry into Seed Germination Overview This NGSS-aligned activity is a student inquiry into the factors that affect seed germination. The activity can be used as an introductory activity for plant studies in biology or as an environmental

More information

Germination 6th. Common Core SL.6.1; SL.6.4; SL.7.1; SL.7.4; SL.8.1; SL.8.4. Next Generation Science Standards MS-LS1-4; MS-LS1-5

Germination 6th. Common Core SL.6.1; SL.6.4; SL.7.1; SL.7.4; SL.8.1; SL.8.4. Next Generation Science Standards MS-LS1-4; MS-LS1-5 LESSON OUTCOMES STANDARDS ALIGNTMENT In this lesson, students will identify that all grains are seeds and that seeds germinate into seedlings. All whole grains are seeds. Monocots and dicots have the same

More information

BOTANY/HORTICULTURE PLANT SCIENCE AG

BOTANY/HORTICULTURE PLANT SCIENCE AG Student's Name BOTANY/HORTICULTURE PLANT SCIENCE AG 0514 Directions: Rating Scale: Evaluate the trainee using the rating scale below and check the appropriate number to indicate the degree of competency

More information

THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN

THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN THE BACKYARD SERIES BACKYARD VEGETABLES W 346-A THE TENNESSEE VEGETABLE GARDEN SITE SELECTION AND SOIL TESTING Natalie Bumgarner, Assistant Professor and UT Extension Residential and Consumer Horticulture

More information

Problem. Can paper mill sludge be used as a fertilizer for plants and does it change the ph of the

Problem. Can paper mill sludge be used as a fertilizer for plants and does it change the ph of the Problem Can paper mill sludge be used as a fertilizer for plants and does it change the ph of the substrate it was used in? This problem was selected to learn if the chemical make-up of paper mill sludge

More information

Name: B3 PLANT DISEASE. Class: Question practice. Date: 41 minutes. Time: 41 marks. Marks: BIOLOGY ONLY. Comments: Page 1 of 18

Name: B3 PLANT DISEASE. Class: Question practice. Date: 41 minutes. Time: 41 marks. Marks: BIOLOGY ONLY. Comments: Page 1 of 18 B3 PLANT DISEASE Question practice Name: Class: Date: Time: 4 minutes Marks: 4 marks Comments: BIOLOGY ONLY Page of 8 To be healthy, plants need the right amount of mineral ions from the soil. The diagram

More information

Land clearing and nursery bed establishment

Land clearing and nursery bed establishment Land clearing and nursery bed establishment 1m Land clearing and nursery bed establishment Week 1: Land preparation starts with clearing or cutting of all tall grasses, removing trees to avoid shade, stumps,

More information

Seed Growing. Propagation Lecture 2

Seed Growing. Propagation Lecture 2 Seed Growing Propagation Lecture 2 Vocabulary Seedling Seedling is plant that comes from seed Vocabulary Germination Seed makes root and shoot Picture shows germination Vocabulary Seed Viability Seed Viability-

More information

ACTIVITY 2 How Does Your Garden Grow?

ACTIVITY 2 How Does Your Garden Grow? ACTIVITY 2 How Does Your Garden Grow? Study Question: Activity: Curriculum Fit: What is the optimum level of plant nutrient application? In this lesson students will conduct an experiment that will examine

More information

Soil & Garden Preparation. Presented by Missouri Valley Master Gardeners

Soil & Garden Preparation. Presented by Missouri Valley Master Gardeners Soil & Garden Preparation Presented by Missouri Valley Master Gardeners Healthy Yankton Community Gardens Located on City Limit Road Sites available March 14, 2016 Avera Pavilion Cost $20 Contact HealthyYankton@gmail.com

More information

http://www.flagintheclassroom.com Benefits of Gardening Benefits of gardening Academic achievement Enhances self-esteem Environmental stewardship and connection with nature Active learning and student

More information

GERMINATION MODULE GOAL OBJECTIVES INTRODUCTION. Time to completion: 15 days Difficulty level: Easy

GERMINATION MODULE GOAL OBJECTIVES INTRODUCTION. Time to completion: 15 days Difficulty level: Easy GERMINATION MODULE Time to completion: 15 days Difficulty level: Easy GOAL Test how variation in plant genotype influences the germination response to different environmental stimuli in Arabidopsis. By

