2018 Nutritional Monitoring Book

Fert, Dirt, & Squirt:
Monitoring pH & EC of Greenhouse Crops

E-GRO DIAGNOSTIC SERIES: NUMBER 12
Cl Zn
Mg
N Mo
CaCO3
B Al
Mn Edited by
W. Garrett Owen
Na
S
Fert, Dirt, & Squirt:
Monitoring pH & EC of Greenhouse Crops
E-GRO DIAGNOSTIC SERIES: NUMBER 12
W. Garrett Owen, Editor
Project Sponsor
A Publication of the
E-GRO DIAGNOSTIC SERIES
© 2018 W. Garrett Owen, Josh Henry and Brian Whipker
Fert, Dirt, and SquirtTM is trademarked
Notice of Rights:
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher and authors.
Copyright also explicitly pertains to all photographs.
Notice of Liability:
The information in this book is distributed on an “As is” basis, without warranty.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher
and authors assume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages, both
direct and indirect, resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
The use of trade names does not endorse a particular product. Readers take all
liability for reading and following the label of any control measures.
Front and back cover images by W. Garrett Owen.
Project sponsored by
For more information and other publications, please visit:
www.fertdirtandsquirt.com
Table of Contents
Preface............................................ v
Acknowledgements.............................. vi
Primary Authors.................................. vii
Contributing Authors............................ viii
Part 1. Crop Factsheets

Basil.......................................... 1
Calceolaria.................................. 5
Calibrachoa.................................. 10
Celosia....................................... 14
Chrysanthemum, garden.................. 18
Cineraria..................................... 24
Dahlia, cutting.............................. 29
Eggplant, transplants...................... 32
Geranium.................................... 35
Gerbera...................................... 38
Hydrangea, blue sepals.................... 41
Hydrangea, pink/white sepals........... 44
Lettuce....................................... 47
Marguerite daisy............................ 51
Marigold...................................... 56
New Guinea impatiens..................... 59
Ornamental cabbage and kale............ 63
Pansy.......................................... 68
Pepper, transplants........................ 74
Contents
Petunia...................................... 78
Primula...................................... 81
Tomato, transplants....................... 85
Zinnia....................................... 89
Part 2. Nutritional Monitoring Resources

pH and EC Monitoring..................... 93
Monitoring Tool Kit........................ 98
Corrective Procedures.................... 100
Conversions................................ 104
Preface
In spring of 2018, a collaborative group of Extension specialists from Michigan State
and North Carolina State Universities established a nutritional monitoring of
floriculture crops portal, fertdirtandsquirt.com, which is a subset of e-GRO (Electronic
Grower Resources Online), a collaborative effort of floriculture specialists from
universities around the United States. This effort was established based upon the
thousands of cultural production documents that vary in accuracy or relevancy and the
knowledge gap and need among growers. Therefore, an all-in-one nutritional
monitoring of floriculture crops portal was created. The free online portal available
through e-GRO provides growers of ornamental, leafy greens, and/or edible crops
pictorial nutritional factsheets, methods of in-house nutritional monitoring, corrective
procedures for high or low substrate pH and electrical conductivity (EC) nutritional
disorders, educational videos, and access to a searchable nutritional monitoring
database. Overall, this endeavor is to educate and enable growers to be proactive
with in-house nutritional monitoring.
Book Structure
This book is a compendium of nutritional monitoring factsheets covering popular seed
and vegetatively propagated annual bedding plants, potted plants, and edible and
vegetable transplants. This book is organized into two sections. Part 1 consists of
twenty-three chapters of crop-specific nutritional monitoring factsheets describing
high and low substrate pH and EC nutritional disorder symptomology and photographs.
Part 2 consists of nutritional monitoring resources such as procedures of in-housing
nutritional monitoring, establishing a nutritional monitoring tool kit, corrective
procedures, and conversion of measurements.
Future
For additional in-house nutritional monitoring crop-specific factsheets and educational
materials, please contact an author or visit: www.fertdirtandsquirt.com
Project Sponsor
Acknowledgments
The primary and contributing authors thank the American Floral Endowment for grant
support. We would like to thank Bogie Lake Greenhouses, MI and Fairview Garden
Center, NC for video filming and plant material, respectively. In addition, we would
like to thank Hanna® Instruments for donation of pH and EC meters for educational
incentives.
We present this collection of in-house nutritional monitoring information and

photographs as a resource for researchers, Extension specialists, industry
professionals, growers, and students. Overall, we hope this book provides you with a
proactive approach to in-house nutritional monitoring thereby producing healthy, high-
quality crops. We are extremely proud of this effort and appreciative of funding and
in-kind gift support; without, this endeavor would not be possible.
Project Sponsor
Primary Authors
W. Garrett Owen is the Eastern Michigan Floriculture and
Controlled-environment horticulture Outreach Specialist with
Michigan State University. He has an appointment split between
Outreach and research. His areas of research interest include
propagation and production, nutrition, growth regulation, cold
hardiness, and production problem diagnostics.
Josh Henry s a dual major Ph.D. student in the Department of

Horticulture and the Department of Crop and Soil Science at North
Carolina State University. He is specializing in plant nutrition and
nutrient disorders.
Brian E. Whipker is a Professor of floriculture at North Carolina

State University. He has an appointment split between extension
and research, but also teaches the graduate level plant nutrition
course at NC State. His specialization is plant nutrition, plant
growth regulators, and problem diagnostics. He brings over 25
year of experience in diagnosing grower plant problems.
Contributing Authors
Paul Cockson has been involved in research inducing nutrient
disorders in goji, tobacco, and carinata. He has greenhouse
growing experience, training as a Master Gardener in Nebraska,
and is currently enrolled as an undergraduate student in
Agroecology program, with a Horticulture minor, at North Carolina
State University. His career interests are focused on plant
nutrition and edible plants.
Christopher Currey is an Assistant Professor of Horticulture at

Iowa State University specializing in greenhouse and controlled-
environment crop production. His research focuses on alternative
greenhouse cropping systems, including hydroponic culinary herb
production, alternative mineral nutrition and fertilization
strategies, and new uses for plant growth regulators. Chris also
teaches and has an extension program providing support for
greenhouse growers in the Upper Midwest.
Part 1.
Crop Factsheets
2018
Nutritional Monitoring Series

Basil
(Ocimum basilicum)
Basil requires low levels of fertilization, growing best with 100 to
150 ppm N for containerized crops or 0.5 to 1.5 mS/cm for
hydroponic nutrient solutions. Plants prefer a pH within the range
of 5.8 to 6.2 for both soilless substrates and hydroponic solutions. Project Sponsor
This range prevents low substrate pH-induced iron (Fe) and
manganese toxicities and Fe deficiency.
Basil
Target Nutrition Parameters
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
(substrate & hydroponic)
Fertility Category: Low
100 to 150 ppm N (substrate)
0.5 to 1.5 mS/cm (hydroponic)
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in a
substrate with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2.
Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
PourThru:
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
3Iowa State University
ccurrey@iastate.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Basil
© W. Garrett Owen
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 2. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in substrates with a Figure 3. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in substrates with a
pH below 5.8 will become weak, easily topple. pH below 5.8 will exhibit brown to black spotting along the leaf
Photo by: W. Garrett Owen. margin progressing into the leaf as a result of iron (Fe) and/or
manganese (Mn) toxicity. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Fertility Management of Basil

