Articles and other resources from completed research projects are available from this page.
This workshop introduces horticulture-focused Generative AI designed to support growers by providing reliable responses to production prompts. The AI pulls information from scientific literature and provides the grower with information on their desired topic. The Generative AI is designed to provide tailored responses that fit the language of the grower for greater undertstanding. There are several specialized AI agents being developed to focus on topics including Cuttings & Stock Plant Management, Water Quality & Treatment, and Fertilizer Injector Training.
Presented by Dr. Paul Fisher and Dr. Jinsheng Huang is the acknowledgement that traditional pH solubility charts are oversimplified because they were based on one specific substrate, fertilizer, and lime source. Using updated chemical modeling and experiments, pH curves differ substantially between hydroponic systems and soilless substrates.
Paul Fisher presents the Precision Propagation initiative, which focuses on improving young plant production through sensors, AI tools, and benchmarking. The program targets key challenges such as reliance on highly experienced labor, limited sensor adoption, and lack of integrated data reporting. The goals of this initiative includes increasing sensor-based control of misting and climate, developing next-level propagation technology, training new growers, and improving production consistency and profitability.
Dharti Thakulla (PhD student) is researching the implementation of ozone and cold plasma technologies for water treatment. Microbial contamination of the nutrient solution is a key challenge faced by growers using recirculating systems or surface water supplies. She and undergradute Heather Buss are running a series of experiments on dose response for cold plasma and ozone for controlling biofilm organisms and Pythium, in addition to effects on compatibility with micronutrient fertilizers and beneficial microbes.
FRA2025UFDhartiThakullaColdplasmaozoneforwatersanitation (2512 KB)
Nelda Hernandez (Ph.D. student at UF) emphasizes the need for accessible professional development due to labor shortages in horticulture. It highlights program features such as bilingual instruction, flexible scheduling, expert instructors, and recognized certification. It lists the full 2025 course schedule with upcoming topics for 2026.
FRA2025UFNeldaHernandezPosterGreenhouseTrainingOnline (2120 KB)
Jacob Muller (M.S. student) is researching energy and economics in vertical indoor propagation of young plants under sole-source LED lighting. This technology is being used by leading growers to consistently produce hard-to-root transplants such as tissue culture plants.
FRA2025UFJacobMullerPosterGreenhousevsVIPenergyandeconomics (328 KB)
Dr. John Erwin highlights the ongoing advances in plant science, biotechnology, and propagation aimed at producing more resilient, market-ready ornamental crops. Major research initiatives include using molecular tools such as speed breeding, CRISPR-based gene expression modulation, and gene transfers to improve traits like flowering time, disease resistance, and coloration.
Prseneted by Nelda Hernandez (Ph.D. student at UF) are results from a training-needs assessment aimed to understand what skills are most needed by greenhouse and nursery workers in addition to learning format.
Dr. Jim Faust's current research projects emphasize on improving postharvest quality and propagation of floriculture crops, including studies on poinsettia leaf distortion, vase life extension, Botrytis control, URC stress management, ethylene responses, packaging improvements, and storage strategies for cuttings and cut flowers.
Cuttings lose water and can wilt from the time they are stuck on the propagation line until they are placed under propagation mist. Minimizing the water loss of unrooted cuttings can ensure cutting survival and reduce possible damage from wilting. This project examined dip treatments with Crowning Glory and S-ABA (Contego) to identify practical ways to slow wilting before mist propagation.
Growers have increasingly reported leaf distortion in poinsettias during September and October, particularly after pinching, with symptoms severe enough in some cases to make plants unsellable. High temperatures are known to cause issues such as leaf yellowing, leaf drop during propagation, distortion, and delayed flowering. This project examines how elevated temperatures affect leaf development and chlorophyll fluorescence to understand whether heat stress is linked to the distortion symptoms reported in production.
FRA2025ClemsonBordaFaustPosterHeatandPoinsettiaLeafDistortion (1364 KB)
Ethylene exposure during shipping may lead to injury in unrooted cuttings, and species respond differently to this stress. This project focuses on defining the ethylene concentrations that cause damage to URCs and identifying the characteristic symptoms for each species.
FRA2025ClemsonGlennFaustPosterEthylenesensitivityURCs (3342 KB)
Charlie Smith (Ph.D. student) is researching how to prevent the development of purple and chlorotic foliage in vegetatively propagated crops such as petunia grown under high-intensity LED lighting. As growers replace high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps with LEDs, many have observed increased foliage discoloration in unrooted cuttings. Early findings indicate that the combination of high-energy blue light and lower plant temperatures under LEDs contributes to this response. This work aims to develop environmental protocols that help growers prevent or mitigate the onset of this foliage discoloration.
FRA2025MSUCharlieSmithPoster2025LeafPurplingLEDPetunias (1051 KB)
Stem elongation is a major challenge in potted basil production, and no plant growth regulators are labeled for edible herbs. This project tests whether narrowband UV or blue light applied during the seedling stage can reduce internode elongation and evaluates the impact of these treatments on plant morphology and quality.
The Lopez and Runkle programs are investigating strategies to manage plant growth and flowering using lighting practices and plant growth regulators. Current projects include determining critical light cycle requirements for begonia and dahlia, evaluating prohexadione-calcium applications on ornamental grasses, and identifying ways to reduce leaf purpling in cuttings propagated under LED lighting.
Dr. Charlie Hall specializes in strategic management, market analysis, cost accounting, and financial performance within the Green Industry. His update highlights recent marketing and economic trends that impact floriculture businesses.
FRA2025TexasAandMCharlieHallMarketingandEconomicUpdate (3202 KB)
Carly Anderson (Ph.D. student at UF) is analyzing climate and irrigation data from sensors, including leaf wetness sensors, to improve propagation irrigation strategies. Sensor data will be integrated into dashboards and grower reports to support clearer interpretation of greenhouse and vertical indoor propagation environments.
Coniferous evergreen branches represent an important seasonal product category, with major production occurring in regions such as the Pacific Northwest and North Carolina. Once harvested, these branches are displayed in retail stores where environmental conditions can influence their longevity and appearance. This project evaluates the postharvest performance of evergreen branches held in wet (vase) or dry (bough) conditions, measuring fresh weight, solution uptake, and display life to determine how well different species maintain quality under typical retail settings.
FRA2025ClemsonBordaFaustPosterEvergreensPostharvest (1174 KB)
Destany Westlake (M.S student) is researching heavy metal uptake and contamination in hemp. Heavy metals are heavily regulated by the EPA as a contaminant and pose a significant threat to hemp growers because of its tendency to accumulate heavy metals. Destany is developing methods to determine the plant-availability of heavy metals in crop inputs, and reduce the risk of plant uptake of heavy metals with substrate amendments such as peat, lime, and biochar.
Carly Anderson (Ph.D. student at UF) is researching how new technologies can strengthen Extension programs, and specifically greenhouse propagation practices.
Carly has developed a prototype chatbot focused on cuttings and stock plants that will support an upcoming online greenhouse training course. With the rapid growth of generative AI and limited guidance for Extension programs, her work also aims to establish practical best-practice guidelines for responsible use in extension.
In addition, Carly is analyzing climate and irrigation data from sensors, including leaf wetness sensors, to improve propagation irrigation strategies. Sensor data will be integrated into dashboards and grower reports to support clearer interpretation of greenhouse and vertical indoor propagation environments.
Sean Tarr is a research technician at Michigan State University and is studying how a defined number of short-day cycles influences flowering time, and flower quantity and morphology in floriculture crops such as dahlia and begonia.
Dahlia is a facultative short-day plant: while short days accelerate flowering, prolonged exposure also promotes tuber formation, which can be undesirable in production. There may be a critical cycle number where a limited short-day exposure hastens flowering without inducing tuberization.
Identifying this threshold could provide growers with a strategy to improve crop timing during spring to mid-summer in dahlia, tuberous begonia, and other photoperiod-sensitive crops, including ornamental grasses.