More information

Greenhouse tomato experiments

Greenhouse tomato experiments Greenhouse tomato experiments Huplaso effect on tomato plant Foreword The first results obtained of the Hupalso product analysis have shown it has several physicochemical properties involved in the improvement

More information

Germination 3rd. through 5 th Grade LESSON OUTCOMES

Germination 3rd. through 5 th Grade LESSON OUTCOMES LESSON OUTCOMES STANDARDS ALIGNTMENT In this lesson, students will identify that seeds germinate into plants. A seed is made up of different parts (cotyledon, seed coat, embryo) Seeds sprout into baby

More information

UK Grown. up to 7 5 % more fruit!* Caring for your new. Suttons Grafted Aubergine Plant

UK Grown. up to 7 5 % more fruit!* Caring for your new. Suttons Grafted Aubergine Plant UK Grown up to 7 5 % more fruit!* Caring for your new Suttons Grafted Aubergine Plant The Grafting Process - what makes Suttons Grafted Plants so special? Grafting process on Suttons Aubergine plants Suttons

More information

Comparison between Growing Plants in Hydroponic System and Soil Based System

Comparison between Growing Plants in Hydroponic System and Soil Based System Proceedings of the 4 th World Congress on Mechanical, Chemical, and Material Engineering (MCM'18) Madrid, Spain August 16 18, 2018 Paper No. ICMIE 131 DOI: 10.11159/icmie18.131 Comparison between Growing

More information

GrowerFacts. Spreading Petunia Wave (Petunia X hybrida)

GrowerFacts. Spreading Petunia Wave (Petunia X hybrida) GrowerFacts Spreading Petunia Wave (Petunia X hybrida) Germination Use a well-drained, disease-free seedling medium with a ph of 5.5 to 6.0 and EC about 0.75 ms/cm (1:2 Water thoroughly after sowing to

More information

HORTICULTURE (HORT) Horticulture (HORT) 1. HORT 2613 Woody Plant Materials

HORTICULTURE (HORT) Horticulture (HORT) 1. HORT 2613 Woody Plant Materials Horticulture (HORT) 1 HORTICULTURE (HORT) HORT 1003 Home Horticulture Description: Offered by correspondence only. An introduction to horticultural practices for the home gardener. Planning and care of

More information

Plant-A-Plant Water Laboratory Guide

Plant-A-Plant Water Laboratory Guide Plant-A-Plant Water Laboratory Guide Task Prepare conditions for growing maize seedlings with different amounts of water. Plant seedlings into plastic bottles, set up a constant water resource and observe

More information

INDOOR CANNABIS Easy indoor cannabis growing

INDOOR CANNABIS Easy indoor cannabis growing CONTENTS INDOOR CANNABIS Easy indoor cannabis growing Indoor cannabis growing - what is the easiest way to grow cannabis? 4 Indoor cannabis growing - grow lights 4 Indoor cannabis grow rooms and tents

More information

Nursery experiments for improving plant quality

Nursery experiments for improving plant quality Nursery experiments for improving plant quality Why try nursery experiments? Often the common production techniques are used without experimenting with other procedures. Even if growth has been adequate

More information

Improving Corn Water Use With Hybrid Selection: Trait evaluation for both dryland and limited irrigated systems

Improving Corn Water Use With Hybrid Selection: Trait evaluation for both dryland and limited irrigated systems Improving Corn Water Use With Hybrid Selection: Trait evaluation for both dryland and limited irrigated systems 2018 TAWC Water College, Lubbock Texas Jourdan M. Bell Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and Research

More information

BIODIVERSITY OF LAWNS A high school lesson plan provided by the University of Guelph

BIODIVERSITY OF LAWNS A high school lesson plan provided by the University of Guelph There are four different varieties of turfgrass commonly found in lawns in Ontario. While most accounts of turfgrass areas refer to them as monocultures this is generally not true. Lawns consist of many

More information

This lesson is part of a larger, comprehensive school garden guide called Minnesota School Gardens: A Guide to Gardening and Plant Science developed

This lesson is part of a larger, comprehensive school garden guide called Minnesota School Gardens: A Guide to Gardening and Plant Science developed This lesson is part of a larger, comprehensive school garden guide called Minnesota School Gardens: A Guide to Gardening and Plant Science developed by Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom in 2013. The

More information

Soil Structure and the Physical Fertility of Soil

Soil Structure and the Physical Fertility of Soil 12 17 th December 2015 Soil Structure and the Physical Fertility of Soil Christopher Johns Research Manager Northern Australia Key Points The physical properties of soil are at least as important as the

