NC1186: Water Management and Quality for Specialty Crop Production and Health

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Active

Project Menu

SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[10/13/2021] [09/12/2022] [10/23/2023] [07/22/2024]

Date of Annual Report: 10/13/2021

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 08/16/2021 - 08/16/2021
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2020 - 09/30/2021

Participants

Buhler, Doug buhler@msu.edu – Michigan State U.; Cregg, Burth, cregg@msu.edu – Michigan State U.; Sahoo, Deb, dsahoo@clemson.edu – Clemson; Fernandez, Tom, fernan15@msu.edu – Michigan State U.; Shreckhise, Jake, Jacob.shreckhise@usda.gov – USDA ARS; Lea-Cox, John, jlc@umd.edu – U. Maryland; Fields, Jeb, jsfields@agcenter.lsu.edu – Louisana State U.; Nackley, Lloyd, Lloyd.Nackley@oregonstate.edu – Oregon State U.; Oki, Loren, lroki@ucdavis.edu – UC Davis; Fisher, Paul, pfisher@ufl.edu – U. Florida; Dunwell, Winston, wdunwell@uky.edu – U. Kentucky; Owen, Garrett, wgowen@uky.edu – U. Kentucky; White, Sarah, swhite4clemson.edu – Clemson. Cabrera, Raul, cabera@njaes.rutgers.edu - Rutgers

Brief Summary of Minutes

The meeting was held online using the Zoom platform. Attendees joined the zoom meeting at 9 am Pacific time zone. Attendees presented station reports for their respective universities. The station reports generally took around 10 minutes followed by a five-minute question and answer session. Attendees all used PowerPoint slides to share their station reports over the zoom platform. The station report content included the accomplishments and outcomes from the past year for the different attendees. Following approximately three hours of station reports the group adjourned for a short break. It was originally the intent to then split the group into breakout sessions for our five objectives: water quality of irrigation sources, 2. Irrigation management, 3. Crop production runoff management, 4. Urban stormwater management, 5. Soilless culture and nutrient management. However, with the relatively small group in attendance, it was deemed unnecessary to split into groups that may only have two or three at the most. Therefore we remained as an entire group and discussed our perceptions of the biggest opportunities and challenges for our working group. Climate change and the concomitant heatwaves, droughts, and floods were highlighted as the number one area our working group could have an impact in the next few years. As a group, we decided it is important to create a collective effort and host nation and international workshops on the topic of specialty crop water management. Furthermore, we will seek additional opportunities to increase the online presence of this type of teaching material.

Accomplishments

Activities: Researchers from Clemson University and USDA-ARS Wooster initiated sampling at two irrigation reservoirs in SC in summer 2021. From both a small (area = 0.95 acres) and large (area = 7.69 acres) reservoir, we and are beginning to capture data related to storm event runoff and reservoir refill rates, irrigation return flow, and water quality (e.g., suspended sediments, nutrients, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen). Data (both volume and quality-based) will be integrated to characterize the movement of contaminants within water during storm and irrigation events. Growers can use this data to better inform reservoir management and refill strategies (whether storm event runoff will be adequate for irrigation needs or if groundwater pumping will also be needed). Researchers are exploring P dynamics in ponds, particularly sediment-P dynamics in irrigation ponds. They have conducted a few site visits to better understand P-dynamics in irrigation ponds. Initial conversations with the grower indicated the importance of this research for proper P and habitat management.   Researchers at the University of California conducted another year of plant landscape irrigation trials. UC Landscape Plant Irrigation Trials determines water requirements of landscape plants Industry entries and investigator selections provides information for compliance with state water conservation regulations Project website https://ucanr.edu/sites/UCLPIT/. NC1186 members at the University of California, and Oregon State University in collaboration with non-NC1186 researchers at the Universities of Arizona, Washington, and Utah State have established a western regional irrigation plant trial to determine how climate gradient affects water use of common and uncommon landscape plant species. Researchers at the University of California also evaluated the water use efficiency of 16 ground cover species, to identify drought-tolerant species.  Researchers are exploring the importance of the riparian area in nutrient management for developing sustainable agricultural management practices. They have identified a couple of sites in the Clemson experiment station to conduct nutrient injection studies. Results from this study could help understand the growers the importance of the riparian area, vegetation, and other in-stream best management practices that could be adopted and implemented for better source water quality. Researchers at Michigan State University conducted a multi-year study on plant establishment on freeways and from container-grown trees. Researchers from Clemson University concluded experiments determining if phosphorus-saturated iron-oxide residuals from mine drainage could be used both (1) in filters to remove phosphorus from irrigation return flow and then (2) the P-saturated iron-oxide of the filter reused as a P fertilizer source in container production. Experiments were concluded in July. Differences in crop appearance were evident among the 5 test species. Analytical results related to leachate, plant P uptake, and P remaining in the substrate were completed and results are being analyzed for publication and communication to stakeholders. Researchers from Clemson university monitored floating wetlands paired with bioreactors and iron oxide filters (in varied order) over two winter seasons (2019-20, 2020-21) and determined that iron oxide filters enhanced P removal over winter, and supplemented removal efficacy from dormant plants in the floating wetlands and from bioreactors with reduced microbial activity due to cooler temperatures.  USDA and Louisiana State University researchers investigated the interaction that mulch has on irrigation and weed suppression in container-grown nursery systems. Researchers at USDA and the University of Florida are investigating the water use efficiency of hydroponic nursery systems, and the interaction of different media and irrigation strategies.  Researchers are exploring the use of technologies (both contact and non-contact sensors) for water monitoring. Adoption of these technologies by the growers could greatly help in understanding and quantifying water and nutrient budgets. Currently, some of these technologies are already in place at the Clemson campus. Researchers at Oregon State University also conducted multiple field and container trials using sensor control irrigation to reduce crop water stress and decrease excessive water use.  The researcher educated the next generation on the importance of water quality. Study materials were developed for the minority students at Benedict Allen, an HBCU college in Columbia, SC. In the fall of 2021, the students will utilize the knowledge gained in Spring 2021 and develop a senior design project.

Publications

Abdi, D. E., Owen Jr, J. S., Wilson, P. C., Hinz, F. O., Cregg, B., & Fernandez, R. T. (2021). Reducing pesticide transport in surface and subsurface irrigation return flow in specialty crop production. Agricultural Water Management, 256, 107124.   Abdi, D. E., Owen, J. S., Brindley, J. C., Birnbaum, A., Cregg, B. M., & Fernandez, R. T. (2021). Irrigation return flow and nutrient movement mitigation by irrigation method for container plant production. Irrigation Science, 1-19.   AL-agele, Hadi A., Lloyd Nackley, and Chad Higgins. "Testing Novel New Drip Emitter with Variable Diameters for a Variable Rate Drip Irrigation." Agriculture 11.2 (2021): 87.   Bell, NL, SN Jeffers, SA White. 2021. Potential susceptibility of six aquatic plant species to infection by five species of Phytophthora. Plant Disease.   Ebba, J., Dickson, R. W., Fisher, P. R., Harris, C. N., Guerdat, T., & Flores, S. (2021). Fertilizer and Plant Growth Regulator Strategies for Improving Consumer Performance of Container-grown Petunia. HortTechnology, 31(3), 304-314.   Fields, Jeb S., James S. Owen, and James E. Altland. "Substrate Stratification: Layering Unique Substrates within a Container Increases Resource Efficiency without Impacting Growth of Shrub Rose." Agronomy 11.8 (2021): 1454.   Fields, Jeb S., and Nazim S. Gruda. "Developments in inorganic materials, synthetic organic materials and peat in soilless culture systems." Advances in horticultural soilless culture. Burleigh Dodds Science Publishing, 2021. 45-72.   LeBude, A. V., J. S. Owen Jr, and C. Holmes. "High pH, Low Alkalinity Pond Water Used for Overhead Irrigation Does Not Affect Plant Growth of Select Flowering Shrubs." Journal of Environmental Horticulture 39.1 (2021): 22-32.   Levin, Alexander, and Lloyd Nackley. "Principles and Practices of Plant-based Irrigation Management." HortTechnology 1.aop (2021): 1-11.   Levintal, Elad, et al. "eGreenhouse: Robotically positioned, low-cost, open-source CO2 analyzer and sensor device for greenhouse applications." HardwareX 9 (2021): e00193.   McCauley, Dalyn M., Lloyd L. Nackley, and Jason Kelley. "Demonstration of a low-cost and open-source platform for on-farm monitoring and decision support." Computers and Electronics in Agriculture 187 (2021): 106284.   Pitton, B.J.L., R.Y. Evans, X. Zhu-Barker, and L.R. Oki. 2021. Greenhouse gas emissions and global warming potential from a woody ornamental production system using soilless growing substrate. ACS Agric Sci Technol. 1(1):35-43. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsagscitech.0c00039.   Retana-Cordero, Marlon, Paul R. Fisher, and Celina Gómez. "Modeling the Effect of Temperature on Ginger and Turmeric Rhizome Sprouting." Agronomy 11.10 (2021): 1931.   Poudyal, S., Owen Jr, J. S., Sharkey, T. D., Fernandez, R. T., & Cregg, B. (2021). Phosphorus requirement for biomass accumulation is higher compared to photosynthetic biochemistry for three ornamental shrubs. Scientia Horticulturae, 275, 109719.   Rouse, Riley P., and Bert Cregg. "Species and season affect the response of container-grown shade trees to pre-plant root modifications." Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 63 (2021): 127184.   White, SA. 2021. Plant nutrient uptake in full-scale floating treatment wetlands in a Florida stormwater pond: 2016-2020. Water. 13:569. https://doi.org/10.3390/w13040569   White, SA, WHJ Strosnider, Chase, MEM, MA Schlautman. 2021. Removal and reuse of phosphorus from plant nursery irrigation return water with reclaimed iron oxides. Ecological Engineering. 160:106153. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoleng.2021.106153

Impact Statements

Research conducted over the last year by NC1186 participants is redefining irrigation strategies and offering innovative management techniques to improve irrigation quantity and quality for Specialty Crop Production. For example, irrigation reservoirs are utilized to trap pollutants and store water, but little attention has been given to P dynamics in irrigation reservoirs. Research shared in publications, and presentations are teaching how sediment control P in ponds can better assist the growers in sediment and P management. An understanding of the importance of the riparian area to manage nutrients would help the growers and farmers protect source water and the sustainability of the agricultural systems. The use of technologies to monitor water and nutrients could better assist the growers and farmers in agricultural sustainability. It will make the farmers profitable and efficient. Additionally, research on freeway planting is being incorporated into the state adopted by Michigan highway management. The plant trial work by the UC group has been adopted into statewide landscape water use policy and permitting. Similarly, research by the University of Maryland group has looked at water retention by green roofs. They helped develop the Stormwater Retention Credit (SRC) Average Contract Price = $1.64 / Gal, and have recently revised the online water management data center http://waternut.org/moodle. The impact of the work from this group is also demonstrated by the hundreds of views of the online education program on topics including Urban Gardening, Growing systems, Nutrient, pH, soilless substrates for consumers that can be found on YouTube.

Date of Annual Report: 09/12/2022

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 04/19/2022 - 04/21/2022
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2021 - 09/30/2022

Participants

J. Altland - USDA-ARS; F. Brown - VT; R. Cabrera - Rutgers; K. Criscione - LSU; T. Fernandez - MSU; J. Fields - LSU; P. Fisher - UFL; A. Fulcher - Univ. Tennessee; D. Haver - UC; A. Lamm - UGA; J. Lea-Cox - UMD; A. LeBude - NCSU; N. Levy - UC; D. Merhaut - UC Riverside; L. Nackley - Oregon State; L. Oki - UC Davis; G. Owen - UK; J. Owen - USDA-ARS; B. Pitton - UC Davis; J. Shreckhise - USDA-Natl. Arb; J. Stagg - LSU; S. White - Clemson; T. Yeager - UFL.

Brief Summary of Minutes

The meeting was held in a hybrid format where attendees who were able traveled to LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station, while others were able to attend virtually via MS Teams. Meeting started at 8:30 with welcome and introduction from Dr. Fields - LSU. STation reports from all attendees followed, each lasted approximatley 10 min with an additional 5-10 min for questions. Presentations were provided via Powerpoint so in-person and virtual attendees could follow. The station reports continued until the group was dismissed for lunch, and resumed after lunch until 3PM. After station reports were completed, a business meeting was held (also hybrid format) where a new secretary (J. Shreckhise) was elected by the membership. Dr. Fields introduced the new leadership group including incoming chair (W. Owen; UK); co-chair (R. Cabrera; Rutgers), and Secretary (Shreckhise - USDA). Plans were developed for the following year's meeting. Oregon and Kentucky were both discussed as potential sites for the upcoming year. Further, a group proposed hosting in conjunction with the ISHS Irrigation Symposium, held in February 2023 in South Africa. Incoming President Owen offered to look into the possibility of hosting an international meeting. Attendees brought forth ideas to support the potential meeting in South Africa. Leadership decided to await decision until further information was garnered. Business meeting ended approximatley 4:45PM. After business meeting, an on-site tour of LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station was provided. This tour covered current research and the gardens. The following day, a tour of local nurseries was held for in-person attendees including two large, wholesale nurseries, a plant breeding facility, a native plant nursery, and a tea production facility. Tours lasted from 730AM to 530PM.