Charlie Smith is a PhD student at Michigan State University. He is researching how to prevent the development of purple foliage in vegetatively propagated crops such as petunia.
As more young growers replace high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps and adopt light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures as their main source of supplemental lighting, they are reporting that some unrooted cuttings grown under these high-intensity LEDs are developing purple and chlorotic foliage.
Preliminary work suggests that the purpling is occurring from a combination of the high-energy, short wavelength blue light being emitted onto the crop, and the drop in plant temperature that occurs when switching from HPS lamps to LEDs.
From this work, we hope to develop environmental protocols that growers utilizing LEDs can employ to prevent or mitigate the onset of this foliage discoloration.
Nelda Hernandez (Ph.D. student at UF) is assessing training needs in the horticultural workforce. She developed the “Professional Irrigator” grower training series which combines online and hands-on activities on various irrigation topics.
The goal of this training is to standardize staff training in irrigation practices to ensure high quality plants and effective water use.
In addition to the human aspects of irrigation, Nelda is researching high-tech automation of irrigation for seedling plugs. Currently, irrigation decisions rely on subjective methods such as time-based schedules, grower experience, and tray weight. While helpful, these methods are not always objective or practical for commercial use. By using climate sensors to monitor air and leaf temperature, moisture levels, imaging with thermal and RGB cameras and by measuring physiological variables, Nelda’s research aims to establish objective parameters for irrigation decisions.
This project will eventually expand to include sensors and cameras mounted on irrigation booms in greenhouses to map water needs and trigger automated irrigation events.
Dharti Thakulla (PhD student) is researching the implementation of ozone and cold plasma technologies for water treatment. Microbial contamination of the nutrient solution is a key challenge faced by growers using recirculating systems or surface water supplies. She and undergradute Heather Buss are running a series of experiments on dose response for cold plasma and ozone for controlling biofilm organisms and Pythium, in addition to effects on compatibility with micronutrient fertilizers and beneficial microbes.
Destany Westlake (M.S student) is researching heavy metal uptake and contamination in hemp. Heavy metals are heavily regulated by the EPA as a contaminant and pose a significant threat to hemp growers because of its tendency to accumulate heavy metals.
Destany is developing methods to determine the plant-availability of heavy metals in crop inputs, and reduce the risk of plant uptake of heavy metals with substrate amendments such as peat, lime, and biochar.
Presentations from on innovative “Best New Ideas”.
Many growers use surface or recycled water that may contain pathogens and biofilm-forming microbes. Comparing ATP measurements with microbial colony counts helps assess ozone and cold plasma treatments to enhance water quality while balancing effects on both harmful and beneficial microbes.
UF Dharti Thakulla Poster Microbial Load Testing with ATP vs Petrifilm (429 KB)
Precision Propagation, focusing on the use of climate and irrigation sensors, climate dashboards, and effective irrigation scheduling. Integration of AI and mapping technologies to enhance energy efficiency and economic outcomes VIP systems.
Fluctuating nutrient levels in recirculating hydroponic solutions require effective management of ions like nitrate and potassium to minimize fertilizer waste and costs. Handheld sensors provide quick and reliable measurements of these nutrients, enhancing accuracy and sustainability, though nitrate readings may be influenced by other ions.
UF Destany Westlake Poster Evaluating Onsite Nitrate and Potassium Ion Sensors (832 KB)
Optimizing irrigation scheduling to match plant needs can significantly enhance resource efficiency and profitability by minimizing water use and crop shrinkage. Utilizing sensors and control algorithms to monitor irrigation events, water loss, and climate variables.
Photonsand PGRs methods examine how light, photoperiod, and temperature shape the growth and flowering of ornamental plants, with studies on Daily Light Integral in seedlings, flower induction cycles in Begonia and Dahlia, and the impact of growth regulators for compact container varieties.
An update on Marketing and Economic Research delivers insights on pricing, grower costs, and consumer trends in the green industry, featuring MarketMetrics benchmarks, the Green Industry National Survey, and value creation strategies.
Many growers use greenhouses for propagation, but hard-to-root varieties like tissue culture and perennials often face significant crop losses. Vertical Indoor Propagation (VIP) systems improve transplant success by offering precise control over environmental conditions, resulting in reduced crop times and increased profitability, despite higher costs and energy consumption.
UF Jacob Muller Poster Vertical Indoor Propagation Energy and Economics (328 KB)
Disease management techniques for Botrytis using FRAC 3 fungicides and biologicals like Howler and Theia, along with strategies to enhance the shipping and propagation of unrooted cuttings. It also includes carbohydrate measurements and postharvest evaluations for Frasier Fir, Dahlia, and Zinnia cut flowers.
LEDs have become the preferred choice for horticultural lighting due to advancements that enhance crop quality and reduce growth time. Key metrics in LED selection include light output, spectrum, and efficacy, with added considerations such as reliability, installation cost, and energy rebates for optimizing grower outcomes.
Light is crucial for photosynthesis and crop growth, primarily focused on photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) from 400 to 700 nm, but adding far-red light (700 to 750 nm) as 'extended PAR' (ePAR) can enhance growth. While far-red light can improve plant growth, excessive amounts may reduce quality, suggesting an optimal range of 10% to 20% in lighting spectrums and highlighting the need for more research on its application across various crops.
Training opportunities for horticulture professionals, including new Professional Irrigator and Root Zone Professionals training. Heavy metal uptake into hemp.
Nursery and Floriculture Program with the ICCE of San Diego.
Postharvest Longevity and Propagation of Unrooted Cuttings
A program that emphasizes the importance of effective irrigation for healthy plant production. By combining online modules, hands-on activities, and in-person instruction, it aims to enhance employee confidence and communication, ultimately improving plant health and productivity.
UF Nelda Hernandez Poster Professional Irrigator Training Series (646 KB)
Improve pH management in soilless substrates by examining how nutrient solution formulations, substrate components, and liming materials influence nutrient ion solubility at different pH levels.
UF Jinsheng Huang Poster Fine-tune pH and NutrientManagement (358 KB)
YMM-Grower-Index-PricesPaid-2007-2023 FINALFeb-2024 (851 KB)
This summer supplement to the Index of Prices Paid indicates that the green industry supply chain has returned to pre-COVID levels, with declining inflationary pressures, though rising labor costs continue to concern growers. Projections suggest a 1.0% increase in input costs by the end of 2024 and a preliminary 3.2% rise for 2025.
Boxwood, a widely used evergreen shrub in the U.S., is threatened by boxwood blight, now present in 30 states. A survey of 29 nursery producers highlighted crucial management practices, including cultural controls and sanitation, for controlling the disease, while opinions varied on the impact of composted manure on its spread.
During the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine in 2020, a study of 1,211 U.S. respondents found that plant purchases surged, with Millennials deriving the most social benefits and Gen Z focusing on educational and physiological advantages. Plant buyers, particularly of edible varieties, reported greater food security, highlighting key themes of food security, boredom relief, and social connections for effective consumer communication strategies.
GardeningMotivations-of-U.S.-Plant-PurchasersDuring-the-COVID-19-Pandemic (392 KB)
The presentation focuses on MarketMetrics benchmarks, the Index of Prices Paid by Growers, and insights from the Green Industry National Survey, emphasizing consumer purchasing trends and behavior while outlining strategies to create and communicate value for improved consumer engagement and market positioning.
The study found that future-oriented, physically active individuals tend to have better mental health and spend more on diverse plant types, suggesting that plant marketers could use imagery of active, happy people to attract these consumers.
This study found that among 860 U.S. consumers, higher plant spending was linked to improved mental health and future-oriented thinking, with indoor plants boosting future orientation and annual plants enhancing mental health.
An online survey found that messaging on plant benefits influences consumer purchasing behavior across various plant types, with notable differences among consumer groups. This impact suggests further research is needed to understand the underlying reasons.
Hhow mean daily temperatures impact development rates and quality in compact tomato varieties ‘Siam’ and ‘Red Velvet,’ finding that higher temperatures accelerated growth, with optimal results at 25°C for greenhouse production.
