Geranium Growth Research Articles

Effect of Nutrition Supplement on Water Quality and Growth of Geranium in Aquaponic System

Effect of Nutrition Supplement on Water Quality and Growth of Geranium in Aquaponic System

Determining Eastern Red Cedar Biochar Soilless-Media Supplementation Rates for Potted Geranium and Petunia Production

The use of biochar in soilless media is becoming more common in greenhouse production. This study was conducted to evaluate Eastern red cedar biochar as a soilless-media supplement for the growth of geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L.) and petunia (Petunia sp. J.) as potted plants in greenhousese. Eastern red cedar biomass was produced at three different temperature ranges 300–350 °C, 400–450 °C, and 500–550 °C and applied at 15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% v/v to a soilless media plus a control. Additionally, Eastern red cedar (ERC) bark was also applied at 15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% v/v to a soilless media. The growth characteristics of the plants along with the physical and nutrient properties of the growth media were recorded. For physical properties, 100% soilless media had the greatest bulk density, 60% biochar at 400–450 °C showed the greatest total porosity, and 60% ERC bark showed the greatest air porosity. For geranium, 15% biochar at 500–550 °C showed the greatest height, water use efficiency, and shoot dry weight, while 15% biochar at 300–350 °C showed the greatest width. The greatest number of flowers was at 45% biochar at 500–550 °C. For petunia, 15% biochar at 300–350 °C showed the greatest height, and 15% biochar at 500–550 °C showed the greatest width. The greatest number of flowers and flower diameter was achieved with 100% soilless media. The 15% biochar at 500–550 °C had the greatest shoot dry weight and water use efficiency, and 60% biochar at 400–450 °C had the greatest root dry weight. Biochar treatment outperforms the ERC bark treatment for both species. Within biochar treatment, 15% biochar outperforms dry biomass, while for flowering, 100% soilless media performs best for petunia, and biochar performs best at less than 45% for geranium.

Growth Responses to two Commercial Plant Growth Retardants with Different Concentration in Potted Geranium

Background and objective: The aim of this study was to elucidate the effect of varying treatment concentrations of two different plant growth retardants, acting at different inhibition positions during the biosynthetic process, on the growth characteristics of geranium (<i>Pelargonium</i> × <i>hortorum</i>) and then to provide essential data to improve the quality of pot plant production.Methods: Aqueous solutions of diniconazole (Binnari) and daminozide (B-9) at concentrations of 0 (distilled water), 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg⋅L<sup>-1</sup> were prepared for the geranium 'Ringo 2000TM Deep Red'. These solutions were applied by foliar spraying twice at 10-day intervals. Growth characteristics such as plant height, leaf size and relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) were then assessed.Results: When Binnari was applied at concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg⋅L<sup>-1</sup> , the corresponding plant heights were 29.5, 23.8, 24.1, 23.0, and 18.4 cm, respectively. There was a statistically significant decrease in plant height with increasing concentration. Conversely, for B-9, plant height was significantly reduced to 26.7 cm only at the 400 mg⋅L<sup>-1</sup> concentration, indicating a less pronounced inhibitory effect compared to Binnari. Leaf width showed a significant decreasing trend with increasing Binnari application concentrations and was 4.6, 4.7, 4.1, 4.2, and 3.9 cm respectively. However, there was no significant difference due to the B-9 treatment. Chlorophyll content increased with increasing concentrations of both retardants.Conclusion: In conclusion, Binnari showed a greater inhibitory effect on geranium growth compared to B-9. The application of Binnari at 400 mg⋅L<sup>-1</sup> resulted in the greatest increase in the ornamental value of the geranium. Furthermore, diniconazole acts during the early stage before the splitting of the GA<sub>1</sub> and GA<sub>4</sub> pathways, thus inhibiting the biosynthesis of both active gibberellins. In contrast, daminozide inhibits the step just before GA<sub>1</sub> biosynthesis. It is concluded that GA<sub>4</sub> serves as the dominant active gibberellin in geranium plants.

