Effect of runoff during production of sweet viburnum

Authors: MILLION, JEFF - University Of Florida; YEAGER, TOM - University Of Florida; Albano, Joseph

Submitted to: Southern Nursery Association Research Conference
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/6/2006
Publication Date: 9/1/2006
Citation: Million, J., Yeager, T., Albano, J.P. 2006. Effect of runoff during production of sweet viburnum. Southern Nursery Association Research Conference. 51:64-68.

Interpretive Summary: Plant spacing management plays a crucial role in optimizing production per unit area. It influences substrate temperature and light interception which greatly affect plant growth and quality. In turn, plant growth influences runoff (un-intercepted irrigation and rainfall) volume by affecting water demand through evapotranspiration and irrigation capture through canopy interception. Because temperature controls rates of nutrient release from controlled-release fertilizer (CRF), plant spacing management may indirectly affect nutrient quantities in runoff beyond that indicated by container density. The purpose of this research was to compare the effects of two plant spacing arrangements on the quantity and quality of runoff collected continuously during production of sweet viburnum [Viburnum odoratissimum (L.) Ker-Gawl.], an ornamental shrub with relatively high water and fertilizer requirements.

Technical Abstract: Results from this experiment showed that spacing containers at planting instead of later in the season increased leaching losses of N, P, and K on a per-container basis. Regardless of any effects on runoff, spacing plants early decreased plant growth and, therefore, would not be recommended. The findings validate the best management practice of placing newly-planted containers in a close arrangement to maximize efficient use of water, light, and applied nutrients.