Herbaceous production US style

Transcription

1 Herbaceous Perennial Technical Discussion Group Herbaceous production US style Mere Brow Village Hall, 65 The Gravel, Mere Brow, Tarleton, Preston PR4 6JX. Lovania Nurseries 188 Blackgate Lane, Tarleton, Preston PR4 6UU 19 July 2016

2

3 Event Programme Time Subject Speaker Registration and refreshments Welcome and matters arising Ben Shaw, HPTDG Chairman Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA Coffee and tea break Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects Paul Pilon, Perennial Production Consultant, Perennial Solutions Consulting Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA Lunch and depart for nursery Lovania Nurseries nursery tour to discuss production and marketing of herbaceous plants, courtesy of Nigel Johnson and Lovania Nurseries Paul Pilon, Perennial Production Consultant, Perennial Solutions Consulting Depending upon numbers the group will be divided into two or more parties for the tour Refreshments and depart AHDB Horticulture is a Division of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB)

4 Contents Title Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Page 1 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture 6 Extract from project HNS 103b Hardy herbaceous perennials: Workshop to explore the potential for crop scheduling and the effects of chemical plant growth regulators to optimise growth and habit Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Notes 51

5 Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Herbaceous Perennials: Trends in the U.S. Perennials Offer Endless Opportunities Consists of thousands of varieties Gardens Container plantings Cut flowers Indoor potted plants Tender perennials sold as annuals Groundcovers And more Presented by: Paul Pilon More on trends in the U.S. after we look at our market statistics. Perennial Solutions Consulting Jenison, Michigan paul@perennialsolutions.com Overview of Horticultural Specialties in the U.S. Much of the data presented here was taken from the 2014 Census of Horticultural Specialties which was released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture s National Agricultural Statistics Service (USDA/NASS) in December Horticultural Specialties Sales $13,789,048,000 Transplants for Commercial Vegetable and Strawberry Vegetable Seeds 1% Flower Seeds 0.20% Greenhouse Grown Food Crops Production 2.70% 5.80% Other 2.90% Dried Bulbs, Corms, Rhizomes and Tubers 0.50% Annuals 18.60% Sod 8.30% Propagative Materials 5% The data reported were collected during the first half of 2015 based on respondents total calendar 2014 sales. Statistics were collected across all horticultural operations with at least $10,000 in farm gate sales across all 50 states on a mandatory basis, as a follow up survey as part of the 2012 Census of Agriculture Perennials 6.90% The Census of Horticultural Specialties dates back to 1889, and it has been conducted every 10 years since then (the Census of Agriculture is done every five) Nursery Stock 30.90% Pottted Flowering Plants 7.90% Foliage Plants 5.20% Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Cut Flowers 3.40% Cut Cultivated Greens 0.70% 2014 Floriculture Sales $5,879,685,000 Cut Cultivated Greens 1.70% How Do the Horticultural Specialties Numbers Stack Up? Annuals 43.70% Cut Flowers 7.80% Foliage Plants 12.30% The U.S. is now producing $5.88 billion in finished floricultural sales across the bedding/garden plant (annuals and perennials), potted flowering plant, foliage plant, cut flower and cut cultivated greens sectors 2014 Floriculture Sales $5,879,685,000 Cut Cultivated Greens 1.70% Cut Flowers 7.80% Foliage Plants 12.30% Potted Flowering Plants 18.40% This is up a whopping 17.2% from the 2009 figure of only $5.1 billion Annuals 43.70% Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Perennials 16.10% If you add in the production and sales of flower seeds ($31.6 million), dried bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers ($71 million), and propagative materials ($695.1 million), floriculture could easily surpass the $6 billion figure Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Perennials 16.10% Potted Flowering Plants 18.40% 1

6 Annuals $2,567,534,000 Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting 2014 Annuals, Perennial and Shrub Sales $7,779,015,000 Nursery Stock $4,266,631,000 Perennials $944,850,000 Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) $3,000,000, $2,500,000, $2,000,000, $1,500,000, $1,000,000, $500,000, Let s Look Closer at These Categories $ Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Value of Annual Sales Annuals $1,000,000, $900,000, $800,000, $700,000, $600,000, $500,000, $400,000, $300,000, $200,000, $100,000, $ Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) +3.03% Per Year $4,500,000, $4,000,000, $3,500,000, $3,000,000, $2,500,000, $2,000,000, $1,500,000, $1,000,000, $500,000, Value of Nursery Stock Sales $ Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Value of Perennial Sales Perennials Nursery Stock +3.16% Per Year +2.36% Per Year Nearly $1 Billion Sold How Does The Growth Rate In Floriculture Compare To The U.S. Economy? Perennials 2.4% Per Year Inflation 1.7% Per Year Perennials are approaching $1 billion in sales each year. That s according to the USDA 2014 Census of Horticultural Specialties. In 2014, the total sales for the potted herbaceous perennial plant category was $945 million. This is up $101 million (12%) from the last census results in 2009 Value of Perennial Sales $1,000,000, $800,000, $600,000, $400,000, $200,000, $ Source: USDA Census of Perennials Horticultural Specialties (2014) The country as a whole has had approximately 1.7% per year inflation from 2010 to 2014 (according to the Consumer Price Index). During that time perennial sales have increased by 3.16% per year. The growth rate of perennials is more than keeping up with the rate of inflation How Has The Number Of Growers Changed Over Time? Number of Operations $100,000 to $999,999 in Sales Slightly more large growers for annuals and perennials Significantly more large nursery growers Annual Bedding/Garden Plants Herbaceous Perennial Plants Nursery Stock Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Fewer intermediately sized growers for annuals and perennials Number of Operations > $1,000,000 in Sales Annual Bedding/Garden Plants Herbaceous Perennial Plants Nursery Stock Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) Perennial Operations Perennial Operations $100,000 to $999,999 in Sales Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) $100,000 to $999,999 In 2014 there were 339 growers (5.4%) with > $2.5 million in sales They are accountable for at least $847,500,000 in sales or 89.7% of all perennial sales In 2014, there were 6,291 perennial growers 3,294 with < $100,000 in sales (52.4%) 2,296 with $100,000 to $999,999 (36.5%) 701 with > $1,000,000 (11.1%) Perennial Operations > $1,000,000 in Sales Source: USDA Census of Horticultural Specialties (2014) $1,000,000+ 2

7 Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Where Are Perennials Grown? Source: USDA NASS 2014 Census of Horticultural Specialties Nursery Management February 2016 Who Grows Perennials in the U.S.? In the past perennials were primarily grown by growers who only grew perennials However, today the lines between the types of production facilities are becoming blurred. They are essentially hybrids of what they used to be Perennials are being grown by traditional perennial growers plus an increasing number of annual an nursery operations have added perennials to their production portfolios The perennial category from the 2014 Census of Horticultural Specialties was divided into 38 categories (including "other perennials"), each representing a genus or category of perennials. These categories were not broken down by plant species or by cultivar Top 12 Perennials Rank Perennial Value Units 1 Hostas $58,375,000 14,127,000 2 Daylilies $28,517,000 7,103,000 3 Ferns (hardy) $20,389,000 5,298,000 4 Salvia (perennial) $16,695,000 4,216,000 5 Echinacea $15,657,000 3,369,000 6 Dianthus $15,170,000 4,434,000 Top 12 Perennials Rank Perennial Value Units 7 Heuchera $15,149,000 3,128,000 8 Sedum $15,031,000 4,659,000 9 Coreopsis $14,038,000 3,958, Lavender $13,748,000 3,603, Phlox $12,880,000 3,999, Rudbeckia $9,501,000 2,520,000 *Ornamental Grasses, Clematis and Groundcovers were huge categories with sales ranging from $99 to $158 million in each category Wide range of container sizes are grown Trade gallons (2.5 quart) are the most common size Sizes typically range from one quart to two gallon sized containers Some sizes in between these and a few larger sizes are grown at some locations What Container Sizes are Sold in the U.S.? Colour Sells Blooming perennials are generally preferred at retail locations. Impulse buying Colour is not always required, especially for landscape installations Gaillardia Mesa Bright Bicolor 3