Comparative Effect of Varieties and Types of Containers on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Geranium (Palergonium graveolens)

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L’Hér.) is an important commercial horticultural plant extensively used in outdoor landscaping. Seed emergence has always remained a problem in geranium due to its hard seed nature. Hence its germination and other emergence-related attributes need to be adequately tested. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the germination and seedling growth of geraniums under different types of containers. In this regard, the seeds of two varieties of geranium viz. Large FID mixed and Star mixed were planted in different types of containers. The containers included black trays plastic pots, plastic bags, and nonwoven fabric bags. The seed emergence and other germination related parameters were significantly affected by the different types of containers. However, varieties exhibited similar responses for most germination and growth characteristics. Data were collected for seed germination, mean germination time, germination index and seedling vigor index. The type of containers showed a significant impact on seedling growth and development. The taller plants with more leaves and maximum biomass production were recorded from seeds sown in nonwoven fabric type bags. The results pertaining to varieties demonstrated that Star mixed showed better emergence and vigorous seedlings in comparison with large FID mixed. The taller seedlings with maximum leaves and shoot biomass were also recorded from Star mixed grown in nonwoven fabric type bags. Based on the results, it is concluded that germanium may be raised in nonwoven fabric bags for better seed emergence and seedling growth and development.

Harnessing Endophytic Fungi for Enhancing Growth, Tolerance and Quality of Rose-Scented Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens (L'Hér) Thunb.) Plants under Cadmium Stress: A Biochemical Study.

Heavy metal contamination in soil is increasing rapidly due to increasing anthropogenic activities. Despite the importance of rose-scented geranium as a medicinal plant, little attention was paid to enhancing its productivity in heavy metal-polluted soil. In this regard, endophytes improve plant resistance to heavy metal toxicity and enhance its tissue quality. Here, the impact of the three endophytic fungi Talaromyces versatilis (E6651), Emericella nidulans (E6658), and Aspergillus niger (E6657) on geranium growth, tolerance, and tissue quality under cadmium (Cd) stress was investigated. In contrast to E. nidulans, T. versatilis and A. niger enhanced geranium growth and the stimulatory effect was more pronounced under Cd-stress. The three endophytes significantly alleviated Cd accumulation and increased mineral content in geranium leaves. In addition, endophytic fungi successfully alleviated Cd-induced membrane damage and reinforced the antioxidant defenses in geranium leaves. Inoculation with endophytes stimulated all the antioxidant enzymes under Cd-stress, and the response was more obvious in the case of T. versatilis and A. niger. To reduce the toxicity of tissue-Cd levels, T. versatilis and A. niger upregulated the detoxification mechanisms; glutathione-S-transferase, phytochelatin, and metallothionein levels. Moreover, endophytic fungi improved the medicinal value and quality of geranium by increasing total antioxidant capacity (TAC), phenolic compound biosynthesis (phenylalanine ammonia-lyase), and vitamin content as well as the quantity and quality of essential oil, particularly under Cd-stress conditions. The variation in the mechanisms modulated by the different endophytic fungi was supported by Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Overall, this study provided fundamental insights into endophytes’ impact as a feasible strategy to mitigate the phytotoxicity hazards of Cd-stress in geranium and enhance its quality, based on the growth and biochemical investigations.

Strawberry, black medic (Medicago lupulina), and Carolina geranium (Geranium carolinianum) growth under light-limiting conditions

AbstractBroadleaf infestations interfere with Florida strawberry production. Broadleaf POST herbicide options applied atop the crop are limited to synthetic auxins and not suitable for conventional multi-cropping and organic systems. Reducing light access and interception during weed emergence may reduce interference. Light-limited growth of two problematic broadleaves, black medic and Carolina geranium, and the most commonly grown strawberry cultivar (‘Florida Radiance’), were examined in the greenhouse. The experimental design was completely randomized, and the trial was repeated. Black medic was susceptible to reductions in incoming solar radiation, wherein reducing the daily maximum available light from 331 to 94 µmol m−2s−1reduced leaf number and area by 93% and 89%, respectively. Carolina geranium growth was less susceptible to reduced-light treatments, with leaf area and number each reduced by 66% when light was reduced from 331 to 94 µmol m−2s−1. Belowground, Carolina geranium biomass was similarly reduced between the 331 and 94 µmol m−2s−1treatments. Strawberry was relatively tolerant to shading at 155 µmol m−2s−1, but further reductions did increase mortality. Shade-induced weed suppression is a promising alternative strategy for conventional and organic Florida strawberry production. Targeted application during periods of weed emergence may play a role within integrated pest management strategies. This approach is most feasible for black medic management but may be useful for Carolina geranium in concert with other strategies.

