Increasing Flowering Potted Plant Longevity Progress Report –December 1994
Date December 27, 1994
Title of Project Increasing Flowering Potted Plant Longevity
Institution where work is being conducted University of Florida
Amount of Endowment Grant $ 12,000
Covering Period 1/95 to 12/95
Anticipated Date of Project Completion/Final Report December 1996
Individual(s) Conducting Project:
(List Project Leader First)
Terril A. Nell - Title Professor
Telephone Number (904) 392-1829
Jim Barrett - Title Professor
Increasing Flowering Potted Plant Longevity
Terril A. Nell and James E. Barrett
University of Florida
- A. Project Objectives:
- To evaluate the production, transport and retail conditions which increase the longevity of
flowering potted plants.
- B. Summary of Work Completed:
- Research to eliminate leaf yellowing in chrysanthemum has been continued. We have used four
varieties, numerous fertilizer concentrations and storage conditions. At this time, we have not
been able to duplicate the problem described by industry.
- C. Results to Date:
- As mentioned above, results with leaf yellowing of chrysanthemum have not been very satisfying.
We are modifying the project in an effort to duplicate the problem.
- D. Future Plans:
- Hydrangeas, cyclamen and calceolaria have been planted for a spring trial. A second shipment
of cyclamen and calceolaria plugs is scheduled for January. We are evaluating fertilizer
termination, transport conditions and interior light and temperature on these crops. Other crops
will be ordered during the year for post-production evaluations.
- E. Anticipated Benefits for Floral Industry:
- All segments of the industry will benefit from these results by recognizing the factors leading to
improved longevity for the consumer.