Effective greenhouse temperature control is crucial for optimizing crop growth, timing, and energy efficiency while also impacting humidity, flowering, and plant height, making consistent management and maintenance vital.
Greenhouse floriculture growers face challenges in timing blooms for market due to diverse species needs, such as water, light, temperature, and growth regulators. Precise management is crucial as factors like late growth regulator applications, photoperiod sensitivity, low light, high temperatures, and inadequate vernalization can lead to delayed or missed flowering.
This study found that U.S. consumers were willing to pay more for lavender plants when presented with social benefit messaging, with prior plant spending and income boosting WTP, while age lowered it.
A consumer survery to understand consumers' perceived intrinsic value of postpurchase benefits of ornamental plants.
Research update including mass balance of fertilizer recipes in hydroponic systems, hypobaric storage of unrooted cuttings, and biorational tank mixes for Botrytis management.
Efficacy of a variety of biorational products for the management of botrytis blight in petunia and rose vs. commercial fungicides.
Research on flowering time models of the Easy Wave and E3 Easy Wave petunia series in response to temperature under two DLIs.
A consumer survery to ascertain the influence of plant benefits messaging on consumer behavior.
Discussion of the consequences of lowering greenhouse air temperature including slower rooting during propagation and longer crop production time.
Research updates including nutrient management for strawberry runner production, culinary herb production, and pH adjustment in soilless substrates.
Evaluation of the influence of light at the same total intensity (photon flux density, or PFD) using three different types of white LEDs, combined with light from red LEDs, while keeping the blue PFD constant in kale and lettuce.
Consumer preferences for plants based on availability, price, and type, comparing plant experts with novices.
Grower and consumer trends for Fall 2022-Spring 2023, along with factors impacting the horticulture industry including supply chain performance, projected input costs, and wage rates, among others.
The effect of far red light on intumescence injury and growth of sweetpotato and cuphea URCs grown indoors or in a greenhouse.
Research updates including container vegetable production for consumers and effects of light intensity and light quality in vertical indoor propagation (VIP).
New concepts for managing soilless substrates, including phosphorus retention, sustainability of peat, and briefly discusses new research in substrate management.
An overview of some major considerations when developing an indoor lighting system for crop production.
Evaluation of the effects of cold plasma and ozone treatment on oxidation of iron and manganese in nutrient solutions containing one of four iron chelates.
Evaluating the effects of blue light and CO2 concnetration on water loss and uptake, rooting, and development rate of Chrysanthemum and Begonia URCs.
Successfully rooting tropical foliage plants and succulents.
Evaluation of the effects of four sanitizers on (A) biofilm control within mist irrigation lines, and (B) biofilm and plant growth in hydroponic lettuce cultivation.
Quantification of interactions between fertilizers and chemical sanitizing agents in nutrient solutions.
Discussion of the specific functions of transpiration, as well as the different cultural and environmental factors in controlled environments that can influence the process.
Quantification of the extractable micronutrient levels from container substrate components and limestone and their potential contribution as fertilizer sources for crop growth.
Research update including studies on the effects of LEDs on nutrient content and leaf purpling, effects of rooting hormone on hard-to-root cuttings, and combining rooting hormone and foliar sprays in hard-to-root cuttings.
Flower induction of specialty cut flowers.
Successfully rooting tropical foliage plants and succulents.
Do cuttings placed under LEDs develop nutrient deficiencies? Is foliage pigmentation caused by an accumulation of anthocyanins and how can we prevent the undesirable foliage color?
Discussion of topics related to precision propagation including challenges and opportunities,
linking irrigation booms, and Vertical Indoor Propagation (VIP)
Evaluation of wood fiber products for propagation of lettuce transplants for growth in nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic system and determination of initial fertility requirements at the transplant stage.
Revisiting the “classic” pH curve.
Developments in LED technology and lighting control systems.
Where do HMs come from, how can we test for them, and how can we manage them?
Techniques to quantify microbial communities for water quality analysis.
Improving boom irrigation using sensors for precise evapotranspiration measurements.
How does photoperiodic lighting influences the quality and yield of Caryopteris and Craspedia cut flower stems?
Collaborative research determines how to prevent chlorosis and undesirable purple pigmentation that can sometimes develop on cuttings rooted under LED supplemental lighting.
Research update including precision propagation, root zone management, and online training for growers and production staff.
Jacob Muller (M.S. student) is researching energy and economics in vertical indoor propagation of young plants under sole-source LED lighting. This technology is being used by leading growers to consistently produce hard-to-root transplants such as tissue culture plants.
Bilingual professional development training.
Comparing plant growth response in hydroponic systems buffered with MES to container systems buffered by residual limestone of the substrate.
Evaluation of cold plasma, ozone, and other treatment technologies.
Light cart for research and applications in commercial propagation.
Investigation of sustainable and organic substrate options to use in greenhouse propagation of tomato seedlings intended for high-wire production.
Erik Runkle with Michigan State University shares updates on his team's current research including (1) air and substrate temperature and covering in caladium, (2) temperature, light, and PGRs in succulent production, and (3) temperature, DLI and photoperiod influence in foliage plants.
FRA2022MSURunkleHandout (8098 KB) FRA2022MSUHandout2 (6192 KB)
Climate control and sensors for young plant greenhouses.
Jennifer Boldt with the Application Technology Research Unit in Toledo, OH shares updates on her current research including photosynthesis modeling, plant nutrition, silicon and algae and water quality.
FRA2022USDABoldtHandout (1097 KB) FRA2022USDABoldtHandout2 (2341 KB)
Evaluation of the efficacy of different bioproducts for the management of botrytis blight in petunia and rose.
Application of exogenous auxins, media choice, and plant nutrition in cannabis propagation.
Jim Faust with Clemson University shares updates on his program's current research including circadian rhythms and heat delay, complicating factors that influence rooting in propagation and option and strategies for managing Botrytis.
FRA2022ClemsonFaustHandout (3713 KB) FRA2022ClemsonHandout2 (2647 KB)
Celina Gómez with Purdue University shares updates on her team's current research including cultivar evluations for home gardeners and citizen science projects for urban agriculture research.
Research updates including (1) effects of substrate layering on crop growth and water and fertilizer use, and (2) soil treatments to reduce phosphorus leaching.
Charlie Hall with Texas A&M shares updates on his marketing and economic research for growers.
John Erwin with University of Maryland shares updates about different floriculture/ornamental research projects underway in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at UM. Topics include propagation, PGRs and CRISPR.
Identification of the cause of accelerated damage in cut flower chrysanthemum leaves and evaluation of strategies to improve leaf performance during vase life.
Paul Fisher from University of Florida explains VPD, and helps you understand how to manage humidity, temperature and light levels and how it affects VPD.
Robert Lopez from Michigan State University discusses how light and temperature affect liner production.
Jennifer Boldt from USDA-ARS explains factors to optimize photosynthesis, including carbon dioxide, light, and temperature.
Jim Faust from Clemson University explains the importance of temperature for managing crop production, and discusses factors that influence plant temperatures.
Erik Runkle from Michigan State University explains how light quantity, quality and duration affect plant biomass, morphology and flowering.
Paul Fisher from University of Florida introduces the FRA Advanced Grower Series, and discusses the selection and use of hand held sensor for spot check of light, temperature, and others. Also helps you identify priorities for climate sensors in your operation
Shara Carolina Ortiz Carvajal, Master's student is researching prevention of rapid leaf collapse in Chrysanthemum. Cut flower chrysanthemum leaves can become chlorotic and necrotic during the first week in the vase. The cause of this phenomenon is currently unknown. We are evaluating pre-harvest and postharvest strategies to reduce the occurrence of symptoms. Green-flowering cultivars are the most susceptible, however many cultivars display symptoms. We have ruled out the possibility of bacteria as the cause, and we have also eliminated water relations as a causal factor.