Basil should be grown with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2 (Fig. 1). Use recommended 1:2
Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods to determine and monitor substrate pH and
soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] values. Additionally, conduct
routine foliar analysis tests to monitor crop nutrient status. Tissue nutrient levels found
in healthy, newly expanded leaves of basil are listed in Table 1. Monitoring substrate pH
and nutrient status will enable growers to avoid pH induced nutritional disorders.
Substrate pH below 5.8 causes plants to become weak, easily toppled (Fig. 2), and
increase uptake of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) to toxic levels which will accumulate in
leaf tissue. Plants exhibiting Fe and/or Mn toxicity will exhibit lower leaf chlorosis and
brown to black spotting along the leaf margin progressing into the leaf (Fig. 3), and
marginal necrosis (death; Fig. 4). Corrective procedures for low substrate pH should
begin within the range of 5.5 to 5.7.
High substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit Fe uptake causing newly developed leaves to
become Fe deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (Figs 2 and 5). Corrective
procedures for high substrate pH should begin within the range of 6.2 to 6.4.
Basil plants are considered to require low levels of fertility. Plants underfertilized will
exhibit chlorosis and become stunted while overfertilization will result in excessive
growth (Fig. 6 and 7). Overfertilization with ammoniacal (NH4-N) –based fertilizers will
cause excessive vegetative growth, leaf expansion, thereby reducing oil content by 28%
(Adler et al., 1989) and thus, reducing flavor (Davis, 1992).
For direct-sown basil seeds, begin a

fertilization program as soon as the first
true leaves develop which typically begins
10 to 14 days under optimal greenhouse
conditions. Provide young plants with 100
to 150 ppm N delivered from 20-10-20 and
© W. Garrett Owen
alternating with 14-0-14 or another
calcium nitrate [Ca(NO3)2] or potassium
nitrate (KNO3) –based fertilizer at every
second or third irrigation (Nau, 2011).
Maintain substrate EC below 0.6, 1.3, or Figure 4. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in a substrate with a
2.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2 Extraction, pH below 5.8 will exhibit brown to black spotting along the leaf
margin and marginal necrosis (death) as a result of iron (Fe)
SME, or PourThru methods, respectively. and/or manganese (Mn) toxicity. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
In hydroponic systems, basil can be grown

with a wide range of nutrient solution ECs.
As long as the EC is consistently
maintained, 0.5 to 1.5 mS/cm will
produce healthy plants with sufficient
tissue nutrient concentrations. Increasing
© W. Garrett Owen
the EC of hydroponic nutrient solutions
does not increase production of fresh
mass.
Basil does have a higher requirement for

Figure 5. High substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit iron (Fe)
magnesium (Mg). If water sources and/or uptake causing newly developed basil (Ocimum basilicum)
fertilizers or nutrient solutions contain leaves to become deficient in Fe and exhibit interveinal
chlorosis Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
insufficient Mg, supplemental Mg should
be provided with Epsom salts (MgSO4). For
fertilizing container-grown plants, a
corrective drench of 2 lb per 100 gallons
can be applied or 1 lb per 100 gallons can
be applied to prevent Mg deficiency.
Summary
Providing basil with low levels of fertility
ranging from 100 to 150 ppm N or
hydroponic nutrient solution EC 0.5 to 1.5
mS/cm and maintaining a pH of 5.8 to 6.2 © W. Garrett Owen
Figure 6. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) grown in substrates with a
will prevent most nutritional disorders pH of 5.8 and provided with little to no soluble salts [referred
from occurring. to as electrical conductivity (EC)] will exhibit chlorosis and
become stunted (left) while overfertilization or high EC will
result in excessive growth. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Literature Cited Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient sufficiency

Alder, P.R., Simon, J.E. and Wilcox, G.E. range recommended for basil (Ocimum
1989. Nitrogen form alters sweet basil basilicum).
growth and essential oil content and Sufficiency
Element
composition. HortScience 24:789–790. Range 1
Nitrogen (N) 4.00 – 6.00
Bryson, G.M., H.A. Mills, D.N. Sasseville, Phosphorus (P) 0.62 – 1.00
Potassium (K) 1.55 – 2.05
J.B. Jones, Jr., and A.V. Barker. 2014. Calcium (Ca)
(%)
1.25 – 2.00
Plant analysis handbook III. Micro-Macro Magnesium (Mg) 0.60 – 1.00
Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA. Sulfur (S) 0.20 – 0.60
Iron (Fe) 75 – 200
Davis, J. 1992. Basil production guide. Manganese (Mn) 30 – 150
North Carolina Cooperative Extension Zinc (Zn) 30 – 70
(ppm)
Copper (Cu) 5 – 10
Service.
Boron (B) 25 – 60
Molybdenum (Mo) 0.10 – 0.50
Gibson, J., D. Pitchay, A. Williams-Rhodes, 1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014) for basil grown in
B. Whipker, P. Nelson, and J. Dole. 2007. production fields. These values represent
Nutrient deficiencies in bedding plants. matured leaves from new growth.
Ball Publishing, Batavia, IL.
Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook, 18th ed. Ball

Publishing, W. Chicago, IL.
© Nick Flax
Figure 7. Comparison of basil (Ocimum basilicum) plants grown

in substrates with a pH of 5.8 and fertilized with 0, 2.5, 5, 10,
or 20 nitrogen (N) lbs/yd3 provided by a slow release fertilizer
or 0, 50, 100, 200, 400 ppm N provided by a water soluble
fertilizer. Photo by: Nick Flax.
W. Garrett Owen1 Josh Henry2 Brian E. Whipker2
2018

Calceolaria
(Calceolaria ×herbeohybrida)
Calceolaria can be propagated from seed or vegetative stem-tip
cuttings. During production, calceolaria require low fertility of 100
to 150 ppm N. They prefer a pH within the range of 5.5 to 6.2.
Substrate pH values above 6.2 can inhibit iron availability and Project Sponsor
induce interveinal chlorosis or yellowing of the upper foliage.
Calceolaria
pH Category II, III:
5.5 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1. A common challenge during calceolaria PourThru:
(Calceolaria ×herbeohybrida) production is chlorosis
(yellowing) and marginal and tip necrosis (death).
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Calceolaria
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 2. Calceolaria (Calceolaria ×herbeohybrida) should be grown with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.2. Low or high substrate pH will induce
nutrient deficiencies. Substrate pH values presented here were determined using the PourThru procedure. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Fertility Management of Calceolaria