More information

Pan-African Soybean Variety Trial Protocol Training. I

Pan-African Soybean Variety Trial Protocol Training.   I Pan-African Soybean Variety Trial Protocol Training The protocol Outlines Site selection Land preparation Soil sampling Experimental layout Methods of planting Fertilizer application Site selection Use

More information

Room to Grow. Purpose. Background Information. Time. Materials. Procedure

Room to Grow. Purpose. Background Information. Time. Materials. Procedure Room to Grow Purpose Students will plant 5-6 different seeds of different sizes to investigate if seed size directly corresponds to the size of the plant the seed produces over time. Students will learn

More information

Unlock your soil s potential with K-humate

Unlock your soil s potential with K-humate Unlock your soil s potential with K-humate Most concentrated liquid humate Improves soil moisture and nutrient retention Reduces nutrient lock-up in the soil Helps the development of better soil structures

More information

Onion Production. IDEA-NEW, May, 2010

Onion Production. IDEA-NEW, May, 2010 Onion Production IDEA-NEW, May, 2010 1 Onion Production Onion is cool season crop The main production areas in ER are Surkrod, Kama and Rhodat districts Onions are planted in ER during the Fall-winter

More information

Effect of Insulation on the Growth of Radish Plants- Cultivated Radish ( Raphanus sativus L.) Danielle Griggs, Meher Pandher, Avni Mehta, Meghan Royle

Effect of Insulation on the Growth of Radish Plants- Cultivated Radish ( Raphanus sativus L.) Danielle Griggs, Meher Pandher, Avni Mehta, Meghan Royle Effect of Insulation on the Growth of Radish Plants- Cultivated Radish ( Raphanus sativus L.) Danielle Griggs, Meher Pandher, Avni Mehta, Meghan Royle Section 1 June 10th, 2013 Mr. Fusco 1 Abstract: Research

More information

Colorado State Forest Service Nursery. Woody Plant Production

Colorado State Forest Service Nursery. Woody Plant Production Colorado State Forest Service Nursery Woody Plant Production Colorado State Forest Service Nursery Located at CSU Foothills Campus Established in 1957 CSFS Nursery 130 acre farm 80 acres tillable for field

More information

Comparison of Field Seeding of Sugar Beets and Mangel Wurzels with Two Methods of Transplanting 1

Comparison of Field Seeding of Sugar Beets and Mangel Wurzels with Two Methods of Transplanting 1 PROCEEDINGS THIRD GENERAL MEETING 377 Literature Cited 1. Deming, G. W. Comparative Yields of Equal Plant Populations of Sugar Beets with Different Spacing Relations. Proc. Amer. Soc. Sugar Beet Techn.

More information

FLORICULTURE & GREENHOUSE MGMT (130)

FLORICULTURE & GREENHOUSE MGMT (130) FLORICULTURE & GREENHOUSE MGMT (130) DESCRIPTION Floriculture and Greenhouse Management is designed to measure knowledge and skills related to the floriculture industry. Floral design and greenhouse operations

More information

Lesco Fertilizer Evaluation

Lesco Fertilizer Evaluation Lesco Fertilizer Evaluation Dr. James T. Midcap Department of Horticulture The University of Georgia Athens, GA 30602 Nature of Work: Lesco=s 18-6-12 Experimental urea formaldehyde fertilizer with minors

More information

Can We Have Too Much of a Good Thing? Lab

Can We Have Too Much of a Good Thing? Lab Can We Have Too Much of a Good Thing? Lab Introduction Plants require 17 essential chemical elements for successful growth and reproduction. Carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium

More information

Effect of Soil Amendment with Dry and Wet Distillers Grains on Growth of Canola and Soil Properties

Effect of Soil Amendment with Dry and Wet Distillers Grains on Growth of Canola and Soil Properties Effect of Soil Amendment with Dry and Wet Distillers Grains on Growth of Canola and Soil Properties Peiyuan Qian, Jeff Schoenau, Tom King and Cory Fatteicher Department of Soil Science, University of Saskatchewan,

More information

Developing Fertilizer Programs for Fruit Crops Utilizing Soil and Tissue Analysis Soil analysis

