Download (PDF 1.61 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/33079.pdf
Abstract
Fertilization is one of the most critical components of producing high-quality nursery stock. Seedlings rapidly deplete mineral nutrients stored within seeds, and cuttings have limited nutrient reserves. Therefore, to achieve desired growth rates, nursery plants must rely on root uptake of nutrients from the growing medium. Plants require adequate quantities of mineral nutrients in the proper balance for basic physiological processes, such as photosynthesis, and to promote rapid growth and development.Without a good supply of mineral nutrients, growth is slowed and plant vigor reduced. Proper fertilization can promote growth rates three to five times greater than normal.
Parent Publication
Citation
Jacobs, Douglass F.; Landis, Thomas D. 2009. Fertilization [Chapter 11]. In: Dumroese, R. Kasten; Luna, Tara; Landis, Thomas D., editors. Nursery manual for native plants: A guide for tribal nurseries - Volume 1: Nursery management. Agriculture Handbook 730. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. p. 201-215.
