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Abstract
Twenty species of ornamental trees were grown for 12-16 months in 50 cm diameter (“20 gallon”) containers. Six individuals of each species were irrigated with tap water from a public potable water supply and 6 with secondary treated sewage effluent from a wastewater treatment facility. Three individuals within each irrigation treatment received controlled-release fertilizer applications and 3 received no supplemental fertilization. The effluent irrigation significantly accelerated growth in 4 species: orchid tree (Bauhinia variegata L.), baldcypress (Taxodium distichum (L.) L. Rich), coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L.), and black iron wood (Krugiodendron ferreum [Vahl] Urban). The addition of supplemental fertilization accelerated growth in 7 species: orchid tree, ficus (Ficus benjamina L.), black olive (Bucida buceras L.), satin leaf (Chrysophyllum oliviforme L.), royal poinciana (Delonix regia [Bojer] Raf.), silver buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus Fors. ex DC.), and blolly (Pisonia discolor Spreng.). A significant interaction occurred between irrigation and fertilization in 3 species: orchid tree, red cedar (Juniperus silicicola [Small] L. H. Bailey), and lignum vitae (Guaicum sanctum L.). The remaining 8 species grew at rates that were not significantly influenced, one way or another, by either source of irrigation or supplemental fertilization.