Controlled release fertilizer improves quality of container longleaf pine seedlings

Abstract

In an operational trial, increasing the amount of nitrogen (N) applied to container longleaf pine seedlings by incorporating controlled release fertilizer (CRF) into the media improved seedling growth and quality. Compared with control seedlings that received 40 mg N, seedlings receiving 66 mg N through CRF supplemented with liquid fertilizer had needles that were 4 in (10 cm) longer as well as 42%, 84%, and 47% greater root collar diameter, shoot biomass, and root biomass, respectively. We use data from this study and other published sources to make general, practical guidelines concerning appropriate levels of fertilization for longleaf pine seedlings in containers.

Parent Publication

• National proceedings: Forest and Conservation Nursery Associations-2004

Citation

Dumroese, R. Kasten; Parkhurst, Jeff; Barnett, James P. 2005. Controlled release fertilizer improves quality of container longleaf pine seedlings. In: Dumroese, R. K.; Riley, L. E.; Landis, T. D., tech. coords. 2005. National proceedings: Forest and Conservation Nursery Associations—2004; 2004 July 12–15; Charleston, NC; and 2004 July 26–29; Medford, OR. Proc. RMRS-P-35. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 3-8