• Energy-efficient annuals 3: Marigolds

    Published on May 22, 2009
    Researchers from Michigan State University present research-based information for scheduling marigold in an energy-efficient and predictive manner. Part 3 of a 12-part series.

  • Energy-efficient annuals 2: Scheduling bedding plants

    Published on April 22, 2009
    Greenhouse temperature influences plant development and energy consumption for heating. When producing a crop, delivery of low temperatures may actually be more energy intensive than warmer temperatures.

  • Energy-efficient annuals 1: Perfecting temps and light

    Published on March 29, 2009
    Learn the concepts of how temperature and daily light integral influence growth and flowering of annual bedding plant crops.

  • Overcoming New Guinea impatiens stall

    Published on February 29, 2008
    New Guinea impatiens can be significantly cooler than the air temperature when the greenhouse humidity is low and the glazing temperature is low.

  • Responses to temperature & light

    Published on January 29, 2008
    Longer growing time at cooler temperatures or shorter growing time with warmer temperatures? That question is addressed for annual bedding plants in this article.

  • Grouping crops can save you money

    Published on June 11, 2007
    By grouping crops according to certain variables, you can increase greenhouse production efficiency and reduce the number of problems encountered.

  • New directions for scheduling bedding plants

    Published on March 29, 2007
    Many factors affect flowering times. Researchers at the University of Minnesota and Michigan State University are developing ways growers can use those factors to flower their crops at specific times.

  • Manage temperatures for the best spring crops

    Published on January 17, 2007
    Given the high cost of greenhouse heating, many growers are lowering the temperature set points. While there are some advantages to lowering the thermostat, some negative consequences can arise.

  • Supplemental lighting on bedding plants -- Making it work for you

    Published on December 29, 2006
    This article discusses the benefits of both photoperiodic lighting (day length control) and photosynthetic lighting (increasing light quantity to increase plant growth) on bedding plant crops.

  • Sumagic on bedding plants

    Published on April 18, 2005
    Usage of this highly active plant growth regulator (active ingredient: uniconazole) on bedding plants is for the experienced commercial grower. Read how to use it, when it’s best used, and how much is recommended based on this MSU research.