Accomplishments

Florida:  Objective (2) Crop production runoff management: Experiments were completed with recirculating nutrient solutions including lettuce, basil, tomato, and hemp in order to quantify changes in nutrient balance over time with variables that included the plant species, irrigation water quality, and acid/base type for pH correction. These data are being analyzed for a nutrient mass balance model to help growers conserve water and fertilizer by reducing the need to regularly dump nutrient solution. Emerging areas (with initial experimentation conducted in 2022) are related to (a) minimizing heavy metal contamination in medicinal crops including hemp, (b) quantifying climate in greenhouse and indoor vertical farms for control of irrigation using vapor pressure deficit, and (c) use of cold plasma and ozone for sanitation of recirculating nutrient solutions. Two extension courses were taught in Florida to a total of 341 participants greenhouse and nutrient management techniques. Thirty-eight extension videos added to Greenhouse Training Online YouTube channel, including interviews with other NC1186 members (Dr. Sarah White, Dr. Jim Owen, Dr. Jacob Shreckhise). The Greenhouse Training Online YouTube channel had 24.5K views, CleanWater3.org – water quality and treatment has 4.7K users, FloricultureAlliance.org – greenhouse propagation has 2.4K users, and BackPocketGrower.org – calculators and training has 1.2K users. Researchers at Florida provided 29 site visits with presentations both nationally and internationally. International Presentations: NZ Plant Producers Inc. and NZ International Plant Propagators Society four one-day Nursery best management practice nursery workshops in New Zealand (Pukekohe, Tauranga, Palmerston North, and Christchurch); Webinars in Singapore Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Food Agency (water quality, and urban horticulture); Canadian Greenhouse Conference webinar presentation on water quality; Guatemala Flower Export Association: two webinars on fertilizer in Spanish; Canada British Columbia Grower Association on nutrient management and water conservation National Presentations: Floriculture Research Alliance annual meeting presenter and co-organizer; University of Connecticut Extension presentation on “Managing the root zone in plug trays”; Bowery Farming (leading vertical farming company) presentation on “Nutrition for indoor vertical farming”; University of New Hampshire Extension presentation on “Root Zone pH and Nutrient Management for New Hampshire Growers”   South Carolina: Researchers from Clemson University and USDA-ARS Wooster completed sampling at two irrigation reservoirs in SC in November 2021. From both a small (area = 0.95 acres) and large (area = 7.69 acres) reservoir, we captured data related to storm event runoff and reservoir refill rates, irrigation return flow, and water quality (e.g., suspended sediments, nutrients, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen). Data (both volume and quality based) were integrated and movement of contaminants within water during storm and irrigation events was characterized. Growers used this information to determine reservoir refill rates during irrigation and storm events, to better understand water use and recharge rates. Researchers are exploring P dynamics in coastal stormwater ponds. They are investigating the implication of age of the pond on P dynamics. Currently, they engaged in site selection in the coastal region of South Carolina. Results from the study could help the growers in understanding P dynamics in irrigation reservoirs. Researchers are exploring the importance of stream restoration on nutrient dynamics in agricultural and urban streams. Currently, they are engaged in nutrient injection studies at a couple of sites in the City of Greenville and at the Simpsons farm, Clemson experiment station.   Results from this study could help understand the growers the importance of the riparian area, vegetation, and other in-stream best management practices that could be adopted and implemented for better source water quality. Analysis is ongoing for experiments completed by researchers from Clemson University in July 2021 related to potential of phosphorus-saturated iron-oxide residuals from mine drainage for use as both (1) a phosphorus filter to remove phosphorus from irrigation return flow or runoff and then (2) and potential for the P-saturated iron-oxide sorbed to the filter for reuse as a P fertilizer source in container production. Differences in crop appearance were evident among the five test species. Analytical results related to leachate, plant P uptake, and P remaining in the substrate were completed and results are being analyzed for publication and communication to stakeholders. Researchers are exploring the use of technologies (both contact and non-contact sensors) for water monitoring. Adoption of these technologies by the growers could greatly help in understanding and quantifying water and nutrient budgets. Currently, some of these technologies are already in place at the Clemson campus. Researchers from Clemson university completed experiments with floating treatment wetlands paired with bioreactors and iron oxide filters (in varied order) over two winter seasons (2019-20, 2020-21) and determined that iron oxide filters enhanced P removal over winter, and supplemented removal efficacy from dormant plants in the floating wetlands and from bioreactors with reduced microbial activity due to cooler temperatures. Publications are being finalized and one MS thesis was completed with this research project. Clemson researchers are engaged in developing educational materials for the Extension agents, NRCS agents, and farmers on harmful algal blooms (HAB) in livestock and irrigation ponds. The materials include a HAB manual, presentation, and factsheets on HABs.   Ohio: Outputs: Stakeholder engagement in research to identify needed benefits and barriers to adoption; Research summaries (1 page) of published journal papers were disseminated to Ohio stakeholder groups including the Maumee Valley Growers Association and the Nursery Growers of Lake County. Activities: Experiments were conducted on substrate hydrology, fertility, and weed management; Water quantity and quality research was conducted at two Ohio stakeholders’ nurseries identifying runoff amounts and load under varying irrigation storms and different storm intensities.; Alternative substrates were evaluated and recommended for tomato and cucumber production in Dutch buckets. These substrates, including pine bark and wood fiber, reduced water use and leachate compared to the industry standard perlite. Milestones: Runoff water management & quality: A water reservoir review and design parameters was published; Runoff water management & quality: Novel on farm runoff data, volume and load, comparing cultural practices was completed and will be published in winter of 2022/2023; Research on substrate alternatives to perlite for Dutch bucket hydroponic systems has concluded with specific recommendations for growers to adopt regionally available and effective organic substrates (pine bark, for example).   New Jersey:  Activities: Rutgers University has found that specialty hemp grown under plasticulture responds to irrigation management, where mild water stress (allowing soil matric potential reach -45 to -50 kPa before irrigation) significantly reduced harvested flower yields compared to a well irrigated treatment (soil matric potential allowed to reach -15 to -25 kPa). Irrigation management did not affect the cannabinoid or terpene profile of the harvested flowers.    Outputs: An online tool to estimate costs and benefits of installing a water recycling system in commercial nurseries was developed and validated. A grower can input data on an existing nursery operation and the online tool returns an initial “regulatory risk score” based on the user’s drought and pollution risk, and then, using a partial budget approach, it returns a net present value of investing on a water recycling system, upfront capital cost, and expected change in annual cash flow. Simulations of this computer tool pointed that capital cost and profit vary significantly with the precise method used to size the runoff water recapture pond.   Massachusetts:  Research and outreach efforts have focused on 1) post-production stress management for container produced plants, and 2) the use of alternative containers during production. The post-production environment, including shipping and the retail setting, is very stressful for plants as the environment is less than ideal in terms of water management, light and environmental conditions. There is potential for water management and the use of water retention additives during production to help plants better manage post-production stress. Finally, the use of alternative production containers is important because of the dependence of petroleum-based plastics by the green industries. Alternative containers, such as fabric and fiber containers, are a more sustainable option and have the potential to improve production related challenges such as circling roots. This is important to container plant producers as well as the public that wants to see more sustainable production practices used by the green industry.  Post-production stress management research focused on the use of reduced irrigation applications for water stress management and the use of water retention additives. Multiple studies were completed assessing different additives (granular, liquid, organic), the impact of different substrate types, and container types. Research looked at both the impact of reduced irrigation and additives on plant growth and water use during production as well as time to wilt in post-production. Alternative container research was conducted both in a greenhouse and outdoor production setting. The first study is looking at growth of Cornus floridain plastic and two different fabric containers over the course of two years. A second study looked at the growth of Heuchera in fabric, fiber, and plastic containers. A third study looked at the growth of Lavendula in fiber and plastic containers grown at different substrate water contents. A fourth study looked at the growth of Dianthu   North Carolina: Medium-term outcomes. NC State measured plant growth of five common flowering shrubs that received either high pH, low alkalinity irrigation water (pH 7.0-9.0; total alkalinity Outputs. Over 75 cooperative extension agents, growers and landscapers increased their knowledge, skills, and attitudes approximately one point on a five point Likert type scale after receiving training for monitoring pH and electrical conductivity of source water quality.   Activities. The Nursery Crop Science website is an outreach project of the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University and is dedicated to providing current information for Extension field faculty, students, researchers, and growers of commercial horticultural products.  Between October 2020 and September 2021, the site has had 975 new users that viewed over 5,712 pages and increased their knowledge of water use in nursery production.  Four weed species were deployed in submersible “pods” at four nurseries to determine effect of submersion time on germination.  Pods were deployed 2019 Nov and seeds have been extracted every 15 days for 360 days and germinated in controlled environments for 30 days. A second pod was deployed June 2020 to June 2021. Results are being analyzed. In collaboration with Oregon State University, several field tests of shade trees were planted to determine the effect of various cultural practices to prevent infestation of flatheaded appletree borer. A mobile disc filtering rig was constructed to pump large volumes of water from surface water to determine quantity of weed seeds in water.  Approximately 10 days of irrigation for an acre inch at each nursery (~270,000) will be filtered through 130 micron screens and the backwash will be sieved to remove seeds between 0.5 and 2.0 mm and germinated in a shade structure outside.      Oregon: The Climate-ready Landscape-Plant irrigation trials provides information for compliance with state water conservation regulations NC1186 members at the University of California, and Oregon State University in collaboration with non-NC1186 researchers at the Universities of Arizona, Washington, and Utah State have established a western regional irrigation plant trial to determine how climate gradient affects water use of common and uncommon landscape plant species. Continued research into sensor-based irrigation management. Third year using the DIY low cost open source weather station to monitor crop water stress. Added infra-red sensors to this years build and are developing crop water stress index for hazelnuts grown in Oregon. Also, built a mini-lysimeter system and established the Experimental Hemp Plant Irrigation Center.    Louisiana: Activities: Research activities in Louisiana focused on substrate management techniques, including stratified substrates to provide more uniform moisture gradient. Researchers are currently evaluating water dynamics and plant response in substrate systems. Further research to pursue potential cost savings by using lower-cost substrate (bark) below a higher quality substrate (peat) is ongoing. Research shows stratification can even out moisture level in top v bottom container. Sugarcane bagasse as substrate amendment to convert waste into a substrate resource – challenges include decomposition, low pH, and may be best for quick turn crops. Other projects including fertilizer placement and nutrient leaching, quality of bark sources, ground covers and interactions with irrigation, branding and consumer preferences for landscape varieties, container citrus production, and benchmarking nursery labor efficiency Outputs: Louisiana led a national collaborative effort to develop a soilless substrate industry survey and needs assessment. Knowledge transfer to stakeholders. Louisiana researchers hosted annual grower field day in July with 130 stakeholders in attendance who learned about current research findings. Louisiana researchers also facilitated knowledge transfer to stakeholders involving substrate science via grower webinars (IPPS-SR Micromeeting; Feb 2022), and a grower presentation (Cultivate – July 2022).   Tennessee: In collaboration with the USDA, we are developing a hyprop packing procedure to help ensure that we achieve the desired Db and that the Db is consistent throughout the height of the substrate column. We are also evaluating dielectric probe proximity for interference in VWC measurements to aid future research and as a tool for other researchers. Researchers with the USDA-ARS/U.S. National Arboretum (Tennessee) conducted research exploring the effect of adding ferrous sulfate-amended pine bark to nursery containers on phosphorus (P) leaching and plant growth of ten economically important nursery crops. They concluded that potting nursery crops in ferrous sulfate-amended pine bark at a rate of 0.3 or 0.6 kg/m3 Fe can reduce P leaching by 32% and 57%, respectively, without negatively affecting plant growth. USDA-ARS/U.S. National Arboretum researchers have also teamed up with NC1186 collaborators from the USDA-ARS/Application Technology Research Unit (Ohio), Louisiana State University, and Oregon State University to investigate the influence of container color and irrigation regime on substrate temperature and nutrient release characteristics from polymer-coated controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs). These CRF studies are currently underway (July 2022), the results from which may identify value-added benefits (e.g., improved CRF longevity) of growing nursery crops in white versus black containers and scheduling cyclic (3 cycles daily) versus once-per-day irrigation. Outputs. Knowledge transfer to stakeholders - Green Industry Field Day, led a team of organizers, Knoxville, TN, June 29, 2021.; Advances in Irrigation and Pesticide Application Technology for Nursery Crops. Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture Seminar, Purdue University, December 2, 2021, West Lafayette, IN (Virtual). State.; Advanced Irrigation and Water Use Concepts, Advance Tennessee Master Nursery Producer Program, 1-hour module. Offered throughout 2021.; Making the Transition: From Nursery to Landscape, Grounds Maintenance Shortcourse, Knoxville, TN, January 21, 2022; Curate the NC1186 Listserv. Activities. In collaboration with the USDA, we are evaluating water availability and developing an experimental system to evaluate water movement and retention in various pine bark blends. The University of Tennessee is conducting research to develop information that nursery producers can utilize when selecting container inputs among economic inflation, limiting water, and supply chain constraints. We are working toward our overarching goal of reducing excess water use.    California: Activities: The projects active during the reporting year developed information that addressed each of the five areas of concern: (1) research examines the removal of plant growth regulators from captured irrigation runoff to mitigate detrimental effects on non-targeted crops when the captured runoff is reused for irrigation. (2),( 3) videos have been developed on topics of irrigation efficiency, nutrient management, and runoff management. (3),( 4) information was developed on the irrigation needs of ornamental landscape plants to optimized water use.  (3), (5) research determined the pathways of nitrogen fertilizers usage and losses in containerized plant production. (5) Workshops for nursery and greenhouse growers on plant nutrition and fertilizer use were organized and will be presented in 2022 in both English and Spanish. Outputs: The project team has developed informational videos on water management on topics that cover irrigation efficiency, runoff management, and fertilizer management to assist growers to be more efficient with these resources and to mitigate issues related to runoff water quality.  The project team also develops information on the water needs of landscape plants to produce programs to irrigate urban landscapes to minimize water use and to comply with California regulations on urban landscape irrigation.  For growers, information on the use of nitrogen fertilizers is produced to optimize nitrogen nutrition, minimize nitrogen fertilizer applications and to comply with regulations regarding nitrogen management on California crops.  Also for growers, research was initiated on the removal of plant growth regulators from captured runoff to mitigate the effects of these compounds on non-targeted crops when the water is reused for irrigation.  The workshops on fertilizers and plant nutrition in English and Spanish presents information on the roles of these nutrients, diagnosing deficiencies and toxicities, monitoring plant health and nitrogen in water.