Josselyn Gabriela Calidonio, M.S. Student at Clemson University, is researching effectiveness of different disease management agents for Botrytis in floriculture crops. Gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea is a major disease that affects many floriculture crops. Weekly, preventative fungicide applications have been the main strategy for Botrytis management, but this lead to fungicide resistance development. The use of antagonistic fungi and bacteria has become popular and offers a sustainable disease management option. In our project, we are screening 20 compounds, such as biological control agents, plant nutrients, plant extracts, and systemic acquired inducers to observe their effectivity against gray mold in petunias, roses and gerbera daisies.
Melissa Muñoz Agudelo, Ph.D. Candidate at Clemson University, is researching management of Botrytis blight in roses. Roses represent a very important commodity in floriculture. Botrytis cinerea is a fungal pathogen that causes Botrytis blight and threatens rose profitability. Disease management relies often on fungicide applications; however, fungicide resistance development jeopardizes the efficacy and sustainability of this strategy. Prolonged periods of high humidity and moderate temperatures favor disease development, and these conditions are very often present in the greenhouses. These facts underscore the importance of developing alternative management strategies. Current research focuses on evaluating pre-and post-harvest applications of calcium in roses considering the role of calcium in enhancing the strength of the plant cell and mediating plant defense responses and secondary metabolites release against Botrytis cinerea.
A collection of articles from the past year by Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University that deal with leaf purpling, how photosynthesis and respiration affect plant growth, and the challenges of growing vertically inside greenhouses.
FRA 2021 Runkle Purple leaves (356 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle Maximize Pn minimize Rs (263 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle Growing vertically (414 KB)
Erik Runkle at Michigan State University and Paul Fisher at University of Florida describe how to prevent crop losses by following greenhouse sanitation protocols and practices.
A collection of articles from the past year by Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University that deal with applications of the light spectrum, LED and supplemental lighting, and more including the 2021 Indoor Lighting Guide.
FRA 2021 Runkle Indoor lighting guide mid res (8000 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle Increasing the DLI (469 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle Hidden benefits of lighting (280 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle Spectrum applications (184 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle Lamp PPF (172 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle LED challenges (5112 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle LEDs more than umol-J (306 KB) FRA 2021 Runkle MakingSenseofLightSensors (895 KB)
Dr. Charlie Hall provides the Index of Prices Paid by Growers in the Green Industry and summer supplement.
FRA 2021 Hall YMMIndexofPricesPaidByGrowersMarch2021 (507 KB) FRA 2021 Hall GrowerIndexofPricesPaidSUPPLEMENT (211 KB)
Dr. Erik Runkle and Dr. Roberto Lopez at Michigan State University discusse uniconazole drenches of succulents, LED lighting technology, evaluating PGRs to enhance young- and finish-plant performance, and finishing plants from Basewell cuttings.
Dr. Erik Runkle and Dr. Roberto Lopez at Michigan State University discusse uniconazole drenches of succulents, LED lighting technology, evaluating PGRs to enhance young- and finish-plant performance, and finishing plants from Basewell cuttings.
Dr. Charlie Hall of Texas A&M University presents the Index of Prices Paid by Growers, Your Market Metrics highlights, B2B Technology survey highlights, plant benefits research, consumer research, and economic outlook for 2022. Followed by closing statements from Dr. Paul Fisher.
Dr. Charlie Hall of Texas A&M University presents the Index of Prices Paid by Growers, Your Market Metrics highlights, B2B Technology survey highlights, plant benefits research, consumer research, and economic outlook for 2022.
Dr. Jim Faust presents information on accessing worldwide DLI data, biological options for botrytis management, poinsettia heat delay, and hemp stock plant productivity.
James Altland and Jennifer Boldt from USDA-ARS Application Technology Research Unit in Toledo, OH present new developments in substrate research, silicon longevity in substrates and modeling plant growth, and resource use in CEA.
FRA 2021 Altland New Substrate Developments (2680 KB) FRA 2021 Boldt Handout (3548 KB)
James Altland and Jennifer Boldt from USDA-ARS Application Technology Research Unit in Toledo, OH present new developments in substrate research, silicon longevity in substrates and modeling plant growth, and resource use in CEA.
Dr. Jim Faust presents information on accessing worldwide DLI data, biological options for botrytis management, poinsettia heat delay, and hemp stock plant productivity. Also included is Dr. Faust's DLI data.
FRA 2021 Clemson Handout Research Update (3661 KB) 
FRA 2021 Faust DailyDLIData (4546 KB)
Dr. John Erwin presents new research on PGR combinations to reduce pruning/pinching labor, hydroponic solution temperature effects on herb rooting, and new mutagenesis/transformation lab for ornamentals.
Research update from Paul Fisher and Celina Gomez on edible and indoor plants, and indoor propagation of cuttings and tissue culture plants.
Paul Fisher and Celina Gomez present research updates on edible and indoor plants, and indoor propagation of cuttings and tissue culture plants.
Dr. John Erwin presents new research on PGR combinations to reduce pruning/pinching labor, Hydroponic solution temperature effects on herb rooting, and New Mutagenesis / transformation lab for ornamentals.
Stephanie Cruz and Dr. Celina Gomez at the University of Florida present the performance of compact tomato and pepper cultivars in a greenhouse and indoors under LEDs
Stephanie Cruz Celina Gomez UFTomatoAndPepperCultivarTrials2021 (749 KB)
Graduate student Fernanda Trientini and Dr. Paul Fisher of the University of Florida report on a simple proof-of-concept project showing good performance of plants grown in a small-scale commercial indoor hydroponic and LED system designed primarily for leafy greens and herbs.
John Erwin of University of Maryland describes effect of soil temperature on root growth and photosynthesis.
Paul Fisher, University of Florida describes managing soil temperature. Article to be published in GrowerTalks 2021.
Dr. John Erwin, Stanton Gill and Dr. John Lea-Cox present research updates from University of Maryland during the 2020 FRA meeting. As well as 2020 meeting wrap up.
Dr. Erik Runkle and Dr. Roberto Lopez present research updates from Michigan State University during the 2020 FRA meeting.
Taylor Schulden, MSc student from University of Maryland advised by Dr. John Erwin, researches the genetic transformation of ornamental succulents for disease resistance.
Annika Kohler, graduate student, and Dr. Roberto Lopez from Michigan State University determine the minimum duration of far-red radiation required during plug production to induce long-day requiring plants into flower after transplant.
Annika E. Kohler, graduate student, and Dr. Roberto Lopez from Michigan State University share the latest findings on supplemental lighting's effect of rooting of herbs.
A collection of articles from the past year by Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University that deal with energy efficiency and an environmental checklist for greenhouse management.
Greenhouse environment checklist (378 KB) Greenhouse energy tips (275 KB)
A collection of articles from the past year by Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University that deal with supplemental light, light pollutin, and UV transmitting greenhouse glazing.
UV-Transmitting greenhouse glazing (201 KB) Managing light pollution (238 KB) Including far red in lighting spectrum (278 KB) How much supplemental light (189 KB)
A collection of articles from the past year by Dr. Erik Runkle from Michigan State University that deals with plant diagnostics, propagation, height control, and quality floricultural crops.
Propagation pointers (277 KB) Poor quality floricultural crops (272 KB) Perennial height control (265 KB) Indoor propagation (275 KB) Importance of plant diagnostics (726 KB)
Dr. Jennifer Boldt, Andrea Landaverde, and Dr. Jake Shreckhise from USDA-ARS present research updates during the 2020 FRA meeting.
Dr. James Faust presents research updates from Clemson University during the 2020 FRA meeting.
Dr. John Erwin's PDF of the presentation with research updates from University of Maryland
Dr. Erik Runkle's PDF of the presentation with research updates from Michigan State University
Dr. Charlie Hall's lively economic update during the 2020 FRA meeting from Texas A&M
Dr. Jennifer Boldt and Dr. Kale Harbick's PDF of the presentation with their research updates from USDA-ARS.
Dr. Paul Fisher and Dr. Celina Gomez from University of Florida present their research updates during the 2020 FRA meeting.