Developing Fertilizer Programs for Fruit Crops Utilizing Soil and Tissue Analysis Soil analysis Developing Fertilizer Programs for Fruit Crops Utilizing Soil and Tissue Analysis Mary Concklin, Visiting Extension Educator Fruit Production and IPM University of Connecticut Fertilizer decisions for

More information

OPTIMISING CROP ESTABLISHIMENT IN PROCESSING CARROTS

OPTIMISING CROP ESTABLISHIMENT IN PROCESSING CARROTS JUNE 2018 OPTIMISING CROP THE IMPORTANCE OF ESTABLISHING A GOOD CROP A key factor in maximising the yield of carrots for processing is promoting the establishment of rapid and uniform early crop. Speedy

More information

Ag in the Classroom Going Local

Ag in the Classroom Going Local Ag in the Classroom Going Local Post Office Box 27766 Raleigh, NC 27611 (919) 719-7282 Social Seeds - Kindergarten Purpose Students will be able to sort seeds using student made rules and explain why seeds

More information

Floriculture and Greenhouse Management

Floriculture and Greenhouse Management PRECISION EXAMS Floriculture and Greenhouse Management EXAM INFORMATION Items 56 Points 71 Prerequisites NONE Grade Level 9-12 Course Length ONE YEAR DESCRIPTION Floriculture and Greenhouse Management

More information

Sleeping Seeds and the Scientific Method

Sleeping Seeds and the Scientific Method Sleeping Seeds and the Scientific Method Objectives Skills Students investigate seed dormancy Students discover treatments to break dormancy Students learn how scientists investigate phenomena Students

More information

2017 Sweet Potato Slip Production Research Update

2017 Sweet Potato Slip Production Research Update 2017 Sweet Potato Slip Production Research Update This research update shares findings from the 2017 slip propagation season. Canadian sweet potato growers rely on planting material from the U.S. Slips

More information

Starting Your Garden Indoors. Coppell Environmental Education December 8, 2012

Starting Your Garden Indoors. Coppell Environmental Education December 8, 2012 Starting Your Garden Indoors Coppell Environmental Education December 8, 2012 Why Start Seeds Indoors? Plant hard-to-find varieties Save money Beat the winter blues Rewarding to grow a plant from seed

More information

Ontario Science and Technology Curriculum 1999 Strand: Earth and Space Systems Topic: Soils in the Environment Grade: 3

Ontario Science and Technology Curriculum 1999 Strand: Earth and Space Systems Topic: Soils in the Environment Grade: 3 Name: Ontario Science and Technology Curriculum 1999 Strand: Earth and Space Systems Topic: Soils in the Environment Grade: 3 All rights reserved. Developed by T. Tasker May be photocopied for classroom

More information

SCHOOL PRODUCE COMPETITION TEACHER S MANUAL

SCHOOL PRODUCE COMPETITION TEACHER S MANUAL SCHOOL PRODUCE COMPETITION TEACHER S MANUAL 12-23 April 2019 Sydney Showground Sydney Olympic Park www.rasnsw.com.au CONTENTS INVITATION... 1 WHAT THE COMPETITION ACHIEVES... 1 THE COMPETITION TIMELINE...

More information

Plant Science Merit Badge Workbook

Plant Science Merit Badge Workbook Merit Badge Workbook This workbook can help you but you still need to read the merit badge pamphlet. This Workbook can help you organize your thoughts as you prepare to meet with your merit badge counselor.

More information

Kansas State Agricultural College SWEET CLOVER.

Kansas State Agricultural College SWEET CLOVER. Kansas State Agricultural College EXPERIMENT STATION Circular No. 34. DEPARTMENT OF AGRONOMY L. E. Call, Agronomist in Charge SWEET CLOVER. By C. C. CUNNINGHAM. SWEET CLOVER is destined to occupy an important

More information

Optimizing the Efficacy and Use of Vermicasts

Optimizing the Efficacy and Use of Vermicasts Optimizing the Efficacy and Use of Vermicasts Dr. Lord Abbey, P.Ag; Cert. Ad. Ed. Instructor/Researcher, Hort. Production Assiniboine Community College, Brandon, MB Presented at the 23 rd Annual National

More information

Lab 12E, 12F, 2E: Acid Rain and Seeds

Lab 12E, 12F, 2E: Acid Rain and Seeds 12E Describe the flow of matter through the carbon and nitrogen cycles and explain the consequences of disrupting these cycles. 12F Describe how environmental change can impact ecosystem stability. 2E