Publications

Scientific Journals: <ol> <li>Rihn, A., M. Velandia, L.A. Warner, A. Fulcher, S. Schexnayder, and A. LeBude. 2022. Factors correlated with the propensity to use automation and mechanization by the U.S. nursery industry. Agribusiness: An International Journal. (in press)</li> <li>Warner, L. A., A. L. Rihn, A. Fulcher, S. Schexnayder, and A.V. LeBude. Relating between perceptions and adoption of automated nursery technologies to address labor needs. Journal of Agricultural Education. (in press)</li> <li>Chen, L., H. Zhu, L. Horst, M. Wallhead, R. Reding, and A. Fulcher. 2021. Management of pest insects and plant diseases in fruit and nursery production with laser-guided variable-rate sprayers. HortScience 56(1):94-100. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI15491-20">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI15491-20</a></li> <li>Cypher, Q., A. Fulcher, L. Fessler, W. Wright, and X. Sun. 2021. Leachate and irrigation sensor development and performance. Applied Engineering in Agriculture 37(1):65-75. <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.14080">https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.14080</a></li> <li>Nackley, L., B. Warneke, L. FesslerMW. Pscheidt, D. Lockwood, W. Wright, X. Sun, and A. Fulcher. 2021. Variable-rate spray technology optimizes pesticide application by adjusting for seasonal shifts in deciduous perennial crops. HortTechnology 31(4):479-489.</li> <li>Fessler, L., A. Fulcher, L. Schneider, W. Wright, and H. Zhu. 2021. Reducing the nursery pesticide footprint with laser-guided, variable-rate spray application technology. HortScience 56(12):1572-1584. Issue selected for HortScience cover. <a href="https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/56/12/article-p1572.xml">https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/56/12/article-p1572.xml</a></li> <li>Ammons, A., A.V. LeBude, J.S. Owen, Jr., and M. McGinnis. 2022. Effect of irrigation, fertilizer rate and placement, and two substrates on growth of rose and hydrangea. J. Environ. Hort. In print.</li> <li>LeBude, A.V., J.S. Owen, and C. Holmes. 2021. High pH, low alkalinity pond water used for overhead irrigation does not affect plant growth of select flowering shrubs. J. Environ. Hort. 39(1):22–32. <a href="https://doi.org/10.24266/0738-2898-39.1.22">https://doi.org/10.24266/0738-2898-39.1.22</a>.</li> <li>McCauley, D.M. and L.L. Nackley&dagger;. 2022. Development of mini-lysimeter system for use in irrigation automation of container-grown crops. HardwareX</li> <li>Sheridan, R.A. and L.L. Nackley&dagger;. 2022. Applying the plant hydraulics framework to investigate desiccation during prolonged cold storage of horticultural trees. Frontiers in Plant Science <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2022.818769">https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2022.818769</a></li> <li>AL-agele, HA*, H. Jashami, L.L. Nackley, and C. Higgins. 2021. A Variable Rate Drip Irrigation Prototype for Precision Irrigation. Agronomy 11</li> <li>AL-agele HA, Mahapatra DM, Nackley L, Higgins C. Economic Viability of Ultrasonic Sensor Actuated Nozzle Height Control in Center Pivot Irrigation Systems. 2022. Agronomy. 12(5):1077 <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12051077">https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12051077</a></li> <li>Rodrigues, P.H.V., M.F. Trientini* and P.R. Fisher. 2022. Biofilm management in irrigation lines and hydroponic lettuce solutions using sanitizing chemicals. ISHS IX International Symposium On Irrigation Of Horticultural Crops, Matera Italy, Acta Horticulturae 1335. ISHS 2022. DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2022.1335.89</li> <li>Fisher, P.R. and G. Mohammad-Pour*. 2022. Interactions of fertilizer and chemical sanitizing agents in water. ISHS IX International Symposium On Irrigation Of Horticultural Crops, Matera Italy, Acta Horticulturae 1335. ISHS 2022. DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2022.1335.4</li> <li>Trientini, F.*, P.R. Fisher, and G.H Nunez. 2022. pH buffering of nutrient solutions with differing water quality in small-scale hydroponic systems. Journal of Plant Nutrition, DOI: 10.1080/01904167.2022.2072739. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2022.2072739">https://doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2022.2072739</a></li> <li>Fang, Y.*, P. Muñoz, G., Nuñez, and P.R. Fisher. 2022. Effect of container size, substrate composition, and genotype on growth and fruit quality of young southern highbush blueberry in a container-based intensive production system. Scientia Horticulturae 302:111149. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2022.111149">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2022.111149</a>.</li> <li>Garcia Chance, LM, CR Hall, SA White. 2022. Viability assessment for the use of floating treatment wetlands as alternative production and remediation systems for nursery and greenhouse operations. Journal of Environmental Management. 305:114398. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114398">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114398</a></li> <li>Yazdi, MN, JS Owen, SW Lyon, SA White. 2021. A Critical Review of Irrigation Retention Reservoir Performance and Design Considerations to Enhance Water Security for Specialty Crops. Journal of Cleaner Production. 321:128925. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128925">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128925</a></li> <li>Bell, NL, SN Jeffers, SA White. 2021. Potential susceptibility of six aquatic plant species to infection by five species of Phytophthora. Plant Disease. 105(12):4074-4083. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-10-20-2190-RE">https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-10-20-2190-RE</a></li> <li>Isiguzo, C., S. Washington, L. Dickes, T. Walker, M. R. Rad, D. Sahoo, and J. Allen. 2021. Stakeholder voice in water resources planning. Journal of South Carolina Water Resources, 8(2), 7-14.</li> <li>Burkhardt, B. J., D. Sahoo, B. Hammond, M. Long, T. Haxton, and R. Murray. 2022. Near real-time event detection for watershed monitoring with CANARY. Environmental Sciences: Advances, 2: 170-181.</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo, R. Jana, and C. Privette. 2022. Chlorophyll-a predictions in a piedmont lake in upstate South Carolina using machine learning approaches. Submitted to the Journal of South Carolina Water Resources.</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo, and R. Jana. 2022. Prediction of harmful algal blooms using deep learning with Bayesian approximation for uncertainty assessment. Submitted to the Journal of Hydrology.Sahoo, D., and A. Anandhi. Conceptualizing turbidity for vulnerability assessments. Under Revision.</li> <li>Anandhi, A., and D. Sahoo. Complex system approach to teaching natural resource engineering using concepts. Working paper. Under Revision. </li> <li>Pitton, B.J.L., Johnson, G.E., Haver, D.L. and Oki, L.R. 2022. Water use and estimated evapotranspiration at a California container plant nursery. Acta Hortic. 1335, 651-656. DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2022.1335.82.</li> <li>Chen, J., Y. Sun, K. Kopp, L. Oki, S.B. Jones, L. Hipps. Accepted. Effects of Water Availability on Leaf Trichome Density and Plant Growth and Development of Shepherdia × utahensis. Frontiers in Plant Science. 13. 18 May 2022. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2022.855858">https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2022.855858</a>.</li> <li>Gottlieb, P., R. Brumfield, R.I. Cabrera, D. Farnsworth and L. Marxen. 2022. An online tool for estimating return-on-investment for water recycling at nurseries. HortTechnology 32(1): 47-56. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04925-21">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04925-21</a></li> <li>Uresti-Porras, J.G., M. Cabrera-De-la-Fuente, A. Benavides-Mendoza, A. Sandoval-Rangel, A. Zermeño-Gonzalez, R.I. Cabrera and H. Ortega-Ortíz. 2021. Foliar application of zinc oxide nanoparticles and grafting improves the productivity of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) grown in a NFT system. Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici 49(2): 12327.  <a href="https://doi.org/10.15835/nbha49212327">https://doi.org/10.15835/nbha49212327</a></li> <li>López-Vargas, E.R. Y. González-García, M. Pérez-Álvarez, G. Cadenas-Pliego, S. González-Morales, A. Benavides-Mendoza, R.I. Cabrera and A. Juárez-Maldonado. 2020. Seed priming with carbon nanomaterials modify the germination, growth and antioxidant status of tomato seedlings. Agronomy 2020, 10, 639; <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10050639">https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10050639</a></li> <li>Criscione, K., J.S. Fields, J.S. Owen, Jr., L. Fultz, and E. Bush. 2021. Evaluation of stratified substrate effects on containerized crop growth under traditional and alternative irrigation protocols. HortScience. 57:400-413. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI16288-21">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI16288-21</a></li> <li>Behrouz, M.Z.*, M.N. Yazdi, D.J. Sample, D. Scott, & J.S. Owen Jr. 2022. What are the relevant sources and factors affecting event mean concentrations (EMCs) of nutrients and sediment in stormwater? Sci. Total Environ. 828:154368. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154368">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154368</a>.</li> <li>Poudyal, S.*, D. E. Abdi*, J.S. Owen Jr., R.T. Fernandez & B.M. Cregg. 2022. Effect of residual pesticides in recycled nursery runoff on growth and physiology of six ornamental shrubs. Water Air Soil Pollut 233, 3. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-021-05468-7">https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-021-05468-7</a></li> <li>Yazdi, M.*, J.S. Owen Jr., S.W. Lyon, & S.A. White. 2021. A critical review of irrigation retention reservoir performance and design considerations to enhance water security for specialty crops. J. cleaner Prod. 321:128925. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128925">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128925</a></li> <li>Quino, J.*, J.M. Maja, J. Robbins, J.S. Owen Jr., M. Chappell. J.N. Camargo & R.T. Fernandez. 2021. The relationship between drone speed and the number of flights in RFID tag reading for plant inventory. Drones 6:2. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/drones6010002">https://doi.org/10.3390/drones6010002</a></li> <li>Sahoo, D., Yazdi, M.N., Owen Jr, J.S., White, S.A. 2021. The basics of irrigation reservoirs for agriculture. Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension.October. LGP 1121. <a href="https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/the-basics-of-irrigation-reservoirs-for-agriculture/">https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/the-basics-of-irrigation-reservoirs-for-agriculture/</a></li> <li>Abdi, D.E.*, J.S. Owen Jr., P.C. Wilson, F. Hinz, B.M. Cregg, & R.T. Fernandez. 2021. Reducing pesticide transport in surface and subsurface irrigation return flow in specialty crop production. Agric. Water Mgmt. 256: 107124. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2021.107124">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2021.107124</a></li> <li>Khamare, Y., S.C. Marble, J.E. Altland, B.J. Pearson, J. Chen, and P. Devkota. (2022). Effect of substrate stratification on growth of common nursery weed species and container-grown ornamental species, HortTechnology, 32(1):74-83.  <a href="https://journals.ashs.org/horttech/view/journals/horttech/32/1/article-p74.xml">https://journals.ashs.org/horttech/view/journals/horttech/32/1/article-p74.xml</a></li> <li>Altland JE. The Pour-Through Procedure for Monitoring Container Substrate Chemical Properties: A Review. Horticulturae. 2021; 7(12):536. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7120536">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7120536</a></li> <li>Boldt, J. K., & Altland, J. E. (2021). Petunia (Petunia ×hybrida) Cultivars vary in silicon accumulation and distribution, HortScience 56(3):305-312.</li> <li>Yang, T., J. Altland, U. Samarakoon. 2021. Evaluation of organic substrates as an alternative to perlite for cucumber production in the Dutch bucket hydroponic system.  Acta Hort. 1317:319-326. DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2021.1317.37</li> <li>Yang, T.; U. Samarakoon, J. Altland, J., and P. Ling, P. 2021. Photosynthesis, biomass production, nutritional quality, and flavor-related phytochemical properties of hydroponic-grown arugula (Eruca sativa Mill.) ‘Standard’ under different electrical conductivities of nutrient solution. Agronomy 2021, 11, 1340. https://doi.org/10.3390/ agronomy11071340</li> </ol> Proceedings (abstracts or full articles): <ol> <li>Witcher, A., K. Addesso, J. Oliver, B. Campbell, A. Fulcher, K. Jensen, W. Klingeman, A. LeBude, O. Liburd, L. Nackley, A. Rihn, C. Seavert, N. Wiman, A. Acebes, F. Baysal-Gurel, B. Blaauw, J-H. Chong, D. Held, S. Jospeh, J. Moulton, C. Palmer, J. Rijal, and E. Vafaie. 2021. Improving flatheaded borer management practices for specialty tree crops - a multidisciplinary approach. HortScience 56(9)S9-10.</li> <li>Fessler, L., D. Lockwood, G. PietschM Wright, H. Zhu, and A. Fulcher. Improving pesticide application efficiency through variable-rate spray applications to ‘Auvil Fuji’ apple trees trained to a tall spindle trellis system. HortScience 56(9)S116.</li> <li>Wright, H.E., N. Bumgarner, A. Fulcher, J.T. Brosnan, R. Florence, F.A. Hale, Z.R. Hansen, R. Holland Jr., D.W. Lockwood, A. Rihn, T.J. Samples, J. Tsuruda, A.S. Windham, A.L. Wszelaki, and M.M. Velandia. 2021. Insights gained from distance technology during COVID-19: Evaluation of the Horticulture Hot Topics Series. HortScience 56(9)S147.</li> <li>Fessler, L., W. Wright, D. Lockwood, G. Pietsch, K. Kilpatrick, H. Zhu, and A. Fulcher. 2021. Reducing spray volume across developmental stages of apple with variable-rate spray technology. HortScience 56(9)S168.</li> <li>Fessler, L., G. Pietsch, W. Wright, D. Lockwood, H. Zhu, and A. Fulcher. 2021. Reducing Spray Drift in Trellised Malus Domestica ‘Auvil Fuji’ with Variable-Rate Spray Technology. HortScience 56(9)S168-9.</li> <li>Sheridan, R.A. and L.L. Nackley*. 2021. A primer on plant hydraulic physiology for nursery professionals. Tree Planters’ Notes 64</li> <li>amm, AJ, LA Warner, K Gibson, KW Lamm, P Fisher, SA White. (under review). A theoretical comparison of nursery and greenhouse growers’ water conservation and water treatment technology adoption in the United States. Acta Horticulturae. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Water: a Worldwide Challenge for Horticulture!</li> <li>White, SA. 2022. “Water (Policy) and Limitations for the Future of Nursery Production.” American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, Chicago, IL. (August)</li> <li>Nix, H., D Sahoo, SA White. 2022. "Current topics in water quality." 2022 Clemson University Water Research Symposium, Clemson, SC (May)</li> <li>White, SA, M Tomlin, MN Yazdi, JS Owen. 2022. “Piedmont Ecoregion Irrigation Reservoir Water Quality Dynamics Under Stormwater Irrigation Return Flow.” Southern Region American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA (Feb)</li> <li>Tomlin, M, SA White, J Adelberg. 2022. “Seed Propagation Protocol Development for Brackish Plants.” Southern Region American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA (Feb)</li> <li>Landaverde, A, White, SA, WHJ Strosnider. 2022. “Plant selection for Floating Treatment Wetlands in Brackish Waters.” Southern Region American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA (Feb)</li> <li>Escamilla, C, AE Scaroni, SA White. 2022. Guiding Successful Application of Floating Treatment Wetlands in Brackish Coastal Ponds. Universities Council on Water Resources Annual Water Resources Conference, Greenville, SC (June)</li> <li>White, SA, M Tomlin, M Yazdi, JS Owen, Jr. 2022. Irrigation reservoir water quality dynamics under stormwater and irrigation return flow. Universities Council on Water Resources Annual Water Resources Conference, Greenville, SC (June)</li> <li>Escamilla, C, SA White, AE Scaroni, WHJ Strosnider. 2022. Guiding Successful Application of Floating Treatment Wetlands in Brackish Coastal Ponds. 2022 Clemson University Water Research Symposium, Clemson, SC (May).</li> <li>Singh, G, M Cutulle, SA White, B Ward, J Rohilla, M Vassalos, R Karthikeyan. 2022. "Exploration of salt-tolerant germplasm to increase rice production in South Carolina." 2022 Clemson University Water Research Symposium, Clemson, SC (May).</li> <li>Belk, P., A Brawner, L Coulombe, C Kurz, B Deuty, M Mulligan, H Motro, J Seiter, JC Melgar Jimenez, K Gasic, S Kutty, DM Park, V Suseela, G Schnabel, SA White. 2022. Sustainable Agriculture through Enhanced Plant Resilience. Poster presentation at Clemson University 17th Annual Focus on Creative Inquiry Forum, Clemson, SC (April).</li> <li>Fields, J.S., A. Edwards, and M. Thiessen. 2022. Supplementing commercial floriculture substrates with wood fiber and sugarcane bagasse. Annual meeting Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. Chicago, IL</li> <li>Criscione, K. and J.S. Fields. 2022. Stratifying high-performance peat-based substrates above pine bark for cost-effective floriculture production. Annual meeting Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. Chicago, IL</li> <li>Oliva, F. D. Abdi, and J.S. Fields. 2022. Evaluation of pine bark and expanded aggregate for nutrient removal. Annual meeting Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. Chicago, IL</li> <li>Criscione, K.S. and J.S. Fields. 2022. Hydration of traditional and stratified substrates under varied moisture contents. Annual meeting Southern Region Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. New Orleans, LA</li> <li>Fields, J.S. 2022. Single-screen fractionation for simplified substrate stratification. Annual meeting Southern Region Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. New Orleans, LA</li> <li>Criscione, K.S., Field, J.S., Owen Jr, J.S. 2022. Exploring water movement through stratified substrates. Combined Proceedings of the International Plant Propagators Society. 71:116-124.</li> <li>Brown, F., Niemiera, A., Owen, J. S. Jr., Stewart, R., & Altland, J. E. (2021) Nitrogen Fate in Containerized Crop Production [Abstract]. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting, Salt Lake City, UT. <a href="https://scisoc.confex.com/scisoc/2021am/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/138518">https://scisoc.confex.com/scisoc/2021am/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/138518</a></li> <li>Fields, J.S., Owen, J., Lamm, A., Altland, J.E., Jackson, B.E., Zheng, Y., Oki, L., Fontenot, K., Samtani, J. and Campbell, B. (2021). Soilless substrate science: a North American needs assessment to steer soilless substrate research into the future. Acta Hortic. 1317, 313-318. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2021.1317.36">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2021.1317.36</a></li> <li>Forrest J Brown, James S Owen, Alexander X Niemiera, Ryan Stewart, Mohammad Yazdi, James Altland. 2021. A comparison of nitrogen fate in containerized crop production when using two different controlled release fertilizer formulations HortScience 56(9):S102-S103.</li> </ol> Book Chapters: <ol> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2021. Optimización del fertirriego en flores de corte (Optimization of fertigation in cut flowers), p. 153-159. In: G. Fischer, D. Miranda, S. Magnitskiy, H.E. Balaguera-López and Z. Molano (eds.), Avances de la Horticultura y la Mejora en la Calidad de Vida. Sociedad Colombiana de Ciencias Hortícolas, Bogotá, Colombia. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.17584/VIIIHorticultura">https://doi.org/10.17584/VIIIHorticultura</a></li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2021. Irrigation and nutrition management, p. 224-257 (Chapter 3). In: J. Faust and J. Dole (eds.) Cut Flowers and Foliages, Crop Production Science in Horticulture Book Series, CABI, Wallingford, UK.</li> </ol> Popular press: <ol> <li> Fulcher, A., L. Fessler, T. Stackhouse. 2022. Branded! How a common marketing strategy is changing the way the green industry does business. Part 2 Trademarks. Tennessee Green Times. 23(1):20-23.</li> <li>Fulcher, A., J. Bruhin, B. English, K. Jenson, J. Menard, and S. Schexnayder. 2021. A growing future: Statewide economic impacts of the Tennessee nursery industry. Tennessee Green Times. 22(2):1-13.</li> <li>Fulcher, A., L. Fessler, T. Stackhouse. 2021. Branded! How a common marketing strategy is changing the way the green industry does business. Part I Patents. Tennessee Green Times. 22(1):18-23</li> <li>Fisher, P.R. Be watchful of your water. 2022. GrowerTalks Jan 2022.</li> <li>Fisher, P.R. and J. Erwin. Rethinking the black nursery pot. 2021. GrowerTalks Dec 2021: 54-55.</li> <li>White, SA and JS Owen. 2022. “Water Security.” Greenhouse Management. July, 42(7):5 pp. <a href="https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/water--security/">https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/water--security/</a> (Subscribers: 22,460 per month)</li> <li>White, SA and JS Owen. 2022. “Reservoir Design and Water Security.” Nursery Management. June, 38(6):16-21. <a href="https://www.nurserymag.com/article/reservoir-design-water-security/">https://www.nurserymag.com/article/reservoir-design-water-security/</a> (Subscribers: 16,795 per month)</li> <li>White, SA. 2021. “Pesticides, Water Quality, & $$$.” Grower Talks. January. <a href="https://youtu.be/HH7Fo5rLSZM">https://youtu.be/HH7Fo5rLSZM</a> (Posted November 19. Views: 333)</li> <li>Rutgers Water Recycling Investment Tool© (2020 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey): <a href="https://tessera.rutgers.edu/recycle-flowchart/">https://tessera.rutgers.edu/recycle-flowchart/</a></li> <li>Owen. Jr., J.S., J.S. Fields, J.E. Altland, A. Lamm, and B.E. Jackson. Soilless substrate science: Part 3 – A glimpse into the future of soilless substrates. GrowerTalks. May 2022, pg 52-53.</li> <li>Jackson, B.E., J.S. Fields, J.S. Owen, Jr. and J.E. Altland. Soilless substrate science: Part 2 – Science for current and future growers. GrowerTalks. April 2022</li> <li>Owen, J.S. Jr., J.S. Fields, and J.E. Altland. Utilizing stratified growing media to invent the future. Nursery Management. March 2022.</li> <li>Jackson, B.E., Fields, J.S., Owen Jr, J.S., Altland, J.E. 2022. Soilless substrate science for current and future growers. Growertalks. 82(12):52-45. <a href="https://www.growertalks.com/Article/?articleid=25658">https://www.growertalks.com/Article/?articleid=25658</a>.</li> <li>Fields, J.S., Owen Jr, J.S., Altland, J.E., Jackson, B.E., Lamm, A. 2022. Soilless substrate science: Part 1 in a series on a collaborative effort to support our industry's needs for soilless sustrates. Growertalks. 85(11):46-47 (March).  <a href="https://www.growertalks.com/Article/?articleid=25618">https://www.growertalks.com/Article/?articleid=25618</a></li> <li>Jackson, B.E., Fields, J.S., Altland, J.E., Owen Jr, J.S. 2022. The latest on growing media research. Growertalks. 85(9): 56-60. <a href="https://www.growertalks.com/Article/?articleid=25544">https://www.growertalks.com/Article/?articleid=25544</a></li> <li>Marble, C. and J. Altland. 2022.  Using growing media to control weeds. NMPro Magazine. June 2022. https://www.nurserymag.com/article/using-growing-media-to-control-weeds/</li> </ol>   Extension publications: <ol> <li>Rihn, A.L., A. Fulcher, H. Khachatryan, A. LeBude, L.A. Warner, and S. Schnexnayder. 2022. A ten-year review of the Southeast U.S. green industry, Part II: Addressing labor shortages and internal and external factors affecting business strategies. UT Extension Publication. In press.</li> <li>Rihn, A., A. Fulcher, and H. Khachatryan. 2021. A ten-year review of the Southeast U.S. Green Industry, Part I: Labor and firm characteristics. UT Extension Publication W1026. <a href="https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/W1026.pdf">https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/W1026.pdf</a></li> <li>Fulcher, A., L. Fessler, and T. Stackhouse. 2020. A Green Industry guide to plant patents and other intellectual property rights. UT Extension Publication PB 1882. 12pp.  <a href="https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/PB1882.pdf">https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/PB1882.pdf</a></li> <li>Fulcher, A., M. Leffew, A. Wszelaki, and M. Velandia. 2020. Operating a garden center during the COVID-19 pandemic. UT Departmental Extension Publication D 114. 10pp. <a href="https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D114.pd">https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D114.pd</a></li> <li>Nix, HB, D Sahoo, SA White, J Hains, I Busari. 2022. Harmful Algal Blooms: Prevention, Response, and Avoidance Manual. Clemson Extension.</li> <li>Busari I, D Sahoo, HB Nix, CG Wallover, SA White, CB Sawyer. Introduction to Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in South Carolina Freshwater Systems. Clemson (SC): Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension; 2022 Jun. LGP 1146. <a href="https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/introduction-to-harmful-algal-blooms-habs-in-south-carolina-freshwater-systems/">https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/introduction-to-harmful-algal-blooms-habs-in-south-carolina-freshwater-systems/</a>.</li> <li>Sahoo D, Yazdi MN, Owen, Jr. JS, White SA. The Basics of Irrigation Reservoirs for Agriculture. Clemson (SC): Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension; 2021 Oct. LGP 1121. <a href="https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/the-basics-of-irrigation-reservoirs-for-agriculture/">https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/the-basics-of-irrigation-reservoirs-for-agriculture/</a>.  <a href="https://doi.org/10.34068/LGP.R.01">https://doi.org/10.34068/LGP.R.01</a></li> </ol> Dissertations/ Thesis: <ul> <li>Trientini, F. 2021. Simplified fertilizer supply and pH management for small-scale hydroponics. M.S. Dissertation. University of Florida.</li> </ul>

Impact Statements

Research conducted over the last year was focused on improving water management strategies in specialty crop production to support more effective and efficient production practices. The participating institutions generate impact through innovative research efforts in all five defined priority areas, including 1) water quality of irrigation sources, 2) irrigation management, 3) crop production runoff management, 4) urban storm water management, and 5) substrates and nutrients. Research in South Carolina and North Carolina focused on improving irrigation water quality through implementing natural pH management techniques and further understanding Phosphorus dynamics in source ponds, with better management of P through sediment and floating treatment wetlands. New Jersey and Massachusetts researchers are evaluating the use of alternative irrigation water sources and management practices and their impact on specialty crop productivity and quality, and water and fertilizer footprints. Tennessee and Oregon research was focused on improving irrigation techniques and management. Tennessee is developing information that nursery producers can utilize when selecting container inputs among economic inflation, limiting water, and supply chain constraints, while Oregon is focusing on irrigation strategies to lessen detrimental impacts from extremely high temperatures. Researchers in Ohio and South Carolina have published research focused on capturing and retaining water on-site and are developing Best Practices for using reservoirs to manage runoff and water capture. Massachusetts and Louisiana researchers are evaluating stromwater management techniques to reduce chemical movement in urban and agricultural areas. California is evaluating low-water plantings to reduce water requirement in landscapes. Louisiana and Ohio researchers are leading national and global efforts in stratified substrates, a new substrate management technique that has shown the ability to reduce water requirement in container crop production. Further, fertilizer efficiency is being improved through work in Louisiana, Tennessee, Oregon, and Ohio, by evaluating placement and reducing extreme container temperatures. The membership leverages these research efforts for external funding to continue research programs. Further, a multitude of research and extension publications have been developed through group efforts. In addition, stakeholder dissemination through field days, grower workshops, seminars, webinars, and visits by all participating members, ensure that the information developed by all NC1186 researchers is grower-oriented with implementation of findings supported.

Date of Annual Report: 10/23/2023

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 09/06/2023 - 09/08/2023
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2022 - 09/30/2023

Participants

Jeanette Thurston – University of Kansas; W. Garrett Owen – The Ohio State University; Lauren Seltsam – The Ohio State University; Lark Wuetcher– The Ohio State University; Tyler Rich – The Ohio State University; Jeb Fields – Louisiana State University; Raul Cabrera – Rutgers University; Sarah White – Clemson University; Jim Owen – USDA-ARS; James Altland – USDA-ARS; Amy Fulcher – University of Tennessee-Knoxville; Erica Eady – University of Tennessee-Knoxville; Alexa Lamm – University of Georgia; Kristin Gibson – University of Georgia; Ping Yu – University of Georgia; Gerarado Spinelli – University of California Cooperative Extension San Diego; Jacob Shreckhise – USDA-National Arboretum; Paul Fisher – University of Florida; Xi Xiong, University of Missouri.

Brief Summary of Minutes

On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, NC1186 members that were attending the meeting in-person arrived in Cincinnati, Ohio. Members met at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden Urban Learning Garden at Rockdale Academy (334 Northern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229) four a tour. Afterwards, members received a tour of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden (3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220) to learn about the botanical gardens, plant selection, and water collection and management.

The NC1186 meeting was held Thursday, September 7, 2023 at the Hamilton County Extension Office (2055 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45202) in a hybrid format with participation in-person and virtual via Zoom. The meeting started at 8:30 a.m. EST with welcome and introduction from Dr. W. Garrett Owen, The Ohio State University. Dr. Jeanette Thurston, North Central Executive Director, provided a 30-minute overview and reporting presentation. Starting at 9:15 a.m. EST, station reports from all attendees followed, each lasting approximately 10 minutes with an additional 5 minutes for questions. Presentations were provided via Powerpoint so in-person and virtual attendees could follow. The station reports ended at 12:00 p.m. EST whereupon the business meeting started (also hybrid format).

Dr. W. Garrett Owen, The Ohio State University, opened the business meeting. Dr. Raul Cabrera, Rutgers University, is the incoming chair and Dr. Jake Shreckhise, USDA-National Arboretum, is the incoming Vice-Chair. Dr. Jim Owen, USDA-ARS, motioned to nominated Dr. Ping Nu, University of Georgia, for secretary. Motion was seconded by Dr. James Altland, USDA-ARS. The NC-1186 membership discussed. There was a unanimous vote and Dr. Ping Nu was elected as secretary.

