Importance of water quality in container plant production

Abstract

High substrate pH is a major problem for producers of container-grown plants and seedlings. The primary cause of high substrate pH is irrigation water with high alkalinity. Alkalinity is defined as the capacity of water to neutralize acids. Some alkalinity in irrigation water is beneficial as it serves as a buffer to large swings in pH levels, but high alkalinity in the water often leads to micronutrient deficiencies. Alkalinity of irrigation water should be monitored for changes on a regular basis. Be sure to check with the laboratory being used to determine if they test for alkalinity, carbonates and bicarbonates, or water hardness. Guidelines and suggestions for dealing with alkalinity in irrigation waters are given.

Parent Publication

• National Proceedings: Forest and Conservation Nursery Associations - 2012

Citation

Ruter, John M. 2013. Importance of water quality in container plant production. In: Haase, D. L.; Pinto, J. R.; Wilkinson, K. M., technical coordinators. National Proceedings: Forest and Conservation Nursery Associations - 2012. Proceedings RMRS-P-69. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 36-38.