More information

NCEA Level 2 Agricultural and Horticultural Science (91290) 2014 page 1 of 8

NCEA Level 2 Agricultural and Horticultural Science (91290) 2014 page 1 of 8 NCEA Level 2 Agricultural and Horticultural Science (91290) 2014 page 1 of 8 Assessment Schedule 2014 Agricultural and Horticultural Science: Demonstrate understanding of techniques used to modify physical

More information

NFT. basic steps to successful growing. nutriculture ltd. Do you want. Find out more. Hydroponic

NFT. basic steps to successful growing. nutriculture ltd. Do you want. Find out more. Hydroponic NFT Do you want Earlier Bigger Taste Hydroponic Crops Yields Explosion Excellence Find out more basic steps to successful growing BASIC STEPS TO GROWING SUCCESSFULLY USING NFT NFT (NUTRIENT FILM TECHNIQUE)

More information

The Dutch Potato Report 2016 With Micosat mycorrhizae, fungi and bacteria

The Dutch Potato Report 2016 With Micosat mycorrhizae, fungi and bacteria The Dutch Potato Report 2016 With Micosat mycorrhizae, fungi and bacteria The Dutch Potato Report 2016 65 Test fields with controls (57 Consumption + 8 Seed potatoes) 27,337 Analyzed potatoes 350 Hectares

More information

In 1992, Mister Whisenant had some bad luck.

In 1992, Mister Whisenant had some bad luck. From VOA Learning English, this is Science in the News. Today, we tell about an American farmer and an unusual device he developed. For 20 years, people around the world have been buying his invention.

More information

Conditions necessary for germination of seeds

Conditions necessary for germination of seeds Teacher's/Lecturer's Sheet Conditions necessary for germination of seeds (Item No.: P8010600) Curricular Relevance Area of Expertise: Biology Education Level: Age 14-16 Topic: Plants Subtopic: Germination

More information

Purpose To build a biosphere that is a balanced, self-enclosed living system able to run efficiently over a long period of time.

Purpose To build a biosphere that is a balanced, self-enclosed living system able to run efficiently over a long period of time. Teacher Page Purpose To build a biosphere that is a balanced, self-enclosed living system able to run efficiently over a long period of time. Background [also see Teacher's Guide Pages 14, 15] Earth is

More information

Compostability of Restaurant Kitchen Waste Using Effective Microorganisms Preparations

Compostability of Restaurant Kitchen Waste Using Effective Microorganisms Preparations Compostability of Restaurant Kitchen Waste Using Effective Microorganisms Preparations Holger Kahl 1 and Mike Daly 2 Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology - School of Horticulture PO Box 540,

More information

Sunflower Sunbright and Sunbright Supreme Culture

Sunflower Sunbright and Sunbright Supreme Culture Sunflower Sunbright and Sunbright Supreme Culture Plug Culture Tips Sunflower Sunbright and Sunbright Supreme are prized for their large flowers, bright colors and long vase life. Often sown directly into

More information

FLORICULTURE & GREENHOUSE MGMT (130)

FLORICULTURE & GREENHOUSE MGMT (130) FLORICULTURE & GREENHOUSE MGMT (130) DESCRIPTION Floriculture and Greenhouse Management is designed to measure knowledge and skills related to the floriculture industry. Floral design and greenhouse operations

More information

Yield response of wheat varieties to sowing time 2011.

Yield response of wheat varieties to sowing time 2011. FACTSHEET Yield response of wheat varieties to sowing time 2011. Peter Martin, Research Agronomist, Wagga Wagga Chris Lisle, Biometritian, Wagga Wagga Frank McRae, Peter Matthews, Technical Specialist

More information

Bed preparation and Seedplug Transplanting Vegetable Master Grower Program 14 th Feb 2014

Bed preparation and Seedplug Transplanting Vegetable Master Grower Program 14 th Feb 2014 Bed preparation and Seedplug Transplanting Vegetable Master Grower Program 14 th Feb 2014 Overview Types of vegetable raised beds Know your soil Vegetable planting distances Vegetable seedlings and seedplug

More information

A New Hydroponic Substrate GREENHOUSE TOMATO CULTIVATION ON GROWSTONES GROW BAGS

A New Hydroponic Substrate GREENHOUSE TOMATO CULTIVATION ON GROWSTONES GROW BAGS A New Hydroponic Substrate GREENHOUSE TOMATO CULTIVATION ON GROWSTONES GROW BAGS A comparison between cultivation on Growstones and Rockwool Written by Paula Costa, Ph.D Director of Research & Development