8 Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Perennial Production is Influenced by the Market Professional Organizations What or Who Influences the Production of Perennials? Marketing Promotions The Market Mass merchandisers now account for over 60% of floriculture sales They also typically require 70 to 80% of the plants to be in bloom or at least budded Varieties Promotion Information Varieties Name Recognition Perceived Quality Ship Date Varieties Product Size Degree of Colour How Perennials are Sold in the U.S. How Perennials are Sold in the U.S. Nursery Containers Patio Pots/Decorative Containers Cut Flowers (the majority of sales) Indoor Potted Plants Campanula Pearl series Dianthus Everlast Orchid Aquilegia Swan Burgundy and White Aster Wood s Purple Marketing Trends Perennials for Attracting Pollinators Marketing Trends Deer Resistant Perennials Achillea Agastache Asclepias Buddleia Coreopsis Echinacea Gaillardia Lavandula Leucanthemum Monarda Nepeta Perovskia Salvia Sedum And many more Agastache Amsonia Artemisia Dicentra Echinacea Euphorbia Geranium Lamium Lavandula Nepeta Perovskia Salvia Stachys And many more Examples of perennials deer tend to avoid: Smelly - Agastache, Monarda Prickly - Yucca Slippery - Bergenia Hairy - Artemisia 4

9 Herbaceous perennials: Trends in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting The Perennial Market in the U.S. is Looking Good Thank You!!! Questions? On site and Remote Consulting Services Available E Mail: paul@perennialsolutions.com Phone:

10 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects - Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture Why bother? Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects Wayne Brough, AHDB PGRs used to manipulate plant growth to: maximise plant numbers per unit area on standing beds minimise loss of quality, improve visual appearance of vigorous subjects reduce need for physical pinching/pruning reduce plant damage in supply chain maximise plant numbers on trollies improve shelf-life/extend marketing period assist with disease control Why bother? Think about all the options first Environmental temperatures, hardening crops off moving outside, increasing ventilation etc. Light, maximise light transmission early in the season (use of spectral filters), space plants, DROP (a 2-4 hour 4-8⁰C temperature drop at dawn) Nutrition use calcium nitrate as the main source of nitrogen (as opposed to ammonium nitrogen) in liquid feeds, increase conductivities with potassium based fertilisers, consider limiting phosphorus or use P buffers Irrigation use water stress to check growth or use a more open growing medium Physical - brushing Principles of PGR use Use PGRs in a plan, taking account of seasonality, prevailing weather, plant growth and sales Match the PGR to what you are trying to achieve stop growth or manipulate plant habit Apply PGRs early on and definitely prior to rapid stem elongation, especially flower stem elongation Bear in mind plant species often respond differently to PGRs (sometimes even different varieties) Decide on the most appropriate application method Effects/side effects of PGRs Reduction in plant height (increase if using gibberellins) Promote rooting, branching or flowering Reduce time to flowering, increase time to flowering abortion of flowers Prolong/break dormancy Leaf size and flower size reduction Change in flower colour or leaf colour 6

11 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects - Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture Potential problems with PGR use Plant phytotoxicity Stunted and misshapen plants Increased reliance on chemicals Selectivity (product and rate) crops can respond differently Persistence (treated crop and subsequent crops) Cost (chemical and application), especially drenches PGR availability Active ingredient Example products Approval Chlormequat (750g/litre) Stabilan 750, Agrovista 3 See chloroethylphosphonic acid (ethephon) Daminozide Label until 31 Dec 2016 (protected and outdoor) Cerone EAMU 2366/12 (protected and outdoor) B Nine SG, Dazide Enhance Label (protected) Paclobutrazol Bonzi, Pirouette Label (protected container grown) Prohexadione Prohexadione calcium Regalis Plus Regalis EAMU 0181/15 (protected) and 0175/15 (outdoor) EAMU 1868/15 (protected) and 1869/15 (outdoor) Trinexapac ethyl Moddus EAMU 3062/10 (protected and outdoor) PGR availability (potentials) PGR comments - chlormequat Active ingredient Example products Approvals 6 benzyladenine Configure Label protected named crops only (phalaenopsis, schlumbergera, sempervivum and kalanchoe) Ethephon + mepiquat chloride Mepiquat chloride + metconazole Mepiquat + prohexadione calcium Terpal (16463) Caryx Canopy/Medax Top EAMU outdoor forest nurseries LTAEU outdoor only LTAEU outdoor only Only one concentration now available (750g/l) Could be serious rate/application changes to obtain EAMU for future use Leaf or root uptake Apply at end of day only moves into leaf when wet, use recommended adjuvants (?) Do not irrigate for hours Less effective below 10⁰C May advance flowering by 10 days No maximum application number on EAMU Chlormequat phytotoxicity PGR comments - ethephon Breaks down to form ethylene in the plant Increases branching (recommended for geraniums) Avoid run-off Most effective over 10⁰C One application only Was quite strong when tested on bedding plants But is an organophosphorus compound 7

12 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects - Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture Cerone on bedding dahlia PGR comments - daminozide Only absorbed by leaves when wet Apply at end of day, no irrigation for 24 hours Less effective on vigorous growth or when temperatures are high Moderate growth control Relatively expensive (can be over ten times cost of chlormequat) Can delay flowering by five days Maximum number of applications on label 2-5 Tank mixes with chlormequat (?) PGR comments paclobutrazol Paclobutrazol stunting Absorbed through stems and roots Moves rapidly into plants, effective if spray drives quickly Cannot wash off beyond 30 minutes Rate and volume sensitive, uniform application essential Useful for holding crops, but.. Over-application can have long term impact Effect increased if temperature drops after application Application number 1 to 10 depending upon rate used MAPP no drench application, cannot dispose of treated plant material/media onto agricultural land Less effective in bark based media PGR comments - prohexadione Prohexadione petal bleach Same mode of action as daminozide but stronger Used in fruit production, but trialled over ornamentals Maximum individual and total dose listed on EAMU Late applications can impact flower petal colour Possesses potential 8

13 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects - Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture PGR comments trinexapac-ethyl Trinexapac-ethyl petal bleach Overall indifferent performance on a range of bedding plants (PO 004) Can also cause petal bleach (related compound to prohexadione) Only one application per crop PGR comments - other HNS 103b species list Configure plant handling interval (up to 60 days), but its been trialled in the USA on herbaceous. EAMU application to allow use in other crops + attempt to reduce handling interval Terpal and Canopy planned to be included in bedding trials in the Bedding and Pot Plant Centre project PO 019 (both cereal PGRs), mepiquat chloride used to control growth in cotton plants Terpal EAMU application to allow use in outdoor and protected ornamentals Canopy EAMU application to allow use in outdoor and protected ornamentals Pirouette EAMU application to allow drench use + attempt to remove growing media/waste disposal restriction Achillea Moonshine Campanula Blue Waterfall Catanche caerula Blue Centurea Amethyst Dream Coreopsis Lime Rock Ruby Diascia personata Erysimum Bowles Mauve Gallardia St Clements Gaura neapolitanum Tutti Frutti Lavatera Blushing Bride Lavender Bella Rouge Leucanthemum Broadway Lights Monarda Beauty of Cobham Penstemon Ice Cream Sweet Cherry Phygelius Funfare Wine Scabiosa Burgundy Bonnets Salvia Hot Lips Verbena Seabrook Lavender HNS 103b treatment list Plant size at first treatment Untreated control Bonzi 1 spray at 2.5 ml per litre Fargro Chlormequat 2 sprays at 3.0 ml per litre Regalis 2 sprays at 1.25 g per litre Dazide Enhance 1 spray at 5.0 g per litre Fargro Chlormequat 1 spray at 6.0 ml per litre Regalis 1 spray at 2.5 g per litre Bonzi 2 sprays at 1.25 ml per litre Dazide Enhance 2 sprays at 3.0g per litre Bonzi drench treatment at 2.5 ml per litre Dazide Enhance drench treatment at 5.0 g per litre Fargro Chlormequat drench treatment at 6.0 ml per litre Regalis drench treatment at 2.5 g per litre Sprays applied in approx 1000 litres water per ha. Drenches applied at 150 ml solution per 2 litre pot via watering can and washed off. 9

14 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects - Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture Effect of Fargro Chlormequat on Campanula Effect of Dazide on Salvia Effect of Bonzi on Lavatera Effect of Regalis on Penstemon PGR programmes With vigorous species, commence in the liner stage or after potting For species with long flower stems a PGR at the first signs of flower initiation can reduce stretch Avoid irregular high doses as this can damage the plant and lead to a stop/start growth habit Some PGRs are useful to manipulate plant habit (chlormequat, daminozide etc.), others (Bonzi) to hold growth in check Try to avoid applying by week numbers as growth/weather is different from year to year PGR programmes Trial a number of species with various PGRs/rates before widespread use Consider drenches (where appropriate) for longer term growth control Ensure good application uniformity and slow drying period after application for best results Maintain records (written/photographic) 10