A motion was made by Dr. Jim Owen, USDA-ARS, “To determine 2024 meeting location and date”. Dr. James Altland, USDA-ARS seconded the motion. Floor opened for discussion. Discussion occurred. Dr. Jim Owen, USDA-ARS, made a motion to amend the original motion by rephrasing to, “Poll the NC-1186 membership to determine participation in January IPPS meeting versus attending a meeting mid-year in New Jersey. Poll should be emailed out to the membership within one week, i.e., September 15, 2023.” Amendment seconded by Dr. James Altland, USDA-ARS. Floor opened for discussion. Discussion occurred by NC-1186 membership. Amendment passed unanimously. Newly amended motion was discussed, and motion made to, “Table the amended motion for further discussion based on NC-1186 membership polling and feedback.” Motion seconded by Dr. Jim Owen, USDA-ARS. Floor opened for discussion. No discussion occurred. Motion passed and tabled.

Dr. Xi Xiong, University of Missouri, introduced herself as a new members.

Dr. Jim Owen, USDA-ARS made a motion to adjourn the business meeting. Second by Dr. James Altland, USDA-ARS. Business meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m. EST whereupon the group was dismissed for lunch.

After the business meeting, the NC-1186 in-person membership traveled to Natorp’s Nursery Outlet & Landscaping (8601 Snider Rd, Mason, OH 45040). Starting at 1:30 p.m. EST, members received a tour of the 333-acre commercial greenhouse, nursery, and retail facility offering annual, perennial, trees, shrubs, and tropical plants to Cincinnati and beyond. The tour aligns with the NC1186 objectives as Natorp’s captures runoff from neighboring communities, clean and use for irrigation. The NC1186 members toured the commercial greenhouse facilities, propagation, production lines, overwintering structures, and retail garden center. Afterwards, the NC1186 membership enjoyed dinner on the Natorp’s Landscape Design Studio patio until 7:00 p.m. EST.

On Wednesday, September 6, 2023, Dr. W. Garrett Owen, The Ohio State University, held a Water Management and Quality for Greenhouse and Nursery Crop Production Workshop at the Hamilton County Extension Office (2055 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45202). The workshop was held in-person and started at 9:00 a.m. EST with introductions my Dr. W. Garrett Owen, The Ohio State University. NC1186 members provided 20 minutes presentations to 29 attendees that were classified as university Extension agents or growers from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee. The workshop concluded at 3:00 p.m. EST.

Accomplishments

Ohio Dr. W. Garrett Owen started a new position at The Ohio State University after departing the University of Kentucky. He will develop his greenhouse and nursery research and Extension program to include objective of NC1186. To date, research is focused on water footprinting/benchmarking and leveraging artificial intelligence to manage irrigation. Louisiana Over the past year, the Fields’ Lab has continued to lead the national research priority in stratified substrates. We have developed key findings to utilize substrate stratification to reduce peat reliance by upwards of 50% in container crop production. Further, we have proven the potential of utilizing sugarcane bagasse as a peat amendment to reduce peat use by upwards of 30% in container production. Further, Louisiana collaborated with Oregon (Nackley Lab) to evaluate the effect of irrigation scheduling and container color on substrate temperature, noting the significant reduction from utilizing white containers. This reduction in temperature resulted in an overall improved crop quality in both LA and OR, as well as shifting fertilizer release patterns. Overall, the Fields’ Lab has provided significant improvements in nursery and greenhouse production efficiency, while minimizing associated costs for growers. We have also hosted USDA scientists to evaluate nursery pond water quality in Louisiana. Further, I organized a Grower Research Conference at the Gulf States Horticultural Expo, inviting faculty from the gulf states region to share current research updates with growers.  South Carolina Researchers from Clemson University, Louisiana State University, NC State University, and USDA-ARS Wooster conducted sampling at operations in the Coastal Plain, Piedmont, Gulf Coast, and Midwestern Ecoregions of the US in August 2023. We collected samples at strategic locations within each operation to evaluate the presence of emerging contaminants of concern (e.g., PFAS, metals, harmful algal blooms, and microplastics). Data are currently being analyzed. These information will help us inform growers of the presence of contaminants that could impact their operation in the future. Researchers from Clemson University completed experiments with floating treatment wetlands paired with bioreactors and iron oxide filters (in varied order) over two winter seasons (2019-20, 2020-21) and determined that iron oxide filters enhanced P removal over winter and supplemented removal efficacy from dormant plants in the floating wetlands and from bioreactors with reduced microbial activity due to cooler temperatures. The first publication was submitted in August 2023, one additional publication is in progress. Researchers from Clemson University are exploring phosphorus (P) dynamics in coastal stormwater ponds. They are investigating the implications of the age of the pond on P dynamics. The team conducted sediment core sampling of nine different stormwater ponds to understand P dynamics. In addition to water chemistry, they also identified various algal species present in the samples. The team will conduct another round of sampling in the winter of 2023. The results from the study could assist growers in understanding P dynamics in irrigation reservoirs. Researchers are initiating characterization of the impact of emerging contaminants, particularly herbicides and pesticides, on phytoplankton in various agricultural and stormwater ponds.  Researchers are exploring the importance of stream restoration on nutrient dynamics in agricultural and urban streams by conducting short-term nutrient injection studies. They have obtained preliminary results from the nutrient dynamics study in lower order restored and unrestored streams. The results from this study could help growers understand the importance of the riparian area, vegetation, and other in-stream best management practices that could be adopted and implemented for better source water quality. The researchers have also investigated the applications of fiber optics in understanding various stream processes. Researchers have worked over the last four years to screen more than 12 species of plants that tolerate brackish (salty) waters to various degrees and evaluate their potential to mitigate nutrient contaminants in coastal stormwater ponds impacted by salt waters. Researchers also held 3 listening sessions and conducted a nationwide survey with consumers with interest in the use of floating wetlands in coastal stormwater ponds. We have a preliminary understanding of the factors that influenced consumer acceptance of the use and installation of floating wetlands in stormwater ponds and are working to develop installation guidelines to help them succeed when installing floating wetlands in coastal ponds, whether fresh or saltwater. We have also begun initial characterization of the ecosystem services associated with floating wetlands via monitoring of three full-size floating wetlands in three ponds in Mt. Pleasant, SC. The researchers are continuously involved in developing educational materials for Extension agents, water agents, NRCS agents, and farmers regarding harmful algal blooms in livestock ponds. The materials include an HAB manual, presentations, and factsheets on HABs. They have organized workshops for Extension agents, NRCS personnel, state regulatory authorities, and farmers to comprehend HABs and their implications. The researchers are also assessing the knowledge gained through these training sessions. Additionally, the researchers are working on developing AI-ML-based models to understand and predict harmful algal blooms (HABs).   Tennessee Researchers at the University of Tennessee in partnership with the USDA evaluated substrate moisture sensor (SMS) probe placement. Her lab determined that the zone of interference, which was previously considered to be the zone of influence was non-existent for four EC-5 SMS probe orientations. Probe can be installed within 1 cm of one another when in any of the four tested orientations without affecting the measurement. Researchers in conjunction with the USDA quantified the bulk density of select nursery substrates in 2.8 L production containers and subsequently developed and tested a new packing technique to pack substrate cores to a predictable, consistent bulk density commensurate with that of 2.8 L nursery containers. Outcomes: These projects collectively expanded the tools and framework within which irrigation and substrate scientists conduct research and expand the utility of high density sensor placement for research and applied uses with grower collaborators. In collaboration with the USDA, Dr. Fulcher’s lab developed a counterbalanced scale. The scale is located within a square irrigation zone that was designed to replicate typical nursery irrigation application rates based on field work with Tennessee nursery producers. This system is being used to test leaching fraction, infiltration, and other hydraulic conductivity characteristics of coir, Sphagnum peat moss and pine bark substrates.   Missouri Activities performed at the University of Missouri in this period focused on incorporating soil surfactants into water management plan, with a goal to inhibit water runoff and/or leaching, by improving water infiltration and retention, especially on water-repellent soils. Specific activities performed included collection of hydrophobic sands from a field plot with sand-based growing media, where soil hydrophobicity has been placed in the very severe hydrophobic category based on its molarity of ethanol droplet test, which was determined to be 3.4 M. In the laboratory, the hydrophobic soils were packed in rubber rings to a consistent bulk density and mass, before they were subjected to treatments which included 21 soil surfactants in addition to distilled, deionized water as a control. After 24-hour of exposure to the treatments, the sands were saturated, except the water control due to the level of hydrophobicity. The treated sands were then moved into pressure chambers and placed onto porous ceramic plates. The pressure chambers were subjected to pressure treatments at -2.9 kPa or -1,500 kPa, for estimating water retention at field capacity or permanent wilting point, respectively. After 5 days equilibration, the soil samples were then transferred to moisture cans, and their masses were recorded before and after oven drying at 105 ℃ for 45 hours, for calculation of gravimetric water content. Plant available water was then calculated as the difference between water retained at field capacity and permanent wilting point. This experiment was designed as a completely randomized design with four replications, and the entire experiment was repeated once. Another activity performed at the University of Missouri during this period also included determining the surface tension of the 21 soil surfactants at five dosages of 1/4×, 1/2×, 1×, 2×, and 4× label suggested rates. At each rate for each surfactant, three droplets were tested, and each droplet was measured three times by using an Attension Theta Lite Tensiometer. This experiment was designed as a completely randomized design with three replications for each surfactant and rate combination. All data collected from both experiments were subjected to ANOVA using PROC GLM procedure of SAS 9.4. Significant means were separated based on Fisher’s Protected LSD at P≤0.05. As of now, we found substantial differences among the 21 soil surfactants for their water retention capacity in water-repellent soils. The plant available water ranged between 5.5% and 13.3% among treatments, implying that some soil surfactants will likely result in a greater risk of leaching, and possible agrichemical contaminations to ground water. Results from surface tension influenced by soil surfactants also revealed a 1.86-fold difference, ranging from 24.89 mN/m to 46.41 mN/m. For reference, without addition of soil surfactants, surface tension of tap water was determined to be 72.74 mN/m. This result suggested that all soil surfactants tested significantly reduced surface tension of water, which implies that all soil surfactants tested would improve water infiltration and therefore, reduce water surface runoff in the field. However, due to the significant differences among soil surfactants for their influences on surface tension of water, it would be wise to choose a proper soil surfactant based on the soil characteristics, for the desirable effect of runoff water reduction.   Collectively, both projects implied that it is important to find a delicate balance between surface water runoff reduction and water retention improvement, in a water management plan where soil surfactants are incorporated.    New Jersey Rutgers University (NJAES) is evaluating how specialty floral and fiber hemp crops grown under field plasticulture and soilless production in greenhouse environments respond to differential irrigation and fertilization management practices. Results to date indicate that in both growing environments mild water stress can significantly reduce harvested flower yields. Preliminary greenhouse studies with hemp cultivars growing in containerized substrates show reduced flower yields with additions of ammonium fractions to the fertigation solutions, highlighting a crop preference for nitrate-nitrogen sources. The applied irrigation and nitrogen management treatments did not affect the cannabinoid production nor terpene profiles of the harvested flowers. These observations support those reported from other abiotic stresses in hemp, suggesting a strong genetic control on the biosynthesis of these compounds.   Compared to water use efficiency (WUE, crop biomass produced per unit of water transpired or applied), water footprint (WF) is a recent sustainability concept that provides a more comprehensive value of direct and indirect water consumed and polluted to produce a crop or harvested product. The pollution component in WF, WGgray, refers to the freshwater volume that would be required to dilute a load of agrichemical pollutant(s) in the drainage/runoff effluents produced during crop production, to local water quality standards. Data from a previous water and nitrogen mass balance study in a greenhouse rose crop was used to estimate the WF of a single cut rose stem and biomass unit of harvested flowers. The measured WUE ranged from 0.7 to 2.6 g of dry weight per liter of water applied across several irrigation and N fertilization treatments, whereas the total WF values ranged from 7.7 to 26 liters per single stem using a conservative N pollution factor to calculate the WGgray parameter. On a comparative weight basis, the averaged WF of 0.48 liters of water per gram of fresh weight of harvested cut rose flower stems falls in between the global WF averages for vegetable (0.3 L/g) and fruit (1.0 L/g) crops. USDA-National Arboretum Researchers in the USDA-ARS Floral and Nursery Plants Research Unit (FNPRU) in TN are conducting research in collaboration with the USDA-ARS Application Technology Research Unit (Ohio) to evaluate the effects of container color (white vs. black) and irrigation schedule (once daily vs. three daily cycles) on root zone temperature, plant growth, nutrient use efficiency, and controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) longevity in container-based production. Data from experiments replicated concurrently in TN and OH in 2022 are being analyzed. Experiments are being repeated in both locations during the summer of 2023. USDA-ARS FNPRU researchers, in collaboration with Louisiana State University, are investigating activated alumina as a phosphorus (P)-sorbing substrate amendment for reducing P leaching while prolonging P plant-availability during container-based nursery and greenhouse production. Greenhouse studies in LA and P adsorption isotherms in TN have been completed. The manuscript is currently in progress. USDA-ARS FNPRU researchers are collaborating with the University of Tennessee to screen Hydrangea macrophylla cultivars for heat tolerance and identify physiological and/or morphological characteristics that enhance water use efficiency. Thirty-nine H. macrophylla cultivars grown in full sun or 50% shade were evaluated for growth, flowering, and heat-stress symptoms in October 2022. Twelve of these cultivars, representing a range of heat tolerance, were further studied in a controlled environment to compare wilting rate, transpiration rate per unit leaf area, root : shoot ratio, stomatal density, and stomata size. Results are currently being analyzed. The experiment will be replicated during the summer of 2024. Coordinated a tour of the Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, TN for 40+ members of the Illinois Landscape Contractor’s Association. Educational talks on phosphorus use efficiency and root-zone temperature management were given to stakeholders at the Illinois Green Industry Association InVigorateU 2023 Conference (Bloomington, IL) and International Plant Propagator’s Society Southern Region of North America 46th Annual Meeting (Athens, GA). University of California In California, we are working with nurseries and the branches of the State Water Quality Control Board to design and implement Irrigation and Nutrient Management Plans (INMPs).  The current regions being affects are the San Joaquin Valley and the San Diego region. The major risks in water quality in California include:  high alkalinity, high salts, and limited water availability. We are continuously working with individual growers and conducting meetings to mitigate the risks and impacts of these issues.   We have measured distribution uniformity of 8 models of overhead sprinklers used in the nursery industry with spacing 30 x 30 ft and 15 x 15 ft in relation to different wind speeds to recommend to growers the most efficient sprinkler head. We have developed 50 lbs and 200 lbs load cell lysimeters to continuously weight #1, #5 and #15 containers and determine daily water use. Relating this to reference evapotranspiration from the local CIMIS station, we calculate crop coefficient. In addition to the stated projects, we are also evaluating plant material in the landscapes for drought tolerance/avoidance. The plant palette includes groundcovers, shrubs, natives and non-natives.  With these studies, we hope to develop a better plant palette for the industry that can be propagated and produced for the landscape industry; thus assisting the state’s water budget by growing and planting more waterwise landscapes.  In addition, we are also studying effects of plant material on urban heat islands, in an effort to mitigate heat loads in urban communities.