Green waste compost and vermicompost as peat substitutes in growing media for geranium ( Pelargonium zonale L.) and calendula ( Calendula officinalis L.)

Abstract This research evaluated green waste compost (GWC) and green waste vermicompost (GWV) as peat substitutes in growing media used for the production of geranium (Pelargonium zonale L.) and calendula (Calendula officinalis L.). Five growing media were prepared: 100% Peat (P), 50% Peat + 50% GWC (PC), 100% GWC (C), 50% Peat + 50% GWV (PV), and 100% GWV (V). Geranium and calendula seedlings were transplanted into each medium and were grown under commercial nursery conditions for 6 months, i.e., until they attained commercial size. The higher percentage of GWC and GWV in the growing medium could increase bulk density and air space; decrease total pore space and water-filled porosity; and increase pH, electrical conductivity, and macro- and microelement contents. The heavy metal contents of all growing media were within safe ranges. Particle-size distribution and fertility were superior in the vermicompost-based media than in the compost-based media. Geranium growth was reduced in media containing GWC (C and PC). Calendula growth in compost-based growing media was similar to or greater than growth in pure peat. Geranium and calendula growth and flowering were superior in all vermicompost-based media (PV and V) than in the control medium (P). These results indicate that GWV is better than GVC as a partial substitute for peat in the cultivation of geranium and calendula.

Without exceeding the limits: industrial soil rich in Zn and Cd has no effect on purslane and lettuce but promotes geranium growth

The aims of the study were (a) the assessment of growth and physiological response of a weed/alternative crop (purslane), an ornamental plant (geranium) and an edible vegetable (lettuce) to Zn- and Cd-contaminated industrial soil and (b) the investigation of the possible exclusion or accumulation process of these plants concerning Zn and Cd, evaluating thus their phytoremediation potential. Both Zn and Cd concentrations increased significantly in all three plant species in the contaminated soil compared to the uncontaminated control. Metal soil-to-plant transfer coefficient was lower in the first soil compared to control, indicating slower metal uptake with increased metal concentrations in soil. Geranium exhibited a growth promotion along with a better photosynthetic performance in the industrial soil. Purslane displayed an altered architecture and a more massive old leaf cohort, but its overall growth remained unaffected by increased [Zn] and [Cd], similarly to lettuce. No effects on PSII photochemical efficiency and photosynthetic pigments of all studied species were recorded. We conclude that metal uptake by plants remained within the limits of favorable growth and metal bioavailability was determined by (a) the fact that metals were deposited over long periods and were thus strongly retained by soil colloidal phases and (b) Cd/Zn antagonism. The results highlight the importance of soil history component in shaping heavy metal behavior, determining thus their bioavailability.

Seedling Geranium Response to Nitrogen Deprivation and Subsequent Recovery in Hydroponic Culture

Nitrogen (N) fertilization recommendations to achieve optimum growth are well established for many floriculture crops. Although it has been shown that plant functions can recover from N deficiency in other crops, little research has investigated the threshold beyond which a bedding plant crop is recoverable. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of N deficiency on geranium chlorophyll content and growth and then to document the degree of recovery and recovery time from N deprivation. This was determined in two experiments by monitoring chlorophyll content and growth of seedlings grown in hydroponic culture in which the N source was removed and then restored after differing lengths of time. Summarizing across both experiments, chlorophyll and foliar N levels were shown to rebound quickly after N deprivation; however, growth was reduced after just 4 days compared with plants fed constantly. Geraniums grown without N for 4 to 12 days resulted in smaller, more compact plants with lower shoot–to-root ratios. Although foliar chlorophyll and N concentration recovered from longer periods in N growth solution, geranium growth was reduced and failed to completely recover for any plant receiving more than 2 days of N-free solution.