15 Getting the best from chemical PGRs for herbaceous subjects - Wayne Brough, AHDB Horticulture Future of PGRs X Future potential usefulness of chlormequat could be in doubt X Bonzi is classified as an endocrine disruptor X Cerone is an OP Potential products still available Need to trial them to maintain the option of PGRs for use on ornamentals in the future Further information AHDB project HNS 103b AHDB project PO 004 AHDB Factsheet 03/14 pdf/pgr_guide_0116.pdf Please interpret with caution! 11

16 Project title Project number: Project leader: Hardy Herbaceous Perennials: Workshop to explore the potential for crop scheduling and the effects of chemical plant growth regulators to optimise growth and habit. HNS 103b Wayne Brough, ADAS Report: Final report, July 2010 Previous report Key staff: N/A David Talbot, ADAS Chris Burgess, Consultant Location of project: Project coordinator: Cuckoobridge Nursery, Somersham Steve Carter, Farplants, Yapton Lane, Walberton, Arundel, W Sussex. Francis Mizuro, R.A. Meredith and Son, Cuckoobridge Nursery, Somersham, St Ives, Cambridgeshire Date project commenced: 1 February 2010 Date project completed (or expected completion date): Key words: 29 September 2010 Herbaceous plants, growth regulators, plant growth control, plant habit manipulation, scheduling techniques, daminozide, chlormequat, paclobutrazol, prohexadione-calcium, Dazide Enhance, Bonzi, Fargo Chlormequat, Regalis Whilst reports issued under the auspices of the HDC are prepared from the best available information, neither the authors nor the HDC can accept any responsibility for inaccuracy or liability for loss, damage or injury from the application of any concept or procedure discussed. No part of this publication may be presented, copied or reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission of the Horticultural Development Company. 12

17 Grower Summary Headline Four chemical plant growth regulator treatments were applied to eighteen herbaceous plant species. The treatments gave variable control of plant height and habit and impacted to varying degrees on flowering times. No single treatment proved optimal across the range of plant species examined. The effects of the chemical growth regulator treatments were variety specific, as well as species specific. The drench applications examined tended to be more effective and more persistent than the spray applications, though they were more time consuming to apply. Background and expected deliverables The project was designed to explore the potential of scheduling herbaceous plant production and to examine the effects of chemical plant growth regulators on plant growth and habit on a selected number of herbaceous species. It was a combination of both knowledge transfer and demonstration research to show the possible benefits from such techniques. The project was divided into three stages: 1. a literature review of chemical plant growth regulator use on herbaceous perennials (Annex II in the full report). 2. an unreplicated demonstration trial examining the use of paclobutrazol (Bonzi), daminozide (Dazide Enhance), chlormequat (Fargro chlormequat) and prohexadione-calcium (Regalis) on a range of herbaceous perennial species. 3. a workshop at the trial site to provide information about scheduling and chemical plant growth regulator use on herbaceous perennials (Annex I in the full report). This Grower Summary highlights the key observations from the demonstration trial on the effect of the various chemical plant growth regulators on the herbaceous perennial species examined. Summary of the project and main conclusions 1. Trial detail Eighteen herbaceous plant species were selected for inclusion in the trial, which was hosted by a commercial nursery; selection was based on the potential to improve plant habit or control plant vigour via the application of chemical plant growth 2010 Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 13

18 regulators and species availability from stock on the host nursery. The species selected and the appropriate production detail for each are summarised in Table 1. The plants were grown as a commercial crop under glass on mobile benching in 2 litre pots using a Bulrush growing media and watered overhead by hand. They were spaced as necessary and pesticides were applied to control aphid, whitefly and two spotted spider mites, according to commercial practice. The plants were laid out by treatment on 11 May 2010, two treatments per bench. Four plants of each of the eighteen species formed each treatment block (72 plants per treatment). There was no treatment replication as the trial was laid out for demonstration purposes only over seven benches. Two plants from each treatment per species were labelled and recorded throughout the trial period. Table 1 herbaceous plant species selected and trial details Species / variety Seed Cutting Plug size Sowing / sticking date Potting on date Pinch Achillea x 60 Wk 6 Wk 16 No Other comments Campanula x 60 Wk 6 Wk 14 11/05/10 Catananche caerula Blue x 84 Bought in Wk 16 26/04/10 Centaurea x 60 Wk 4 Wk 16 No Coreopsis x 60 Wk 8 Wk 12 11/05/10 Diascia personata x 60 Wk 6 Wk 16 No* Very small plants initially Erysimum x 60 Wk 6 Wk 14 No Gallardia x 84 Bought in Wk 16 11/05/10 Small plants initially Gaura neapolitanum x 60 Wk 6 Wk 14 26/04/10 11/05/10 Lavatera x 60 Wk 6 Wk 12 26/04/10 Lavender x 60 Wk 6 Wk 8 No Well established plants Leucanthemum x 84 Bought in Wk 17 No Monarda x 84 Wk 6 Wk 14 No Small plants initially Penstemon x 84 Wk 6 Wk 12 26/04/10 11/05/10 Phygelius x 84 Wk 8 Wk 16 No Small plants initially Scabiosa x 60 Wk 6 Wk 12 No Well established plants Salvia x 60 Wk 8 Wk 12 11/05/10 Verbena * except at cutting stage. x 60 Wk 8 Wk 12 26/04/10 11/05/10 The chemical plant growth regulator treatments applied, the rate used, method of application and date of application are summarised in Table 2a. Product approvals status is provided in Table 2b Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 14

19 The spray treatments were applied in approximately 1,000 litres of water per hectare (to the point of run off from the foliage) by a small hand held sprayer. The drench treatments were applied at 150 ml of the final solution per 2 litre pot via a watering can and washed off with plain water. All applications were undertaken during late afternoon / early evening. Table 2a Treatments, rates used, method of application and timings Treatment Rate and application method First application Date Second application date Untreated control Bonzi 1 spray at 2.5 ml per litre 11/5/10 Dazide Enhance 1 spray at 5.0 g per litre 11/5/10 Fargro Chlormequat 1 spray at 6.0 ml per litre 11/5/10 Regalis 1 spray at 2.5 g per litre 11/5/10 Bonzi 2 sprays at 1.25 ml per litre 11/5/10 26/5/10 Dazide Enhance 2 sprays at 3.0g per litre 11/5/10 26/5/10 Fargro Chlormequat 2 sprays at 3.0 ml per litre 11/5/10 26/5/10 Regalis 2 sprays at 1.25 g per litre 11/5/10 26/5/10 Bonzi Drench at 2.5 ml per litre 11/5/10 Dazide Enhance Drench at 5.0 g per litre 11/5/10 Fargro Chlormequat Drench at 6.0 ml per litre 11/5/10 Regalis Drench at 2.5 g per litre 11/5/10 Most of the plants were of an appropriate size for treatment; however one species had insufficient growth (Diascia) whilst one or two others were too well developed (Scabiosa and Lavandula). Table 2b Approvals status for treatments (as of 20 October 2010) Product MAPP Active ingredient % Use Crop Approval status Bonzi Paclobutrazol 0.4 Growth regulator Dazide Enhance Daminozide 85 Growth regulator Fargro Chlormequat 46 Growth Chlormequat regulator Regalis Prohexadionecalcium 10 Growth regulator Ornamental plant production Ornamental (protected) Ornamental plant production Ornamental (outdoor)* On label On label On label Off label (2886/08) *An experimental permit (COP 2101/00664) was obtained to use Regalis under protection and at the higher one off application rate. The selected plants from each treatment were assessed on 11 May (at the start of the trial), on the 26 May 2010 and finally on 14 June Plant height / spread, growth score (0-5 score), time to flower and any phytotoxic damage symptoms were recorded Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 15

20 The plants were moved outside under an open sided polythene tunnel on the 9 June 2010 to provide a cooler environment and minimise plant stress. Two plants of each species per treatment were selected and moved onto separate benches on the 14 June 2010 prior to the demonstration workshop at R. A. Meredith and Son, Cuckoo Bridge Nursery (Somersham, Cambridgeshire). Figure 1 Stage of plant development at first application of chemical plant growth regulator (sprays and drench treatments) with a number of plant species Campanula Diascia Lavatera Lavandula Scabiosa Verbena (Plants in 2 litre pots) Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 16