Publications

Scientific Journals: <ol> <li>Fields, J.S. and K. Criscione. 2023. Stratified substrates can reduce peat use and improve root productivity in container crop production. HortScience 58:364-372. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17019-22">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17019-22</a></li> <li>Criscione, K.*, S. Fields, and J.S. Owen, Jr. 2022. Root exploration, initial moisture conditions, and irrigation scheduling influence hydration of stratified and non-stratified substrates. Special Issue: Horticultural crops water and fertilizer management, Horticulturae 8:826. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090826">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090826</a></li> <li>Fields, J.S., A. Lamm, J. Owen Jr., B. Jackson, J. Altland, L. Oki, K. Criscione, and Y. Zheng. 2023. Establishing North American specialty crop growers’ current use of soilless substrates along with future research and education needs. Special Issue: Advanced research on soilless culture in horticultural production, Agriculture 13:1727. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091727">https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091727</a></li> <li>Fields, J.S. and K. Criscione. 2023. Pine bark particle separation improves as moisture content decreases at time of screening. HortScience 58:1068-1074.</li> <li>Jiang, M., M.C. Fleetwood, S.H. Anderson, and Xiong. 2022. Wetting agent effects on plant available water for hydrophobic USGA root zones. Agricultural Research & Technology. 2022; 27 (1): 556360. DOI: 10.19080/ARTOAJ.2022.27.556360.</li> <li>Fessler, S. Xiaocun, W.C. Wright, H. Zhu, and A. Fulcher. 2023. Intelligent, variable-rate spray technology reduces total pesticide output while controlling foliar disease of Shumard oak. Journal of Environmental Horticulture. 41(3):109-120.</li> <li>Fessler, L., G. Pietsch, W. Wright, H. Zhu, X. Sun, and Fulcher. 2023. Characterizing spray deposition from variable- and constant-rate spray technologies: Implications for future optimization to target trunk and foliar pests. Acta Horticulturae. 1360:267-290. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1360.34">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1360.34</a>.</li> <li>Fessler, L., D. Lockwood, W. Wright, G. Pietsch, X. Sun, W. Yeary, H. Zhu, T. Bordeau, L. Russo, and Fulcher. 2023. Intelligent spray technology controls pests in nursery and orchard systems with reduced pesticide application rates. Acta Horticulturae. 1360:151-176. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1360.20">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1360.20</a>. </li> <li>Warner, L.A., A.L. Rihn, Fulcher, S. Schexnayder, A.V. LeBude, and A. Joshi. 2022b. A theory of planned behavior evaluation of growers’ intent to use automated nursery technologies. Horticulturae, 8(11), 1028. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111028">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111028</a></li> <li>Cypher, Q., W.C. Wright, X. Sun, L. Fessle, and Fulcher. 2022. Automated leaching fraction-based system reduces leaching, conserves water, and supports crop growth in a commercial nursery. Applied Engineering in Agriculture 38(5):807-816. <a href="https://elibrary.asabe.org/abstract.asp?aid=53633&t=3&redir=aid=53633&confalias=aeaj&redir=%5bvolume=38&issue=5&conf=aeaj&orgconf=%5d&redirType=toc_journals.asp&redirType=toc_journals.asp">https://elibrary.asabe.org/abstract.asp?aid=53633&t=3&redir=aid=53633&confalias=aeaj&redir=[volume=38&issue=5&conf=aeaj&orgconf=]&redirType=toc_journals.asp&redirType=toc_journals.asp</a></li> <li>Fessler, L.M, W. Wright, G. PietschM, L. Schneider, H. Zhu, C. Fust, and Fulcher. 20XX. Characterizing spray deposition for control of trunk pests from an experimental airblast sprayer with 5-port nozzle bodies. Acta Horticulturae, in review.</li> <li> Fulcher, A.L. Rihn, L.A. Warner, A.V. LeBude, S. Schexnayder, J.E. Altland, N. Bumgarner, S.C. Marble, L. Nackley, M. Palma, L. Ribera, M. Velandia, H. Zhu, H. Gan and J.S. Owen. 20XX. Overcoming the nursery industry labor shortage with automation: A survey of strategies to adapt to a reduced workforce and technology adoption levels, perceived helpfulness, and outcomes. HortScience.</li> <li>Fessler, L., J.S. Owen Jr., W.C. Wright, X. Sun, C. Krauss, J.E. Altland, and Fulcher. 20XX. Leaching fraction-based irrigation schedule, coir-amended pine bark improve sustainability of H. paniculata ‘Jane’ production. Acta Horticulturae.</li> <li>Alred, B., J.S. Owen Jr., A. Espinoza, and Fulcher. 20XX. A revised approach to packing soilless substrate cores to aid in achieving consistent, appropriate bulk density. Acta Horticulture.</li> <li>Christopher R.M., M. Parajuli, S. Gresham, J. Barnett, S. Villani, J. Walgenbach, F. Baysal-Gurel, J.S. Owen Jr., and. M.E. Reding. 2023. Type and duration of water stress influence host selection and colonization by exotic ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Frontiers in Insect Science 3. doi.org/10.3389/finsc.2023.1219951</li> <li>Yang, T., J.E. Altland, U.C. Samarakoon. 2023. Evaluation of substrates for cucumber production in the Dutch bucket hydroponic system. Scientia Horticulturae 308. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2022.111578">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2022.111578</a>.</li> <li>Boldt, J.K., Altland, J.E. 2022. Comparison of supplemental lighting from high-pressure sodium lamps or light-emitting diodes on morphology and nutrient uptake of greenhouse crops. Acta Horticulturae. 1337:313-322. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/actahortic.2022.1337.42">https://doi.org/10.17660/actahortic.2022.1337.42</a>.</li> <li>Yvraj, K., Marble, C., Altland, J.E., Pearson, B., Chen, J., Devkota, P. 2022. Effect of substrate stratification on growth of common nursery weed species and container-grown ornamental species. HortTechnology. 32(1):74-83. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04965-21">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04965-21</a></li> <li>Valles, S.R., J.E. Altland, A. Testen, J. Poelstra, F. Michel. Microbial community structure in soilless substrates used for nursery crops. HortScience. Accepted, in press.</li> <li>Abdi, D., J.S. Owen Jr., P.C. Wilson, F.O. Hinz, B.M. Cregg and R.T. Fernandez. Pesticide mobility in surface and subsurface irrigation return flow in a container plant production system. Agricultural Water Management. In review.</li> <li>Altland, J.E. and J.S. Owen Jr. 202X. The pour-through procedure preferentially extracts substrate solution from the bottom of the container in conventional and stratified substrates. HortScience. In review.</li> <li>Criscione, K.S., J.S. Fields, J.S. Owen Jr., T. Gentimis. 202X. Stratified substrates enhance water storage and distribution between irrigation events. Soil Science Society of America Journal. Accepted-under revision.</li> <li>Fields, J.S., J.S. Owen Jr., A. Lamm, B. Jackson, J.E. Altland, J. Samtani, K. Criscione, and Y. Zheng. 202X. Establishing North American specialty crop grower’s current use of soilless substrates and future research and education needs. Agronomy Journal. In Press.</li> <li>Fulcher, A., A. Rihn, L. Warner, A.V. LeBude, S. Schexnayder, J.E. Altland, N. Baumgarner, C. Marble, L. Nackley, H. Zhu, M. Palma, M. Velandia, H. Gao, and J.S. Owen Jr. 202X. Overcoming the nursery industry labor shortage with automation: A survey of strategies to adapt to a reduced workforce and technology adoption levels, and perceived helpfulness and outcomes. In review.</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo, R. Jana, and C. Privette. 2023. Chlorophyll-a predictions in a piedmont lake in upstate South Carolina using machine learning approaches. Journal of South Carolina Water Resources, 9(1), 1-14.</li> <li>Sahoo, D., and A. Swamy. Conceptualizing turbidity for aquatic ecosystems in the context of sustainable development goals. 2023. Environmental Science: Advances, 2, 1220 – 1234.</li> <li>Harmel, D. R., P. Kleinman, A. P. Hopkins, P. Millhouser, J. A. Ippolito, and D. Sahoo. 2022. Updates to the MANAGE database to facilitate regional analyses of nutrient runoff. Agricultural and Environmental Letters. 7(2), p.e20095</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo, D. Harmel and B. Haggard. 2023. A review of machine learning models for harmful algal bloom monitoring in freshwater systems. Special Collections: Digital Water: Journal of Natural Resources and Agroecosystems (in press, 8/9/2023).</li> <li>Sahoo, D., I. Busari, H. Nix, and S. W. White. 2023. Impacts of harmful algal blooms on agriculture: A short communication. Special issue on Water Quality and Applications to Natural Resources Management. Journal of South Carolina Water Resources Journal. (in press, 7/10/2023)</li> <li>Harmel, D., H. Preisendanz, K. W. King, D. Busch, F. Birgand and D Sahoo. 2023 Water Quality Monitoring on Field-Scale and Small Watersheds: Data Quality and Cost Considerations. Water. (in press, 08/29/2023)</li> <li>Jeffers, A., BK Behe, M Vassalos, WC Bridges, SA White. 2023. Accepted. Consumer Purchase Likelihood of Landscape Management Pest Scouting Program. HortTechnology.</li> <li>Dekle, J, WHJ Strosnider, SA White. Ready for submission. " Phosphorus Uptake and Release Patterns in Overwintering Constructed Floating Wetlands.” Water Science and Technology. (submitted 8/14/2023)</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo, and R. Jana. 2023. Prediction of harmful algal blooms using deep learning with Bayesian approximation for uncertainty assessment. Under revision Journal of Hydrology.</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo, B. Haggard, and D. Harmel. 2023. Prediction of chlorophyll-a as an index of harmful algal blooms using machine learning models. Under revision in Special Collections: Digital Water: Journal of Natural Resources and Agroecosystems.</li> <li>Guerrero, L. V., D. Sahoo., L. Dickes, T. Walker, M. R. Rad, and J. Allen. 2023. Adaptive water governance in an interest-based, stakeholder-driven state water resources planning institution in South Carolina, U.S. Submitted to the Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management. (under revision, 7/16/2023)</li> <li>Strickland, G., D. Sahoo, M. Vassalos, H. Nix, and S. W. White. 2023. Evaluation of South Carolina’s Extension and Outreach Agents’ Knowledge of Harmful Algal Bloom Management and the Impacts of One-Day Training. Journal of Extension (submitted, 04/27/2023)</li> <li>Davis, P. B., D. M. Park, A. M. Poncet, B. T. Russell, and D. Sahoo. 2023. Winter crop performance in the southern piedmont region of South Carolina. (submitted to Agrosystems, Geosciences, and Environment Journal on 7/17/2023)</li> <li>Jordan, E., D. Sahoo, C. Sawyer, J. Pike, D. M. Park, S. White and B. E. Haggard. 2023. Nutrient dynamics in restored and unrestored urban streams: A study in the piedmont ecoregion of South Carolina. To be submitted to Frontiers.</li> <li>Parajuli, M., P. Liyanapathiranage, K. Neupane, Shreckhise, D. Fare, B. Moore and F. Baysal-Gurel. Tree architecture and powdery mildew resistance of yellow-flowering magnolias in Tennessee, USA. HortScience 58:383−388 doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI17036-22</li> <li>Parajuli, M., P Liyanapathiranage, Shreckhise, D. Fare, B. Moore, and F. Baysal-Gurel. 2022. Cercospora leaf spot resistance of crapemyrtle cultivars in Tennessee. HortScience 58:84−94. doi: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI16913-22</li> <li>Parajuli, M., J.H. Shreckhise, D. Fare, B. Moore, P. Liyanapathiranage, P. Subedi, and F. Baysal-Gurel. 2023. Evaluation of camellia cultivars and selections for growth, cold hardiness, flowering, and disease resistance in Tennessee, USA. HortScience (under review).</li> <li>Pitton, D.J.L., Johnson, G.E., Haver, D.L. and Oki, L.R. 2022. Water use and estimated evapotranspiration at a California container plant nursery. Acta Hortic. 1335, 651-656. DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2022.1335.82.</li> <li>Sapkota, A., Haghverdi, A., Merhaut, D., Singh, A., Iradukunda, J.C. (2023). Response of Landscape Groundcovers to Deficit Irrigation: An Assessment Based on NDVI and Visual Quality Rating. HORTSCIENCE 58(3):274–285. 2023. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI16915-22.</li> </ol>   Proceedings (abstracts or full articles): <ol> <li>Fields J.S. and J.S. Owen, Jr. 2023. Soilless Substrate Stratification: A review of the past and looking forward. Proc. Int. Symp. Growing Media, Soilless Cultivation and Compost Utilization in Hort. Quebec City, Quebec, CA (oral presentation; in press)</li> <li>Criscione, K.* and S. Fields. 2023. Root growth and development in soilless culture – A review. Proc. Int. Symp. Growing Media, Soilless Cultivation and Compost Utilization in Hort. Quebec City, Quebec, CA (in press)</li> <li>Criscione, K.*, S. Fields, and J. S. Owen, Jr. 2022. Substrate stratification can be paired with strategic irrigation practices to improve container-water dynamics. International Hort. Congress. Int. Symp. Innov. Tech. Prod. Strategies Sustainable Controlled Enviorn. Hort. Angers France. (oral presentation)</li> <li>Criscione, K.*, S. Fields, and J.S. Owen, Jr. 2023. Root growth and the substrate interact affecting root morphology and volumetric water content through the vertical profile of a container. The annual meeting of the American Society of Horticultural Science, Orlando, FL (in press)</li> <li>Fields, J.S. and A. Mizell. 2023. Evaluating crop productivity in growing media amended with wood fibers from three soft-wood tree species. Proc. Int. Symp. Growing Media, Soilless Cultivation and Compost Utilization in Hort. Quebec City, Quebec, CA (poster presentation; in press)</li> <li>Fields, J.S. Reducing peat use in container production through substrate stratification. Annual meeting of the Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Science, Oklahoma City, OK (oral presentation; in press)</li> <li>Edwards, A.R.* and S. Fields. 2023. Container color and irrigation scheduling can be used to manage substrate temperature for crop productivity in Hydrangea paniculata. Annual meeting of the Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Science, Oklahoma City, OK (in press)</li> <li>Fields, J.S., A. Edwards, and M. Thiessen. 2022. Supplementing commercial floriculture substrates with wood fiber and sugarcane bagasse. HortScience 57:S126. The annual meeting Annual meeting of the American Society of Horticultural Science, Chicago, IL (oral presentation)</li> <li>Criscione, K.* and S. Fields. 2022. Stratifying high-performance peat-based substrates above pine bark for cost-effective floriculture production. HortScience 57:S125. Annual meeting of the American Society of Horticultural Science, Chicago, IL (oral presentation by Fields)</li> <li>Fields, J.S. and K. Criscione. 2022. Substrate stratification influences root architecture in containerized production. International Hort. Congress. International Symposium on Innovative Technology and Production Strategies in Sustainable Controlled Environment Horticulture, Angers France. (poster presentation; in press)</li> <li>Krauss, C., J.S. Owen, W.C. Wright, and Fulcher. 2023. Substrate Moisture Sensor Zone of Interference: Expanding Options for Enhanced Moisture Monitoring with Sensors in Close Proximity. International Society for Horticultural Science. International Symposium on Growing Media, Compost Utilization and Substrate Analysis for Soilless Cultivation on Growing Media, Compost Utilization and Substrate Analysis for Soilless Cultivation, Quebec City, Quebec. (Abstract was submitted for selection to present at the symposium; abstracts are not published.)</li> <li>Krauss, C., J.S. Owen, W.C. Wright, B. Alred, and Fulcher. 2023. Characterizing Water Movement and Retention Through the Profile of Two Soilless Substrates. International Society for Horticultural Science. International Symposium on Growing Media, Compost Utilization and Substrate Analysis for Soilless Cultivation, Quebec City, Quebec. (Abstract was submitted for selection to present at the symposium; abstracts are not published.)</li> <li>Alred, B., J.S. Owen, H. Blice, and Fulcher. 2023. A revised approach to packing soilless substrate cores to aid in achieving consistent, appropriate bulk density. International Society for Horticultural Science. Symposium on Irrigating Horticultural Crops, Stellenbosch, South Africa. (Abstract was submitted for selection to present at the symposium; abstracts are not published.)</li> <li>Fessler, L., J.S. Owen, W.C. Wright, and Fulcher. 203. Leaching fraction-based irrigation schedule, coir-amended pine bark improve Little Lime® panicle hydrangea production. International Society for Horticultural Science. Symposium on Irrigating Horticultural Crops, Stellenbosch, South Africa. (Abstract was submitted for selection to present at the symposium; abstracts are not published.)</li> <li>Abdi, D., J.S. Owen Jr., R.T. Fernandez, P.C Wilson, F.O. Hinz, and B. 2023. Multi-year investigation of high, low, and intermediate solubility pesticides in a model nursery. 2023 American Society of Horticultural Science Annual Conference. Orlando, Florida. (abstract)</li> <li>Altland, J.E., J.S. Owen, Jr., A. Espinoza, and K.Y. Jeoung. 202X. A high throughput method to evaluate new substrate components. (abstract, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conference, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>Briana, A., J.S. Owen Jr., A. Espinoza, and A. Fulcher. 202X. Identifying native bulk density for static physical properties analysis. Acta Horticulturae. In press (abstract, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Irr. Mgmt. Hort. Crops, Stellenbosch, South Africa, full paper)</li> <li>Brown, F.J., J.S. Owen Jr., A.X. Niemiera, R.D. Stewart, B.D. Strahm, and J.E. Altland. 2022. Diurnal and seasonal gaseous flux of nitrogen species in a nursery production system. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting (abstract)</li> <li>Brown, F.J., J.S. Owen Jr., A.X. Niemiera, R.D. Stewart, B.D. Strahm, and J.E. Altland. 2022. Seeing gas in containerized crops. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting (abstract)</li> <li>Brown, F.J., J.S. Owen Jr., and A.X. Niemiera, 2023. Effect of Single Source Nitrogen Application on Nitrogen Fate in Pine Bark Based Containerized Crop Production. 2023 American Society of Horticultural Science Annual Conference. Orlando, Florida. (abstract)</li> <li>Criscione, K. J.S. Owen Jr., and J.S. Fields. 2023. Examining the temporal and spatial effect root exploration has on substrate water holding capacity. 2023 American Society of Horticultural Science Annual Conference, Orlando, Florida. (abstract)</li> <li>Fessler, L., J.S. Owen Jr., W.C. Wright, S. Xiaocun, C. Krauss, J.E. Altland, and A. Fulcher. 202X Leaching fraction-based irrigation schedule, coir-amended pine bark improve sustainability of paniculata ‘Jane’ production. Acta Horticulturae. In press (full paper, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Irr. Mgmt. Hort. Crops, Stellenbosch, South Africa).</li> <li>Gonzalez, H. R.T. Fernandez, J.S. Owen Jr., and J. Schreckhise. 202X. Engineered substrates to improve nitrogen, phosphorus, and water retention in nursery container production. (abstract, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conference, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>S. Owen Jr. 202X. Keynote address: A 2023 perspective on anthropogenic nitrogen in soilless culture. Acta Horticulturae. In press (full paper, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conferernce, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>Krauss, C., J.S. Owen Jr., W. Wright, and A. Fulcher. 202X. Substrate moisture sensor zone of interference: expanding options for enhanced moisture monitoring with sensors in close proximity. Acta Horticulturae. In press (full paper, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conference, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>Owen Jr., J.S., A. Espinoza, J.E. Atland, and K.Y. Jeoung. 202X. Biochar alone can maintain optimal pH in a bark-based substrate. (abstract, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conference, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>Owen Jr., J.S., F. Brown, and A.X. Niemiera. 202X. Emissions driven by controlled release fertilizers in bark-based substrates can significantly contribute to nitrogen use inefficiency. (abstract, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conference, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>Shreckhise, J., J.S. Owen Jr., and A. Witcher. 2023. Container color and irrigation schedule affect root-zone temperature, plant growth, and controlled-release fertilizer longevity when growing red osier dogwood. 2023 American Society of Horticultural Science Annual Conference, Orlando, Florida. (abstract)</li> <li>Stewart, R.D., J.S. Owen Jr. and C.C. Wolcott. 2022. Adventures in soil (less) physics: Effective physical properties for non-uniform water contents. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting (abstract)</li> <li>Wolcott, C. R.D. Stewart, and J.S. Owen Jr. 202X. Quantifying functional pore sizes in pine bark growing media.Acta Horticulturae. In press (full paper, oral presentation @ 2023 ISHS International Symp. Growing Media In RE3 Conference, Quebec City, Canada)</li> <li>Wolcott, C.C., R.D. Stewart, and J.S. Owen Jr. 2022. No soil? No problem! Characterizing the physical and hydraulic properties of pine bark soilless substrates. ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting (abstract)</li> <li>Floom, M., J.E. Altland, F. Michel, U. Samarakoon, P. Ling. Comparison of organic water-soluble fertilizer efficacy on Lactuca sativa (lettuce). Acta Hort. Full paper Accepted, in press.</li> <li>Floom, M., J.E. Altland, F. Michel, U. Samarakoon, P. Ling. Effects of compost fertility on the growth, yield, and nutrient content of lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Acta Hort. Full paper, Accepted, in press.</li> <li>Brock, M., D. Sahoo, C. Sawyer, C. Post and J. Pike. 2022. Addressing challenges in real-time monitoring of an urban micro watershed in upstate South Carolina. ASABE AIM Conference Proceedings. (published, doi:10.13031/aim.202201069)</li> <li>Shreckhise,H., J.S. Owen, and A. Witcher. 2023. Container color and irrigation schedule affect root-zone temperature, plant growth, and controlled-release fertilizer longevity when growing red osier dogwood. HortScience (in press).</li> <li>Shreckhise,H. and J.E. Altland. 2022. How to help your plants hold their “P” in container-based nursery production. Intern. Plant Prop. Soc. Comb. Proc. 72:235-248.</li> <li>Spinelli, Gerry (2023). Distribution uniformity of Multi-Stream Multi-Trajectory overhead sprinklers for outdoor container nurseries. HortScience Supplement - 2023 ASHS Presentation Abstracts. August 2023.</li> <li>Lockhart, A., A. Vasilatis, E. Petit, R.I. Cabrera, Q. Wu and J. Simon. 2023. Chemical profiles of cannabinoids and volatiles of multiple Cannabis sativa cultivars under different irrigation and salinity treatments. Cannabis Science Conference, Portland, OR. April 20-21, 2023. Abstract</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Uso de aguas no convencionales para el riego de cultivos y plantas ornamentales en paisajes urbanos. III Seminario Internacional de la Red Iberoamericana de Investigación en Agricultura Resiliente, Equitativa y Sostenible (RIARES), organized by Universidad de Almería, Spain. March 30, 2023. Presentation and Abstract <a href="http://www2.ual.es/riares/3o-seminario-internacional-riares/">http://www2.ual.es/riares/3o-seminario-internacional-riares/</a></li> <li>Brumfield, R., P. Gotlieb and R.I. Cabrera. 2023. A decision-making tool to help nurseries determine costs and returns of recycling irrigation water. 2023 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference, Chicago, IL. March 28-29, 2023. Presentation and Abstract <a href="https://agrisk.umn.edu/Conferences/Presentation/a_decisionmaking_tool_to_help_nurseries_deter">https://agrisk.umn.edu/Conferences/Presentation/a_decisionmaking_tool_to_help_nurseries_deter</a></li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Considerations on irrigation management of nursery crops, pp. 31-34. Proceedings of the 68th New Jersey Annual Vegetable Meeting. Atlantic City, NJ. February 7-9, 2023. <a href="https://nj-vegetable-crops-online-resources.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2023_Proceedings_68th_VGA_Meeting_Final.pdf">https://nj-vegetable-crops-online-resources.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2023_Proceedings_68th_VGA_Meeting_Final.pdf</a></li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Water use efficiency and footprint in greenhouse roses. Xth International Symposium on Irrigation of Horticultural Crops, International Society of Horticultural Sciences, Stellenbosch, South Africa. January 29 to February 2, 2023. Presentation and Abstract. <a href="https://ishsirrigationsa2023.com/programme/">https://ishsirrigationsa2023.com/programme/</a></li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. and J.E. Altland. 2023. Residential graywater as an irrigation source for urban landscape plants. Xth International Symposium on Irrigation of Horticultural Crops, International Society of Horticultural Sciences, Stellenbosch, South Africa. January 29 to February 2, 2023. Presentation and Abstract. <a href="https://ishsirrigationsa2023.com/programme/">https://ishsirrigationsa2023.com/programme/</a></li> <li>Cabrera, R.I., E. Petit, A. Vasilatis, J. Simon and C.A. Wyenandt. Floral hemp performance under differential irrigation in field plasticulture. 2022 Virtual Cannabis Research Conference, Oregon State University and Institute of Cannabis Research at Colorado State University. August 8, 2022. Presentation and Abstract</li> </ol>   Book Chapters: <ol> <li>White, SA, E Bores, J Hains, HB Nix. D Sahoo. Harmful Algal Blooms: A Pocket Field Guide for South Carolina. 2023 April. Clemson Extension and and SC Department of Health and Environmental Conservation.</li> <li>White, SA. “Water Requirements and Irrigation." Chapter 3. Certified Nursery Professional Manual, 4th ed. SC Green Industry Association, Certified Nursery Professional Manual.</li> <li>White, SA. “Nursery Production.” Chapter 9. Certified Nursery Professional Manual, 4th ed. SC Green Industry Association, Certified Nursery Professional Manual.</li> <li>Busari, I., and D. Sahoo. 2023. Hydro-Environmental Impact Assessment of Climate and Land Use Change on Watersheds for Sustainable Development. Chapter-Climate and Land Use Change Impacts on Harmful Algal Blooms in Freshwater Systems, Cambridge Scholars Publishing (Accepted 05/22/2023) </li> </ol> Popular press: <ol> <li>Fields, J.S. and J. Owen, Jr. Substrate security – Thoughts on the future of soilless substrates in the United States and how things may change soon. Greenhouse Management Magazine, July 2023.</li> <li>Fields, J.S. and K. Criscione. Substrate stratification can effectively reduce peat reliance by 50% in ornamental crop production. GrowerTalks, July 2023.</li> <li>Fields, J.S. and J.S. Owen Jr. 2023. It's security, stupid: Recently learned lessons to ensure substrate security into the future. Growing Media Report. In Greenhouse Management. 43(7):S9-S13.</li> <li>, D and S. Mehan. 2022. Digital Water, Special Issue, Resource Magazine, Vol 29(4). (published). https://www.morningagclips.com/streamflow-what-is-it-and-how-do-we-measure-it/, April 3, 2023.</li> <li>Spinelli, Gerardo; Pitton, Bruno J.L, et al. (2023). Water retention characteristic curves for substrate in containerized ornamental production. Nursery Management. 2023.</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2022. Fertilización y su impacto en salinidad, contaminación y la huella hídrica en cultivos de flores. Revista RedAgrícola Colombia S.A.S. No. 17, pp. 26-30. <a href="https://redagricola.com/fertilizacion-y-su-impacto-en-salinidad-contaminacion-y-la-huella-hidrica/">https://redagricola.com/fertilizacion-y-su-impacto-en-salinidad-contaminacion-y-la-huella-hidrica/</a></li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2022. Proper landscape mulching practices - El buen uso de acolchados en jardinería (Bilingual article). The New Jersey Landscape Contractor Magazine - Winter 2022. pp. 32-35. <a href="https://issuu.com/njlca/docs/njlcamag-jan22e/s/15290513">https://issuu.com/njlca/docs/njlcamag-jan22e/s/15290513</a></li> </ol>   Workshop Participant: <ol> <li>Fields, J.S. Stratified substrates can improve crop productivity and costs. Water Management and Quality for Greenhouse and Nursery Crop Production Grower Workshop. Cincinnati, OH</li> <li>Fields, J.S. Easily and effectively manage substrate temperature for improved crop productivity and fertilizer efficiency. LSU AgCenter Horticulture Field Day. Hammond, LA (demonstration)</li> <li>Fields, J.S. Substrate stratification: layering media to help improve rooting, resource efficiency, and cost. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. Athens, GA</li> <li>Fields, J.S. Substrates, Water, and Fertilizer: New methods for improving resource efficiency in container production. Cultivate ’22. Columbus, OH (live presentation and webinar)</li> <li>Criscione, K.* and S. Fields. 2023. Stratified substrates can be used to improve root growth in container nurseries. Grower Education Conference. Mobile, AL</li> <li>Thiessen, M.*, and S. Fields. 2023. Using sugarcane bagasse and wood fibers as substrate amendments. Grower Education Conference. Mobile, AL</li> <li>Fields, J.S. Improving crop productivity with substrate stratification. Grower Education Conference. Mobile, AL</li> <li>Fulcher, A.* Addressing the Nursery Labor Shortage with Automation. August 29, 2023, AmericanHort webinar</li> <li>Fulcher, A.* Development and Commercialization of the Intelligent Sprayer. AI in Agriculture Conference, Orlando, FL April 19, 2023.</li> <li>Fulcher, A. The Weight of Water: Simple Calculations to Improve Irrigation Efficiency. South Africa Grower Workshop on Nursery Irrigation, Stellenbosch, South Africa, February 2-3, 2023.</li> <li>Fulcher, A. Leaching Fraction Demonstration. South Africa Grower Workshop on Nursery Irrigation, Stellenbosch, South Africa, February 2-3, 2023.</li> <li>White, SA. 2023. “Viability of water recycling systems for the nursery and landscape industry.” Utah State University and Western SARE Nursery and Landscape Train the Trainers Webinar. (16 Feb, 48 attendees).</li> <li>White, SA. 2023. “Reservoir design and ecological water treatment for pathogen management.” South African Grower Workshop on Nursery Irrigation. Stias Conference Center, Stellenbosch, South Africa - Hosted by SGASA (Seedling Growers Association of South Africa). (3 February, 105 attendees).</li> <li>White, SA and R. Cabrera. 2023. “Test and interpret water EC, pH, and alkalinity.” Hands-on demonstration Fall Creek Nursery, Paarl, South Africa - Hosted by SGASA (Seedling Growers Association of South Africa). (2 February, 105 attendees).</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Fisiología vegetal relacionada con parámetros de análisis de agua, suelo-sustrato y plantas. Curso Internacional de Fisiología, Nutrición y Bioestimulación en Flores de Corte, sponsored by RedAgrícola, Bogotá, Colombia. August 9, 2023. 91 attendees.</li> <li>Brumfield, R. and R.I. Cabrera. 2023. Cost and return on investment on construction of water recycling system in the nursery. Utah State University Extension Train-the-trainer Program on Recycling Nursery Irrigation Runoff (Virtual Meeting). March 14, 2023. 33 attendees.</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Plant biology for tree workers (In Spanish). Garden State Tree Conference, New Jersey Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. Tropicana, Atlantic City, NJ. March 2, 2023. 120 Attendees.</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Best management practices for the care of trees and shrubs (In Spanish). Garden State Tree Conference, New Jersey Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. Tropicana, Atlantic City, NJ. March 2, 2023. 110 Attendees.</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Irrigation management of nursery crops. 2023. New Jersey Agricultural Convention & Trade Show. Harrah’s Resort and Waterfront Conference Center, Atlantic City, NJ. February 7, 2023. 38 attendees.</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Managing ions and alkalinity in irrigation water. South Africa Growers Workshop on Nursery Irrigation, South Africa Nursery Seedling Growers Association, Stellenbosch, South Africa. February 3, 2023. 135 attendees .</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. and S. White. 2023. Test and interpret irrigation water EC, pH and alkalinity. Nursery Visit and Hands-on Demonstration Stations from South Africa Growers Workshop on Nursery Irrigation, South Africa Nursery Seedling Growers Association, Fall Creek Nursery at Paarl, South Africa. February 2, 2023. 147 attendees.</li> <li>Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Prácticas de riego y manejo de plantas en jardinería. Winter Symposium and Expo. Connecticut Nursery & Landscape Association. Bloomfield, CT. January 25, 2023. 60 attendees.</li> </ol>   Extension publications: <ol> <li>Fessler, L. and Fulcher. 2023. Irrigation Calculations III: Capture Factor. UT Extension Publication D208. <a href="https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D208.pdf">https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D208.pdf</a></li> <li>Fessler, L. and Fulcher. 2023. Irrigation Calculations II: Leaching Fraction. UT Extension Publication D200. <a href="https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D200.pdf">https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D200.pdf</a></li> <li>Fessler, L. and Fulcher. 2023. Irrigation Calculations I: Distribution University, Application Rate, and Run Time of Container Grown Crops. UT Extension Publication D196. <a href="https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D196.pdf">https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/D196.pdf</a></li> <li>Davis RH, HB Nix HB, SA White, WB Smith. Livestock Ponds in South Carolina. Clemson (SC): Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension; 2023 Jan. LGP 1156. <a href="https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/livestock-ponds-in-south-carolina/">https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/livestock-ponds-in-south-carolina/</a></li> <li>Nix, HB, D Sahoo, SA White, J Hains, I Busari. Harmful Algal Blooms: Prevention, Response, and Avoidance Manual. Clemson Extension. 2022 Nov.</li> <li>Busari, I., D. Sahoo and C. Privette. 2023 Introduction to Watershed Water Quality Models. Land Grant Press, Clemson University.</li> <li>Brock, M., D. Sahoo, C. Sawyer, and J. Pike. 2023. Streamflow: What is it and how do we measure it? Land Grant Press, Clemson University.</li> <li>D. 2022. Digital Water: Technologies to understand water as an integrated system. Resource Magazine. 29(4).</li> <li>Nix, H., J. Hains, D. Sahoo, and S. A. White. 2022. Do it yourself: Visual indicators, stick test and jar test for cyanobacteria. Home and Garden Information Center, Clemson University.</li> <li>Silva, L., S. W. White, H. Nix and D. Sahoo. 2023. Plants for the Buffer Zone Around Livestock Ponds. Land Grant Press, Clemson University. (revision).</li> <li>Middleton, Eric; Spinelli, Gerry (2022). Agave Mites: A Tiny Menace. San Diego Cooperative Extension Newsletter. December 2022.</li> <li>Middleton, Eric; Spinelli, Gerry (2023). Managing Agave Mites: What we know so far. The Adviser. California Association of Pest Control Advisers. https://capca.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/CAPCA_ADV_AUG-2023_LOW.pdf.</li> <li>Spinelli, Gerardo; Middleton, Eric (2023). Can Predatory Mites Help As A Pest Management Strategy Against Agave and Aloe mite? San Diego Cooperative Extension Newsletter.               </li> <li>Spinelli, Gerry; Johnson, Grant (2023). Why Pressure Drops as Water Flows in a Pipe and Other Irrigation Mysteries. San Diego Cooperative Extension Newsletter. August 2023.</li> <li>Spinelli, Gerry; Shogren, Chris (2023). Why it is not as simple as changing the nozzles A common mistake with sprinkler irrigation in container nurseries. San Diego Grown Magazine. September 2023.</li> <li>Rajmohan, N., S. Komar, W. Bamka, R. Buckley, K. Brown, M. Infante-Casella, R.I. Cabrera, T. Gianfagna, J. Simon, and C.A. Wyenandt, A. 2023. Emerging Diseases of Hemp in New Jersey. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Bulletin E374, New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, New Brunswick, NJ. <a href="https://njaes.rutgers.edu/e374/">https://njaes.rutgers.edu/e374/</a>.<a href="https://njaes.rutgers.edu/e374/"> </a></li> </ol> Dissertations/ Thesis: <ol> <li>Tomlin, Morgan. “Salinity in propagation: germination and juvenile acclimatization of wetland halophytes using saline irrigation.” MS Thesis. August 2023. Clemson University.</li> </ol>