Dr. James Faust's PDF of the presentation with research updates from Clemson University
Dr. Paul Fisher presented his research updates on indoor transplants, root zone management, hydroponics, and training.
This study compares rooting of cuttings and tissue culture plants under indoor sole-source lighting versus greenhouse propagation, and refines the growing protocols and technology for indoor propagation.
Indoor propagation of cuttings and tissue culture plants (710 KB)
Dr. Paul Fisher has creates a video series calles "Five Tips for Horticulture" and highlights technical topics from university and industry experts.
Dr. Charlie Hall provides the green industry economic impacts, index of prices paid by growers, and the well-being benefits of plants.
Economic Contributions of the Green Industry in the United States in 2018 (723 KB) YMM Grower Index of Prices Paid 2019 (838 KB) Update of Literature Supporting Well-Being Benefits of Plants Part4 (98 KB)
Evaluation of compact tomato and pepper varieties in both greenhouse and indoor settings done at University of Florida in Gainesville, FL by Stephanie Cruz and Gardens by the Bay in Singapore by Carly Anderson.
Tomato and Pepper Summary Tables 2020 UF and Singapore (83 KB) Tomato and pepper cultivar trial report UF (438 KB) Tomato and pepper cultivar trial report Singapore (5032 KB)
Nathan Kelly, PhD student from Michigan State University advised by Dr. Erik Runkle, investigates how photoperiod and light intensities interact to affect growth of lettuce.
Dr. Paul Fisher of the University of Florida IFAS provides a research report on aspects of ensuring success for the urban plant consumer. This includes providing residual fertilizer and plant growth regulators (PGRs) in container plants, growing plants indoors under LED lighting, and simplifying nutrient delivery in small-scale hydroponics.
For questions: Paul Fisher, University of Florida, pfisher@ufl.edu and floriculturealliance@gmail.com.
Dr. Paul Fisher of University of Florida IFAS describes this training activity for transplanting staff.
Dr. Paul Fisher of University of Florida IFAS provides a research report on the effect of different container types on soil temperatures, and using kaolin sprays to reduce heat stress on foliage.
View this YouTube video of the poster presented by Eric Stallknecht from Michigan State University.
Consumers' perceptions and willingness to pay for non-neonicotinoid, bee-friendly, or biological control pest managements,
studying the effects of light quality on plant growth.
Dr. Ray Cloy presented the myths and facts of pesticided and bees. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Dr. Charlie Hall presented an update on marketing and economic research. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Click below to view a PDF of the poster presented by Mary A. Vargo from Clemson University.
Click below to view a PDF of the poster presented by Michael Tierney from Clemson University.
Click below to view a PDF of the poster presented by Melissa Muñoz from Clemson University.
Click below to view a PDF of the poster presented by Fernanda Trientini from University of Florida.
Click below to view a PDF of the poster presented by Andrea Landaverde from USDA-ARS.
Dr. Steve Newman and Dr. Josh Craver presented research updates from CSU Horticulture Center. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Dr. John Erwin presented his research updates on the nuts and bolts of keeping your roots. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Dr. Jennifer Boldt presented her research updates from USDA-ARS. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Click on the PDF for all the details of Stick Olympics! And be on the lookout for infromation generated from this project. Looking forward to seeing your best transplanters in action. LET THE GAMES BEGIN!
Click below to view a PDF of the poster presented by Joaquin Saavedra and Alec Goff from University of Florida.
Dr. Erik Runkle and Dr. Roberto Lopez presented their research updates on PGRs and photons. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Dr. Jim Faust presented his research updates on poinsettia heat delay and cyclic lighting with boom. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Dr. Paul Fisher presented his research updates on indoor transplants and root zone management. Click below to view the PDF of the presentation.
Click on the PDF below to read the findings of our evaluation of particle size distribution and porosity in commercial substrate.
Click on the PDF below to read the findings of our evaluation of water potential and the distribution of water and air in commercial substrate at container capacity.
Click on the PDF below to watch the YouTube videos of the CT Scans of 32 commercial substrates at container capacity, air and water volumetric content, total porosity, and particle size distribution
Handouts from an excellent grower panel at Cultivate 2019, with presentations from Bob Dickman at Dickman Farms, Mike Goyette from Pleasant View Gardens, Gail Berner from Spring Meadow Nursery, Jeff Back from Four Star Greenhouses, and University of Florida. They shared very practical and specific information that will be helpful if you are considering investing in automated transplanters.
A lokk into the physcial properties of substrates and how it effects rooting.
FRA_Annual_Grower_Meeting_Topics_2019
Refining protocols to quantify rooting of plant cuttings and the water/air microenvironment of substrates using x-ray computed tomography (CT).
Quantification of Poinsettia Root Growth by Image Scans or Xray (2363 KB)
Heat Delay in poinsettias and how to mangage it.
The objective of this study was to quantify and compare substrate water and air relations for three propagation substrates
Water and Air Relations in Propagation Substrates Published MS (935 KB)
Study that assess the overall market for landscape plants using consumers’ activity level.
Sit Back or Dig In The Role of Activity Level in Landscape Market Segmentation (111 KB)
Evaluating the growth (fresh and dry mass), accumulation of key phytochemical constituents (leaf photosynthetic pigment and nitrate content), and aesthetic quality (elongation and pigmentation) of red-leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa) grown from transplant to a harvest stage in an indoor environment.
An economic analysis of growing young plants indoors with LEDs.
Understanding carbon footprint in production and the use of landscpape plants
What is a carbon footprint and how does it relate to landscape plants (466 KB)
Survey of Suspended Solids in Irrigation Water of Ornamental Plant Nurseries and Effects of Filtratio
Quantifying acidic and basic effects on the root zone pH in peat-based substrate and hydroponic nutrient solution and determining the applied NH4+:NO3" ratio expected to have a neutral pH reaction.
Quantifying the Acidic and Basic Effects of Vegetable and Herb Species (672 KB)
Research about plant responses to far red and light intensity.
See the FRA presentation on Innovations in LED Lighting.
See the research handouts from Dr. Fisher's group.
Fisher Production Efficiency handout (1462 KB) Fisher Root Zone (2400 KB) George Tissue Culture Vertical Farming (750 KB) Yafuso CT scans of water and air in root substrates (2181 KB)
See the research update by Dr. Faust's group.
See Jennifer's presentation on substrate silicon amendments for containerized production.
Boldt Substrate Silicon Amendments for Containerized Production (359 KB)
See Dr. Erwin's presentation on:
The presentations of thrips and mealybug management and marketing research on millenials can be viewed.
Cloyd Thrips and Mealybug Management (6473 KB) Wannemuehler U of M Marketing Millennials Report (8658 KB)
Discusses lighting for growing young plants indoors using LEDs.
Understanding the ins and outs of the indoor food gardenig market.
Getting a Piece of the Indoor Food Gardening Market-Greenhouse Product News (1214 KB)
Water conservation technologies and innovation for greenhouses and nurseries.
Warner et al EDIS AEC664 Grower needs for water conservation (452 KB)
Evaluation of the removal of agrichemicals from water using small-scale GAC system
RemovalOfVariousAgrichemicalsFromWaterWithGAC WaterAirSoilPollution (1176 KB)
Calculating the economic effect of direct transplant versus liners, and unrooted cuttings versus callused cuttings?
Study on space use effeciency in greenhouses.
Evaluation of the return on investment of transplanting robots, and identify key factors that businesses should consider when purchasing a transplanting robot.
FRA_Annual_Grower_Meeting_Topics_2018
Using greenhouse space more effeciently.
Research on the effect of callusing on production time and shrinkage and to help growers decide when its most profitable to use each cutting type.
How to grow tumeric and ginger.
Determining the effect of substrate moisture content (SMC) during poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) greenhouse production on plant quality, postproduction longevity, and economic value.
