Height Management of Ornamentals

Spray vs. sprench vs. drench

Published on July 18, 2010
This article discusses three application methods for plant growth regulators: foliar spray, substrate drench, and sprench, which is a hybrid between a spray and a drench. Here are some guidelines to help you determine which method is most appropriate.
Do it yourself (conduct your own trials)

Published on May 18, 2010
Many articles often recommend that growers perform their own smal-scale tests for the specified procedures. Here are a few tips for conducting your own experiments.
Maximizing PGR spray applications

Published on April 18, 2010
Despite the availability of many different plant growth regulators, their spraying methods are generally similar. How can you get the most out of each application?
Height control for vegetable transplants

Published on February 18, 2010
A supplemental labeling of Sumagic for use on vegetable transplants in the U.S. has made height control less complicated. There are a few other methods that may be helpful, too.
Going beyond the surface

Published on September 18, 2009
In some cases, adding a surfactant to a plant growth regulator solution can improve the product’s efficacy and increase uptake. How can you know when to use these products?
Controlling height with temperature drops

Published on April 17, 2009
Temperature drop is the practice of lowering the temperature, typically by 5-15 degrees F, before sunrise. Generally, the greater the magnitude of the temperature drop, the stronger it suppresses plant height.
Brushing plants for height control

Published on February 18, 2009
“Brushing” plants is proving to be a promising, albeit unconventional, height control technique. When touched or moved, plants release ethylene, which can inhibit elongation.
The ABCs of PGRs

Published on November 18, 2008
There are now a large number of plant growth regulators registered for use on ornamental plants. This article discusses the various active ingredients and the product names for each.
Getting results with liner dip

Published on November 18, 2008
In this article, we provide four keys to successful use of using plant growth regulators as liner (or plug) dips.
Comparing PGRs

Published on October 18, 2008
Plant growth retardants (PGRs) are often used by commercial growers to produce a more compact, higher quality ornamental plant. This article compares the efficacy of different products with the same active ingredient.
Improving branching and postharvest quality

Published on August 18, 2008
When used properly, benzyladenine (BA) sprays have commercial potential, and can increase the number of tertiary shoots in poinsettia and delay lower-leaf yellowing (chlorosis).
PGRs on perennials

Published on June 18, 2008
Learn how to choose the right plant growth regulator (PGR) and application method for commercial production of herbaceous perennial crops.