Volcanic tuff substrate improves growth and flower quality of Asiatic lily
2020
Al-Ajlouni, M. G. | Othman, Y. A.
Cut flower farmers use different substrates for lily production. They are always querying about which growing substrate can improve flower quality of lilies. The aim of this research was to assess the effect of different growing substrates (soil and soilless) on leaf physiology and flower quality of Asiatic lily (Lilium ×elegans Thunb.) 'Ercolano' and 'Fangio'. Growing substrates were clay soil, clay soil + volcanic tuff (1:1 v/v), clay soil + sandy soil (1:1 v/v), clay soil + sandy soil + volcanic tuff (1:1:1 v/v/v), and volcanic tuff (0-4 mm). The experiment was carried out in greenhouse conditions. Lily bulbs were planted in 12-L plastic pot and fertigated once a week using a full strength Hoagland solution. Both cultivars had similar chlorophyll fluorescence and relative water content across substrates. Volcanic tuff leachate had the lowest electrical conductivity (EC) and pH level compared to other substrates. Interestingly, 'Fangio' lily grown in volcanic tuff substrate had higher plant height, shoot dry weight, leaf area, flower number per plant, and flower length when compared to other tested substrates. Overall, volcanic tuff substrate hold promises for improving lily flower yield and quality.
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