Benchmarking labor productivity for transplanting cuttings at young plant operations and identifying key factors that differentiate efficiency between businesses
A commercial-scale granular activated carbon (GAC) system was evaluated for removal of the plant growth regulator paclobutrazol from recaptured irrigation water in an ornamental greenhouse operation.
GAC filtration in commercial greenhouse Scientia Horticulturae (455 KB)
A small-scale granular-activated carbon (GAC) system was evaluated for removal of the plant growth regulator paclobutrazol from water.
Carbon Filtration Article Irrigation Science journal published (976 KB)
Exploring consumer attitudes and behavior during real and perceived drought situations, especially in terms of their landscape purchases and gardening/landscaping activities.
Consumer perceptions attitudes and purchase behavior with landscape plants (88 KB)
Evaluation of whether oxygenation of irrigation water affected plant growth and substrate dissolved oxygen (DO) levels during mist propagation of unrooted cuttings and subsequent growth in containers.
Presentation and research topics
1. Presentation of current research at UF
2. Online training courses
3. Automated transplanting of cuttings
4. Superfoods: Ginger and turmeric new crop development
5. Substrates: Nitrogen drawdown from wood fiber and wood chips
University of Florida Research Update (1336 KB) Substrates Nitrogen drawdown from wood fibers (180 KB)
Research topics
6. Providing residual fertilizer for consumer success
7. Evaluating biofilm control agents
8. Removal of agrichemicals using granular activated carbon filters
9. CT scans of root systems and substrate
Providing residual fertilizer for consumer success (199 KB) CT scans of root and substrate (182 KB)
Research topics
1. Presentation on the evolving ornamentals and controlled environment agriculture industry: Reducing inputs to increase profitability
2. Under appreciated roots...impacts on crop quality and time
University of Minnesota Research Update (4919 KB) Under appreciated roots impact on crop quality and time (1082 KB)
Research topics
1. Presentation of current research at Clemson University
2. Fungicide resistance to Botrytis
3. Calcium uptake into flower petals and phytotoxicity of Ca sprays
4. New Daily Light Integral Maps
Clemson University Research Update (6954 KB) Fungicide resistance to Botrytis (1050 KB) Calcium uptake into flower petals (979 KB) New Daily Light Integral Maps (466 KB)
Getting the skinny on phosphorus
Phosphorus nutrition: Maximum growth, color enhancement, and reproductive stage deficiency
Presentation and research topics
1. Update on marketing and economics research
2. Poinsettia produced at reduced substrate moisture content
3. Organic fertilizer to control growth size in container edibles
Update on marketing and economics research (1100 KB) Organic fertilizer to control growth size in container edibles (1725 KB)
Research topics
1. Learn about developing silicon guidelines for soilless media
2. Photosynthetic lighting and CO2 for greenhouse production
3. Irrigation water alkalinity, not pH, affects substrate pH
Silicon fertilization strategies for greenhouse production (989 KB) Photosynthetic lighting and CO2 (583 KB) Irrigation water alkalinity not pH affects substrate pH (237 KB)
Research topics
1. Presentation on lighting research at MSU
2. Can white LEDs control flowering
3. Far-red radiation promotes lettuce seedling growth
4. Blue and far-red radiation combinations on extension and flowering
Michigan State University Research Update (1271 KB) Can white LEDs control flowering (1187 KB) Farred radiation promotes lettuce seedling growth (1736 KB) Blue and farred radiation combinations on extension and flowering (1298 KB)
We are working to establish an integrated approach to produce high-quality young plants in controlled environments (CE) while optimizing energy and material inputs.
Research topics
1. Understanding how crops affect root zone pH
2. Using moisture sensors and logging scales to monitor and control irrigation
Root zone management and pH (176 KB) Root zone management and irrigation (380 KB)
FRA_Annual_Grower_Meeting_Topics_2017
A study to examine the effects of pollinator-related labels on consumers’ preferences and willingness to pay.
The objective was to quantify effects of floriculture plant species on substrate-pH.
Dertermining the benefits and costs of varying container sizes to dertermine which container size affords the most advantageous opportunity to consumers.
Economic cost-analysis of the impact of container size on transplanted tree value (1990 KB)
Investigation of the role of real and fictitious brands and their effects on visual activity and purchase intention.
Analysis of the physical, chemical, and biological water quality in horticulture irrigation systems.
Comparing genotypes of iron-inefficient calibrachoa in terms of their susceptibility to showing iron deficiency symptoms when grown at high vs. low substrate pH.
There are factors that affect flowering see the flowering table for assistance.
See the fact sheets to assist in disease and pest control.
1. Go to disease control, Erwin
2. Go to pest control, Erwin
3. Greenhouse Insect Management, David Smitley, Michigan State University, December 2015
4. Greenhouse Disease Management 2016 Season, Michigan State University
5. Mites and Miticides: What You Need to Know, Daniel Gilrein, Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County
See the grower article on Environment and PGR Interactions, GPN, December 2015
See the two climate related articles:
1. The Boundary Layer and Its Importance, GPN, March 2016
2. VPD vs. Relative Humidity, Heidi Wollaeger & Erik Runkle, Inside Grower
The boundary layer and its importance (136 KB) VPD versus relative humidity (147 KB)
See the grower articles on LED lighting and effect on plant growth:
1. Keys to Successful Seedling Production, GPN, November 2015
2. Managing Light to Improve Rooting of Cuttings, GPN, September 2016
3. Juvenility in Perennials, GPN, June 2016
4. Efficacy of Lamp Types at Controlling Flowering, GPN, February 2016
5. Red Light and Plant Growth, GPN, August 2016
6. Success with Succulents, GPN, July 2016
Keys to successful seedling production (190 KB) Success with succulents (1169 KB)
See the grower articles on LED lighting:
1. Lighting Metrics … And What Matters, GPN, October 2015
2. Diffused Glass, GPN, April 2016
3. A Closer Look at Far-Red Radiation, GPN, May 2016
4. The Economic Viability of LED Lighting, Greenhouse Grower TECHNOLOGY, September/October 2016
Lighting metrics... and what matters (106 KB) Economic viability of LED lighting (210 KB)
See the PGR rate table for desired ppm of active ingredient for various plant growth regulators.
See the grower articles on LED lighting and effect on plant growth:
1. Sole-Source Lighting In Horticulture: Microgreens Production, Joshua K. Craver and Roberto G. Lopez, Greenhouse Grower, September 2015
2. Sole-Source Lighting In Horticulture: Bedding Plant Plug Production, Joshua K. Craver and Roberto G. Lopez, Greenhouse Grower, October 2015
3. The Impact of DLI, Light Quality and Photoperiod on Bedding Plant Flowering Response, W. Garrett Owen and Roberto G. Lopez, GPN, August 2016 (Note: the title was modified)
4. Evaluating Greenhouse Supplemental Lighting For Young And Finished Plant Production, Joshua K. Craver and Roberto G. Lopez, Greenhouse Grower, November 2016
Sole-source lighting in horticulture microgreens production (4770 KB) Evaluating greenhouse supplemental lighting for young and finshed plants (1684 KB)
Research objectives:
1. Energy efficiency
2. Lighting and nutrition
3. CO2 concentration on plant growth (see the presentation)
4. Non-chemical weed control
5. Rice hull biochar
6. Silicon
Research objectives:
To study the susceptibility of botrytis on Pelargonium cultivars when (1) ethylene or anti-ethylene was present (2) actual temperature and humidity during shipping and (3) favorable conditions during liner/plug production.
Research objectives:
Eucomis 'Leia' cultivars may need plant growth regulators for compact cultivars (1) during low light levels of the winter months (2) under shade in high temperatures and (3) for tall cultivars.
Research objectives:
To identify the most durable postharvest Poinsettia cultivars with (1) varied temperature (2) drought stress (3) irrigation and (4) varied light levels.
See the new updated NC State Poinsettia Portal website for cultivar search, and grower selection are some highlighted topics.