Greenhouse and Landscape Performance of Bedding Plants in Biocontainers

Biodegradable and plastic containers were evaluated for greenhouse and landscape production of ‘Score Red’ geranium (Pelargonium ×hortorum), ‘Grape Cooler’ vinca (Catharanthus roseus), or ‘Dazzler Lilac Splash’ impatiens (Impatiens wallerana) at Louisiana State University (LSU), Baton Rouge, LA; Longwood Gardens (LWG), Kennett Square, PA; and University of Arkansas (UA), Fayetteville, AR. Of the 5-inch containers, the highest geranium and vinca shoot growth occurred in plastic containers compared with bioplastic and rice straw containers. Of the 4-inch containers, paper containers produced the greatest geranium shoot growth compared with the peat containers at LSU and LWG. Shoot growth in impatiens was similar for all container types at all three locations. When all container types were considered, there was no difference in the root growth of geranium or impatiens at all three locations. However, vinca had the highest root growth in paper containers compared with that in peat and coconut fiber. The root:shoot (R:S) ratio of geranium were mixed for all pot sizes, types, and locations. Vinca R:S ratio was highest in both the 4- and 5-inch plastic control containers at LSU and lowest in both plastic containers at LWG. Direct plant containers generally performed well in the landscape as the plants grown in plastic containers at LWG. Plants grown in all tested containers produced marketable plants for both the retail and landscape markets. However, growers and landscapers should be aware of growth differences that may occur when using biodegradable containers and align production practices accordingly.

Zein-based Bioplastic Containers Alter Root-zone Chemistry and Growth of Geranium

Abstract Bioplastic containers made from zein, a protein from corn (Zea mays L.), have been developed but not evaluated as alternatives to conventional, petroleum-based plastics. We tested the hypothesis that biodegradation of zein containers provides nitrogen (N) that promotes growth of plants and examined whether plants grown in zein containers could be transplanted successfully without removing the container, thus eliminating the need to dispose of containers. Zein containers provided root zones of geranium (Pelargonium ×hortorum L.H. Bailey) with up to 298 and 277 mg·kg−1 of NH4+-N and NO3−-N, respectively, and unlike geraniums in conventional plastic containers, leaves of plants in zein containers remained dark green when produced without fertilization. Electrical conductivity and pH of the substrate in zein containers increased above ranges recommended for many horticultural crops, and NO2−, which can be toxic to plants, was present in the substrate. These chemical changes may have been responsible for reduced canopy height and width, surface area of selected leaves, length of root systems, and dry weight of shoots of geraniums in zein containers compared with geraniums in conventional plastic containers. In a second experiment, when geraniums were transplanted without removing zein containers, growth of roots and shoots was reduced until after six weeks, when biodegradation of containers was nearly complete, and extension of roots past the zone of the degraded container was documented approximately 12 weeks after transplanting. Geraniums can be produced and transplanted in containers made from zein, but additional research must solve problems that result from altered root-zone chemistry during production and from chemical and physical impediments that delay transplant success.

PHOSPHORUS DEFICIENCY IN PELARGONIUM: EFFECTS ON NITRATE AND AMMONIUM UPTAKE AND ACIDITY GENERATION

A sudden pH decline (SPD) of the substrate is an increasing problem in geranium growth systems, and the cause is unknown. In this study, we investigate whether a phosphorus (P) deficiency can cause SPD, and whether the effect is related to inhibition of ammonium (NH4 +) and nitrate (NO3 −) uptake and a corresponding shift in the cation to anion uptake balance. Geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum Bailey ‘Designer Dark Red’) were grown in hydroponic solutions with or without P, and the hydroponics systems were located in a growth chamber programmed for light/dark temperatures of 22/18 or 26/22°C. Acidification potential was measured by the amount of base required to maintain pH at 5.8. The results indicated that much greater amounts of base were required to maintain a stable pH with P-limited plants. Using periodic exposures to 15NH4 + or 15NO3 −, it was found that NO3 − uptake was strongly inhibited as plants became P stressed. Tissue nutrient profiles showed that the NO3 − uptake inhibition was accompanied by an increase in the cation to anion uptake ratio. Rhizosphere acidification was greater at higher temperature even though the cation and anion responses were unchanged in control plants, suggesting the involvement of carbon dioxide (CO2) generated by root respiration. The results indicate that changes in cation and anion uptake and the associated increase in net H+ extrusion that occur under P-stress conditions can contribute to SPD in geranium culture systems.

