Seasonal changes of perlite–peat substrate properties in seedlings grown in different sized container trays

Abstract

Cultivation of seedlings in trays requires the use of specifically developed substrates. This study presents the results of the analyses of selected physical and mechanical parameters of a peat–perlite substrate, in which seedlings of the Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst), European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), and pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) were grown during a production season. For each species, the substrate parameters changed throughout the production season, substrate dry weight decreased, whereas its compactness increased with time. Independent of the species, the bulk density and total porosity of the substrate changed or deviated from the optimum range, although the values of porosity were close to maximum and those of density were close to the minimum. In certain periods in the V265 trays with beech and oak seedlings, the substrate was characterized by very low water capacity and excessive air capacity. Compactness measured with a cone penetrometer showed, that this parameter might be used for monitoring the substrate properties.

Leachate Tables as a Tool for Monitoring Changes in Physical and Chemical Parameters of the Peat Substrate in the Cells of Nursery Containers

“…For the experiment, a leachate table (Figure 2) was designed and constructed that would enable the collection of liquid filtrate and substrate samples from the cells of nursery containers during the long-term irrigation process and fertilization using an irrigation ramp (Figure 1). 5), drawers (6), guides (7), valves (8), collecting tanks II (9), drainage racks (10), measuring cylinders (11), rods with nuts (12), base (13), lower templates (14), upper templates (15), drainage gutters II (16), collecting tank II (17), steel cables (18), protective foil (19).…”

“…Irrigation and fertilization are carried out by means of a sprinkler arm moving above the table (3). Drainage gutters I( 4) are situated at the beginning and end of the frame, in the parts outside the working area that holds the containers, for draining water from under 5), drawers (6), guides (7), valves (8), collecting tanks II (9), drainage racks (10), measuring cylinders (11), rods with nuts (12), base (13), lower templates (14), upper templates (15), drainage gutters II (16), collecting tank II (17), steel cables (18), protective foil (19).…”

“…The most favorable parameters for peat-perlite substrates, according to the majority of the literature, include a general porosity of >70% and up to 93% of the volume, a total water capacity of up to 73% of the volume, and 20%-48% of the volume available for the plants, an air capacity of 20%-30% volume, and a wet weight of 864 kg m −3 [1,[13][14][15]. The main problem that occurs during seedling cultivation in containers is the control and maintenance of these recommended ranges for the physical parameters due to the methodological problems associated with their determination [7,8,16,17]. Imported sphagnum-rich peat is mainly used in container production in Poland.…”

Molecular Authentication, Propagation Trials and Field Establishment of Greek Native Genotypes of Sambucus nigra L. (Caprifoliaceae): Setting the Basis for Domestication and Sustainable Utilization

“…In addition to the above observations, significant leaf discoloration of sub-apical cuttings during rooting were observed in higher hormone levels of 4000 and 6000 ppm IBA in 2019 and in 6000 ppm IBA in 2020 (Figure 9), an effect which adversely affected plant survival and was significantly more profound in peat-perlite 1:1 (v/v) substrate, which contained less perlite and more peat than 1:3 (v/v). When perlite concentration increases when mixed with peat, it improves the physical (especially aeration) and hydraulic characteristics of the media [57,58]. This, in turn, may improve root development and plant growth [59].…”

Composted sewage sludge as an alternative substrate for forest seedlings production

“…Proper understanding of the relationship between seedling quality and field establishment is the key for new plantations and natural regeneration (Dumroese et al 2016, Girona et al 2018). Among the factors affecting seedling growth and quality, the more important ones are cultural practices like irrigation, nutrition, container size, and type, as well as substrate (Kormanek et al 2020, Madrid-Aispuro et al 2020. Hardened seedlings, with adequate morphological and physiological attributes, are more likely to reach their greatest growth potential soon after field planting, guaranteeing their survival in adverse environmental conditions (Grossnickle & Mac-Donald 2018).…”