The influence of slow-release fertilizers on potted chrysanthemum growth and nutrient consumption

Abstract

In a two-year vegetation experiment, the effects of fertilizer with two slow nutrient releasing mechanisms on the growth of outdoor grown potted chrysanthemums (Multiflora group Chrysanthemum × grandiflorum) as well as on their uptake of the nutrients N, P, K, were studied. In this experiment, coated fertilizer with a controlled nutrient release effect (CRF) – Basacote 6M and fertilizer with a slow soluble nutrients (SRF) – Lovogreen NPK were tested. In the control variant, Kristalon Blue fertilizer was regularly applied in a solution form. From this experiment, the suitability of a onetime application of a slow nutrient – releasing fertilizer to potted chrysanthemums was ascertained. The fertilizers with a slow nutrient release effect were shown to ensure better plant growth during vegetation as well as a higher biomass weight and nutrient consumption level. From the onset of vegetation, the highest rates of biomass growth and nutrient consumption by plants were evident in the (CRF) – Basacote 6M fertilizer treatment.