Opportunities, challenges, and future directions of using LEDs for plant applications
1. The effect of different wavelengths of light (UV, blue, green, red, far-red) on plants.
2. LED lights for supplemental greenhouse lighting.
3. Commercial trial at Galema’s Greenhouse, evaluating LED toplighting as an alternative to HPS lamps for supplemental lighting of annual bedding plant seedlings (collaborative research).
4. Lighting during propagation.
5. Leafy green production indoors.
ISHS International Lighting Symposium
Reducing input costs and new directions in crop production by (1) reducing chemical inputs, (2) reducing energy inputs, (3) new crop opportunities, and (4) new directions.
Research findings on drought vs. water stress on plant quality and shelf life of angelonia.
Water conservation and effect quality and shelf life of angelonium (4032 KB)
Clemson research update presents topics on petunia flower meltdown, grower experiences with CaCl2, photoperiodic flowering of poinsettia, please see the handout for the complete research topics covered.
A presentation by Dr. Adelberg on transitioning tissue cultured plants to the nursery.
Clemson research update 2016 (9211 KB) From tissue culture to nursery production (7958 KB)
Research objectives
1. To benchmark labor productivity for transplanting cuttings.
2. Identify the key factors that affect efficiency between businesses and workers.
By improving the efficiency of transplanting cuttings there is potential to decrease production cost for young plant growers.
See my ASHS 2016 presentation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1OIvykr1m4
FRA handout Adegbola 2016 (502 KB) ASHS Abstract Adegbola 2016 (40 KB)
Research objectives
Oxygen injection systems are an option to increase dissolved oxygen (DO) in irrigation water.
1. To evalute the persistence of super-saturated DO in irrigation lines.
2. To evaluate the DO level in container substrates irrigated with super-saturated water.
3. Measure the effect of super-saturated (30 mg/L) compared to ambient “tap” (7 mg/L) water on rooting of plant cuttings and finished plants.
See my ASHS presentation for the results for objectives 1 & 2.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_k0tXtPwbw
FRA handout Yafuso 2016 (5325 KB) ASHS Abstract Yafuso 2016 (28 KB)
Research objectives
1. Evaluate parameters that influence the removal of the plant growth regulator paclobutrazol from irrigation water using granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration.
2. Assess the effectiveness of GAC filtration in a large-scale greenhouse operation.
See my ASHS presentation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZE96DQa4nT8&feature=youtu.be
FRA Handout Grant 2016 (973 KB) ASHS Abstract Grant 2016 (54 KB)
Research from the University of Florida on carbon filtration to remove paclobutrazol chemical residues from irrigation water, oxygenation of irrigation water, and plans for future research on plant rooting
New research from the University of Florida that surveyed growers to find out the space use efficiency of greenhouses, and the labor efficiency to stick plant cuttings
FRA_Annual_Grower_Meeting_Topics_2016
investigation into the underlying cause of the decline in sales to the flower industry over the past few decades.
Factors affecting U.S. consumer expenditures of fresh flowers and potted plants (415 KB)
Analysis of the production components of an evergreen shrub grown in a no. 3 container in an east coast U.S. nursery for their costs and contributions to carbon footprint, as well as the product impact in the landscape throughout its life cycle.
Investigation of major potential changes in the green industry by analyzing household consumer spending on horticulture tools and plants.
Investigation of consumers’ purchase likelihood (PL) and visual search behavior for esthetic and food-producing ornamental plants.
Using estimated bacterial counts in irrigation water to predict potential biofilm risk and clogging of emitters.
Comparing water-soluble fertilizers (WSF) and controlled-release fertilizers (CRF) to provide adequate nutrition during both production and consumer phases.
Determining if sample container material or storage temperature affect paclobutrazol stability over time.
Economic contributions of the green industry in the unsited states in 2013
Spreadsheet tools to predict time to harvest for cut flower roses.
Unas herramientas de Excel para predecir el tiempo de la cosecha de rosas de corte.
New LED lighting technology for plant applications.
The objective of this study was to determine the economics of establishing finished mixed containers by 3 methods of plant establishment.
Force mums to bloom by regulating photoperiod in summer.
Use of alternative compounds such as calcium chloride for Botrytis control.
Potential benefits of silicon include (1) improved growth, yield, flowering and plant quality; (2) enhanced disease resistance; (3) stress tolerance.
Research Goals 1. Identify consumers’ purchasing barriers for indoor foliage plants. 2. Determine consumer interest in and visual attention to different levels of volatile organic compound (VOC) removal, production practices, and origins on indoor foliage plants.
Consumer response to novel foliage plant attributes PAPER (293 KB) Consumer response to novel foliage plant attributes (2661 KB)
National green industry survey report.
Economic Contributions of the Green Industry summary (121 KB) Economic impact from national survey (3754 KB)
Edibles are an area of market growth in greenhouse production. How do we best take advantage of that trend? Organic substrates and fertilizers are an additional challenge to manage; we are trying to make it easier.
The objectives are (1) to develop protocols for quality control of organic growing substrate for container production, (2) to evaluate commercial organic growing substrate products (21 products are being tested in 2015-16).
Organic growing substrates and fertilizers (tomato) (1064 KB) organic substrates handout (295 KB) Organic substrates table handout (221 KB)
Control of ammonium:nitrate ratio and water alkalinity are two tools that growers have to maintain a stable pH in container production and hydroponics. However, plant species also vary in their tendency to raise or lower pH.
Compare the economic performance between unrooted cuttings (URC) versus callused cuttings in different crops with direct stick or transplanting.
The plant growth regulator paclobutrazol has a half-life of around 6 months in irrigation water, and has growth-retarding activity on sensitive crops such as begonia. This can potentially cause problems when irrigation water is recirculated.
Develop training materials and courses for professional development in the greenhouse and nursery industry for entry, mid, and advanced level staff.
Di-electric moisture sensors are useful tools to monitor and help control irrigation in container crops. However, are they ready for grower prime time? Testing is needed on how to practically use sensors in production.
Collect information about space use as a key factor in allocating overhead cost, evaluating efficiency, and comparing benching/floor systems.
Plants need oxygen in the substrate to grow roots. We are investigating ways you can increase root health, looking at technology options including the substrate porosity, compaction, irrigation practices, and water oxygenating systems.
Watering practices have a major impact on crop health. Staff turnover means that rapid training is needed, often in different languages. Supervisors often lack a formal training background and would benefit from training resources.
Providing plant products to the consumer with residual fertilizer using controlled release fertilizer (CRF) adds value and differentiates product quality compared with water-soluble fertilizer (WSF) alone.
FRA_Annual_Grower_Meeting_Topics_2015
Article about the calculator app in BackPocketGrower.org to plan substrate needs and caculate tray costs for using paper pots. Also about tips on avoiding over compaction.
How to use the costing apps in BackPocketGrower.org for crop budget with overhead by area weeks, or container unit.
phytotoxic response of container-grown ornamental and vegetable plants to Hypochlorous Acid, Chloramines, and Chlorine Dioxide in Irrigation Water.
How to use Greenhouse Costing app in BackPocketGrower.org to estimate cost and profitability of floriculture products.
Learning when to water plants at the correct media moisture level.
How to use training videos in an effective way to ensure your new employees learn the key training points.
How to use BackPocketGrower.org to test pH and EC in substrate to improve plant health.
How to calculate Parts Per Million (ppm) of fertilizer solutions in BackPocketGrower.org .
Guide on the 'Waterborne Solutions' tool on BackPocketGrower.org and how it sumerizes research on treatment options for water quality issues.
We have over 140 videos and several soil testing fact sheets in Back Pocket Grower (backpocketgrower.com). Most are not publicly available for free. Many are English/Spanish. These resources are accessible for FRA members in our “development account” with a password.
Cutting recovery and propagation PGRS and Ethylene.
Weed control in perennial crops
To evaluate soil moisture-sensor and climate-based irrigation technologies to help improve irrigation consistency, reduce leaching, and save on water and fertilizer costs for long-term stock and potted plant production.
