The Influence of Mycorrhizal Fungi, Organic and Inorganic Slow Release Fertilizers on Growth and Development of Bush Morning Glory (Ipomoea carnea)

摘要

This study investigated the utilization of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) to enhance the efficiency of slow-release organic and inorganic fertilizers during container production of bush morning glory (Ipomoea carnea). Uniform rooted liners of I. carnea were planted into 2-gal (9.6-liter) pots containing a pasteurized soilless medium [pine bark and sand (3 :1, v/v)]. The mycorrhizal treatments consisted of two commercial AMF inocula: Bioterra Plus and Mycorise Pro, and a noninoculated control [NonAMF]. Fertilizer treatments included an organic slow release fertilizer (SRF) (Nitrell; 5N-3P-4K) and an inorganic SRF (Osmocote; 18N-7P-10K). Nitrell was tested a three levels: 8.4 kg centre dot m~(-3) (14 Ib per yd~3), 12 kg centre dot m~(-3) (20 Ib peryd~3), and 16.8 kg centre dot m~(-3) (28 Ib per yd~3), which were, respectively, 70%, 100%, and 140% of the manufacturer's recommended rate. Osmocote was tested at two levels: 6 Ib per yd~3 (3.5 kg centre dot m~(-3)) and 12 Ib per yd~3 (7.0 kg centre dot m~(-3)) which were, respectively, 50% and 100% of the recommend rate. With organic and inorganic SRF, both mycorrhizal inocula significantly enhanced the marketability, growth index, root, leaf, shoot and total plant dry mass of bush morning glory. The greatest growth response occurred with the highest level of Osmocote colonized with Bioterra Plus. Organic and inorganic SRF regimes did not inhibit mycorrhizal development, which ranged from 12% to 27% colonization.