A common challenge during calceolaria production is upper leaf chlorosis (yellowing; Fig.
1A) and marginal and tip necrosis (death; Fig. 1B). Upper leaf chlorosis may develop due
to low growing temperatures, high or low substrate pH, overfertilization or high soluble
salts soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)], poor root system
development, poor substrate drainage or aeration, over irrigating, or root rot (Heins et
al., 1991).
Calceolaria should be grown with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.2 (Fig. 2). Tissue nutrient levels
found in healthy, newly expanded leaves and critical tissue values of calceolaria are
listed in Table 1. This range will enable growers to avoid high and low pH nutritional
disorders.
Substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe) uptake, causing newly developed and
recently matured leaves to become Fe-deficient and exhibit marginal (Fig. 3) and
interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 4). If plants become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal chlorosis
intensifies (Fig. 5) and become bleached (white; Fig. 6). Corrective procedures for high
substrate pH should begin within the range of 6.2 to 6.4. Maintaining substrate pH below
6.2 will reduce the likelihood of Fe-deficiency from occurring; however, applications of
chelated micronutrients, such as Fe and manganese (Mn), may be used to correct these
deficiency symptoms (Weiler, 1976; Heins et al., 1991).
Substrate pH below 5.5 will inhibit magnesium (Mg) uptake causing lower or older leaves
to become Mg-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis. Corrective procedures for low
substrate pH should begin within the range of 5.4 to 5.5. Monthly applications of
supplemental Mg in the form of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4; Epsom salts) at a rate of 8
oz./100 gallons of water in areas with

naturally occurring Mg in the water supply
or 16 oz./100 gallons of water in areas
lacking Mg in the irrigation water
(Whipker, personal communications) may
be required if plants exhibit interveinal
chlorosis of lower or older leaves. In
addition, apply one-half of the labeled
rate of a micronutrient supplement once a
month to ensure adequate micronutrient
levels in the substrate (Erwin, 1994). Figure 3. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe)
uptake causing newly developed and recently matured leaves to
become Fe-deficient and exhibit marginal chlorosis (yellowing).
Calceolaria are highly sensitive to Photos by: W. Garrett Owen.
excessive EC levels and are considered to
require low fertility. Calceolaria should be
fertilized with 100 to 150 ppm N provided
from a well-balanced calcium nitrate
[Ca(NO3)2] -based fertilizer. If a
controlled-release fertilizer is
incorporated into the substrate, one may
© W. Garrett Owen
provide 200 ppm N provided fertilizer at
every third watering or 100 ppm N at
every other watering (Aimone, 1986).
Substrate EC should remain below 0.6,

Figure 4. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe)
1.3, or 2.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2 uptake causing newly developed and recently matured leaves to
Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods, become Fe-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis
(yellowing). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
respectively. To avoid high EC, it is
recommended to keep the fertilization
rate low (100 to 150 ppm N). If levels
begin to increase, switch to clear water
irrigations to avoid a build up of fertilizer
salts in the substrate. If EC levels become
excessive, then leach the substrate with
© W. Garrett Owen
clear irrigation water twice before

providing fertility. It is best to monitor the
crop to avoid excessive EC levels than to
waste fertilizer by having to leach it out
of the pots.
uptake and if plants become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal
During winter months when plants are chlorosis (yellowing) intensifies and plants become stunted.
grown under cooler temperatures,
fertilize with nitrate based fertilizers such Erwin, J. 1994. Calceolaria production.
as Ca(NO3)2. Avoid fertilizers providing Minnesota Commercial Flower Growers
ammonium (NH4-N) such as 20-10-20 or Assoc. Bulletin 43(5):1–6.
20-20-20. Calceolarias are sensitive to
high levels of ammonium and limiting Hammer, P.A. 1997. Calceolaria, p. 40–42.
ammonium sources of fertilizer will limit In: M.L. Gaston, S.A. Carver, C.A. Irwin,
the possibility of ammonium toxicity due and R.A. Larson (eds.). Tips on growing
to a lack of nitrifying bacteria activity specialty potted crops. Ohio Florist
especially when plants are grown at cool Association, Columbus, OH.
temperatures (Currey, 2017; Hammer,
1997). Ammoniacal-based fertilizers will Heins, R.D., M.G. Karlsson, and W.C.
cause excessive vegetative growth and Carlson. 1991. Calceolaria, in ‘Production
leaf expansion. Increasing growing of Flowering Potted Plants’. Michigan
temperatures will lower the probability of State University.
ammonium toxicity from occurring (White,
1975). Owen, W.G. Influence of dolomitic and
hydrated limestone on substrate pH and
According to Weiler (1976), Table 2 and 3 iron deficiency in calceolaria (Calceolaria
provide nutrient values that should be ×herbeohybrida). ASHS 2018 (abstr.).
maintained in the substrate and nutrient
solution, respectively, during calceolaria Weiler, T. 1976. Calceolaria in Sweden, p.
production. 1-8. In: P.A. Hammer (ed). Focus on
floriculture. Purdue University, West
Therefore, it is important to provide Lafayette, IN.
calceolaria with low (100 to 150 ppm N)
fertility during crop production and to White, J.W. 1975. Calceolaria, a year-
limit ammoniacal-based fertilizers. round crop. Pennsylvania Flower Growers
Bulletin 383(1):6–9.
Summary
Providing calceolarias with low fertility
ranging 100 to 150 ppm N and maintaining
a substrate pH of 5.5 to 6.2 will prevent
most nutritional disorders.
Literature Cited
Owen
GarrettOwen
Aimone, T. 1986. Culture notes:

Calceolaria. Grower Talks 50(4):18–20.
W.Garrett
©©W.
Currey, C.J. 2017. Cool calceolaria.

Greenhouse Management. 2 March 2018.
http://magazine.greenhousemag.com/arti uptake and if plants become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal
cle/july-2017/cool-calceolaria.aspx chlorosis (yellowing) intensifies and plants become bleached
(white). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for Calceolaria (Calceolaria ×herbeohybrida

‘Orange’) grown with low (pH 4.8) and high (pH 7.2) substrate pH and reference foliar
nutrient concentrations for plants grown within the recommended substrate pH range
and a level of 100 ppm N.
Low pH High pH Reference
Element
Calceolaria 1 Calceolaria 1 Calceolaria 1
Nitrogen (N) 4.2 4.6 4.2
Phosphorus (P) 0.4 0.4 0.4
Potassium (K) 2.1 1.7 1.8
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 0.8 1.1 0.8
Magnesium (Mg) 0.4 0.6 0.5
Sulfur (S) 0.4 0.6 0.5
Iron (Fe) 68.4 88.8 72.1
Manganese (Mn) 64.2 83.6 73.3
Zinc (Zn) 54.2 62.6 59.4
Copper (Cu) (ppm) 5.8 11.1 9.3
Boron (B) 37.6 30.5 36.5
Aluminum (Al) 8.5 3.4 8.2
Sodium (Na) 0.06 0.04 0.05
1 Source: Owen (2018)
Table 2. Target nutrient values for substrate1.

Nutrient Range (ppm)
Nitrogen (N) 80 – 100
Nitrate (NO3) 22 – 28
Phosphorus (P) 60 – 80
Phosphorous oxide (P2O5) 13 – 22
Potassium (K) 150 – 200
Potassium oxide (K2O) 62 – 83
Magnesium (Mg) 100 – 120
Calcium (Ca) 90 – 100
1 Weiler (1976)
Table 3. Target nutrient values for nutrient

solution1.
Nutrient Range (ppm)
Nitrogen (N) 80 – 100
Nitrate (NO3) 22 – 28
Phosphorus (P) 20 – 25
Phosphorous oxide (P2O5) 4–5
Potassium (K) 100 – 130
Potassium oxide (K2O) 41 – 54
Magnesium (Mg) 20 – 25
Calcium (Ca) 100 – 150
1 Weiler (1976)
Brian E. Whipker1 Josh Henry1 W. Garrett Owen2
2018

Calibrachoa
(Calibrachoa x hybrida)
Calibrachoa require a medium to high fertility level. Fertilizer
concentrations of 150 to 250 ppm N during active growth should be
applied in the South, while slightly lower levels of 150 to 200 ppm
Project Sponsor
can be used in the North. Calibrachoa prefer a pH within the range
of 5.5 to 5.8.
Calibrachoa
pH Category II:
5.5 to 5.8
Fertility Category:
Medium
150 to 200 ppm N
EC Category B:
1:2 Extraction:
© Brian E. Whipker
0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm

