OSU FLORICULTURE RESEARCH UPDATE

Dr. Claudio Pasian's research program includes three areas of development:

• A new method of applying systemic pesticides and growth regulators. Promising results have been obtained by "painting" the insides of pots and plug trays with paint infused with chemicals. The advantage of this method is that it may reduce reentry times (REI) and minimize leaching of chemical. Dr. Pasian is working with Drs. Lindquist (Entomology), Metzger (Hort. And Crop Sci.), Nameth (Plant Path.), and Struve (Hort. and Crop Sci.) on this project.

• Simple mathematical models (thermal units) as a tool for crop timing. The advent of electronic environmental control equipment has made possible the use of greenhouse environment control equipment to precisely time crops to be harvested/sold at a precise date. Presently, Dr. Pasian is working with Mr. Juergen Steininger (graduate student) in the development of this model for Asiatic lilies and mini-roses.

• Systems for growing specialty cut flowers in containers (flats). This method will allow interested growers to incorporate specialty cuts into the annual crop rotation cycle, thereby reducing the time that greenhouse space is idle and nonproductive. Ms. Kerry Jacquemin (graduate student), is studying the effect of flat depth on growth and development (quality) of snapdragons as compared to the same crop grown in soil beds. Part of the work of this project is conducted at the premises of a greenhouse grower.

Phone Dr. Pasian at 614-292-9941 for more information on these programs.