Year: 1977
Type: article
Abstract: Shade-grown Ficus benjamina produced under 40 and 80% shade were larger and had better grade and foliage color than sun-grown plants after 9 months growth, but trunk caliper was less. Increasing Osmocote (14.0 N – 6.2 P – 11.6 K) from 4 to 16 g per 20 cm diam pot – 3 months increased foliage color and grade but had no effect on height or trunk caliper. The best plants after 6 months indoors under 0.8 klx, 12 hours daily were those produced under 40 or 80% shade with 12 or 16 g Osmocote levels although they had higher leaf drop. Chlorophyll content (mg/cm 2 ) of leaf tissue was highest under 40 and 80% shade. Fertilizer had no effect on this in the production area or after 3 or 6 months indoors. After 6 months indoors, chlorophyll content had decreased by nearly 50% in all treatments. Macronutrient tissue levels varied with changes in shade and fertilizer level.
Authors: Charles A. Conover, Richard T. Poole
Institution: University of Florida
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,500
OpenAlex ID: W4298444468