Controlled-Release Fertilizer Demonstration on Container Production of Ligustrum japonicum in West Central Florida

Woody ornamental container growers seek to reduce inputs during production to minimize costs and increase profit margins. The use of controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs) for crop production can reduce labor costs and minimize nutrient leaching while growing high-quality plants. Growers have many choices of CRFs in the marketplace. A demonstration was conducted in Central Florida at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center to compare the response of Ligustrum japonicum grown in number 3 nursery containers to six different fertilizer brand treatments. Fertilizer was dibbled below the liner at planting at a nitrogen rate of three pounds per cubic yard. The demonstration was a randomized complete-block design containing four blocks and six replications per block. Growth parameters, plant quality, and fertilizer costs were measured to support growers making CRF use decisions. Differences in growth were seen at eight months and continued to 12 months after planting. Quality was significantly different as measured by chlorophyll readings at 12 months. The results of this demonstration will inform growers for future fertilizer input decision making.