SME:
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. Providing insufficient fertility (low EC) during PourThru:
production of calibrachoa (Calibrachoa x hybrida) and
petunia can result lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing).
2.0 to 3.0 mS/cm
Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
1NC State University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Calibrachoa
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. Excessive EC along with drought conditions can result Figure 3. Substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit Fe uptake causing
in the leaves of calibrachoa (Calibrachoa x hybrida) developing newly developed leaves to become deficient in Fe and exhibit
leaf scorch. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
This range prevents low substrate pH induced iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) toxicities
that may occur if the pH drifts lower than 5.2 to 5.5. Substrate pH values above 6.2
inhibit Fe availability and result in the upper foliage developing interveinal yellowing
(chlorosis). Elevated substrate pH induced interveinal chlorosis is the primary
nutritional problem associated with calibrachoa.
Fertility Management of Calibrachoa

To sustain vigorous growth, calibrachoa have a higher requirement for fertilization than
most spring annuals. To jump start the plants, provide 150 to 200 ppm N early on when
the cuttings are transplanted and levels should be increased to 150 to 250 ppm N once
the cuttings are established (Schoellhorn, 2013). Many growers find it beneficial to add a
small dose of slow release fertilizer to the pot to supplement the fertility. For smaller
growers with multiple species within a house, using slow release fertilizer allows a lower
level of 150 to 200 ppm N to be provided to the remainder of the house. This lower rate
is more suited for production of other annual bedding plants grown in the greenhouse.
Substrate soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] levels should be

targeted between 0.6 to 0.9, 1.3 to 2.0, or 2.0 to 3.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2
Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods, respectively. Gibson et al. (2007) reported
stunted growth and pale coloration when EC values were inadequate (Fig. 1). Increasing
the fertilization rate or frequency will correct this situation. Calibrachoa have an
elevated tolerance for high EC. High EC in combination with drying down the plant can
result in leaf scorch (necrosis or death; Fig 2).
Calibrachoa should be grown with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2. Higher substrate pH levels
above 6.2 can inhibit iron (Fe) uptake causing newly developed leaves to become
deficient in Fe and exhibit interveinal

yellowing (chlorosis; Fig. 3). If plants
become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal
chlorosis intensifies and leaves become
white or bleached (Fig. 4). Corrective
procedures for high substrate pH should
© Brian E. Whipker
begin above pH 6.2.
Substrate pH below 5.8 can result in

increased uptake of iron (Fe) and
manganese (Mn) to toxic levels which will Figure 4. As a result of high substrate pH, severely Fe-deficient
accumulate in leaf tissue (Table 1). Plants calibrachoa (Calibrachoa x hybrida) exhibit intensified
interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) where recently matured leaves
exhibiting Fe and/or Mn toxicity will become white and mature leaves are affected. Photo by: Brian
exhibit lower leaf chlorosis and black E. Whipker.
spotting (Fig. 5). Corrective procedures
for low substrate pH should begin within
the range of 5.0 to 5.5. Tissue nutrient
levels found in healthy, newly expanded
leaves are listed in Table 1.
© Brian E. Whipker
Summary
Providing calibrachoa with moderate to
high levels of fertility ranging from 150–
250 ppm N and maintaining a substrate pH
of 5.5 to 5.8 will prevent most nutritional
Figure 5. Lower leaves of a petunia exhibiting chlorosis
disorders from occurring. (yellowing) and bronze spotting of the leaf margin due to a low
substrate pH of 4.5. Bronzing is not as common with
calibrachoa (Calibrachoa x hybrida). Photo by: Brian E.
Literature Cited Whipker.
Gibson, J.L., D.S. Pitchay, A.L. Williams-
Rhodes, B.E. Whipker, P.V. Nelson, and
J.M. Dole. 2007. Nutrient Deficiencies in
bedding plants. Ball Publishing,
W. Chicago, IL.
Krug, B. and C. Smith. 2013.

Troubleshooting calibrachoa. e-GRO 2-19.
Schoellhorn, R. 2013. Growing calibrachoa

successfully. Greenhouse Grower.
http://www.greenhousegrower.com/variet
ies/growing-calibrachoa-successfully/
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for calibrachoa (Calibrachoa × hybrida) for plants
grown with the recommended level of fertility.
Nutritionally Induced
Element Sufficiency Range 1
Calibrachoa1
Nitrogen (N) 5.05 – 5.06 1.65
Phosphorus (P) 0.36 – 0.42 0.16
Potassium (K) 2.95 – 4.22 1.70
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 1.48 – 1.84 0.37
Magnesium (Mg) 0.28 – 0.39 0.11
Sulfur (S) 0.44 – 0.61 0.15
Iron (Fe) 68.0 – 110.4 77.5
Manganese (Mn) 70.4 – 107.7 34.9
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 27.4 – 43.9 16.0
Copper (Cu) 9.4 – 9.9 2.6
Boron (B) 32.0 – 37.4 6.4
1 Source: Gibson et al. (2007).
Josh Henry1 Brian E. Whipker1 W. Garrett Owen2
2018

Celosia
(Celosia argentea)
Celosia, also referred to as plumed celosia or plume cockscomb,
have a low to medium fertilizer requirement of 100 to 200 ppm N.
Optimal substrate pH values range from 5.8 to 6.2. Celosia can
Project Sponsor
develop both low and high substrate pH disorders. High pH inhibits
Celosia
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low to Medium
100 to 200 ppm N
EC Category A,B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.4 to 0.9 mS/cm
© Brian Whipker
SME:
0.9 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical PourThru:
conductivity (EC)] result in marginal necrosis
(death) on the lower leaves of celosia (Celosia
0.9 to 3.0 mS/cm
argentea). Photo by: Brian Whipker.
1NorthCarolina State University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Celosia
© Brian Whipker
© Josh Henry
© Josh Henry
Figure 2. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity
conductivity (EC)] causes stunting, a pale green coloration, and (EC)] causes chlorosis (yellowing; left) of the lower leaves in
chlorosis (yellowing) of the lower leaves in celosia (Celosia celosia (Celosia argentea) which may also have a red coloration
argentea). Photo by: Josh Henry. (right). Photos by: Josh Henry (left) and Brian Whipker (right).
iron (Fe) uptake, leading to symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper
leaves. Low pH results in toxic accumulation of Fe and manganese in the lower leaves,
leading to black spotting.
Fertility Management of Celosia

