Introduction

In this module we will cover the basics of substrates (potting soil, media - what goes into the container) and how these elements relate to nutrient retention, fertility selection and irrigation practices. There will be specific learning activities in this module that will help you understand the concepts and provide information for the nutrient management plan development process.

Learner Objectives

By participation in the Substrates module, you will be exposed to and be able to do the following at the end of the session:

1. Understand the concept of a substrate and how it relates to the production of container nursery and greenhouse crops.
2. Identify the different organic and inorganic components that can make up a substrate and their characteristics.
3. Differentiate between the physical and chemical characteristics of substrates including porosity and cation and anion exchange capacity.
4. Recognize how component characteristics in a substrate can impact on water and nutrient retention.
5. Measure the physical and chemical characteristics of specific substrates and how they impact on nutrient retention and loss in your specific crop production situation.

References:

Fonteno, Dr. W.C., North CarolinaStateUniversity, Dept. of Horticulture - Personal Correspondence

Handreck, K. A. and N. D. Black. 1994. Growing Media for Ornamental Plants and Turf., Randwick, NSW, Australia: University of New South Wales Press.

Reed, D. W. (ed). 1996. Water, Media, and Nutrition for Greenhouse Crops. Batavia, Ill: Ball Publishing.

• Administrator: Patrick Beach
• Administrator: John Lea-Cox
• Administrator: Andrew Ristvey
• Administrator: David S. Ross
• Administrator: Cindy Zhao