21 2. Trial results The effect of the 4 chemical plant growth regulators on each of the eighteen herbaceous plant species is described in Table 3 and is quantified in Table 4. Growth control and habit manipulation were achieved in most cases (as described in Table 3) although no single chemical plant growth regulator treatment proved optimal for all the species examined. Not all the plant species came into flower before the final recording, so comments on flower stem length control with these species is limited. A delay in flowering was noted with some species, however because records were made relatively infrequently it was not possible to measure the delay in days and only the more significant delays (a week or more) were noted. Images of the most effective chemical growth regulator treatments are provided in Figure 2. Some phytotoxic damage was noted in response to the higher rate chlormequat spray treatment (Figure 3); primarily this took the form of leaf chlorosis, but leaf crinkling was also noted in the case of Lavatera; flower petal bleach was noted in response to Regalis. Some of the drench treatments gave rise to growth control that was too excessive (Figure 3) and lower chemical rates than those used the trial are suggested in these instances for commercial crops Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 17

22 Table 3 Summary of treatment effects (as at 14 June 2010) Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Achillea Campanula Limited effect on plant height with spray treatments. No delay in flowering. No improvement in habit. Drench treatment led to plants which were very compact. Limited effect of spray treatments. Possible slight delay in flowering, no habit improvement from sprays. Drench treatment very effective at reducing stem elongation and improving overall appearance of plant, growth regulation a little severe. Slight height reduction with two spray treatment and possibly slight flower delay. No improvement in habit. Drench treatment reduced height by almost 50%. Limited effect of spray treatments. Possibly a slight improvement in habit where two foliar sprays were applied, no delay in flowering. Earlier application may improve results. Drench treatment less effective than Bonzi, but useful growth reduction achieved. Limited effect on plant height with spray treatments. Less reduction of side growth with this treatment. No delay in flowering. Drench treatment had little effect on height. Yellowing of older leaves still visible. Limited effect of spray treatments. No delay in flowering. Maybe more shoot growth in crown of plant from 1 x spray treatment. Drench treatment slightly more effective than Dazide drench. Plants have smaller leaves / more open habit relative to other drench treatments. Leaf yellowing noted in response to drench and high rate spray treatment. No effect with 1 x spray treatment, limited (varied) effect with 2 x sprays. No delay in flowering. Over 50% reduction in growth in response to drench treatment. Limited effect of spray treatments. No delay in flowering. No improvement in habit. Flower petals slightly paler, especially in response to drench treatment. Drench treatment comparable to chlormequat treatment. Drenches had more impact on height, though lower rates will be needed commercially. Minimal improvement in habit, sprays targeted at flower stem may be better suited. Only drenches had a significant effect on plant growth. Bonzi drench treatment appears best in terms of growth reduction and habit improvement. 18

23 Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Catananche caerula Centaurea Coreopsis No effect of spray treatments (height control, flowering or plant habit improvement). Drench treatment improved habit and reduced flower stem length, also darkened foliage. Spray treatments of limited effect. No delay in flowering, no improvement in plant habit. Bonzi drench produced very compact plants, at least 60% height reduction allowing plants to remain upright. 1 x spray treatment not effective, slight height reduction and habit improvement with 2 x spray treatment. Smallest plants in response to drench treatment, good compact plants. No effect with 1 x spray treatment, 2 x spray treatment gave significant growth reduction but may result in a delay in flowering. Drench treatment produced good balanced plants with sufficient flower stem reduction. Darkened foliage. Spray treatments as for Bonzi. Dazide drench treatment effective, less compact than in response to Bonzi drench, but better balance to plant habit. 1 x spray treatment of limited effect, visible height reduction and habit improvement in response to 2 x spray treatment. Drench treatment less severe than Bonzi drench treatment. 1 x spray treatment was ineffective (plants poorer quality than control plants). 2 x spray treatment gave no reduction in flower stem height but increased the number of flowering side shoots. Drench treatment effective, as for Dazide. No real improvement in habit or apparent reduction in height with any treatment. Spray treatments not effective, drench treatment comparable to Dazide. The 2 x spray treatment was more effective than the 1 x spray treatment, giving rise to more compact plants. Drench treatment least effective of all the drench treatments. Foliage darkened. No height reduction with 1 x spray treatment, some reduction with the 2 x spray treatment, but not commercially significant. Drench treatment produced compact plants, on par with the Bonzi drench treatment. Bonzi, Dazide and Chlormequat drenches all made the plants more compact, as did the Regalis and Dazide 2 x spray treatments. No flower before end of trial. Dazide drench treatment gave rise to best plant habit. Bonzi and Regalis drench treatments possibly gave rise to plants which were too compact. Spray treatments generally ineffective. As for Dazide. Drench treatments most effective giving rise to more compact plants of better habit. 19

24 Very responsive to the Chlormequat treatments and the drench treatments (with the exception of Dazide). Treatments can delay flowering by up to a week. Bonzi drench treatment most effective at controlling vigou improve habit. Chlormequat drench produced best balanced plants. Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Diascia personata Sprays produced limited effect in terms of height control or habit improvement. Drench treatment produced compact plants with sturdy shoots. 2 x spray treatment more effective than 1 x spray treatment. Drench treatment as effective as Bonzi drench treatment. Limited visible effect from all treatments. Limited visible effect from all treatments. Smallest plants at treatment, plants probably too small to be treated. Bonzi and Dazide drenches most effective at controlling growth. No flower before end of trial. Erysimum Gallardia Some response to both spray treatments. Large (50% plus) reduction in height in response to the drench treatment (too compact) and delay in flowering (a week). Limited effect of spray treatments. No delay in flowering, no improvement in habit. Some height control but limited improvement in habit in response to drench treatment. No response to the spray treatments, some response to the drench treatment. Some limited height reduction with the treatments, especially the 2 x spray and drench treatments. Increased number of flowering side shoots. Strong response to Chlormequat, even the sprays. Plants more compact (50% plus height reduction relative to control). Drench treatment darkens the foliage. Limited effect from spray treatments. Drench treatment appears to increase the number of lower shoots and produces a plant of better habit. Limited effect on plant height in response to 1 x spray treatment, more growth control from other treatments. No real improvement in plant habit. Limited effect on plant height in response to spray or drench treatments. No real improvement in plant habit. 20

25 plant habit. Responsive to Chlormequat and Bonzi drench, with reductions of up to 50% in height. No flower before end of trial. Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Gaura neapolitanum Bonzi spray treatments of limited effect. Drench treatment very effective at reducing growth and flower stem length. Possibly too compact. Foliage darkened and leaf curling evident. Limited effect from 1 x spray treatment, 2 x spray treatment more effective in terms of height control and habit improvement. Delay in flowering. Limited effect of drench treatment. Limited effect from both spray treatments, drench treatment more effective. Some impact on growth from both spray treatments. Drench treatment much more effective at controlling height, flower stem length and improving habit. Compact plants produced in response to the Bonzi, Chlormequat and Regalis drenches; generally drenches resulted in too severe an effect. Some effect from the 2 x sprays Dazide and Regalis treatments, resulting in improvements in Lavatera Limited growth reduction in response to the spray treatments, but no improvement in plant habit. Drench treatment reduced growth excessively by at least 50%. Foliage darkened and crinkled in response to treatment. No response to the 1 x spray treatment, some visible response to 2 x spray treatment, but habit still open. Limited response to the drench treatment. Responsive to all treatments, sufficient growth check from 1 x spray treatment, this treatment gave the best result. Potential delay in flowering associated with 2 x sprays and drench treatments. Good reduction in height and improvement in habit. Foliage darkened, but also crinkled in response to treatments. Limited response to all treatments, 2 x spray treatment produced best plants. 21

26 Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Lavender Leucanthemum Spray treatments produced limited visible effects. Drench treatment improved plant habit and darkened foliage. Reduction in plant height in response to both spray treatments. Further reduction with drench treatment. Potential delay in flowering with drench treatment. All treatments had fewer flower spikes than those treated with Dazide Enhance / Regalis. Foliage darkened in response to all treatments. Spray treatments produced limited effect. The drench treatment improved overall habit Delay in flowering noted with spray treatment. Slight response to both spray treatments, more response to the drench treatment. Limited effect in terms of height control and habit improvement with all treatments. As per Dazide comments. Limited effect in terms of height control and habit improvement with all treatments. Treatments reduced flower petal colour intensity. Limited response to 1 x spray treatment, slightly more response to the 2 x spray treatment. Response to drench similar to that noted for Bonzi. Dazide had the most effect in terms of improving habit, treatments applied too late to impact on plant habit. Drench treatments appeared more effective at controlling plant height. As plants the end of the trial any impact on flower stem length was not recorded. 22