Celosia require low to medium levels of fertility. Celosia are seed propagated and during
germination, the substrate should have low soluble salts [referred to as electrical
conductivity (EC)]. Begin fertilization using 50 to 75 ppm N after the cotyledons have
fully expanded. Use a low phosphorus (P) fertilizer such as 14-0-14 or 13-2-13 (Nau,
2011). After roughly one week, increase fertility to 100 to 150 ppm N. Use a low P
fertilizer such as 13-2-13 or alternate between a high P and zero P fertilizer such as 20-
10-20 and 14-0-14 (Nau, 2011).
Once transplanted, celosia should be fertilized with a low to medium level of fertility
between 100 to 200 ppm N. If fertilizing at the low end of this range, apply fertilizer at
every irrigation. If fertilizing at the high end of this range, alternate between 20-10-20
and 15-0-15, leaching excess salts with clear water at every other irrigation (Nau, 2011).
Celosia are particularly sensitive to high EC, which can cause necrosis (browning) on the
lower foliage (Fig.1). Prevent buildup of excess salts by leaching with clear water as
needed. Low substrate EC causes stunting and a pale green or chlorotic (yellow)
appearance that first develops on the lower foliage (Fig. 2). Some cultivars exhibit a
prominent red pigmentation in the leaves and stems that becomes more pronounced due
to low EC. This red coloration is also

reported to occur in response to N, P, and
magnesium (Mg) deficiencies (Gibson et
al., 2007). However, not all cultivars
express red pigmentation, especially those
with yellow flowers (Fig. 3).
© Josh Henry
Substrate pH should be maintained
between 5.8 and 6.2. Values below this
range result in iron (Fe) and manganese
Figure 4. Low substrate pH causes toxic iron (Fe) and
(Mn) to become highly available for manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of black splotches
uptake and can cause Fe and/or Mn on the lower leaves of celosia (Celosia argentea). Photo by:
Josh Henry.
toxicity. Symptoms of low pH induced Fe
and Mn toxicity appear as splotchy black
pattern on the lower leaves (Fig. 4),
primarily between the veins (Fig. 5). High
substrate pH initially causes plants to
develop a lighter green coloration
compared to plants grown under optimal
conditions, and plants may be larger with
© Josh Henry
a greater number of leaves (Fig. 6). High
pH will eventually result in symptoms of
interveinal chlorosis on the upper foliage
(Fig. 7). Figure 5. Low substrate pH results in toxic iron (Fe) and
manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of black splotches
on the lower leaves of celosia (Celosia argentea). Photo by:
Table 1 lists recommended nutrient ranges Josh Henry.
for celosia, along with critical nutrient

levels at which point deficiency symptoms
will be observed (Gibson et al., 2007).
These values can help in diagnosing
suspected nutrient disorders. Conduct
routine foliar analyses to ensure nutrients
are within the recommended ranges.
© Josh Henry
Summary
Maintaining medium fertility at 100 to 200
ppm N and a pH of 5.8 to 6.2 can help you Figure 6. High substrate pH results in lighter colored foliage and
greater vegetative growth in celosia (Celosia argentea). Photo
to produce healthy celosia without pH or by: Josh Henry.
soluble salt related nutrient disorders.
Literature Cited
J.M. Dole. 2007. Nutrient deficiencies in
bedding plants. Ball Pub., Batavia, IL. p.
79–90.
Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook volume 2: Crop
© Josh Henry
production. 18th ed. Ball Pub., West
Chicago, IL. p. 249–250.
Figure 7. High substrate pH results in interveinal chlorosis

(yellowing) on the upper leaves of celosia (Celosia argentea).
Photo by: Josh Henry.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue analysis for

celosia (Celosia argentea).
Sufficiency Critical Minimum
Element
Range 1 Level 1
Nitrogen (N) 5.19 – 5.72 3.71
Phosphorus (P) 0.31 – 0.69 0.09
Potassium (K) 4.53 – 9.54 4.81
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 2.45 – 2.79 0.64
Magnesium (Mg) 0.77 – 0.84 0.11
Sulfur (S) 0.19 – 0.75 0.17
Iron (Fe) 72.7 – 130.0 54.9
Manganese (Mn) 258.3 – 545.7 13.7
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 26.5 – 175.0 7.6
Copper (Cu) 8.1 – 18.0 1.8
Boron (B) 28.4 – 53.0 8.9
2018

Chrysanthemum, garden
(Chrysanthemum ×morifolium)
Chrysanthemums require medium to high fertility of 150 to 300 ppm
N. Optimal substrate pH values for chrysanthemums range from 5.8
to 6.2. Chrysanthemums are susceptible to high substrate pH and
soluble salts. Substrate pH above 6.5 inhibits iron availability and Project Sponsor
induce interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). High soluble salts result in
marginal leaf necrosis (death).
garden
Chrysanthemum,
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Medium to High
150 to 300 ppm N
EC Category B - C
(During Active Growth):
© W. Garrett Owen
1:2 Extraction:
0.6 to 1.5 mS/cm
SME:
Figure 1. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe)
1.3 to 3.3 mS/cm
uptake causing newly developed and recently matured
leaves of garden chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum PourThru:
×morifolium) to become Fe-deficient and exhibit marginal
chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
1.3 to 4.3 mS/cm
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Chrysanthemum, garden
© W. Garrett Owen
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 2. High substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit iron (Fe) Figure 3. Substrate pH below 5.8 will inhibit magnesium (Mg)
uptake and if garden chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum uptake causing lower or older leaves of garden chrysanthemum
×morifolium) become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal (Chrysanthemum ×morifolium) to become Mg-deficient and
chlorosis (yellowing) intensifies and plants become completely exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: W. Garrett
chlorotic or bleached (white). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen. Owen.
Fertility Management of Garden Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum should be grown with a substrate pH range of 5.8 to 6.2. Substrate pH
influences nutrient availability and uptake, therefore use recommended 1:2 Extraction,
SME, or PourThru methods to determine and monitor substrate pH and soluble salt
[referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] values. Additionally, conduct routine foliar
analysis tests to monitor crop nutrient status. Tissue nutrient levels found in healthy,
newly expanded leaves of garden chrysanthemums prior to bud set and after bud set are
listed in Table 1. Monitoring substrate pH and nutrient status will enable growers to
avoid pH induced nutritional disorders.
High substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit iron (Fe) uptake causing newly developed leaves
to become deficient in Fe and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing; Fig. 1). If plants
become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal chlorosis intensifies and leaves become
completely chlorotic or bleached (white; Fig. 2). Corrective procedures for high
substrate pH should begin within the range of 6.3 to 6.5.
In general garden chrysanthemums do not exhibit symptoms of accumulated Fe and/or

manganese (Mn) due to excessively low substrate pH. Based on grower observations the
primary sign that the substrate pH is too low (<5.0) is slow or stunted plant growth. This
may be difficult to detect if the entire planting is being grown in a low substrate pH mix.
Periodic pH and EC testing is required early in the crop to ensure the levels are within
the recommended parameters.
to become Mg-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 3). In severe cases, leaves
© W. Garrett Owen
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 4. Substrate pH below 5.8 will inhibit magnesium (Mg) Figure 5. Garden chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum
uptake causing lower or older leaves of garden chrysanthemum ×morifolium) observed with Ca deficiency will exhibit small,
(Chrysanthemum ×morifolium) to become Mg-deficient and in curled, and thickened leaves around the meristem. Photo by:
severe cases, leaves will exhibit reddish spots along leaf W. Garrett Owen.
margins and between the veins. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
will exhibit reddish spots along leaf margins and between the veins (Fig. 4) progressing
to upper leaves. Corrective procedures for low substrate pH should begin within the
range of 5.5 to 5.7. Monthly applications of supplemental Mg in the form of magnesium
sulfate (MgSO4; Epsom salts) at a rate of 8 oz./100 gallons of water in areas with
naturally occurring Mg in the water supply or 16 oz./100 gallons of water in areas lacking
Mg in the irrigation water (Whipker, personal communications) may be required if plants
exhibit interveinal chlorosis of lower or older leaves. With the prevalence of Mg
deficiency symptoms appearing on garden mums, it is likely a species that requires
supplemental applications of Mg.
Chrysanthemums are started from unrooted or rooted vegetative cuttings. For unrooted
cuttings, little to no fertility is required from stick until root initiation. One may choose
to begin a fertility program at cutting stick, but nutrient uptake is limited without roots
and often wasteful. However, Nau (2011) indicated fertility can be provided at 1, 5, and
10 days after sticking providing 300 ppm N from a complete fertilizer such as 20-10-20.
Once roots are visible, begin a water-soluble fertilizer (WSF) program providing 250 to
300 ppm N from 20-10-20 (Nau, 2011).
Once cuttings are rooted and toned or received from a commercial propagator, they can
be transplanted into containers and receive nutrition by either WSF, controlled release
fertilizers (CRF), or combination of WSF + CRF. In general, chrysanthemums are
considered to require medium to high fertility and can be modified throughout
production. Implementing a WSF program enables growers to reduce fertility. For
instance, Yates (2015) reported a production schedule with three fertility periods: high
(first 2 to 3 weeks of production), regular (until buds first crack color), and reduced
(first color to sale). Nau (2011) indicated