Impact Statements

Research conducted over the last year was focused on improving water management strategies in specialty crop production to support more effective and efficient production practices. The participating institutions generate impact through innovative research efforts in all five defined priority areas, including 1) water quality of irrigation sources, 2) irrigation management, 3) crop production runoff management, 4) urban storm water management, and 5) substrates and nutrients. Research in South Carolina focused on improving irrigation water quality by understanding phosphorus dynamics in irrigation reservoirs age. Furthermore, researchers at South Carolina are investing riparian buffers to manage fate of emerging contaminants (e.g., herbicides, pesticides, and harmful algal blooms) in agricultural ponds and reservoirs to protect source water and ensure the sustainability of agricultural systems and floating wetlands. New Jersey evaluating the impacts of conventional and alternative irrigation water sources and management practices on specialty crop productivity and quality, and water and fertilizer footprints (use efficiency and pollution impacts). Other studies are evaluating the use of integrated nutrient diagnostic techniques to optimize fertilizer use efficiency in greenhouse and nursery crops. Tennessee and USDA research was focused on improving irrigation techniques and management using sensors and scales. California is focused on improving nursery production practices so that nursery industry is sustainable and profitable in California and water quality in our watersheds and adjoining Pacific Ocean are improved for all entities that rely on these resources for health and well-being. is evaluating low-water plantings to reduce water requirement in landscapes. Louisiana and Ohio researchers are leading national and global efforts in stratified substrates, a new substrate management technique that has shown the ability to reduce water requirement in container crop production. Ohio researchers are exploring water footprinting/benchmarking for greenhouse bedding plants and leveraging artificial intelligence to manage irrigation events. Further, a multitude of research and extension publications have been developed through group efforts. In addition, stakeholder dissemination through field days, grower workshops, seminars, webinars, and visits by all participating members, ensure that the information developed by all NC1186 researchers is grower-oriented with implementation of findings supported.

Date of Annual Report: 07/22/2024

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 05/22/2024 - 05/24/2024
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2023 - 09/30/2024

Participants

Gerardo Spinelli – University of California Cooperative Extension-San Diego;
Nelda Hernandez – University of Florida;
Ping Yu – University of Maryland;
Kristopher Criscione – Louisiana State University;
Jeb Fields – Louisiana State University;
Andrew Ritsvey – University of Maryland;
Tom Fernandez – Michigan State University;
Raul Cabrera – Rutgers University;
James Altland – USDA-ARS (Ohio);
Silvia Valles – USDA-ARS (Ohio);
Sarah White – Clemson University;
Jacob Shreckhise – USDA-National Arboretum (Tennessee);
Amy Fulcher – University of Tennessee;

Brief Summary of Minutes

On Wednesday 22 May 2024, the NC-1186 members attending the meeting in-person arrived in southern New Jersey, and met at 2PM at Pinelands Nursery in Columbus, NJ (323 Island Road). This 40-acre nursery specializes in the production of native plants, with sales and distributions to New Jersey and surrounding states (MD, DE, PA, NJ, CT). The group learned about the unusual array of plant taxa grown here, and the cultural and logistical challenges associated with the production of seedlings and finished plants and trees. The visit ended at 5PM and the group was dismissed to their lodging in Glassboro and Vineland, NJ.

On Thursday 23 May 2024, the NC-1186 group met at 8:30AM at Lucas Greenhouses in 1049 Whig Lane, Monroeville, NJ. This intensive 50-acre greenhouse operation grows potted flowering & foliage plants, and features a state-of-the-art water recycling system. The entire drainage and runoff water from this growing operation is collected in massive underground concrete tanks, filtered and sanitized with ozone for reuse and/or blending with well water.

After this visit, the group traveled to the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center, (121 Northville Road, Bridgeton, NJ) for the annual NC-1186 meeting. The meeting, included in-person and virtual (via Zoom) participation, and ran from 11AM to 4PM. Station reports were presented from 11AM to 12:30PM, followed by lunch (12:30AM to 1:30PM). The report presentations resumed from 1:30PM until 3:30PM.

The business meeting was conducted after the station reports, from 3:30PM until 4:30PM on Thursday 23 May 2024. The officers were Raul Cabrera (chair), Jake Shreckhise (incoming chair) and Ping Yu (incoming vice-chair). A motion was made, and seconded, to nominate candidates for the secretary position. After a single nomination, and a brief NC-1186 membership discussion, there was a unanimous vote in favor of Kristopher Criscione as the incoming 2025 secretary. In January 2025 he actually starts his new post with Virginia Tech (in Virginia Beach).

The group had a discussion about the renewal of the NC-1186 multistate project for the 2025-2030 period. It was agreed to keep only four of the current objectives on the renewal proposal, namely: Water quality of irrigation sources (Obj. 1), Irrigation management (Obj. 2), Crop production runoff management (Obj. 3) and Substrates and nutrients (Obj. 5). The Urban stormwater (Obj. 4) was dropped by loss of expertise due to recent member retirements. It was agreed to have the writing of renewal proposal in sections by objectives, under leadership of expert volunteers in each, to be then integrated into single document by chair for compliance with updated NCRA guidelines, and lastly to be subjected to general revision/edits by the membership at large.

Motion was made, and seconded, to determine the location and date for the 2025 annual meeting. Floor opened for proposals, with Tennessee and California as options, selecting the former. Discussion ensued for a specific location in Tennessee, identifying McMinnville and Chattanooga, each with logistical advantages and disadvantages. It was decided to poll the membership at large (via e-mail or online survey) to decide final site and date(s) for the meeting. The business meeting was adjourned at 4:30PM, and the group visited briefly the Agrivoltaics Program research plots located at the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

On Friday 24 May 2024, the NC-1186 group toured (8:30AM-9:45AM) Centerton Nursery (345 Woodruff Rd., Bridgeton, NJ). This family-owned, 200-acre wholesale container nursery produces high quality plants for independent garden centers in the Mid-Atlantic and New England region. In addition to a water recycling system (recycles up to 60 million gallons per year, with UV-disinfection), this nursery is known for their continuous introduction of innovations to their growing operations. Thereafter, from 10:45AM-12:00PM, the group visited Overdevest Nurseries (578 Bowentown Rd, Bridgeton, NJ). This family-owned, 220-acre wholesale container nursery produces high quality plants for locally owned garden centers in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region. This nursery is known for their environmental consciousness, having a large water recycling system, which at the moment is upgrading its disinfection process from chlorination to ozonation. The nursery graciously provided lunch to the group. This concluded the activities of the 2024 annual meeting of NC-1186.

