| The effects of organic vs. inorganic fertilization systems on the growth and development of Rosa hybrida 'Radtko' (Knock-Out(TM) rose) and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Evangeline' (tropical hibiscus) in container production systems were studied. This study was undertaken to determine specific fertilizer nitrogen rates for successful container production. Liners were potted and grown in two production systems, pot-in-pot (PIP) and above ground container (AGC). Treatments were arranged as 3 fertilizer products (Stagreen 12-6-6, Green Edge 6-3-2, and turkey blood cotton gin compost 3-1-2) x 5 nitrogen rates (0, 0.39, 0.78, 1.56, and 3.12 g N) factorial with 8 replicates per treatment for a total of 120 plants of each plant type in each production system. The fertilizers were top dressed in each pot monthly for the Knock-Out(TM) roses and bimonthly for the tropical hibiscus. Average growth index (AGI), leachate nitrate-N, leachate electrical conductivity (EC), marketability rating, and leaf tissue data were taken throughout the experiment to determine plant growth and quality.;Based on the results of this study, Stagreen and Green Edge fertilizer products are superior to compost at the 1.56 and 3.12 N rates when compared to all other N rates in producing plant growth. Green Edge 6-3-2 organic fertilizer at 3.12 N rate can be used to produce comparable Knock-Out(TM) rose and hibiscus plants when compared to Stagreen 12-6-6 inorganic fertilizer at the current nursery rate of 1.56 N rate. |
