Optimum Media Composition and Fertilization for Raising Seedlings of <i>Aquilegia flabellata</i> var. <i>pumila</i> Kudo

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the ideal media composition and fertilization treatment for raising seedlings of Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila K. The tested media compositions were commercial horticultural medium, peat moss, upland soil, commercial horticultural medium + peat moss (1 : 1, v/v), commercial horticultural medium + upland soil (1 : 1, v/v), upland soil + peat moss (1 : 1, v/v), upland soil + compost (1 : 1, v/v), and commercial horticultural medium + peat moss + upland soil (1 : 1 : 1, v/v/v). Fertilization levels were 0% (control), 50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, and 150% of the standard fertilizer application amount (nitrogen – phosphate - potassium = 12 – 9 – 12 kg/10 a). Resultantly, chemical characteristics of the media compositions, such as pH and nutrient content were the lowest in peat moss. Media that included commercial horticultural medium and compost showed a higher EC (electric conductivity) and nutrient content. Germination rate was the lowest, 48% at 30 days after sowing and 54% at 45 days after sowing in peat moss, but was 86% in upland soil + compost treatment. Germination rate ranged from 92 to 98% in other media compositions. Growth of A. flabellata var. pumila K at 120 and 150 days after sowing was the best in commercial horticultural medium. Growth of A. flabellata var. pumila K was better with fertilization treatment relative to control. Plant height, width and leaf number at 100 days after planting were best with 75%, 100%, and 125% fertilization treatment and the lowest with 150% fertilization treatment. These results show that the growth of A. flabellata var. pumila K tended to be better in media that included commercial horticultural medium, and was the best with 75% fertilization treatment.