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Propagation media and fertilization
from:A perfect propagation medium provides proper balance of water and air for the development of root system. An ideal propagation holds nutrients, secures and fastens the propagule for plant uptake. The medium must be from insects, weed seed and disease organisms. The characteristics of ideal medium will differ with environmental conditions, container size, temperature, plant species. The most common parts of a propagation media are peat, coarse sand, vermiculite, perlite and pine bark. Choices of components are based on weight, particle size, bulk density and durability of particles. Combination of particles is based on cost and availability. A container medium which is thoroughly irrigated and that is allowed to drain is said to be at “container capacity”. A medium should be at container capacity. Depth of a propagation medium plays an important role in controlling water conditions under outdoor conditions.
A medium with required properties can be easily created by mixing components that have known particle size. We can add particles that are small to a medium which is made up of large particles. If we do this, it increases water holding capacity and reduces air pore space which is at container capacity. Common propagation media has same volume of perlite and peat, same volume of perlite and vermiculite, one part of coarse sand and 3 parts of peat, ground pine park.
For outdoor propagation, ideal propagation contains 35 to 25 percent of air space. If irrigation and misting are managed properly in a covered greenhouse then quality liners can be easily produced in propagation media. If there is excessive irrigation and rainfall, porous medium acts an excellent buffer
Fertilization
When roots of seedlings emerge they absorbed nutrients, but excessive nutrients injure tender roots. You can use controlled release fertilizers in propagation medium. However, you should also consider rate of nutrients that are released. Controlled release fertilizers should be predictable over range of temperatures that are possible in a propagation system. Soluble fertilizers can control nutrient levels if they are applied moderately in the propagation medium. However, intense management is required. But they should not be added in propagation medium.
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See & Do: What's on around town - Northern Weekly
See & Do: What's on around town Northern Weekly Beginner's kit available for $120 or bring your own equipment. Classes from Monday, July 16, for eight weeks, from 1pm to 3pm at 47 Lambourn Road, Watsonia. Cost is $100. Details: contact Watsonia Neighbourhood House on 9434 6717. |