27 No real need for growth regulators with this variety, though Bonzi treatments could be useful in the production of plants for small pots / packs. Regalis drench looked promising. Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Monarda Penstemon Cream Sweet Very limited response to 1 x and 2 x spray treatments. Good response to the drench treatment, reducing height excessively by up to 60%. May delay flowering. Both spray treatments produced only limited effect. The drench treatment produced compact plants of good habit. No apparent response to any of the treatments. No real height control or habit improvement with the 1 x spray treatment. The 2 x spray and drench treatments improved habit without controlling plant height. Some response in terms of height control to both spray treatments, but no improvement in habit. Good response to drench treatment height reduced by around 20-30%, this was perceived to be the best treatment. No real improvement in habit or any reduction height with all treatments. Very limited response in terms of height control to both spray treatments, though the drench treatment produced the best response. As per Chlormequat comments. Bonzi and Chlormequat drenches produced the greatest reductions in height, limited response to the spray treatments. No flower before end of trial. Bonzi drench produced an overly compact but balanced plant. Chlormequat drench and 1 spray of Dazide enhance resulted in subtle improvements. Phygelius All the treatments reduced plant height and flower stem length. Compact plant in response to the drench treatment. Slight response in terms of height control and habit improvement with both spray treatments. More response to the drench treatment, but less than Bonzi. Flower delay in response to treatments. Limited effect of all treatments. Very limited effect of all treatments. 23

28 Limited growth control with most treatments. Some control in response to the drench treatments. Species Bonzi Dazide Enhance Fargro Chlormequat Regalis Overall comments Salvia Limited response to spray treatments. Drench treatment reduced height by 30% plus. Flower delay and foliage darkened in response to drench treatment. Limited response to all treatments. Drench treatment darkened foliage and delayed flowering. As per Dazide comments. As per Dazide comments. Responsive to the Bonzi drench treatment, limited response to the spray treatments. Scabiosa Limited response to both spray treatments. Drench treatment produced a compact plant. Potential flower delay and foliage darkened in response to drench treatment. No response to the 1 x spray treatment, slight reduction in plant height in response to the 2 x spray and drench treatments. Limited response in terms of height control with both spray treatments, but side shoot development encouraged. Drench treatment reduced plant height. Some response to the 1 x spray treatment, even more to the 2 x spray treatment. Drench treatment equivalent to Chlormequat drench treatment. Drench treatment darkened the foliage. Clear differences in height and habit in response to the 1 x and 2 x spray treatments and between sprays and drenches. Drench treatments most effective. No flower before end of trial. Verbena Limited effect of both spray treatments. Slight response to the drench treatment. Drench treatments appear to slightly darken the foliage. As per Bonzi comments. As per Bonzi comments. As per Bonzi comments. Some paleness in flower petal colour. 24

29 Presentation 5: Scheduling perennials plant growth regulator trial (HNS103b) Wayne Brough, ADAS Scheduling Perennials Plant Growth Regulator Trial HNS 103b Wayne Brough ADAS Ornamentals Consultant Scheduling Perennials Objectives Literature review of plant growth regulator use on herbaceous plants Nursery based workshop to disseminate information about scheduling and plant growth regulator use Demonstration trial of plant growth regulators on a range of herbaceous species 2010 Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 25

30 Scheduling Perennials Achillea Moonshine Campanula Blue Waterfall Catanche caerula Blue Centurea Amethyst Dream Coreopsis Lime Rock Ruby Diascia personata Erysimum Bowles Mauve Gallardia St Clements Gaura neapolitanum Tutti Frutti Lavatera Blushing Bride Lavender Bella Rouge Leucanthemum Broadway Lights Monarda Beauty of Cobham Penstemon Ice Cream Sweet Cherry Phygelius Funfare Wine Scabiosa Burgundy Bonnets Salvia Hot Lips Verbena Seabrook Lavender Scheduling Perennials Untreated control Bonzi 1 spray at 2.5 ml per litre Dazide Enhance 1 spray at 5.0 g per litre Fargro Chlormequat 1 spray at 6.0 ml per litre Regalis 1 spray at 2.5 g per litre (prohexadione calcium) Bonzi 2 sprays at 1.25 ml per litre Dazide Enhance 2 sprays at 3.0g per litre Fargro Chlormequat 2 sprays at 3.0 ml per litre Regalis 2 sprays at 1.25 g per litre Bonzi drench treatment at 2.5 ml per litre Dazide Enhance drench treatment at 5.0 g per litre Fargro Chlormequat drench treatment at 6.0 ml per litre Regalis drench treatment at 2.5 g per litre Sprays applied in approx 1000 litres water per ha. Drenches applied at 150 ml solution per 2 litre pot via watering can and washed off Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 26

31 Scheduling Perennials Crop diary Most species potted on from 60 or 84 plugs between weeks (with the exception of the lavender week 8). Grown on under glass on benching until 9 June then moved out under open sided tunnels. Pinching occurred as required after potting. PGRs applied on 11 May and 26 May Pesticides applied as required for P&D control Grown as a commercial crop Scheduling Perennials Trial detail Species selected where possible for vigour, flower stem height, open habit as a test for treatments. Treatments applied where possible to plants at optimum size, however diascia was too small and lavender and scabiosa were a little too large. Trial was laid out by treatment, now laid out 2 plant species per bench via PGR treatments untreated, 1 spray treatments, 2 spray treatments and drenches. Regalis possesses a SOLA for use on outdoor ornamentals / Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 27

32 Scheduling Perennials Product Cost of product Cost at rate trialled 46% chlormequat 1.8p per ml of product B. Nine SG 14.0p per gram of product 10.8p per litre at 6ml/l rate 70p per litre at 5g/l rate Bonzi 6.9p per ml of product 17.25p per litre at 2.5ml/l rate Chemical Growth regulators Rates of use Chlormequat depending upon concentration, 46% ml/l, 64.5 % ml/l. To avoid yellowing (and if used on plugs) from 1 ml/litre Daminozide B-Nine SG 3-6 g/l, Dazide Enhance g/l Paclobutrazol 1.25 ml/l, from 0.5 ml to 5 ml/l with care Summary Essential to trial / refine rates contained within the handout prior to widespread use Generally PGRs improve plant habit Take re-entry periods into account for products containing daminozide e.g. Dazide Enhance 4 9 days, B-Nine SG 8 days Regalis SOLA for outdoor ornamentals only 2010 Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 28

33 This section contains a literature review of plant growth regulator use on herbaceous perennials which was produced as part of HNS 103b Objective 1. The document is intended to be used as a reference document. Rates are presented as guidance only to provide an indication of potential suitable rates under UK growing conditions. Where the crop response in not known it is advised that a small proportion of a given crop is treated prior to widespread use of the chemical plant growth regulator. Neither HDC nor ADAS can be held responsible for crop losses or damage incurred from the rates detailed within this publication. There is potential to make more use of chemical plant growth regulators to manipulate the growth of herbaceous plant species. Plant growth regulator products can be used to reduce plant internode length and hence reduce plant height, improve the degree of side branching and hence improve plant habit and reduce flower stem height enabling more plants to be transported on each trolley. This potentially gives growers more control over crop development reducing the need for costly operations such as pinching and pruning and hand cleaning at dispatch. To maximise their effect, plant growth regulator products should be applied to new growth prior to any rapid extension. They can also be applied to plants at the flower bud initiation stage to reduce flower stem length, but note when applied at this stage they can also potentially delay the time to flower and reduce flower size. Depending upon their mode of action, plant growth regulator products can be applied to plants either as a spray or drench. Spray applications tend to have less impact on plant growth (depending upon the product and rate applied) and so often need to be applied on several occasions to have the desired effect. Drench applications are generally more effective, although they are more costly to apply in terms of application time and there may be issues with product build up in capillary matting etc. beneath the crop. Chemical plant growth regulator use on herbaceous plants is summarised within the six tables in this document; Table 1 lists the various products available in the UK, Table 2 their approval status whilst Table 3 onwards summarises the various published work undertaken with their use on herbaceous plant subjects (sources are listed in the reference section for further information). Product labels / technical information / SOLAs should be read prior to application to ascertain the relevant or maximum rate, frequency of application, water volume etc. for UK products. Annex II 2010 Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board 29