More information

HG Homeowner Landscape Series: Planting Problems of Trees and Shrubs

HG Homeowner Landscape Series: Planting Problems of Trees and Shrubs Many cultural and pest problems on woody ornamentals can be avoided by selection of high quality plant material. Work with your landscape designer and installer to use plants that are properly adapted

More information

Lab Notebook. Topic Investigation Activity Title Page Ref. Give It A Try Survivor! 96

Lab Notebook. Topic Investigation Activity Title Page Ref. Give It A Try Survivor! 96 Lab Notebook Plants for Food and Fibre Index of Investigations, Challenges and Activities Topic Investigation Activity Title Page Ref. Give It A Try Survivor! 96 1 Understanding structures and life processes

More information

Lecture # 20 Pruning and Grooming

Lecture # 20 Pruning and Grooming Lecture # 20 Pruning and Grooming ENVIRONMENT Air (O 2,CO 2 ) Water regulates speed Temperature and extent of Light Physiological Nutrients processes which Genetic determines type determine composition

More information

Instructor: Stephen L. Love Aberdeen R & E Center 1693 S 2700 W Aberdeen, ID Phone: Fax:

Instructor: Stephen L. Love Aberdeen R & E Center 1693 S 2700 W Aberdeen, ID Phone: Fax: Vegetable Crops PLSC 451/551 Lesson 5, Environment, Propagation Instructor: Stephen L. Love Aberdeen R & E Center 1693 S 2700 W Aberdeen, ID 83210 Phone: 397-4181 Fax: 397-4311 Email: slove@uidaho.edu

More information

What Do Plants Need?

What Do Plants Need? What Do Plants Need? Focus: Students identify and investigate life needs of plants. Specific Curriculum Outcomes Students will be expected to: 46.0 identify and investigate life needs of plants and describe

More information

Recommended Resources: The following resources may be useful in teaching this

Recommended Resources: The following resources may be useful in teaching this Unit D: Fruit and Vegetable Crop Production Lesson 1: Planning and Preparing a Vegetable Garden Site Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following

More information

Tomatosphere: Space Gardening (Adapted by: Nandita Bajaj from Tomatosphere.org)

Tomatosphere: Space Gardening (Adapted by: Nandita Bajaj from Tomatosphere.org) Tomatosphere: Space Gardening (Adapted by: Nandita Bajaj from Tomatosphere.org) Background Mars, our neighbouring planet has been the object of our fascination for as long as space exploration began over

More information

Unit D: Controlling Pests and Diseases in the Orchard. Lesson 4: Identify and Control Weeds in the Orchard

Unit D: Controlling Pests and Diseases in the Orchard. Lesson 4: Identify and Control Weeds in the Orchard Unit D: Controlling Pests and Diseases in the Orchard Lesson 4: Identify and Control Weeds in the Orchard 1 Terms Annual Artificial weed dispersal Auricles Biennial Collar Cotyledons Herbaceous perennials

More information

So you would like to grow onions?

So you would like to grow onions? Onions If undelivered please return to the Mediae Company, P.O. Box 215-00502, Karen So you would like to grow onions? Ken and Winrose decided to grow onions. Onions have a good market, mature early and

More information

Make New Plants and Keep the Old

Make New Plants and Keep the Old Make New Plants and Keep the Old Overview: What could be more exciting than turning one plant into 30 new plants for each of your students to take home? Learning the plant propagation technique of taking

More information

Seed Starting. What is a seed? Why Start Seeds? 2/17/2016. O Living time capsule of a plants DNA

Seed Starting. What is a seed? Why Start Seeds? 2/17/2016. O Living time capsule of a plants DNA Seed Starting Lynda Garvin Agriculture Agent Sandoval County lgarvin@nmsu.edu What is a seed? O Living time capsule of a plants DNA O Protective package O Food energy storage from germination to first

More information

Gardening and Landscaping

Gardening and Landscaping Gardening and Landscaping Course Design 2007-2008 Course Information Organization EASTERN ARIZONA COLLEGE Division Science Course Number AGR 230 Title Gardening and Landscaping Credits 3 Developed by Randall

More information

Philips Lighting in horticulture

Philips Lighting in horticulture Philips Lighting in horticulture Philips has been developing light sources for horticulture for many years and continues to invest heavily in horticultural lighting. In R&D for Lamps, Lighting Electronics