Over the past 4 years, we have evaluated blueberry cultivars to identify which varieties have the best attributes as retail containerized plants in bloom or fruit. Most of our research has been in Florida, but we have also collaborated with growers in northern U.S. locations. We also evaluated cultural methods (cutting type, timing, day length, temperature, pinching, gibberellin (GA3) sprays) to enhance flowering and fruiting, and for season extension.
Objective: Measure paclobutrazol levels in irrigation water in commercial greenhouses that are capturing and reusing water.
The Double-Ended HPS Lamp
Objective: To demonstrate the effect of low paclobutrazol concentrations in irrigation water on begonia growth.
Objective: To match nitrogen (N) form (ammonium, nitrate, urea), water alkalinity, and crop species to balance factors that lead to substrate-pH drift and crop micronutrient disorders.
Annual Meeting September 21 2014. Final Announcement
Objective: To breed sterile cultivars of Ruellia (Mexican Petunia) that are not invasive by seed dispersal, in a range of flower colors and growth habits.
Our goal is to develop and test mobile solutions, and work out the kinks so that we can provide recommendations to our industry partners. We are testing several ways to use mobile technology in the greenhouse.
LE Ds vs. HPS Lamps
New Project Initiatives for 2014-2015
Applications for using our new soil testing protocols: (1). Are you over‐compacting your paper‐wrapped pots? (2). Are you overwatering in propagation? (3). Are your trays filling unevenly or are too compacted? (4). How should I choose the growing mix for paper‐wrapped pots? (5). Is your growing mix hard to rewet? (6). Is your propagation mix holding too much water? (7). Is nutrient level on target? Do you have “hungry” plants or high salts? (8). Is the substrate-pH on target? (9). Is your salt level and substrate‐EC too high? (10). Are your nutrient level and substrate‐EC too low? (11). Is your substrate‐pH too high? (12). Is your substrate‐pH too low? (13). What factors should I consider when incorporating compost into the growing mix?
Objective: Evaluate periodic reductions in irradiance and temperature on crop timing, crop quality, and energy costs.
This program models the photosynthetic response of 13 floriculture crops to light, temperature, or carbon dioxide (CO2) and allows users to estimate the impact of adjusting their greenhouse environment. You can predict the impact on photosynthesis for different management changes (shading, supplemental high pressure sodium lighting, CO2 injection,or heating or cooling).
Control Flowering with LEDs
Objective: Compare fertilizer strategies that provide adequate nutrition in both the production and landscape/customer phases with a focus on the delayed-release, dual-coated technology (DCT) controlled release fertilizer (CRF).
FRA Annual Meeting presentation
Presentation for FRA 2014 Annual Meeting
Presentation for FRA Annual Meeting, 2014
FRA presentation
FRA_Annual_Grower_Meeting_Topics_2014
Two experiments conducted to validate a ‘‘Nitrogen Calcium Carbonate Equivalence (CCE)’’ model that predicts potential fertilizer basicity or acidity based on nitrogen (N) form and concentration for floriculture crops grown with water-soluble fertilizer in containers with minimal leaching.
How to use BackPocketGrower.org to help with pH managment.
A summary of the effective dose for controlling target waterborne microorganisms.
The effect EC has on substrate pH and how it affects plant nutriention.
Modified Delphi Survey on Key Attributes for Selection of Water-treatment Technologies for Horticulture Irrigation
Presentation handout for the 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
LEDs for flowering and growth applications Runkle MSU 2013 handout (2460 KB)
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Forcing perennials to flower Runkle MSU 2013 handout (2044 KB)
Presentation for FRA 2013 Annual Meeting.
Presentation for FRA 2013 Annual Meeting.
Research updates for Poinsettia trials at North Carolina State University.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Tuesday Fisher Profitability and Staff Training handouts (542 KB)
Research updates for biological control of pests for container plant production. Presentation for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Research review for the secondary effects of PGRs.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Presentation for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Research updates (1) Clematis greenhouse production; (2) effect of stock plant lighting on Lantana cutting postharvest success. Presentation for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Research updates for substrates and pH management at University of Florida.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
An overview for the projects that are conducted at University of Florida
Presentation handout for 2013 FRA Annual Meeting.
Marketing and trends in 2013
New label language for bee safety.
What can we expect in 2014?
The spreadsheet is designed to help you track the amount of production space that is being used week by week..
This article will help you produce a successful blueberry crop in container based on research in the University of Florida and grower experience.
The objective of this project was to quantify effect of substrate-pH on available nutrients in soilless substrate and tissue nutrient levels in bedding plants with a range of substrates, nutrient solutions, and plant species.
Developing improved pH nutrient availability curves (870 KB)
Research update with a hydroponic study.
Video presentation on how to set up your Back Pocket Grower account. http://youtu.be/KlZBNg1N5-U
Published in Scientia Horticulturae 162 (2013) 135-143
Matching fertilizer and water.xlsx (40 KB) Johnson et al acidity and nitrogen form published ms (1445 KB)
(1) Mine your income statement; (2) Finetuning overhead calculations: Hanging baskets &;; field crops; (3) Seasons, space, and shrinkage affect production costs; (4) Using enterprise budgets to calculate costs and profit.
The spreadsheet tool has been designed to help growers evaluate and benchmark overhead costs, direct costs, and returns on an annual basis.
The spreadsheet is designed to help growers calculate the cost and profitability of producing rooted liners.
The spreadsheet tool has been designed to help you track the volume, value, and the type of looses/shrinkage that occur.
The spreadsheet is designed to help growers first allocate overhead costs to different profit centers (hanging basket, field-grown crops, and beach-grown crops) and then to calculate overhead costs for bench crops during two production seasons.
FRA annual grower meeting topics 2013
(1) Restaurants in Seattle; (2) attractions; (3) Tours; (4) Museums, gardens and parks...
General information for 2013 FRA Annual meeting in Seattle.
Quantifying the effect of water-soluble fertilizers on concentration of free chlorine level in a sodium hypochlorite solution.
LED fixtures are being marketed as a replacement for high pressure sodium fixtures in greenhouse lighting. Here we compare the cost per photon for LED and HPS fixtures based on their ability to convert electrical energy into photons delivered to a horizontal surface below the fixture. Some LED fixtures now exceed the efficiency of the best HPS fixtures by 23%, but the initial capital cost per photon delivered is 5 to 10 times greater. HPS fixtures with electronic ballasts and optimized luminaires (reflectors) are 27% more efficient than widely-used HPS fixtures with magnetic ballasts. Our analysis, however, demonstrates that light distribution and radiation capture are more important than the electrical efficiency of the fixture. No single fixture is optimal for all applications. The lowest cost per photon is realized when an efficient fixture is coupled with effective radiation capture, but the value of uniform plants may outweigh the cost of wasted photons. Just as precision irrigation can improve water use efficiency, precision lighting can improve electrical use efficiency.
Test bulletins for quality control in contaniner growing substrates for young plant production.
It is easy to run an onsite experiment in your greenhouse/field. However, it is hard to run a useful trial you can rely on to improve crop management practices. Being organized and following the scientific method are essential. In the Floriculture Research Alliance we often help grower partners run onsite trials, and have developed the following tips for a successful trial.
Running Onsite Trials English (323 KB) Running onsite trials Spanish (280 KB) Onsite experiment design macro template (196 KB) Onsite experiment design manual template (101 KB)
Qaunitfying the amount of aerobic bacteria in irrigation water.
Using dissovled oxygen in irrigation water to promote optimum root growth.
Benchmarking crop losses in internal production, unsold product, and credits on shipped product.
Evaluation of the preformance of several blueberry cultivars as container ornimentla plants and the potential for use of gibberellic acid on fruit set and quality.
Evaluation alternative approaches to measure water and nutrient use efficiency, and reduce leaching of nutrient solution
The objective was to deliver bilingual professional development training on horticultural science for US and international greenhouse and nursery growers, many of whom have limited access to formal training in horticulture
Evaluation whether cation:anion uptake was related to solution acidity and basicity.
Developing quality control procedures for propagation substrates for young plant production of seedling plugs and vegetative cuttings
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