Container Medium pH in a Pine Tree Substrate Amended with Peatmoss and Dolomitic Limestone Affects Plant Growth

This work was conducted to evaluate the effect of limestone additions to pine tree substrate (PTS) and PTS amended with peatmoss on pH and plant growth. ‘Inca Gold’ marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) and ‘Rocky Mountain White’ geranium (Pelargonium ×hortorum L.H. Bailey) were grown in three PTSs—100% PTS, PTS plus 25% peatmoss (v/v), and PTS plus 50% peatmoss (v/v)—made from freshly harvested loblolly pine trees (Pinus taeda L.) chipped and hammermilled through a 4.76-mm screen and a peatmoss/perlite (4:1 v/v; PL) control. Each substrate was amended with various rates of dolomitic limestone and used to grow marigolds in 10-cm square (l-L) plastic containers and geraniums in round 15-cm (1.25-L) plastic containers in a glasshouse. Regardless of limestone rate, pH was highest in 100% PTS and decreased with peat additions with PL having the lowest pH. As percent peat increased from 25% to 50%, more limestone was required to adjust pH to a particular level showing that PTS is more weakly buffered against pH change than peatmoss. Adding limestone did not increase the growth of marigold in 100% PTS, but additions of limestone did increase growth of marigold when grown in PTS containing peatmoss or in PL. Geranium growth was higher in PTS containing peatmoss (25% or 50%) and PL than in 100% PTS at all limestone rates. This research demonstrates that PTS produced from freshly harvested pine trees has an inherently higher pH than PL, and the additions of peatmoss to PTS require pH adjustment of the substrate for optimal plant growth.

Influence of Brassinosteroids on Rooting and Growth of Geranium (Pelargonium sp.) Stem Cuttings

Influence of Brassinosteroids on Rooting and Growth of Geranium (Pelargonium sp.) Stem Cuttings

Fertilizer Source Affects Iron, Manganese, and Zinc Leaching, Nutrient Distribution, and Geranium Growth#

The effect of various sources of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) on growth and visual quality of geranium (Pelargonium X hortorum L. “Orbit Red”) seedlings, nutrient leaching, and nutrient distribution in the growing medium was determined in two experiments. In the first experiment, Fe, Mn, and Zn were applied as a commercially formulated water‐soluble fertilizer (WSF), granular incorporated fertilizer (GIF), or no micronutrient (NOM) fertilizer was applied. In the second experiment, the commercially formulated GIF was applied, but WSF was specially formulated to apply the same amount of each element from the same chemical sources as the GIF. Also a 50% GIF and 50% WSF (50 GIF/50 WSF) treatment was included. In both experiments, shoot relative growth rate (RGR) tended to be greater when WSF was applied than when GIF was used. Plant visual quality did not differ regardless of fertilizer used in either experiment, but plants receiving NOM fertilizer were of lower quality than plants receiving any micronutrient fertilizer. The amount of Fe, Mn, and Zn leached from the medium was greater with GIF than with WSF or 50 GIF/50 WSF when the same amount of each element was applied regardless of fertilizer source. Analysis of the growing medium at the end of each experiment revealed higher amounts of Fe, Mn, and Zn in the upper portion than in the middle or lower portions of the medium with WSF. The micronutrients studied were evenly distributed throughout the medium when applied as a GIF. #Approved for publication by the Director, Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station. This research was supported by project H‐2324.

Fertilizer Source and Irrigation System Affect Geranium Growth and Nitrogen Retention

Pelargonium ×hortorum Bailey `Pinto Red' plants were fertilized with equal amounts of N, P, and K derived from: 1) 100% constant liquid fertilization (CLF); 2) 50% CLF plus 50% controlled-release fertilizer (CRF); or 3) 100% CRF per pot and irrigated using hand (HD), microtube (MT), ebb-and-flow (EF), or capillary mat (CM) irrigation systems. The treatment receiving 100% CRF produced greater total dry weights, and released lower concentrations of NO3-N, NH4-N, and PO4-P in the run-off than the 100% CLF treatment. The percentage of N lost as run-off was greatly reduced with the use of CRF. MT irrigation produced the greatest plant growth and HD irrigation produced the least. The EF system was the most water efficient, with only 4.7% of water lost as run-off. Combining the water-efficient EF system with the nutrient-efficient CRF produced the greatest percentage of N retained by plants and medium (90.7) and the lowest percentage of N lost in the run-off (1.7).

