CHARACTERIZATION OF NUTRIENT DISORDERS OF PERICALLIS × HYBRID 'JESTER PURE BLUE'

Abstract

Pericallis × hybrid ‘Jester Pure Blue’ plants were grown in silica sand culture to induce and photograph nutritional disorder symptoms. Plants were grown with a complete modified Hoagland’s all nitrate solution: (macronutrients in mM) 15 NO3-N, 1.0 PO4-P, 6.0 K, 5.0 Ca, 2.0 Mg and 2.0 SO4-S, plus μM concentrations of micronutrients, 72 Fe, 18 Mn, 3 Cu, 3 Zn, 45 B and 0.1 Mo. The nutrient deficiency treatments were induced with a complete nutrient formula minus one of the nutrients. Reagent grade chemicals and deionized water of 18 mega ohms purity were used to formulate treatment solutions. Boron toxicity was also induced by increasing the element 10× higher than the complete nutrient formula. The plants were automatically irrigated. The solution drained from the bottom of the pot and was captured for reuse. A complete replacement of nutrient solutions was done weekly. Plants were monitored daily to document and photograph sequential series of symptoms as they developed. Typical symptomology of nutrient disorders and critical tissue concentrations are presented.