Effects of controlled-release fertilizer application rates on frond color and biomass production of an arsenic hyperaccumulating fern
2004
Stamps, R.H. | Rock, D.K.
Arsenic is a carcinogenic and toxic contaminant of soils and groundwater around the world. The Chinese brake fern (Pteris vittata) has recently been shown to be an arsenic hyperaccumulator; however, little is known about its nutritional requirements. Mass production of this fern will be necessary to supply plants for bioremediation projects. Chinese brake fern was grown for a year in a greenhouse in Sphagnum-based soilless growing medium. Plants were fertilized with six rates (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 g/pot) of a 15N 4P 10K controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) applied every two months). Frond color, chlorophyll content, and dry mass were determined periodically. Greenness (L*, h°, SPAD) and biomass increased linearly with increasing CRF application rates. Frond dry biomass production was 2.4 times greater at the highest than at the lowest rate.
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