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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #184730
Title: FINDING THE BALANCE: CALCINED CLAY RATE EFFECTS IN PINE BARK SUBSTRATES.

Author
item OWEN, JAMES - NCSU
item WARREN, STUART - NCSU
item BILDERBACK, TED - NCSU
item Albano, Joseph

Submitted to: HortScience
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/1/2004
Publication Date: 10/1/2004
Citation: Owen, J., Warren, S., Bilderback, T., Albano, J.P. 2004. Finding the balance: calcined clay rate effects in pine bark substrates.. Hortscience.v.49.p.73-76

Interpretive Summary: Amending pine bark substrates with calcined clays at 11% (by volume) increased plant growth of conteaster (measured as dry weight by 39%. When clay was used to amend pine bark at rates greater than 12% (by volume) plant growth decreased.

Technical Abstract: The addition of 710 um to 300 um (24/28 mesh) calcined (LVM) Georgia palygorksite-bentonite mineral at ~ 11% (by vol.) to pine bark increased "Stogholm" contoneaster dry weight 39% when compared to a pine bark substrate. When clay was used to amend pine bark at rates greater that 12% (by vol.) plant dry weight decreased. A clay amended substrate engineered to retain water and fertilizers while improving or not affecting growth, allows BMPs to become more attainable without costing infastructure changes. Thus, in turn, could reduce watershed impact and water use.