34 It is not safe to assume that a plant growth regulator that is effective on one species will be effective on another species. It is also generally not safe to assume that all cultivars within a species respond in the same way to a given plant growth regulator. Several applications of a plant growth regulator, using the appropriate rate are generally required to achieve height control. Growth regulation typically lasts from two to four weeks before plants return to their normal rates of growth. Table 3. Rates relating to foliar applications of daminozide (as B-Nine), chlormequat (as Cycocel) and paclobutrazol (as Bonzi) tested on herbaceous perennials Plant responses Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Effect on growth Country / region where data sourced from Slight Michigan, response. USA. Achillea 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Achillea filipendulina 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Achillea millefolium 5.9 g/l Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. at least 3 times. applied at least 3 times. Achillea 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Aegopodium podagraria 2.9 g/l N.USA. Agastache 2.9 g/l N.USA. Alcea rosea 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Strong response. 1.9ml/l may be more appropriate or 0.75 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. Rates of up to 1.25 ml recommended Michigan, USA. in the USA. Anthemis hybrida tinctoria 2.9 g/l N.USA. Aquilegia alpina, A. 2.9 g/l ml/l ml/l - N.USA. caerulea, A. chrsantha, A. vulgaris 30

35 Effect on growth Country / region where data sourced Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi from Michigan, USA. Aquilegia 2.9 g/l x 3 Reduced plant height by 18%. Arabis blepharophylla 2.9 g/l N.USA. Arabis caucasica 2.9 g/l N.USA. Artemesia arborescens 2.9 g/l N.USA. Artemesia ludoviciana 2.9 g/l N.USA. Artemesia schmidtiana 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Asclepias tuberosa 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Strong response, 2.5 g/l may be more appropriate. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. Rates of up to 1.25 ml recommende Michigan, USA. Aster alpinus 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. d in the USA. Slight response. Michigan USA. Aster frikartii N. USA. response 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Aster tongolensis 2.9 g/l N.USA. Astilbe x arendsii 5.9 g/l x Start applying weekly 2.3 ml/l applied Slight response ml/l Slight 4 just after inflorescence at least 3 times. begins to elongate. reported. Aubrieta deltoidea 2.9 g/l N.USA. 31

36 Effect on growth Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Country / region where data sourced from Aurinia saxatilis 2.9 g/l N.USA. Bellis perennis 2.9 g/l N.USA. Bidens 4 to 5 g/l EU. Boltonia asteroids 2.9 g/l N.USA. Campanula carpatica 5.9 g/l x 2 to ml/l ml/l - N. USA. Apply at day intervals. 4 applications resulted in a strong response. Try 2.5g/l. No response. N. USA. No response. N. USA. No response. N. USA. Campanula glomerata 2.9 g/l ml/l ml/l - N.USA. Campanula medium 2.9 g/l N.USA. Campanula persicifolia 5.9 g/l x Apply at day 2.3 ml/l applied No response ml/l 4 intervals. Moderate response. at least 3 times. applied at least 3 times. Centaurea montana 5.9 g/l x Apply at day 2.3 ml/l applied No response. Greater than 4 intervals. Moderate response. at least 3 times ml/l x 4. Chelone glabra 5.9 g/l x 4 No response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response in terms of growth, Greater than 0.75 ml/l x 4. Chrysanthemum morifolium R. cv Monalisa Chrysanthemum coccineum 1.06 g/l x g/l x 4 Suppressed growth by 27%. Apply at day intervals. Moderate response. severe chlorosis South Korea. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Strong response. Greater than 0.75 ml/l x 4. No response. N. USA. 32

37 Effect on growth Country / region where data sourced Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Coreopsis grandiflora Coreopsis grandiflora 5.9 g/l x g/l x 3 May delay flowering. Apply at day intervals. C. Sunray showed a strong response when applied at least 3 times. 2.5 g/l may be appropriate. May delay flowering. Apply at day intervals. C. Sunray showed a strong response when applied at least 3 times. 3.5 g/l is a common recommendation in the EU, applied once or twice with a 14 day interval. from 2.3 ml/l x 3 No response. - - N. USA. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Slight response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Slight response ml/l may be more effective, (recommend ation in the USA). N. USA. Coreopsis rosea USA. 2.9 g/l N.USA. Coreopsis verticillata 5.9 g/l x 2 Some flower delay. Apply at day intervals. Strong response when applied at least 3 times. 2.5 g/l may be appropriate. 2.3 ml/l x 4 No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l may be more effective, (recommend ation in the Coreopsis verticillata 5.9 g/l x 2 Apply at day intervals. USA) USA. 33

38 Effect on growth Caused an excessive reduction in height. Reduce rate Country / region where data sourced from N. USA. Doronicum orientale 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Delphinium x elatum 5.9 g/l x 3 No response. 2.3 ml/l x 3 No response. Less than 0.75 ml/l x 4, 0.75ml/l x 1. or frequency. Delphinium grandiflorum ml/l - N. USA. Delphinium ml/l - N. USA. Delphinium 2.9 g/l x Proved unsuccessful in 6 ml/l x 2 and 9 Proved 0.63 ml/l x 2 Proved UK. 2 and 5.9 controlling growth. ml/l x 2. unsuccessful in and 1.25 ml/l unsuccessful g/l x 2 controlling growth. x 2. in controlling growth. Dendranthema zawadskii 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Dianthus barbatus 4.41 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Dianthus caryophyllus 2.9 g/l ml/l - N.USA. Dianthus deltoides ml/l N. USA. Dicentra eximia 2.9 g/l N.USA. Dicentra formosa 2.9 g/l N.USA. Dicentra spectabilis g/l 5.9 g/l reduced height of forced potted plants by 10cm and had no effect on flower number ml/l - N.USA/ Denmark. Digitalis purpurea ml/l 2-4 ml/l recommende d in the USA. N. USA. 34

39 Effect on growth Country / region where data sourced Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Echinacea Purpurea 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Apply at day intervals. Slight response. 2.3 ml/l x 5 Discoloured leaves, strong response, 1.9 ml/l may be more appropriate. from 0.75 ml/l - USA. Euphorbia polychroma ed rate in the USA. 2.9 g/l N.USA. Eupatorium > 6 ml/l Recommend USA. Galium odoratum No response. Michigan, USA ml/l N. USA. Gallardia aristata 5 g/l ml/l - N. USA / EU. Gallardia x grandiflora No response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Gaura lindheimeri 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. No response 5g/l x 2 may be effective in the EU. 1.5 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l x 4 No response, use a higher rate. Michigan USA. Geranium himalayense 2.9 g/l ml/l ml/l - N.USA. Geum chiloense ml/l - N. USA. Geum coccineum ml/l ml/l - N. USA. Goniolimon tataricum 2.9 g/l N. USA. Gypsophila paniculata 5.9 g/l x 4 Helenium autumnale 5.9 g/l x 4 No response. 2.3 ml/l ml/l applied at least 3 times. Apply at day intervals. Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Slight response ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Slight response. N. USA. No response. N. USA. 35

40 Effect on growth Country / region where data sourced Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Heliopsis helianthoides 2.9 g/l x 2 or 5.9 g/l x 2 5 g/l applied twice resulted in plants being half the height of controls. No response , 2, 3 and 4 ml/l Plant height not significantly affected. from. N.USA. Hemerocallis (most 5.9 g/l x 2.3 ml/l applied No response. 1.5 ml/l No response N. USA. varieties) 4 at least 3 times. to 0.75 ml/l. Heuchera sanguinea 5.9 g/l x Slight or no response. 2.3 ml/l applied No response ml/l x 4 No response. N. USA. 4 at least 3 times. Hosta plantaginea 2.9 g/l N. USA. Iberis sempervirens ml/l - N. USA. Iris nigricans , 0.8, 1.6, , 6.3, 12.5 Jordan. ml/l and 25 ml/l Rates up to 1 ml/l had the least effect on height. Drenches were also applied at 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 ml/l, only the highest rate reduced height but also reduced flowering between 10 30%. Caused severe stunting and leaf distortion. High rates reduced the number of shoots. No response. N. USA. Lamium maculatum ml/l N. USA. Lavandula angustifolia 5.9 g/l x Apply at day 2.3 ml/l x 3 No response ml/l 4 intervals. Moderate response. applied at least 3 times. Lavandula intermedia 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. 36

