Optimization of substrate and nutrient solution for organic cultivation of medicinal transplants in multicell flats

E. Herrera¹, N. Tremblay², B. Desroches³ and A. Gosselin¹

Abstract
Seedlings of angelica (Angelica archangelica L.), horehound (Marrubium vulgare L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) were grown in multicell flats, filled with peat-compost mixtures containing different levels of compost.

The plants, fertilized with nutrient solutions made of compost extracts diluted to selected electrical conductivities, increased in shoot and root dry weight and Contained higher mineral concentration when the percentage of compost in the media was increased.

The optimal combination of compost and electrical conductivity varied with species. Fertilization also increased yield and the levels of active ingredients in harvested parts of the plant grown in outdoor plots. High-quality transplants can be prepared in multicell trays with organic management.


Source
Journal of Herbs, Spices and Medicinal Plants (1997) 4: 69-82


Author Locations and Affiliations
(1) Department de phytologie, Centre de recherche en horticulture, Faculty fo Agriculture and Food, Laval University, Sainte-Foy, Que, Canada
(2) Horticultural R&D Center, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada, St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que, Canada
(3) Matol Botanical International Ltd, Div. Fabrication, Varennes, Que, Canada


Posted April 2010