More information

High Tunnel Hanging Baskets, 2010 A Partnership grant funded by NESARE Judson Reid, Principal Investigator Cornell Vegetable Program

High Tunnel Hanging Baskets, 2010 A Partnership grant funded by NESARE Judson Reid, Principal Investigator Cornell Vegetable Program High Tunnel Hanging Baskets, 2010 A Partnership grant funded by NESARE Judson Reid, Principal Investigator Cornell Vegetable Program Introduction High tunnels offer a vertical production environment that

More information

Horticulture Sciences Calendar: Week 1 Secondary

Horticulture Sciences Calendar: Week 1 Secondary Horticulture Sciences Calendar: Week 1 Secondary Unit 1Employability characteristics of a successful worker in the modern workplace 1. examine the elements and advantages of the free enterprise system;

More information

Chap 12. Plant Propagation. I. Three Methods of Plant Propagation

Chap 12. Plant Propagation. I. Three Methods of Plant Propagation Chap 12. Plant Propagation I. Three Methods of Plant Propagation a. Sexual Propagation (Seed Propagation) b. Asexual Propagation (Vegetative Propagation) c. Micropropagation (Tissue Culture) II. Sexual

More information

Growing of some kind of organic seedling on some animal manure composts

Growing of some kind of organic seedling on some animal manure composts ORIGINAL SCIENTIFIC PAPER Growing of some kind of organic seedling on some animal ts Zoltan Pap 1, Krisztianne Kis 1, Katalin Slezak 1, Yousry A. Bayoumi 2 1 Corvinus University of Budapest, Faculty of

More information

Phalaenopsis. Pot size used:

Phalaenopsis. Pot size used: Phalaenopsis Introduction: The following is a guideline for growing Phalaenopsis in Orchiata; it is aimed at helping the grower to ensure that any areas of concern have some guidance. There is also a quick

More information

Plant-A-Plant Carbon Dioxide II Laboratory Guide

Plant-A-Plant Carbon Dioxide II Laboratory Guide Plant-A-Plant Carbon Dioxide II Laboratory Guide Task Plant maize seedlings in a semi-closed system (plastic soda bottle within a jar). Observe the effect of elevated carbon dioxide concentration on the

More information

Introduction to Horticulture, 5th Edition 2009, (Schroeder et al.) Correlated to: North Carolina VoCATS Course Blueprint - Horticulture I

Introduction to Horticulture, 5th Edition 2009, (Schroeder et al.) Correlated to: North Carolina VoCATS Course Blueprint - Horticulture I A. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 001.00 Investigate organizations as related to the horticulture industry. SE: 665-671 TM: 70-72 001.01 Describe opportunities for leadership development in horticulture industry

More information

Worsleya rayneri. It is one of the largest (around 1.5 meters high) and rarest members of the subfamily Amaryllidoideae (family Amaryllidaceae).

Worsleya rayneri. It is one of the largest (around 1.5 meters high) and rarest members of the subfamily Amaryllidoideae (family Amaryllidaceae). Growing Worsleya procera - (My growing climate is in Northern NSW Australia) (The content of this file is a compilation of my own images & information + some information taken from the web). The genus

More information

H. E. Sommer, H. Y. Wetzstein and N. Lee

H. E. Sommer, H. Y. Wetzstein and N. Lee TISSUE CULTURE OF SWEETGUM (LIQUIDAMBAR STYRACIFLUA L.) H. E. Sommer, H. Y. Wetzstein and N. Lee Abstract.--An improved method for the tissue culture propagation of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.)

More information

Growing Plants Inside the Box

Growing Plants Inside the Box 28 May 2012 MP3 at voaspecialenglish.com Growing Plants Inside the Box CHRISTOPHER CRUISE: This is SCIENCE IN THE NEWS, in VOA Special English. Today, we tell about an American farmer and an unusual device

More information

Maximizing Vine Crop production with Proper Environmental Control

Maximizing Vine Crop production with Proper Environmental Control Maximizing Vine Crop production with Proper Environmental Control Richard McAvoy Department of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture University of Connecticut richard.mcavoy@uconn.edu 860-486-2925 Environmental

More information

Assessment Schedule 2015 Final Version Agricultural and Horticultural Science: Demonstrate knowledge of soil management practices (90919)