a WSF program during weeks 1 to 5
providing 250 to 300 ppm N from 20-10-20
at every irrigation; from weeks 6 to 9,
reduce to 150 to 200 ppm N provided by
15-0-15 at every irrigation; and at week
10 to sale, discontinue fertility and
provide clear irrigation. Whipker and
Cloyd (1998) recommended using 15-5-15
Cal-Mag or 20-10-20 (with supplemental
calcium (Ca), Mg, and micronutrients) or a
fertilizer providing 60 to 75% of the
nitrogen as nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N).
Chrysanthemums with Ca deficiency will
exhibit small, curled, and thickened
leaves around the meristem (Fig. 5;
Whipker and Cloyd, 1998). Furthermore,
Henry and Whipker (2017) observed
reproductive stage phosphorus (P)
deficiency of ‘Swifty Yellow’, ‘Little
© Josh Henry
Rock’, and ‘Crystal Misty Purple’ pot
chrysanthemums. Symptoms occur below
the flower buds and was observed as Figure 6. Symptom progression of reproductive stage
chlorosis, purpling, marginal necrosis, and phosphorus (P) deficiency in ‘Little Rock’ (Top), ‘Swifty Yellow’
(Middle), and ‘Crystal Misty Purple’ (Bottom) pot
olive-green spotting (Fig. 6). It is chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum ×morifolium). Photo by: Josh
recommended to supply ~5 to 10 ppm P Henry.
throughout the production cycle to avoid
reproductive stage P deficiency.
Controlled release fertilizers can be used

for chrysanthemum production and either
amended into substrates prior to or
topdressed after transplanting rooted
© Brian E. Whipker
cuttings. Controlled release fertilizers are

most commonly used for outdoor
chrysanthemum production and when
overhead irrigation is the primary
irrigation method. Yates (2015) reported Figure 7. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical
conductivity (EC)] causes wilting, marginal leaf necrosis (death)
12-4-11, 13-11-11, or 15-9-2 are suitable of garden chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum ×morifolium). The
CRFs to topdress chrysanthemums. plant closest to the drip emitter was affected due to high EC.
The EC of the substrate was 6.3 mS/cm determined by the
However, any use of CRF requires the use PourThru extraction method. Photo by: Brian Whipker.
of WSF in the initial 2 weeks post-
transplant (Yates, 2015). To achieve this, Summary

one may consider drip irrigation. A Providing chrysanthemum with a moderate
combination of both CRF and WSF to high level of fertility ranging from 150
delivered by drip irrigation provides to 300 ppm N and maintaining a substrate
growers with flexibility and adjustments pH of 5.8 to 6.2 will prevent most
can be made to the fertility program. nutritional disorders from occurring.
Regardless of fertility delivery method, Literature Cited

garden chrysanthemums are sensitive to Bryson, G.M., H.A. Mills, D.N. Sasseville,
high EC. Routinely check substrate EC and J.B. Jones, Jr., and A.V. Barker. 2014.
maintain below 1.5, 3.3, or 4.3 mS/cm, Plant analysis handbook III. Micro-Macro
based on the 1:2 Extraction, SME, or Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA.
PourThru methods, respectively. When
leaching is limited or crops are Henry, J. and B. Whipker. 2017.
overfertilized or irrigated with water Phosphorus deficiency on upper leaves.
containing high amounts of dissolved salts, GrowerTalks 81(5):60‒64.
excessive EC injury can occur. Symptoms
of high EC include marginal leaf necrosis Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook,18th ed. Ball
(death; Fig. 7) and root loss. This is often Publishing, W. Chicago, IL.
observed when chrysanthemums are
© W. Garrett wen
drought (water) stressed, when applying Whipker, B.E. and R.A. Cloyd. 1998. Guide
fertilizer to dry substrate (Yates, 2015), or to successful outdoor garden mum
when little leaching has occurred. If EC production. North Carolina Coop. Ext.
levels begin to increase, switch to clear Serv. Lflt. 506.
water irrigations to avoid a build-up of
fertilizer salts in the substrate. If EC Yates, R. 2015. Garden mum production
levels become excessive, then leach the from rooted cuttings, p. 1–11. In: R. Yates.
substrate with clear irrigation water twice Griffin greenhouse supplies pro technical
before providing WSF. It is better to service.
monitor the crop to avoid excessive EC
levels than to waste fertilizer by having to
leach it out of the substrate.
Low EC symptoms such as stunted plants,

lack of growth, lower leaf chlorosis
(yellowing; Fig. 8), and poor flowering can
be observed when fertility is insufficient.
Additionally, outdoor crops can exhibit low
EC symptoms after heavy rainfall, growers
can provide 200 to 300 ppm N thereby
replenishing leached nutrients.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 8. Providing insufficient fertility [low electrical
conductivity (EC)] during garden chrysanthemum
(Chrysanthemum ×morifolium) production can result in lower
leaf chlorosis (yellowing) or reddening. Photo by: Brian
Whipker.
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient sufficiency range recommended for garden chrysanthemum
(Chrysanthemum ×morifolium) prior to bud set and after bud set.
Element Prior to bud set 1 After bud set 2
Nitrogen (N) 4.00 – 6.00 4.00 – 6.30

Phosphorus (P) 0.20 – 1.20 0.25 – 1.00
Potassium (K) 1.00 – 10.00 4.00 – 7.00
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 0.50 – 4.60 1.00 – 2.00
Magnesium (Mg) 0.10 – 1.50 0.25 – 1.00
Sulfur (S) 0.25 – 0.70 0.25 – 0.70
Iron (Fe) 20 – 750 50 – 250
Manganese (Mn) 25 – 375 50 – 250
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 5 – 250 20 – 250
Copper (Cu) 5 – 50 6 – 30
Boron (B) 20 – 200 25 – 75
1,2 Bryson et al. (2014) for garden chrysanthemum grown in greenhouses. These values represent the
most recently matured leaves prior to bud set and after bud set, respectively.
2018

