Commercial production of Christia subcordata moench by establishing cultural practices and by applying plant growth regulators

Abstract

Cultural guidelines for greenhouse production of Christia subcordata were established using two irradiance levels (low and high) and five (100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/L) nutrient levels. No significant difference found in height and number of branches between plants grown under low irradiance and those plants grown under high irradiance. Biweekly fertilization at a rate of 100 -2-1to 200 mg/L nitrogen between 400-600 mol ms produced optimal plant growth and healthy, marketable plants. Plant growth regulator (PGR) studies were conducted using four commercial chemicals: benzyladenine, chlormequat chloride, dikegulac-sodium, and ethephon. Ethephon was most effective for controlling growth and producing marketable plants. Ethephon-treated plants exhibited anatomical differences in leaf and stem tissue and cell diameter when compared with untreated plants.