41 Effect on growth response. Proved unsuccessful in controlling growth. Country / region where data sourced Lychnis coronaria 4 ml recommende d in the USA. 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Lythrum salicaria 2.9 g/l N. USA. Monarda didyma g/l ml/l Rates of 1.5 N. USA. Nepeta faassenii 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Papaver orientale 2.9 g/l N. USA. P Garnet 2.9 g/l ml/l N. USA. UK. Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Leucanthemum x superbum 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. No response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. from Michigan, USA. Liatris spicata N. USA. 2.9 g/l N. USA. Lilium (Asiatic lily) ml/l - N. USA. Linum perenne Sapphire 5.9 g/l x Apply at day - - Greater than Slight N. USA. 4 intervals. No response ml/l x 4. response. Lobelia cardinalis 2.9 g/l ml/l ml/l - N. USA. Lobelia fulgens 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Lobelia x speciosa 5.9 g/l x Apply at day 2.3 ml/l applied Slight response. Greater than 4 intervals. Moderate at least 3 times ml/l x 1. response. May require multiple applications, slight Lupinus ml/l x 2 and 9 ml/l x 2. Proved unsuccessful in controlling growth x 2 and 1.25 ml/l x 2 37

42 Effect on growth Country / region where data sourced Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Penstemon 2.9 g/l x 2 or 5.9 g/l x g/l x Best growth control. 6 ml/l x 2 or 9 ml/l x 2. growth control. Ineffective x 2 No visible Slight response. Greater than Slight applied once. Phlox paniculata No response. 2.3 ml/l applied 4 at least 3 times ml/l x 4. Phygelius capensis or 5 ml/l response. Good growth control but reduced the length of the from UK. N. USA. UK. flower spike. No response. 2.3 ml/l x 7 No response. 2.5 ml/l x1 No response. N. USA. Physostegia virginiana 5.9 g/l x 4 Platycodon grandiflorus ml/l - N. USA. Polemonium caeruleum 2.9 g/l N. USA. Ranunculus repens 2.9 g/l N. USA. Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 5 g/l x 4 Slight response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. Slight response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Slight response. 1.5 ml/l may be more N. USA. appropriate. - Michigan, USA. Rudbeckia hirta 4.41 g/l N. USA. Salvia nemorosa 2.9 g/l N. USA. Salvia x superba 5.9 g/l Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied No response. Greater than applied at least 3 times ml/l x 4. at least 3 times. Scabiosa caucasica 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Scabiosa columbaria 2.9 g/l N. USA. 38

43 *** Species where flowering was delayed by 5 or more days by applications of B-Nine every 10 days compared to untreated plants. Effect on growth Slight response ml/l recommended No response ml/l recommended in the USA. Michigan, USA. Michigan, USA. Plant species Rate of B-Nine Effects on growth Rate of Cycocel Effects on growth Rate of Bonzi Country / region where data sourced from Sedum spectabile 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Sedum spurium N. USA. recommended 5.9 g/l x No response. 2.3 ml/l applied No response. Greater than Slight N. USA. 4 at least 3 times ml/l x 4. response. Solidago sphacelata 2.9 g/l ml/l - N. USA. Stokesia laevis 2.9 g/l ml/l ml/l - N. USA. Tanacetum Coccineum 2.9 g/l ml/l 1-2 ml/l group in the USA. Veronica longifolia 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Veronica longifolia 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Strong response, 2.5 g/l may be more appropriate. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. in the USA. Strong response ml/l recommended in the USA. Veronica spicata 5.9 g/l applied at least 3 times. Moderate response. 2.3 ml/l applied at least 3 times. No response ml/l applied at least 3 times. Michigan, USA. 39

44 Table 5. Growth regulatory effects of 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid (e.g. Cerone) Plant species Rate of 2- chloroethylphosphonic acid Achillea millefolium r 1.25 ml/l x1, x2, x3 and 2.5 ml/l x1, x2 x3 Effects on growth / comments Plants sprayed 3 times at 2.5 ml/l were 13 cm shorter than controls. The effect of 1ml/l on stem elongation was not pronounced but the higher rate was in proportion to the number of applications. Number of flowers was increased by treatment whilst no effects on the number of shoots were noted. Effects persisted for up 2 weeks. Trials in the USA have shown plant sprayed with 2.5 ml/l 3 times increased the number of flowers and gave moderate height control. Country / region where data sourced from Japan/USA. Japan. Japan/USA ml/l applied once to three times is recommended in the USA. Unknown, interpret Unknown, interpret with caution/usa. Achillea 1.25 ml/l Delayed flowering, apply before visible bud. USA. /Achillea filipendulina Alcea rosea 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2 - USA. Canna x generalis/canna x orchiodes 2.5 ml x 1 - USA. Coreopsis verticillata 1.25 ml/l x1, x2, x 3 and No effect on plant height, 2.5 ml/l increased the number of flowers by 2.5 ml/l x1, x2 x 3 about 40%. The number of shoots per pot was unaffected. Echinacea Purpurea 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2, x 3 and Increased number of applications and increase in concentration resulted in 2.5 ml/l x1, x 2 x 3 a significant decrease in plant height. Effects persisted for up 2 weeks. Heliopsis helianthoides 1.25 ml/l x percent reductions in plant height that persisted through 12 weeks after treatment but did not delay flowering. with caution. Gaillardia aristata 1.25 ml/l - USA. Gallardia x grandiflora 1.25 ml/l x 2 - USA. Gaura lindheimeri 1.25 ml/l x 2 Over 25 percent reduction in plant height which persisted for weeks after treatment but was no longer significant 8 weeks after treatment ml/l recommended in the USA, higher rates may delay flowering. Geranium himalayense 1.25 ml/l - USA. Heliopsis helianthoides 1.25 ml/l x 2 Moderate growth control. USA. Lamium maculatum 3.1 ml/l - USA. 40

45 Plant species Rate of 2- chloroethylphosphonic acid Leucanthemum x superbum 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2, x 3 and 2.5 ml/l x1, x 2 x 3 Liatris spicata 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2, x 3 and 2.5 ml/l x1, x 2 x 3 Effects on growth / comments Country / region where data sourced from Plant height decreased as dose increased. A single application at 2.5 ml/l Japan. was nearly as effective at reducing elongation as two sprays at 1.25 ml/l. The number of flowers and shoots decreased as dose increased, flower size also decreased. An application at 2.5 ml/l persisted for approx. 5 weeks. Highly variable response, flowering generally slightly delayed. Significant Japan/USA. increase in stem diameter with increasing concentration and number of applications. Effects on elongation, flower number and shoot number were not detectable. 1.9 ml/l recommended in the USA. Lychnis coronaria Japan/USA ml/l - USA. Lythrum virgatum 1.25 ml/l x 2 - USA. Monarda didyma 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2, x 3 and 2.5 ml/l x1, x 2 x 3 Flowering delayed relative to the concentration and number of applications. Suppressed stem elongation and decreased the number of flowers as dosage increased. 2.5 ml/l caused necrosis on Monarda foliage. Effects persisted for approx. 3 weeks regardless of concentration ml/l (up to 3 applications) recommended in the USA. Nepeta faassenii Japan/USA ml/l x 2 May require multiple applications. USA. Phlox paniculata 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2, x 3 and 2.5 ml/l x1, x 2 x 3 Flowering delayed. No effect on plant height, the number of flowers or shoots per pot but did increase the number of flowers per shoot. Japan. Physostegia virginiana 1.25 ml/l x1, x 2, x 3 and 2.5 ml/l x 1, x 2 x 3 Flowering delayed. Plant height decreased linearly with increasing concentration and number of applications. Decreased the number of flowers per shoot. Effects on stem elongation persisted for 2-3 weeks ml/l recommended in the USA. Salvia farinacea 1.25 to 1.9 ml/l - USA. Salvia leucantha 1.25 ml/l - USA. Salvia nemorosa 1.25 ml/l - USA. Salvia x sylvestris ml/l Some delay in flowering with eventual increase in inflorescence numbers. USA. Scabiosa columbaria 1.25 to 1.9 ml/l Higher rates delay flowering. USA. 41

46 Plant species Rate of 2- chloroethylphosphonic acid Effects on growth / comments Country / region where data sourced from Sedum spectabile 1.25 ml/l - USA. Stokesia laevis 1.25 ml/l - USA. Verbena canadensis ml/l - USA. UK SOLA specifies that Cerone can only be used once per crop up to 1 litre per 1000 litres of water. 42