Cineraria
(Pericallis ×hybrida)
Cineraria require low fertility of 100 to 150 ppm N. They prefer a
pH within the range of 5.8 to 6.2. Substrate pH values above 6.2
can inhibit iron availability and induce interveinal chlorosis or
yellowing of the upper foliage. Project Sponsor
Cineraria
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1A. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron PourThru:
(Fe) uptake causing newly developed and recently
matured leaves to become Fe-deficient and exhibit 1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
marginal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: W. Garrett
Owen.
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Cineraria
© W. Garrett Owen
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 1B. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe) Figure 2A. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe)
uptake causing newly developed and recently matured leaves to uptake causing newly developed and recently matured leaves to
become Fe-deficient and exhibit marginal chlorosis (yellowing). become Fe-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis
Photo by: W. Garrett Owen. (yellowing). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Fertility Management of Cineraria

A common challenge during cineraria production is chlorosis (yellowing) of the upper
foliage. Chlorosis may develop due to high or low substrate pH (Hammer, 1997; Heins et
al., 1991). Cineraria should be grown with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2. Tissue nutrient
levels found in healthy, newly expanded leaves and critical tissue values of cineraria are
listed in Table 1. These ranges will enable growers to avoid nutritional disorders.
recently matured leaves to become Fe-deficient and exhibit marginal (Fig. 1A-B) and
interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 2A-B). If plants become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal
chlorosis intensifies. Corrective procedures for high substrate pH should begin within the
range of 6.2 to 6.4. Maintaining substrate pH below 6.2 will reduce the likelihood of Fe
deficiency from occurring; monthly drench applications of micronutrients may be used to
provide additional micronutrients (Feuerbach, 2017). Suntory® Flowers Limited (2017)
recommends the addition of Fe-chelate in the form of EDTA or EDDHA trace elements to
liquid feed stock solution at a rate of 1000 ppm (1 g/L) and feed at an injector ratio of
1:100, thus reducing the likelihood of Fe deficiency from occurring.
to become Mg-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 3) and leaf margins can
also become necrotic (dead; Fig. 4). Corrective procedures for low substrate pH should
begin within the range of 5.5 to 5.8. Monthly applications of supplemental Mg in the
form of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4; Epsom salts) at a rate of 8 oz./100 gallons of water
in areas with naturally occurring Mg in the water supply or 16 oz./100 gallons of water in
areas lacking Mg in the irrigation water (Whipker, personal communications) will prevent
Mg deficiency (Hammer, 1997) and

symptomology development.
After initial transplant and during the first

four weeks of production, provide
constant fertilization of 250 ppm N
© W. Garrett Owen
(Suntory, 2017). After cinerarias are
established, they are considered to
require low fertility. Cinerarias should be
provided with constant fertilization at 100
ppm N and potassium (K) plus phosphorus Figure 2B. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron (Fe)
(P) (Hammer, 1997) or 200 ppm N at every uptake causing newly developed and recently matured leaves to
become Fe-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis
other irrigation (Heins et al., 1991). The (yellowing). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
addition of a slow- or controlled-release
fertilizer will provide nutrition during
periods of slow growth (low light
conditions) and when liquid fertilizations
are not frequent enough due to low water
requirements (Suntory® Flowers Limited,
2017).
© W. Garrett Owen
Substrate EC should stay below 0.6, 1.3,
or 2.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2
Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods,
respectively. If levels begin to increase,
Figure 3. Low substrate pH below 5.8 inhibits magnesium (Mg)
switch to clear water irrigations to avoid a uptake causing lower or older leaves to become Mg-deficient
build up of fertilizer salts in the substrate. and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: W.
Garrett Owen.
If EC levels become excessive, then leach
the substrate with clear irrigation water
twice before providing fertility. It is best
to monitor the crop to avoid excessive EC
leach it out of the pots.
© W. Garrett Owen
Avoid fertilizers providing ammonium

(NH4-N) such as 20-10-20 or 20-20-20. The
use of 20-10-20 still remains in the
recommendations of many suppliers, but
because of the concern with NH4 toxicity
Figure 4. Low substrate pH below 5.8 inhibits magnesium (Mg)
it should be avoided. Cinerarias are uptake causing lower or older leaves to become Mg-deficient
sensitive to high levels of ammonium and and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) and leaf margin
necrosis (death). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
limiting ammonium sources of fertilizer
will reduce the possibility of NH4 toxicity Hammer, P.A. 1997. Cineraria, p. 54–55.
from occurring (Hammer, 1997). In: M.L. Gaston, S.A. Carver, C.A. Irwin,
Ammoniacal-based fertilizers will cause and R.A. Larson (eds.). Tips on growing
excessive vegetative growth and leaf specialty potted crops. Ohio Florist
expansion (Fig. 5). Nau (1984) reported Association, Columbus, O.H.
high levels of NH4 will cause leaf rolling
and leaves will turn silvery-green. Heins, R.D., M.G. Karlsson, and W.C.
Additionally, during production in warmer Carlson. 1991. Cineraria, in ‘Production of
weather, plants require frequent Flowering Potted Plants’. Michigan State
irrigations and thus, boron (B) deficiency University.
can occur. Symptomology of B-deficient
plants include distorted, mottled leaves Suntory® Flowers Limited. 2017. Senetti
and stunted plant growth (Dole and production, feeding. March 1, 2018.
Wilkins, 2005). <http://senetti.com/growers/feeding/>
Therefore, it is important to provide

cinerarias with low (100 to 150 ppm N)
fertility during crop production and to
limit ammoniacal-based fertilizers.
Summary
© W. Garrett Owen
Providing cinerarias with low fertility
ranging 100 to 150 ppm N and maintaining
a substrate pH of 5.8 to 6.2 will prevent
most nutritional disorders.
Figure 5. Cinerarias are sensitive to high levels of ammonium
Literature Cited (NH4-N) and ammoniacal-based fertilizers (20-10-20 or 20-20-20)
Barnes, J., B. Whipker, I. McCall, and J. will cause excessive vegetative growth and leaf expansion.
Frantz. 2011. Characterization of nutrient
disorders of Pericallis ×hybrida ‘Jester
Pure Blue’. Acta Hort. 891:67–76.
Dole, J.M. and H.F. Wilkins. 2005.

Floriculture: Principles and species. 2nd
ed. Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle
River, NJ.
Feuerbach, J. 2017. Pericallis Senetti

series. Greenhouse Product News
27(10):44–46.
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for cineraria (Pericallis ×hybrida ‘Jester Pure Blue’)
grown under nutrient sufficient and deficient conditions to determine critical tissue
nutrient levels.
Reference Critical tissue
Element
Cineraria 1 nutrient 1
Nitrogen (N) 6.96 <6.96
Phosphorus (P) 1.02 0.14
Potassium (K) 8.68 1.10
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 1.87 0.37
Magnesium (Mg) 0.64 0.15
Sulfur (S) 0.52 0.18
Iron (Fe) 85.1 64.3
Manganese (Mn) 116.4 14.0
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 21.6 15.7
Copper (Cu) 16.9 6.3
Boron (B) 52.1 12.1
1 Source: Barnes et al. (2015)
2018

