LANDSCAPE ROSE RESPONSE TO LOW MOISTURE LEVELS AND A HYDROPHILIC GEL

Containerized plants of five low-maintenance rose (Rosa hybrida L.) cultivars were irrigated at intervals which limited moisture availability for plant growth and development. The cultivars were grown both in a medium amended with a hydrophilic gel and in a control medium. Of the five cultivars, 'Pink Meidiland' had the highest leaf water potential (PSI-L) and lowest transpiration (E), while 'Ferdy' maintained the highest E. The smaller leaf surface area of 'Pink Meidiland' and larger root to shoot (R/S) ratio and lower leaf area ratio (LAR) of 'Ferdy' contributed to a more favorable water status despite limited moisture availability. When hydrophilic gel was utilized as a medium amendment, PSI-L was generally higher. Gel had little effect on plant biomass and tended to decrease tissue nutrient content.