Five areas of research are the focus of work in Dr. Jim Metzger's laboratory: 1. Increase longevity of cut flowers by genetically engineering ethylene resistant crops; such crops would not require any chemical such as STS. 2. Evaluate the potential of native wild flowers as new pot and cut flower crops. 3. Investigate new, non-chemical methods of growth regulation. One of these methods that shows promise is the removal of the end of the day far red stretch signal by covering crops with black shade cloth for 30 minutes before and after sunset. Another method under investigation involves genetically engineering plants to be less sensitive to stretch signals. 4. Develop a more efficient production system for Osteospermum. Specific areas of research include maximizing and synchronizing flower production, growth regulation, and pest control. 5. Further examination of the vernalization requirements of Easter lilies. Preliminary results indicate that bulbs can be vernalized equally as well and with no loss in quality at 50°F as 40°F, the standard temperature used by growers.
If these results are verified, growers will have an opportunity to significantly reduce energy costs. Finally, Dr. Metzger is collaborating with Dr. Miller McDonald to establish an Ornamental Plant Germplasm Center at Ohio State University.