Effect of Fertilizer Source on Fe, Mn, and Zn Leaching, Nutrient Distribution, and Geranium Growth

Improving the quality of water released from containerized production nurseries and greenhouse operations is an increasing concern in many areas of the United States. The potential pollution threat to our ground and potable water reservoirs via the horticultural industry needs to receive attention from growers and researchers alike. `Orbit Red' geraniums were grown in 3:1 peat:perlite medium with microtube irrigation to study the effect of fertilizer source on geranium growth, micronutrient leaching, and nutrient distribution. Manufacturer's recommended rates of controlled-release (CRF) and water-soluble fertilizers (WSF) were used to fulfill the micronutrient requirement of the plants. Minimal differences in all growth parameters measured between WSF and CRF were determined. A greater percentage of Fe was leached from the WSF than CRF. In contrast, CRF had a greater percentage of Mn leached from the system than WRF during the experiment. Also, regardless of treatment, the upper and middle regions of the growing medium had a higher nutrient concentration than the lower region of medium.

Bicarbonates and Botrytis: VI. Control of Gray Mold Enhances Geranium Growth

Botrytis cinerea Pers. causes gray mold on greenhouse-grown geraniums (Pelargonium ×hortorum L. H. Bailey), among many other crops. Bicarbonates effectively control rose powdery mildew (Plant Dis. 76:247–480) and inhibit B. cinerea in vitro colony growth and conidial germination (Phytopathology 84:546, 1065). To examine bicarbonate effects on gray mold incidence and geranium growth, we sprayed seedling geranium cultivars Red Elite and Scarlet Elite weekly with 0, 25, and 50 mM NH4HCO3 or KHCO3. Seedlings were transplanted in Metromix 360 and misted every 24 m for 5 s to enhance disease development. Data were collected biweekly on disease incidence, floral number, plant height, and dry weight. Both cultivars performed similarly. Disease incidence decreased with application of bicarbonates. KHCO3 at 25 mM slightly increased dry weight and height over 0 mM, whereas 25 and 50 mM NH4HCO3 greatly increased both features. Fifty mM KHCO3 decreased height slightly, but had no effect on dry weight. Floral number decreased slightly with all bicarbonate treatments. It is indicated that KHCO3 at low levels and NH4HCO3 enhance seedling geranium growth by controlling gray mold incidence and by providing additional nutrients. (Supported by H&I Agritech Inc., Ithaca, NY 14850.)

Seed Geranium Growth and Flowering Responses to Uniconazole

Height control and flowering responses to uniconazole spray or drench treatments were measured for `Multibloom Scarlet' and `Red Elite' geranium (Pelargonium ×hortorum L.H. Bailey). Total plant height of both cultivars was reduced proportionately to the height of a 10-cm container when the uniconazole drench concentration was 0.025 mg a.i./pot. Used as a spray, uniconazole was not as effective in restricting total plant height of either cultivar. Foliage height was shortened more than inflorescence height. Inflorescence diameter was decreased with increasing uniconazole drench concentrations. Sprays did not affect inflorescence diameter of either cultivar. Uniconazole effect on days to flower varied with cultivar and application method. Chemical name used: (E)-(S)-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-4,4-dimethyl-2-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)-pent-1-ene-3-ol (uniconazole).

165 VESICULAR-ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAE DECREASE DAYS TO FLOWERING AND INCREASE INFLORESCENCE NUMBER OF GERANIUM `SPRINTER SCARLET' GROWN IN THREE SOILLESS MEDIA.

The effects of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM) on the growth and flowering of Geranium `Sprinter Scarlet' in three greenhouse soilless media were investigated. All media proved to be well suited for geranium growth and VAM had no significant effect on most vegetative parameters. However, VAM significantly reduced the number of days to flowering of plants grown in Mycori-Mix and Sunshine Aggregate #4 by 6.4 and 6.6 days respectively. Plants grown in Mycori-Mix with VAM flowered 99.4 days after sowing, significantly sooner than those grown in the other media with VAM. Mycorrhizal plants in Mycori-Mix and Metro Mix had a greater number of lateral branches >5 cm in length than non-mycorrhizal in the same media. Regardless of VAM treatment, plants grown in Mycori-Mix had a greater number of visible inflorescences at harvest than the other two media.