47 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Technical Developments in Herbaceous Perennial Production in the U.S. Presented by: Paul Pilon Today s Objectives How do growers produce perennials in the U.S. What are some of the challenges I commonly see Research: How to decrease and/or recover from stresses and improve rooting Questions??? Perennial Solutions Consulting Jenison, Michigan paul@perennialsolutions.com Where Will The Perennials Be Grown? Scheduling Factors Critical factors relating to perennial growth and flowering Heated Greenhouses Outside Unheated Houses Quonsets or Coldframes Light levels - seasonal/geographic differences Photoperiod critical role with perennials Temperature has the most influence on determining whether a crop is early, on time, or late Dicentra spectabilis Forcing: The term used by growers to describe the process of inducing bloom and producing flowering plants Temperature And Flower Size As the production temperature increases, the flower size of many perennials decreases Juvenility Bulking Vernalization Photoperiod Temperature Gaillardia Fanfare Each perennial has its own specific requirements for flowering. 2.0 inches 63 F 1.6 inches 68 F 1.4 inches 73 F Coreopsis verticillata Moonbeam 0.9 inches 84 F Usually after visible bud May occur when plants are produced above optimum temperature before visible bud 43

48 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Temperature and Flower # Warmer temperatures tend to reduce the overall number of flowers 60 F 70 F 80 F Up to 80% reduction in flower buds when temperatures are increased from 60 to 80 F Flower # reduced due to reduced lateral branching Flowering Wk (Wk 14) Fall plant wk cell/1 gal Heated environment 8 65 F Heat on wk 4 wk 12 wk 9 wk 17 Schedules for Salvia May Night No Juvenility, Cold Beneficial 6-9 wks, Day Neutral (Long Day Beneficial) Flowering Wk Fall plant wk cell/1 gal Unheated environment > 5 degrees Outside Manage ventilation wk 8 wk 18 wk 11 wk 21 Flowering Wk Fall plant wk 34 Wk Bare root 1 #1 Bare root Outside Ambient temps Approx. 9 WTF It All Begins Here Poor quality starting materials WILL lead to production and quality issues Common Issues I see Watch For Other Problems Discoloration/mottled appearance within the tray Over grown liners Rhodococcus Poorly rooted or root rots PGR overdose Aster Yellows 44

49 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Quality Control Variabilty of Liner Sizes at Potting Inspect plugs/liners upon receipt/prior to potting Insects, foliar diseases, virus symptoms, rhodococcus and etc Inspect roots Observe variability within the tray Size and/or colouration differences Seek credits IMMEDIATELY Doronicum Saxifraga Artemisia In many cases, some of the liners are too small for planting Plant and group small liners together in one planting or don t plant them at all Creates variability at shipping Leads to cultural problems watering Over-Grown Liners Planting Depths Dianthus Kahori Artemisia Silver Brocade Many crop losses growers experience are due to improper planting depths Planting over-grown liners will usually result in poor plant quality Most crops should be planted so the top of the liner is at or just under the media surface Take Care When Transplanting These Perennials Do not bury the crown when plating these perennials: Aquilegia Brunnera Campanula carpatica Delphinium grandiflorum Digitalis Erigeron Heucherella Gaura Scabiosa Heuchera Tiarella 45

50 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Avoid Planting Too High Planting Depths Bearded Iris Top ½ rhizome above soil Plant most perennials from bare root so the crown is no more than ½ to 1-inch below the media surface. Many perennials from bare root grow better when they are planted high with the crown ¼ to ½-inch above the media surface. Planting Bare Root SHOOT CROWN ROOTS Do NOT bury the crowns too deeply. Bare Root Perennials To Plant High With the crown ¼ to ½-inch above the media surface Aconitum Astilbe Athyrium Campanula Echinops Epimedium Euphorbia Filipendula Geranium Geum Helenium Hemerocallis Hosta Iris siberica Liatris Ligularia Lysimachia Salvia Tradescantia Trollius Verbascum 0Perennials%20High.pdf Improper Filling and Initial Watering Rooting Times Salvia Marcus Salvia New Dimension Blue Salvia East Friesland Pots slightly over filled Appearance of more properly filled containers Potted inside structure (7 weeks) Potted outside (1 week) Potted outside (2 weeks) More importantly the initial watering was too heavy Initial watering was more gentle and uniform 46

51 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Heuchera Marmalade 7 weeks after potting Rooting Times Heuchera Beaujolais planted about 4 to 5 weeks before this image was taken To promote optimum plant growth, container substrates must provide a proper balance between air space and water availability Many benefits are observed when this balance is achieved Plants establish quicker Crops can be grown in less time Improved uniformity Fewer plant losses Better plant quality Reduced production costs Increased sales and profitability In instances when I observe delayed establishment/rooting and crop variability, the physical properties of the growing mix are often less than optimal Particle Sizes of Growing Mixes Particle Size Distribution Profile (Sieve Analysis) Example Sieve Results of Bark Growing Mix Size Group Size Group Sieve % % Goals 3/8" (9.5 mm) 6% 1/4" (6.3 mm) 19% 25% 20-30% #6 (3.35 mm) 10% #8 (2.4 mm) 14% 24% 20-25% #12 (1.7 mm) 13% #18 (1.0 mm) 10% 23% 20-25% #20 (0.85mm) 9% #40 (0.42 mm) 10% #100 (0.15 mm 8% Based Pan on 1% dry weight 28% in 25-30% grams Results determined and calculated based on dry weight in grams. >4 mm 2-4 mm 1-2 mm < 1 mm All particle sizes are important Fairly equal proportions of each particle size maintains adequate air and water in the root zone and allows for optimal root development The amount of air in the growing media affects plant growth and the irrigation practices Mixes with low aeration porosity remain wet for extended periods, suppress plant growth, and increase the likelihood of root rot pathogens Conversely, growing mixes with high aeration porosity require frequent irrigation due to the drainage characteristics and are more prone to root injury from insufficient moisture levels Porosity of Growing Mixes CRF Release Curves Effect Establishment Goals for optimal plant performance After drainage: 35 to 55% solids Total Porosity 45-65% 15 to 25% air space 30 to 40% water retention Crop times can be reduced with the proper physical properties Perennials: pounds of elemental nitrogen per month 47

52 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Why Growers Should Use Fungicides Containing Pyraclostrobin? Pageant Intrinsic preserves energy Pageant Intrinsic Benefits the Plant Cold Tolerance Container Trials Results 9 Days After Cold Event Double Impatiens Rockapulco 4 hours 33 minutes below 32 F (29.8 F average) Untreated Pageant 8 oz 2 days before cold 33 Cold Tolerance Container Trials Results New Guinea Impatiens Super Sonic Red 4 hours 18 minutes below 32 F (30.0 F average) Untreated 9 days after cold Pageant 8 oz 1 day before cold Pot Mum Drought Tolerance Trials Pageant sprays (8 and 12 oz per 100 gallons) applied to budded plants one day before final irrigation Plants placed on pallets to prevent additional irrigation applications Drought Rating Scale 0 = None 1 = Slight wilting 2 = Moderate wilting 3 = Severe wilting 4 = Death 48

53 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting Verbena URC Trial Untreated Euphorbia Diamond Frost Pageant 4 oz/100 gals applied after sticking Untreated left Pageant applied day 0 right 6 days after sticking 7 days after sticking Top: Untreated Bottom: Pageant applied day 0 More roots 9 days after sticking Poinsettia Early Prestige Red Untreated Poinsettia Early Prestige Red Pageant 4 oz/100 gallons applied after sticking +188% More Roots Untreated Pageant 4 oz/100 gallons applied after sticking 17 days after sticking 42 days after sticking Overcome transplant stress, decrease establishment times and increase root mass with pyraclostrobin at transplanting! Aster Magic Pink Untreated left Pageant spray right 27 days after application Petunia Royal Velvet Untreated left Pageant spray 20 days after application Hosta Minuteman From plugs Untreated left Pageant spray right 48 days after application 49

54 Technical developments in herbaceous perennial production in the USA - Paul Pilon, Perennial Solutions Consulting HostaAbiquaDrinking Gourd Untreated left Empress drench right 48 days after application Growing Plants May Seem Challenging HostaAbiquaDrinking Gourd Untreated left Pageant drench 48 days after application But There Are Worse Jobs Out There! Perennial Solutions Consulting On-site and Remote Consulting Services Available Thank You!!! Questions? paul@perennialsolutions.com Phone: