ASHS Press Releases

Artichokes Grow Big in Texas

Thursday, 10 November 2011 11:00

Researchers recommend best practices for commercial production in water-limited regions

Marketable yield, yield components, quality, and phenolic compounds of artichoke heads were investigated in response to three irrigation regimes and four nitrogen rates under subsurface drip irrigation. Results showed that irrigation was more effective than N management for optimizing artichoke yield. Time of harvest had the largest effect on artichoke nutritional quality, followed by deficit irrigation. The study will help introduce artichoke cultural practices into commercial production in water-limited regions of the southern United States.

New Eco-friendly Foliar Spray Provides Natural Anti-freeze

Thursday, 10 November 2011 10:53

Biodegradable solution enhances plants’ innate cold-resistance

A new, biodegradable foliar/floral spray that increases plant resistance to both cold damage and cold mortality has been introduced to the commercial market. The spray improved cold tolerance by approximately 2°F to 9°F, depending on the variety of plant and the duration/ intensity of frost or freeze. Use of the non-toxic spray could add the equivalent of approximately 0.25 to almost 1.0 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone to the cold hardiness rating of plants.

How Exposure to Irregular Light Affects Plant Circadian Rhythms

Thursday, 10 November 2011 10:46

Study outcomes could translate to energy savings for greenhouse operations

A study of chrysanthemum investigated plants’ circadian responses to interruptions in light cycles. Plants were exposed to irregular supplemental light breaks during the night; results showed a correlation between circadian-regulated processes and plant growth. Leaves and stems grew faster in plants grown in short days with irregular light breaks during the night compared with plants grown in a climate with a consecutive long light period. The findings could contribute to energy savings in production greenhouses.

Growstones Ideal Alternative to Perlite, Parboiled Rice Hulls

Thursday, 10 November 2011 10:55

Substrate made from waste glass performs well in greenhouse applications

A study determined the properties of an aggregate produced from ground waste glass and compared the component with perlite and parboiled rice hulls. Experiments determined how Growstones affected root substrate properties and evaluated plant growth in different substrates. Results showed that Growstones had an air-filled pore space (AFP) higher than that of both peat and perlite, and that Growstones added to peat at a concentration of at least 15% increased AFP of the peat-based substrate.

Landscape Architecture Survey: Is Plant Knowledge Passé?

Thursday, 10 November 2011 10:49

Seasoned professionals say experience is still the best teacher for new grads

A study evaluated attitudes and perceptions of practicing landscape architects in the southeastern United States with regards to the importance of horticultural knowledge. While seasoned practitioners in the residential design market said they had a favorable opinion of their own plant knowledge, they felt that recent graduates in landscape architecture have insufficient knowledge of plants. The authors say the study shows a continued need for both formal and informal extended education classes for the profession.

New Pink Fancy-leaved Caladium Debuts

Thursday, 10 November 2011 10:43

‘UF-172’ ideal for use in large containers and landscapes

Plant breeders introduced a new fancy-leaved caladium characterized by leaves with large, attractive pink blotches. ‘UF-172’ is ideal for use in large containers and landscapes. The variety performed well in container forcing and landscape use, and sprouts earlier than other existing commercial cultivars. The new caladium is projected to be popular with growers, retailers, consumers, and landscapers.