Accomplishments

California Field studies are being conducted to determine the effects of drought stress on the performance of various ornamental crops, as well as the mitigation of heat loads through crop canopy types. It is expected that results from these studies will lead to recommendations on the best types of plant to use in urban landscapes to minimize water use while simultaneously coping with stressful urban heat island effects. Pomegranates are a low water demanding crop, but the fruit quality of many cultivars can be affected by heat and drought stress. An evaluation and breeding pomegranate program has been launched to identify selections and develop cultivars that are more drought tolerant, and still produce desirable/edible fruit quality (i.e., no fruit splitting, softer seeds, good taste, etc.). These two projects are aimed to improve the nursery industry plant palette, providing aesthetic plant materials with reduced water demands in urban landscapes, and multi-purpose, edible crop-type plants that contribute to food production in our state. Florida An experiment was completed with recirculating nutrient solutions using basil as a model crop to quantify changes in nutrient balance over time as affected by plant species, irrigation water quality, and acid/base type for pH correction. Treatments included two water qualities (deionized water and alkaline well water) and two fertilizer strategies (standard commercial tank A and B, versus a "smart" solution that was customized to the water quality and tissue nutrient balance). The smart fertilizer strategies were more successful than the standard solutions in maintaining nutrient balance over time. In addition, weekly onsite testing using commercially-available (Horiba-brand) handheld nitrate-N and potassium-K meters was compared with nutrient analysis by a commercial laboratory. The onsite testing provided useful feedback on nutrient drift, particularly for potassium. In FY24 we will repeat the experiments and publish guidelines on strategies to help growers maintain nutrient balance, and conserve water and fertilizer by avoiding frequent dumping of nutrient solution. Hemp and brassica crops were grown in substrates dosed with heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, and lead). Data are being analyzed to evaluate uptake of these heavy metals into the harvested plant tissues. In addition, we published articles on micronutrient metals in substrate components including their bioavailability and soil testing methods. Cold plasma and ozone water treatments were tested in recirculating irrigation systems in plants grown in greenhouses and growth chambers, and the level of sanitation of irrigation water was measured. The first publication describes the oxidation of micronutrient fertilizers, and found that the iron-EDTA chelate form was more resistant to oxidation than other chelate forms. Load cells were used to measure the weight and water status of plant propagation trays, and are using these data to relate evapotranspiration and mist timing to climate parameters (air temperature, air relative humidity, leaf temperature combined as leaf vapor pressure deficit, and irradiance). A low cost infrared sensor connected to a data logger was evaluated, finding this to be a reliable way to measure temperature of leaf and substrate in propagation trays. We are working with 12 grower locations to ensure they have adequate climate sensors, and are evaluating their climate data. Our spot checks of climate in these commercial operations provided a useful survey of current practice that was presented at an international irrigation conference. Louisiana Continued development of substrate stratification techniques from our research group has enabled growers to reduce peat use as much as 50% without detrimental effects to ornamental crops. Our research indicates that growers should be able to use substrate stratification techniques to reduce fertilizer and water inputs by at least 25%. In studies from the past year, we have further refined stratification strategies involving stratification ratio (depth of layers) and explored root response to stratified substrate systems. Stratification has also been shown to successfully produce rooted cuttings with reduced peat in propagation substrates, by improving air-holding capacity in small pots (tray cells), which can be beneficial for rooting some species.     Nursery growers have been informed on topics of substrate-related information through our Nursery & Landscape Insider newsletter, which reaches >32,000 industry stakeholders. Invited presentations of substrate research have been made to stakeholders at various local, national and international industry events (International Plant Propagators Society, Cultivate, Louisiana State Horticultural Society, Alabama and Louisiana Nursery & Landscape Associations, Texas A&M Seminar Series) and also have shared research findings through academic meetings (American and International Societies for Horticultural Science). In addition to grower’s interest and implementation of substrate stratification practices, we are also them being explored by researchers in several universities across the country. Michigan An experiment evaluating the effects of stratified substrates and saturation with iron sulfate on phosphate retention in container-grown flowering shrubs was completed. Stratified substrates had no effect on plant growth, but reduced nitrate and phosphate leaching even with increased volumes of water leached. This project is part of a graduate student’s (Henry Gonzalez) research, and was conducted in cooperation with NC1186 members from USDA-ARS in Ohio (Jim Owen) and Tennessee (Jake Shreckhise). Preliminary results were reported at an international scientific conference. Adoption of these results by the nursery industry will require investment in infrastructure to allow mechanized stratification of substrates, some of whom are already capable. Adoption within the next 5-10 years is anticipated. A second year of research on use of commercial-scale woodchip bioreactors installed at a large greenhouse operation in West Michigan was completed. One bioreactor with a 300-gallon capacity and a 25-hr hydraulic retention time (HRT), and another with a 600-gallon with a 58-hr HRT are treating recycled water from a 124,000 ft2 greenhouse operation. This greenhouse applied 69 pest control or growth regulator products during operation of the bioreactors on June-December 2023 and June 2024–present. In 2023 only 7 of these pesticides were found in the return water, and the bioreactors removed 2-50% of these 7 pesticides. Nutrients were also monitored, and in 2023 the short HRT bioreactor allowed over 99% of most nutrients (N, P, Ca, K, S) to be recycled. These studies are part of graduate student’s (Marcela Tabares) dissertation, and results have been presented at stakeholder conferences. Adoption of bioreactors by the industry should be enticed this project, as it has been conducted in a highly respected greenhouse operation. Broader adoption of bioreactors within the next 3-5 years is anticipated. On-farm trials in four conifer nurseries and Christmas tree farms investigated several treatments on planting in 2021 to 2023. Fraser fir (4-yr old) transplants were planted using growers’ standard equipment/practices, plus experimental treatments that included combinations of wood chip mulch, shade blocks, polymer root dips, mycorrhizal root dips, anti-transpirants, fertilizer and biochar. Tree growth and survival were evaluated at the end of each season. Commercial root dips did not improve survival or growth relative to control trees. Anti-transpirant reduced shoot transpiration and photosynthetic rates by ~20%, decreasing growth compared to control trees. Mulching with wood chips provided the greatest benefits to tree survival and growth among all evaluated treatments. During an exceptionally dry period in early summer 2023, mulch increased available soil moisture and improved leaf water potential relative to non-mulched plots. Results have been presented at several grower association meetings, and a recent survey indicates that over 1/3 of growers are now applying mulch in their operations. The project is ongoing, with refinement of existing treatments and addition of biochar in 2024 as an additional treatment. Missouri Laboratory experiments were performed evaluate leaching in relation to soil water repellency. Potassium bromide (KBr) was used to track solute movement through columns filled with hydrophobic sands. Results found that leaching can be substantially reduced by using soil surfactants, suggesting they could improve the safety of reclaimed water used as an irrigation source. A field experiment was performed on early season weed management options for sweetpotato production. Results, shared in scientific and local grower’s meetings, indicate that adoption of fall planted cover crops with sequential application of residual herbicides significantly increased weed management and subsequent sweetpotato yields. This research indicates that an integrated approach to weed management for an increasingly important food crop in Missouri can be successful. New Jersey A greenhouse study was established to evaluate salinity tolerance of floral hemp. Seedlings of  diploid and triploid variants of two cultivars were grown in #4 containers with a pine bark-peat substrate and irrigated 2 months with well water (EC= 0.2 dS/m) salinized with 0, 16 and 32 mM of NaCl-CaCl2 (3:1 molar ratio), corresponding to ECs of 0.4, 2.4 and 4.4 dS/m. Data is being analyzed, and preliminary results point to diploid variants of both hemp cultivars having larger flower yields across salinity treatments. While salinity treatments might reduce overall plant growth, flower yields and harvest index appear minimally affected. Floral cannabinoid concentrations are being analyzed. Data from a water and nitrogen mass balance study in container-grown crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia x fauriei) was used to estimate crop water use efficiency (WUE) and water footprint (WF). The plants, growing in #2 containers filled with a peat-based substrate, were fertigated with complete nutrient solutions with nitrogen (N) concentrations ranging from 15 to 300 mg/L. The WUE (total plant dry biomass produced per unit of transpired water) of crape myrtles averaged 0.95 g DW/L across treatments after a 9-month production cycle (that included an overwintering period). However, the WF ranged from a low of 20 L/plant to a high 253 L/plant. The plants receiving 60 mg/L N had the largest dry biomass (includes shots and roots), and the highest use efficiencies of water (WUE of 1.3 g DW/L and a WF of 47 L/plant) and N fertilizer (48% of applied N accumulated in plant biomass). North Carolina Sediment loads, nutrient concentration, and algae reduction in irrigation collection canals and source water reservoirs were evaluated in a nursery growing operation during 2023. A collaborative project was started in 2023, including NC-1186 members from NC, SC and USDA-ARS, to determine baseline data for water quality parameters like dissolved nutrients, pesticides, PFAS, and microplastics from samples collected from several southeastern nurseries. Additionally, instruments were installed in several of these locations to determine mass water flow, pH and electrical conductivity, and to take water samples over 24-hr periods to be able to answer water quality and irrigation management questions posed by nursery growers in this region. Nursery water quality monitoring will continue to determine how sediment and agrichemicals are introduced into nursery irrigation systems and how these affected by the design and materials used to construct the crop growing areas.   South Carolina In cooperation with scientists from Louisiana, North Carolina and USDA-ARS (Wooster, OH), researchers from Clemson University conducted water sampling at nursery operations in the Coastal Plain, Piedmont, Gulf Coast, and Midwestern Ecoregions of the US in August 2023. Samples were collected at strategic locations within each nursery to evaluate emerging contaminants of concern (PFAS, metals, harmful algal blooms, and microplastics). Data are currently being analyzed. This information will help inform growers of the presence of contaminants that could impact their operations in the future. We also conducted listening session with growers in OH (Sep. 2023) and CA (Jan. 2024), gaining valuable insights into grower perspectives about contaminants of emerging concern. We are in the process of preparing three publications related to the grower surveys and one publication integrating water quality information with grower perspectives to meaningfully direct future research. Researchers from Clemson continue experiments with floating treatment wetlands. A final publication was submitted, related to treatment trains, paired floating treatment wetlands with bioreactors and iron oxide filters over the 2019-20 and 2020-21 winter seasons. The study determined that iron oxide filters enhance phosphorus (P) removal over winter, and supplemented removal efficacy from dormant plants in the floating wetlands and from bioreactors with reduced microbial activity due to cooler temperatures. We are also evaluating the salt tolerance of plants used in floating treatment wetlands, and developing processes where use of these plants can help ameliorate salinity-contaminated waters. Researchers from Clemson are exploring P dynamics in coastal stormwater ponds, in particular the implications of pond age. Sediment core sampling was conducted in nine stormwater ponds in Summer 2023 and Winter 2024. In addition to water chemistry, various algal species present in the samples were also identified. It was determined that pond age influences legacy P available to support algal productivity. Results from the study could assist growers in understanding P dynamics in irrigation reservoirs. Clemson researchers started characterization of the impact of emerging contaminants, particularly herbicides and pesticides, on phytoplankton in various agricultural and stormwater ponds. Also, work over the last four years has screened more than 12 species of plants that tolerate brackish (salty) waters to various degrees and evaluate their potential to mitigate nutrient contaminants in coastal stormwater ponds impacted by salinity. Three listening sessions have been held, and a nationwide survey was conducted with consumers interested in the use of floating wetlands in coastal stormwater ponds. We have a preliminary understanding of the factors influencing consumer acceptance use/installation of floating wetlands, and are working to develop installation guidelines that ensure their success in both fresh and saltwater coastal ponds. We are continuing a project characterizing the ecosystem services associated with full-size floating wetlands installed in three ponds in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Tennessee Dr. Fulcher’s lab, in collaboration with USDA and a pot-in-pot producer, continued a project to determine the water use and irrigation needs of hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) grown in #30 containers. Containers were fitted with EC, temperature, and volumetric water content sensors at 3 different heights within the substrate profile, and the containerized plants irrigated with either a dribble ring or traditional spray-stakes. A weather station and data logger with cellular connection provide instantaneous access to weather and substrate sensor data. Moisture characteristic curves of the nursery substrate used in this study were developed to support irrigation recommendations, and the nursery’s managerial and operations staff periodically receive graphical reports from the collected information, along with  interpretive information. A similar collaborative project was initiated with a sand-bed propagation nursery to determine the moisture level and irrigation needs of cherry cuttings during their rooting process. Matric potential sensors and volumetric water content sensors, connected to a datalogging system with cellular access, were deployed in two 4 foot x 48 foot beds filled with masonry sand. Moisture curves were generated for the two types of sand used at this nursery. This information, along with automated (text and email) alerts from these sensors, and periodical graphical data and interpretive reports are provided to the grower to help manage and adjust the operation’s irrigation management. USDA-ARS National Arboretum Researchers in the USDA-ARS Floral and Nursery Plants Research Unit (FNPRU) and Application Technology Research Unit (ATRU) replicated experiments in Tennessee and Ohio to examine the effects of container color and sprinkler irrigation schedule on root zone temperature, plant growth, nutrient use efficiency, and controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) longevity in containerized nursery crops. Shrub roses and red osier dogwoods produced in white containers or with cyclic afternoon irrigation had lower root-zone temperatures, more shoot and root growth, higher nutrient use efficiency, and slower-releasing CRF than those grown in conventional black containers or with a single morning irrigation. One early adopter (a 1,000-acre wholesale nursery) found that switching to white containers saved them 40% on container costs and reduced production time by 30%. FNPRU researchers initiated experiments in 2024 to explore the impacts of shade and container color on root-zone temperature, nutrient leaching, root-rot disease severity, and efficacy of substrate-applied biological control agents during container-based nursery crop production.  In a separate study, the FNPRU and ATRU teams are exploring the effects of amending peat-based substrates with ferrous sulfate on the leaching potential and plant-availability of phosphorus during greenhouse crop production. Initial results indicate that addition of modest amounts of ferrous sulfate to peat-based substrates can reduce phosphorus leaching by up to 90%.   Elevated Impacts due to Joint/Collaborative Efforts between NC1186 Members  As illustrated in some of the accomplishments listed by experiment stations, several collaborative efforts and projects occur annually between states, highlighting the synergy and leveraging of resources and expertise across state and regional lines. These efforts are also exemplified in the publication outputs, where a significant fraction of the listed scientific journal (11 out of 26) and popular press (7 out of 12) articles involved authors from different states/institutions. Thirteen members of NC1186 participated as speakers and moderators at the 62nd Annual Conference of the International Plant Propagator’s Association - Western Region held in Temecula, CA on January 23-26, 2024. The program included a bilingual module, where the presentations were made both in English and Spanish. Over the past few years NC1186 has been conducting and participating in this type of collaborative education/extension outreach efforts (regionally, nationally and even internationally), with a robust collective delivery of practical information and results from our research to specialty crop growers, consultants and allied industry personnel. NC1186 members participated jointly in the submission of several (at least 3) proposals to the 2024 Specialty Crops Research Initiative of the USDA. These large transdisciplinary, multi-state proposals require significant planning and efforts that can only be successful through continuous and close collaborations over time, and multistate projects like NC1186 offer such opportunities.      Graduate Students and Postdocs involved in NC1186 Activities during 2023-2024 FY Nelda Hernandez, MS and now PhD student, University of Florida Dharti Thakulla, PhD student, University of Florida Kristopher Criscione, PhD student, Louisiana State University Henry Gonzalez, PhD student, Michigan State University Marcela Tabares, PhD student, Michigan State University Morolake Fatunmbi, MS student, Clemson University Silvia Valles, Postdoctoral researcher, USDA-ARS (Ohio)

