(CRF), and water-soluble fertilizer (WSF). As model plants, we used four container-grown crops: lettuce, wormwood, yellow poppy, and feverfew. Materials and methods Plant growth conditions. In Mar. 2007, two to three lettuce or wormword seeds were
alternative to conventional dry granular fertilizers is the use of CRF to slow down the nutrient release process. With CRF, prills are surrounded by a semipermeable membrane activated by soil moisture and temperature. When the outer membrane is wetted, it
before the point of sale. For example, Oliveira et al. (2016) showed high rates of controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) incorporated into the substrate or applied as a top-dress to the substrate surface increased plant performance [number of flowers
flowering plants, foliage plants, and potted herbaceous perennials. Most plants grown in containers are provided water-soluble fertilizers or granular CRF. These fertilizers are typically synthetically derived, and sustainability of their use has been
loss of applied nutrients, nurseries use controlled-release fertilizer (CRF). CRFs consist of soluble fertilizer components coated with a semipermeable material that allows the soluble fertilizer components to release over an extended period. Assuming
( Morgan et al., 2016 ; Schumann et al., 2012 ; Spann and Schumann, 2009 ). Recently, the use of CRF for new citrus plantings grown under HLB-prevalent conditions has been shown to be promising in improving growth and productivity ( Vashisth and Grosser
use of CRF offers the potential to synchronize the pattern of nutrient release with crop demand, thereby optimizing nutrient use efficiency and increasing plant biomass, while reducing nutrient losses in the environment, especially in irrigated sandy
. low proportions of compost or organic matter ( Moran, 2004 ; Rowe et al., 2006 ), and from conventional vs. CRF applications ( Emilsson et al., 2007 ). Although commercial green roof substrates vary in their capacity to leach nutrients ( Van Seters et
Use of slow-release fertilizers or CRF is being recommended to the landscape service industry as a best management practice ( Florida Yards & Neighborhoods, 2006 ; Louisiana Yards & Neighborhoods, 2007 ). Benefits of using CRF include improved
Aug. 2006 by topdressing urea formaldehyde (16-UF, 32-UF) on the surface of the growing substrate or on 5 May 2006 by topdressing a controlled-release fertilizer [16-CRF, 32-CRF (Osmocote Classic© 18-6-12; Scotts Horticulture, Marysville, OH)] at