Coal Bottom Ash as a Root Medium for Production of Cut Fresh Flower and Potted Chrysanthemums

摘要

Eight cultivars of chrysanthemum, Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev, including spray and standard type cut flower and pot types, were potted in a peat:vermiculite medium in which coal bottom ash (CBA) had been incorporated at levels of 0, 25, 50, 75, or 100 percent by volume. Bulk density increased and water and air capacities decreased with increase in percent CBA. pH increased with increase in CBA prior to adjustment with lime or S. In general, growth and flowering of all cultivars and types of chrysanthemum in 25-75 percent CBA were equivalent to that of the corresponding cultivars and types in the 0 percent CBA (control medium). Growth and flowering characteristics of plants in 100 percent CBA were reduced due to low pH and high salts in this medium. This trial showed the potential for use of CBA, an industrial byproduct, as a component of ornamental plant root media and an alternative to more expensive components such as peat and vermiculite.