Publications

Publications with an asterisk (*) involve collaboration between NC1186 members/institutions. Scientific Journals: * Alred, B., J.S. Owen Jr., A. Espinoza, and A. Fulcher. 2024. A revised approach to packing soilless substrate cores to aid in achieving consistent, appropriate bulk density. HortScience (In Press). * Alred, B., J.S. Owen Jr., A. Espinoza, and A. Fulcher. 2024. Identifying native bulk density for static physical properties analysis. Acta Horticulture (In Press). Bell, N.L., N.R. Redekar, S.N. Jeffers, D.R. Hitchcock, J.L. Parke, and S.A. White. 2024. A model system to evaluate the potential of floating treatment wetlands to manage Phytophthora species in recycled irrigation water. J. Natural Resources and Agricultural Ecosystems. DOI: 10.13031/jnrae.15949 (In Press). Bestic-Pennings, A.E., P.R. Fisher, and J. Huang. 2023. Micronutrient Fe and Mn uptake from peat by marigold and petunia. Scientia Horticulturae 326 <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304423823008749">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304423823008749</a> Bestic-Pennings, A.E., P.R. Fisher, and J. Malcolm-McDonald. 2023. Container substrate components are a potential source of micronutrients for plant growth. Journal of Plant Nutrition. DOI: <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01904167.2023.2217223">https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01904167.2023.2217223</a> Cabrera, R.I. 2024. From water use efficiency to water footprint in greenhouse roses. Acta Horticulturae (In Press). * Cabrera, R.I. and J.E. Altland. 2024. Residential graywater as an irrigation source for urban landscape plants. Acta Horticulturae (In Press). * Criscione, K., J.S. Fields, J.S. Owen, and A. Gentimis. 2024. Stratified substrates enhance water storage and distribution between irrigation events. Soil Sci. Soc. Amer. J. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/saj2.20636">https://doi.org/10.1002/saj2.20636</a>   Dekle, J., W.H.J. Strosnider, and S.A. White. 2024. Phosphorus uptake and release patterns in overwintering constructed floating wetlands. Water Science & Technology. 89(3):588 <a href="https://doi.org/10.2166/wst.2024.010">https://doi.org/10.2166/wst.2024.010</a> * Fessler, L., J.S. Owen Jr., W.C. Wright, X. Sun, C. Krauss, J.E. Altland, and A. Fulcher. 2024. Leaching fraction-based irrigation schedule, coir-amended pine bark improve sustainability of Hydrangea paniculata ‘Jane’ production. Acta Horticulturae (In Press). Fessler, L.M., W. Wright, G. Pietsch, M.L. Schneider, H. Zhu, C. Fust, and A. Fulcher. 2023. Characterizing spray deposition for control of trunk pests from an experimental airblast sprayer with 5-port nozzle bodies. Acta Horticulturae. 1378:203-218. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1378.28">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1378.28</a> * Fields, J.S, K.S. Criscione, and J.S. Owen, Jr., 2024. Conventional sphagnum peatlite substrate can be reduced by 50% in stratified substrate systems while growing equivalent size and quality Pentas lanceolata. Scientia Hort. 331:113121. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2024.113121">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2024.113121</a> * Fields, J.S., A. Lamm, J. Owen Jr., B. Jackson, J. Altland, L. Oki, K. Criscione, and Y. Zheng. 2023. Establishing North American specialty crop growers’ current use of soilless substrates along with future research and education needs. Agriculture 13:1727 (Special Issue: Advanced research on soilless culture in horticultural production) <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091727">https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091727</a> * Fields, J.S., L. Nackley, J. Shreckhise, M. Bampasidou, R. Contreras, A. Kantrovich, M. Knuth, J. Owen, Jr., and S. White. 2024. How natural resources, consumer perceptions, and labor are transforming the U.S. nursery industry. HortTechnology 34:424-429. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05410-24">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05410-24</a>   * Fulcher, A.L. Rihn, L.A. Warner, A.V. LeBude, S. Schexnayder, J.E. Altland, N. Bumgarner, S.C. Marble, L. Nackley, M. Palma, L. Ribera, M. Velandia, H. Zhu, H. Gan and J.S. Owen. 2023. Overcoming the nursery industry labor shortage with automation: A survey of strategies to adapt to a reduced workforce and technology adoption levels, perceived helpfulness, and outcomes. HortScience. 58(12):1513-1523. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17230-23">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17230-23</a> Jeffers, A., B.K. Behe, M. Vassalos, W.C. Bridges, and S.A. White. 2023. Consumer purchase likelihood of landscape management pest scouting program. HortTechnology. 33(6): 493–498. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05268-23">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05268-23</a> * Lamm, A.J., L.A. Warner, K. Gibson, K.W. Lamm, P.R. Fisher, and S.A. White. 2023. A theoretical comparison of nursery and greenhouse growers’ water conservation and water treatment technology adoption in the United States. Acta Hortic. 1373: 213-222. <a href="https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1373.28">https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2023.1373.28</a> Landaverde, A.C., W.H.J. Strosnider, and S.A. White. 2024. Plant selections for floating treatment wetland applications in brackish waters. Ecological Engineering. 200:107183. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoleng.2024.107183">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoleng.2024.107183</a> McKercher, L., M.E. Kimball, A.E. Scaroni, S.A. White, and W.H.J. Strosnider. 2023. Stormwater ponds serve as variable quality habitat for diverse taxa. Wetlands Ecology and Management. 32:109-131. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11273-023-09964-x">https://doi.org/10.1007/s11273-023-09964-x</a>   Oksel, C., F.A. Avin, P. Liyanapathiranage, J.H. Shreckhise, and F. Baysal-Gurel. 2024. First report of Achromobacter xylosoxidans causing bacterial stem and leaf blight on Cyrilla arida in Tennessee and the United States. Plant Disease 108(4): 1094. 10.1094/PDIS-01-24-0005-PDN Parajuli, M., J. Shreckhise, D. Fare, B. Moore, P. Liyanapathiranage, P. Subedi, and F. Baysal-Gurel. 2023 Evaluation of camellia cultivars and selections for growth, cold-hardiness, flowering, and disease resistance in Tennessee, USA. HortScience 58: 1533-1541. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17430-23">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17430-23</a> Sapkota, A., Haghverdi, A., Merhaut, D., Singh, A. and J.C. Iradukunda. 2023. Response of landscape groundcovers to deficit irrigation: An assessment based on normalized difference vegetation index and visual quality rating. HortScience, 169:15-22. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI16915-22">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI16915-22</a> * Shreckhise, J.H. and J.E. Altland. 2024. A base layer of ferrous sulfate-amended pine bark reduces phosphorus leaching from nursery containers. Agronomy 14(4):757. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040757">https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040757</a> Rice, T.C., S.E. Dixon, X. Xiong, and R.J. Smeda. 2023. Differences in tomato and watermelon cultivar responses to increasing doses of dicamba. JOJ Horticulture & Arboriculture. 3(5): 555625. DOI: 10.19080/JOJHA.2023.03.555625. Thakulla, D. and P.R. Fisher. 2023. Effects of cold plasma and ozone water treatment on micronutrient solubility. Horticulturae 9(5):568, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9050568">https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9050568</a> Thiessen, M., J.S. Fields, D. Abdi, and J. Beasley. 2023. Sugarcane bagasse is an effective substrate amendment in short-term production of Osteospermum. HortScience 58:1170-1177. <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17286-23">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17286-23</a>     Proceedings (abstracts or full articles): Cabrera, R.I., J.E. Simon, A.E. Vasilatis, and C.A. Wyenandt. 2023. Fine-tuning NO3:NH4 and Ca:K fertilization ratios in soilless-grown floral hemp. HortScience 58(9): S315 (Abstr.). <a href="https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.58.9S.S1">https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.58.9S.S1</a> Cabrera, R.I. 2024. Some important considerations for container production of ornamental crops, pp. 77-79. Proceedings of the 69th New Jersey Annual Vegetable Meeting. Atlantic City, NJ. 6-8 February 2024. <a href="https://nj-vegetable-crops-online-resources.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024_Proceedings_69th_VGA_Meeting_Final.pdf">https://nj-vegetable-crops-online-resources.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024_Proceedings_69th_VGA_Meeting_Final.pdf</a>    Criscione, K.S. and J.S. Fields. 2023. Root growth and development in soilless culture – A review. Proc. Int. Symposium on Growing Media, Soilless Cultivation and Compost Utilization in Hort. Quebec City, Quebec, CA (In press) Fields, J.S. and K.S. Criscione. 2024. Growing with Less: Substrate stratification can improve crop productivity and resource efficiency. Proc. In. Plant Prop Soc. Western Region. Temecula, CA (under review) * Fields J.S. and J.S. Owen, Jr. 2023. Soilless Substrate Stratification: A review of the past and looking forward. Proc. Int. Symposium on Growing Media, Soilless Cultivation and Compost Utilization in Hort. Quebec City, Quebec, CA (oral presentation; In press) * Gonzalez, H.A., R.T. Fernandez, J.S. Owen, and J. Shreckhise. 2023. Engineered substrates to improve nitrogen, phosphorus, and water retention in nursery container production. (Abstract) ISHS International Symposium on Growing Media, Compost Utilization and Substrate Analysis for Soilless Cultivation. Quebec City, Quebec, Canada June 11-15, 2023. * Mizell, A., J.S. Fields, D.E. Abdi, and B.E. Jackson. 2024. Assessing the potential for microbial activity in hammermilled wood fibers of five tree species. Annual meeting of the Southern Region American Society of Horticultural Science, Atlanta, GA (in review) Mizell, A., J.S. Fields, and M. Thiessen. 2023. Evaluation of sawdust derived from three different softwood tree species as substrate amendments. Combined Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 73:211-218. Student paper competition (2nd Place), Durham, NC Noel-Torres, R.J., R.J. Smeda, J.P. Brockenborough, and X. Xiong. 2023. Development of an early season weed management plan for sweetpotato production in Missouri. 2023 American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference. Orlando, FL. July 31-Aug 4, 2023. Spinelli, Gerry (2023). Distribution uniformity of multi-stream multi-trajectory overhead sprinklers for outdoor container nurseries. HortScience 58(9S):S1–S387. Presented at the 2023 American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference. Orlando, FL. July 31-Aug 4, 2023 <a href="https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/58/9S/article-pS1.xml">https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/58/9S/article-pS1.xml</a> Thiessen, M. and J.S. Fields. 2023. Improving air-filled porosity in woody propagation at the Hammond Research Station. Combined Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 73:319-331. Durham, NC White, S.A. 2023. Managing water quality on farm. International Plant Propagators’ Combined Proceedings. 73:370-376.   Books: Eddy, R., B. Carleton, C. Azzaretti, R. Raudales, and P. Fisher. 2023. Water Circularity Best Practices Guide for Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Operations. Resource Innovation Institute (<a href="https://catalog.resourceinnovation.org/item/controlled-environment-agriculture-water-circularity-practices-guide-581195">https://catalog.resourceinnovation.org/item/controlled-environment-agriculture-water-circularity-practices-guide-581195</a>).   Popular press: * Ammons, A.S.H., A.V. LeBude, and J.S. Owen, Jr. 2023. Keep your nutrients in your plants. Nursery and Landscape Notes Fall: 50-52. Cregg, B., Johnson, R. 2024. Improving conifer plantation establishment: Impacts of pre- and post-planting treatments. Great Lakes Christmas Tree Journal 20(3): 15-22. Criscione, K.S. and J.S. Fields. The tortoise and the tap root – A root race to establishment. Summer 2024 Fields, J.S. and K. Criscione. Substrate stratification can effectively reduce peat reliance by 50% in ornamental crop production. Grower Talks, July 2023. * Fields, J.S. and J. Owen, Jr. Substrate security – Thoughts on the future of soilless substrates in the United States and how things may change soon. Greenhouse Management Magazine, July 2023. Fields, J.S., M. Thiessen and D. Abdi. Sugarcoating substrate security. Grower Talks, January 2024 * Fulcher, A., A.L. Rihn, L.A. Warner, A.V. LeBude, M. Velandia, N. Bumgarner, and S. Schexnayder. 2023. From Chasing to Solving Labor Scarcity, Part I: Current Automation Adoption by the US Nursery Industry. Tennessee Green Times. 24(1): 10-15. * Fulcher, A., A.L. Rihn, L.A. Warner, A.V. LeBude, M. Velandia, N. Bumgarner, and S. Schexnayder. 2023. From Chasing to Solving Labor Scarcity, Part II: Advances in Automation within Task for Field Production. Tennessee Green Times. 24(2): 18-22. * Harrell, W.M, J.S. Owen Jr., A. Rihn, K. McKim, and A. Fulcher. 2024. A Snapshot into Substrates: Components Used by Tennessee Producers. Tennessee Green Times. 25(2): 14-18. * Nackley, L. and J.S. Fields. What’s in the pot? Exploring stratified substrates and soil hydraulics in agricultural science. Growing Knowledge, Digger, March 2024 * Owen, J.S. and J.S. Fields. To stratify or not to stratify: and if so – how? Tinkering for Profit, Nursery Management, June 2024 * Spinelli, G., B. Pitton and L Oki. 2023. Water retention characteristic curves for substrate in containerized ornamental production. Nursery Management, March 2023. <a href="https://www.nurserymag.com/article/moisture-retention-curve/">https://www.nurserymag.com/article/moisture-retention-curve/</a>   Workshop Participant: Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Water Use Efficiency and Footprint in Plants Used in Urban Landscapes. Invited Seminar. Department of Biology, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX. 25 October 2023. 90 Attendees Simms L. and R.I. Cabrera. 2023. Proper Tree Planting (Bilingual English-Spanish). 98th Annual Conference of the NJ Shade Tree Federation. Cherry Hill, NJ. 27 October 2023. 20 attendees Lovallo G. and R.I. Cabrera. 2023. Pruning Young Trees for Proper Future (Bilingual English-Spanish). 98th Annual Conference of the NJ Shade Tree Federation. Cherry Hill, NJ. 27 October 2023. 25 attendees Cabrera, R.I. 2023. Plant Physiology Principles Applied to Fertigation Efficiency in Cut Flower Crops (In Spanish). International Floriculture Symposium SIFLOR 2023, Quito Ecuador. 22-23 November 2023. 185 Attendees. Cabrera, R.I. 2024. Drought and Supplemental Irrigation Management in Urban Landscapes. Southeast Pennsylvania Green Industry Conference. Ambler, PA. 4 January 2024. 15 attendees Cabrera, R.I. 2024. Best Management Practices for Landscape Plants (In Spanish). Total Pro Expo & Conference – New Jersey Nursery and Landscape Association. Convention Center, Edison, NJ. 30 January 2024. 80 Attendees Cabrera, R.I. 2024. Water Use Efficiency and Water Footprint in Nursery Crops. 62nd Annual Meeting of the International Plant Propagators Society-Western Region. Temecula, CA. 24-26 January 2024. 92 attendees Cabrera, R.I. 2024. Some Important Considerations for Container Production of Ornamental Crops. New Jersey Agricultural Convention & Trade Show. Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center, Atlantic City, NJ. 7 February 2024. 26 attendees Cabrera, R.I. 2024. Plant Physiology Applied to Water and Nutrient Management in Cut Flower Crops (In Spanish). AgroEncuentro, a Flower Growers Seminar by Cosmocel, Bogotá, Colombia. 26 July 2024. 140 attendees Cregg, B., Rouse, R. 2023 You’re Adding What? Best practices to improve tree establishment at planting and beyond. Christmas Tree Winter Webinar Series at Michigan State University. February 23, 2023. Cregg, B., Johnson, R. 2023 Improving transplant success of container-grown trees. Kentucky Arborists Association, Elizabethtown, KY, Feb. 26, 2023. Cregg, B. and R. Johnson. 2023. Research update on MSU Seedling establishment trials. Michigan Christmas Tree Association Winter meeting. Frankenmuth, MI, March 3, 2023. Cregg, B. 2023. Techniques to improve transplant success. Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York, Johnstown, NY, July 2, 2023. Cregg, B. 2023. Seedling establishment. National Christmas Tree Association Summer meeting, Cambridge, MN, Aug. 4, 2023. Cregg, B. 2023. MSU research update. Michigan Seedling Growers Association, Gobles, MI, Aug. 23, 2023. LeBude, A.V. 2023. Efforts to control flatheaded apple tree borer. Idaho Nursery and Landscape Association Trade Show, Boise. 29 Jan 2023, 85 attendees. LeBude, A.V. 2023. Accelerating automation in nursery production. Idaho Nursery and Landscape Association Trade Show, Boise. 29 Jan 2023, 6 , 85 attendees. Noel-Torres, R.J., J.E. Schoelz, P. Tian, and X. Xiong. 2023. Isolation and characterization of fungal endophytes associated with symptomless orange-fleshed sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.) storage roots. 2023 College of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (CAFNR) Research Symposium. Columbia, MO. Oct 5, 2023. Noel-Torres, R.J., R.J. Smeda, J.P. Brockenborough, and X. Xiong. 2024. Early season weed management for sweetpotato production. 2024 Great Plains Growers Conference. St. Joseph, MO. January 12, 2024. Tabares, M., Gonzalez, H., Reguera, G., Owen, J., Fernandez, R.T. 2024 Woodchip bioreactors for improving water quality: How they work and what they do. Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association. January 23, 2024 Tabares, M., Gonzalez, H., Reguera, G., Owen, J., Fernandez, R.T. 2023. Woodchip bioreactors for managing nutrient and pesticide levels in recycled greenhouse irrigation water. GLEXPO 2023. December 6, 2023 White, S.A. 2023. Managing water quality on-farm. Annual Meeting of the Southern-Region International Plant Propagators Society. Durham, NC. 1 November 2023. 38 attendees. White, S.A. 2024. Irrigation in greenhouses and nurseries: Problems & solutions". SC Green Industry Association Conference and Tradeshow. 24 January 2024. 160 attendees. White, S.A. 2024. Reservoir design and water quality. Annual Meeting of the Western-Region International Plant Propagators Society. Temecula, CA. 26 January 2024. 95 attendees. White, S.A. 2024. Exploring alternative water resources & managing water quality on-farm. Texas Nursery and Landscape Association. 26 April 2024. 45 attendees. White, S.A. 2024. Water management: It’s not just about quantity, quality matters. Southeast Green Conference & Trade Show. Duluth, GA. 6 June 2024. 28 attendees.   Extension publications: Escamilla, C., A.E. Scaroni, and S.A. White. 2024. An Introduction to Floating Wetlands. Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension. LGP 1185. <a href="https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/an-introduction-to-floating-wetlands-for-stormwater-ponds/">https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/an-introduction-to-floating-wetlands-for-stormwater-ponds/</a>. * McKim, K., A. Fulcher, A. Rihn, L. Warner, A. LeBude, M. Velandia, N. Bumgarner, and S. Schexnayder. 2023. The Role of Automation in Addressing the Nursery Industry Labor Shortage. Part II. Advances in Automation within Task. U of TN Extension Publication. W. Silva L., S.A. White, H.B. Nix, and D. Sahoo. 2023. Plants for Livestock Pond Buffers. Clemson Cooperative Extension, Land-Grant Press by Clemson Extension. LGP 1181. <a href="https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/plants-for-livestock-pond-buffers/">https://lgpress.clemson.edu/publication/plants-for-livestock-pond-buffers/</a>. Spinelli, G. and C. Shogren, Chris. 2023. How to estimate whether you are over-irrigating in nurseries: A quick-and-dirty method. San Diego Cooperative Extension Newsletter. November 2023.   Dissertations/ Thesis: Fatunmbi, Morolake. 2024. Influence of pond age on phosphorus water column-sediment interactions in coastal stormwater ponds. MS in Plant and Environmental Sciences, Clemson University (Chair D. Sahoo & Co-chair S.A. White).

Impact Statements

Research from California scientists is helping improve the use efficiency of water and fertilizer by their massive green industries. The overarching goal is a continued improvement of production and management practices that enhance the sustainability and profitability of these industries, along with a rational use and protection of water resources and environmental quality.
Florida scientists evaluated low cost infrared sensors, and other climate sensors as viable options to measure crop leaf and soil temperature for climate control, which will lead to improved irrigation scheduling in crop growing and propagation operations.
Work on stratified and alternative substrates by Louisiana scientists is allowing US growers to adopt and adjust available substrate materials in response to peat shortages. Adoption and use of byproducts like sugarcane bagasse and wood fibers and substrate stratification is allowing growers to reduce use of peat, water and fertilizers, lowering production costs while sustaining crop productivity and quality. Results from this research have globalized, with European scientists exploring automation technologies that allow substrate stratification practices by growers across the world.
Research from Michigan has shown that stratified substrates can reduce nitrate and phosphate leaching by up to 50% without impacting growth of container-grown plants, thus significantly reducing eutrophication potential. Bioreactors in nurseries can remove pesticides that can be harmful to plants while retaining valuable nutrients in recycled irrigation water. A survey of conifer growers through the Great Lakes region indicates that approximately 74% (103/138) of them are more confident in implementing practices to improve seedling survival.
Along with USDA scientists, Tennessee researchers developed a substrate packing technique that provides predictable uniform samples, allowing for consistent determination of static and dynamic physical properties of major nursery substrate components, which are useful to horticulturists and growers to manage substrates and irrigation. A scale-based setup was developed to measure and manage irrigation application rates, drainage, infiltration and other hydraulic properties of common nursery substrates, expanding the body of knowledge of substrate-water dynamics in container production systems.
Research in South Carolina is addressing factors affecting the quality of water in irrigation ponds, and how factors like pond age, sediment deposition, phosphorous dynamics, herbicides, pesticides and emerging contaminants like metals, PFAS and microplastics are impacting the frequency and magnitude of harmful algal blooms. Studies in South Carolina on the use of riparian buffers and floating wetlands have led to improvements in the quality (enhanced clarity and nil/diminished algal blooms) of both stormwater and irrigation retention ponds by trapping and removing sediments, nutrients and other contaminants. These results enhance the sustainability of agricultural systems and ecosystems services in urban environments.