Assessment Schedule 2015 Final Version Agricultural and Horticultural Science: Demonstrate knowledge of soil management practices (90919) NCEA Level 1 Agricultural and Horticultural Science (90919) 2015 page 1 of 6 Assessment Schedule 2015 Final Version Agricultural and Horticultural Science: Demonstrate knowledge of soil management practices

More information

PLANTS. Interactive Science Book. Created by Cristina Schubert

PLANTS. Interactive Science Book. Created by Cristina Schubert PLANTS Interactive Science Book Created by Cristina Schubert JOURNAL What do you think plants need to grow and live? 1 What Plants Need Plants are living things that must have certain things or basic needs

More information

Rootstocks are the foundation of a healthy and productive

Rootstocks are the foundation of a healthy and productive Soil ph, Soil Type and Replant Disease Affect Growth and Nutrient Absorption of Apple Rootstocks Gennaro Fazio 1, Darius Kviklys 2, Michael A. Grusak 3, Terence Robinson 4 1 Plant Genetics Resources Unit,

More information

The Kalahari Melon Seed Breeding Project FARMERS FIELD TESTING OF IMPROVED KMS CROSSES. GUIDELINES, January 2009

The Kalahari Melon Seed Breeding Project FARMERS FIELD TESTING OF IMPROVED KMS CROSSES. GUIDELINES, January 2009 CRIAA SA-DC / INDIGENOUS PLANT TASK TEAM (IPTT) KALAHARI MELON SEED (KMS) OIL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT The Kalahari Melon Seed Breeding Project FARMERS FIELD TESTING OF IMPROVED KMS CROSSES GUIDELINES, January

More information

1 P a g e CABBAGE PRODUCTION

1 P a g e CABBAGE PRODUCTION 1 P a g e CABBAGE PRODUCTION 2 P a g e Production of cabbages in Kenya 1. Cabbages are mainly rain fed in Kenya and produced for domestic /local market consumption. 2. Cabbages are grown predominantly

More information

Vital Earth Resources 706 East Broadway, Gladewater, Texas (903) FAX: (903) Crop Results

Vital Earth Resources 706 East Broadway, Gladewater, Texas (903) FAX: (903) Crop Results Vital Earth Resources 706 East Broadway, Gladewater, Texas 75647 (903) 845-2163 FAX: (903) 845-2262 2014 Crop Results Vitazyme on Lettuce Researchers: Eng. Lucero Fernandez and Eng. Adrian Zapata Farmer:

More information

BIG & Whopper The Ultimate Color Show

BIG & Whopper The Ultimate Color Show BIG & WHOPPER BIG & Whopper The Ultimate Color Show Whopper Series Mix Super-sized color for any landscape Focal point in large containers; baskets or mixes A premium product that s easy to grow Thrives

More information

Raising bromeliads (broms.,) from seed;

Raising bromeliads (broms.,) from seed; Raising bromeliads (broms.,) from seed; In particular, epiphyte and terrestrial bromeliads from temperate to tropical climates, where rainfall is similar to most of coastal N.S.W. Australia. Bromeliad

More information

ISLAND SCHOOL 4 TH GRADE OHIA PROPAGATION DAY

ISLAND SCHOOL 4 TH GRADE OHIA PROPAGATION DAY Ohia Plant Propagation At Waipa Island School 4 th Grade September 29, 2003 ISLAND SCHOOL 4 TH GRADE OHIA PROPAGATION DAY OBJECTIVES Students investigate seed germination Students look into air layering

More information

Pruning. Recommended Practices

Pruning. Recommended Practices Pruning Growers can improve the canopy environment with either sanding or pruning. Although both practices will give physical improvements such as increased potential for photosynthesis, better aeration,

More information

Growing Cannabis in Millenniumsoils Coir

Growing Cannabis in Millenniumsoils Coir Growing Cannabis in Millenniumsoils Coir With Millenniumsoils Coir products, it is important to remember that this is true hydroponics, and as such should not be treated as potted / container culture.

More information

APES- Environmental Effects of Radiation Laboratory Activity. Purpose: To see the effect of the seed irradiation on germination and plant growth

APES- Environmental Effects of Radiation Laboratory Activity. Purpose: To see the effect of the seed irradiation on germination and plant growth APES- Environmental Effects of Radiation Laboratory Activity Purpose: To see the effect of the seed irradiation on germination and plant growth Background: The irradiation of seeds may cause a sudden and

More information