Dahlia, cutting
(Dahlia ×hybrida)
Dahlias, produced from vegetative cuttings, require low to medium
fertility of 100 to 200 ppm N. They prefer a pH within the range of
5.8 to 6.2. This range prevents low substrate pH induced iron (Fe)
and manganese toxicities which occurs if the pH drifts lower than Project Sponsor
5.5. Substrate pH values above 6.5 can also inhibit Fe availability
and induce interveinal chlorosis (yellowing).
cutting
Dahlia,
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low to Medium
100 to 200 ppm N
EC Category A,B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.4 to 0.9 mS/cm
© Brian E. Whipker
SME:
0.9 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. Lower leaves of dahlia (Dahlia ×hybrida; PourThru:
cutting type) exhibiting chlorosis (yellowing) and black
speckling or flecking of the leaf due to a low substrate
1.3 to 3.0 mS/cm
pH. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Dahlia, cutting
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. High substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit iron (Fe) Figure 3. Providing too little fertility [(low soluble salts or
uptake causing newly developed leaves to become Fe-deficient electrical conductivity (EC)] during production of dahlia (Dahlia
and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: Brian E. ×hybrida; cutting type) can cause lower leaf chlorosis
Whipker. (yellowing). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Dahlia

Dahlias, produced from vegetative cuttings, should be grown with a pH range of 5.8 to
6.2. Tissue nutrient levels found in healthy, newly expanded leaves and critical tissue
values of ‘Maxi Morelia’ dahlias are listed in Table 1. These ranges will enable growers to
avoid low and high pH nutritional disorders.
Substrate pH below 5.8 causes increase uptake of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) to toxic
levels which will accumulate in leaf tissue. Plants exhibiting Fe and/or Mn toxicity
exhibit lower leaf chlorosis and black speckling or flecking of the entire leaf (Fig. 1).
Corrective procedures for low substrate pH should begin within the range of 5.5 to 5.8.
become deficient in Fe and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 2). If plants become
severely Fe-deficient, interveinal chlorosis intensifies and leaves become white or
bleached. Corrective procedures for high substrate pH should begin within the range of
6.2 to 6.4.
Cutting dahlias are highly sensitive to soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity
(EC)] under short photoperiods (≤14 hours; Nau, 2011) and are considered to require low
to medium fertility.
Maintain substrate EC below 0.9, 2.0, or 3.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2 Extraction, SME,
or PourThru methods, respectively. To avoid high EC, it is recommended to leach with
clear irrigation water. Fertilizing with excessive ammoniacal-nitrogen (NH4–N) has been
reported to promote undesirable soft growth and stem elongation (Nau, 2011;
Nutritional Monitoring Dahlia, cutting
Barnes et al., 2015; Gaydos et al., 2003). Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook,18th ed. Ball
Providing too little fertility during
production can cause lower leaf chlorosis
(yellowing; Fig. 3) and leaf drop.
Overfertilization or high EC will cause
leaves to exhibit chlorosis and marginal
leaf necrosis (Fig. 4). Plants that produce
vegetative growth with few to no flowers
© Brian E. Whipker
may be a result of excessive applications
of ammoniacal-based fertilizes,
overfertilization under low light
conditions, short days/cool temperatures,
and/or low light combined with Figure 4. Overfertilization or excessive soluble salts [referred to
overwatering or wet substrate (Nau, as electrical conductivity (EC)] will cause Dahlia ×hybrida;
cutting type) leaves to exhibit chlorosis (yellowing) and
2011). Therefore, it is important to marginal leaf necrosis (death). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
provide dahlias with low to medium (100
to 200 ppm N) fertility during crop Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for
production and to limit ammoniacal-based dahlia (Dahlia ×hybrida ‘Maxi Morelia’)
fertilizers. grown under nutrient sufficient and
deficient conditions to determine critical
Summary tissue nutrient levels.
Providing dahlias with low to moderate
Critical
fertility ranging 100 to 200 ppm N and Reference
Element tissue
maintaining a substrate pH of 5.8 to 6.2 Dahlia 1
nutrient 1
will prevent most nutritional disorders. Nitrogen (N) 7.86 7.86
Phosphorus (P) 0.89 0.18
Literature Cited Potassium (K)
(%)
7.19 0.86
Barnes, J., B. Whipker, I. McCall, and J. Calcium (Ca) 2.33 0.34
Magnesium (Mg) 0.93 0.22
Frantz. 2015. Characterization of nutrient
Sulfur (S) 0.32 0.14
disorders of Dahlia ×hybrida ‘Maxi Iron (Fe) 80.3 25.5
Morelia’. Acta Hort. 1062:39–48. Manganese (Mn) 119.5 10.1
Dole, J.M. and H.F. Wilkins. 2005. Zinc (Zn) 14.3 11.7
Copper (Cu) (ppm) 6.8 2.1
Floriculture: Principles and species. 2nd Boron (B) 73.0 7.4
ed. Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle Molybdenum
River, NJ. 0.5 --- 2
(Mo)
1 Barnes et al. (2015)
Gaydos, J., S. Jones, J. Williams, and M. 2 --- = not reported
Wilson. Dahlia, p. 22–23. In: M. Gaston, S.
Carver, C. Cuthbert, and L. Kunkle (eds.).
Tips on growing vegetative annuals. O.F.A.
Services, Inc., Columbus, OH.
Paul Cockson1 W. Garrett Owen2 Josh Henry3 Brian E. Whipker3
2018

Eggplant, transplants
(Solanum melongena)
Eggplant transplants require low fertility of 100 to 150 ppm N.
Plants prefer a pH within the range of 5.8 to 6.5. This range
prevents low substrate pH induced iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn)
toxicities which occurs if the pH drifts lower than 5.5. Substrate pH Project Sponsor
values above 6.5 can also inhibit Fe availability and result in the
upper foliage developing interveinal chlorosis (yellowing).
transplants
Eggplant,
pH Category III, IV:
5.8 to 6.5
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1. Eggplant (Solanum melongena) transplants PourThru:
grown in a substrate with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5.
Photo by: W. Garrett Owen. 1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
1,3NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Eggplant, transplants
Fertility Management of Eggplant

Transplants
Eggplant transplant should be grown with
a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5 (Fig. 1). Use
recommended 1:2 Extraction, SME, or
PourThru methods to determine and
© W. Garrett Owen
monitor substrate pH and soluble salts
[referred to as electrical conductivity
(EC)] values. Additionally, conduct routine
foliar analysis tests to monitor crop
nutrient status. Tissue nutrient levels Figure 2. Eggplant (Solanum melongena) transplants grown
under low [pH 5.1] (left) and high [pH 6.9] (right) substrate pH
found in healthy, newly expanded leaves conditions. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
of eggplant transplants are listed in Table
1. Monitoring substrate pH and nutrient
status will enable growers to avoid pH
induced nutritional disorders.
Substrate pH below 5.8 results in

increased uptake of iron (Fe) and
manganese (Mn) which results in toxic
© W. Garrett Owen
levels accumulating in leaf tissue. Plants
exhibiting Fe and/or Mn toxicity will
exhibit lower leaf chlorosis and black
spotting or speckling along the leaf margin
of older leaves. Corrective procedures for Figure 3. Eggplant (Solanum melongena) transplants grown
low substrate pH should begin within the under low [0.27 mS/cm] (left) and high [3.95 mS/cm] (right)
soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)]
range of 5.5 to 5.8. Plants can grow conditions at a substrate pH of 5.8. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
excessively large (Fig. 2).
High substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit Fe

uptake causing newly developed leaves to
become deficient in Fe and exhibit
interveinal chlorosis. Plant will also
exhibit stunted growth (Fig. 2). Corrective
© W. Garrett Owen
procedures for high substrate pH should

begin within the range of 6.2 to 6.4.
Eggplant transplants are considered to

require low levels of fertility. During Stage Figure 4. Eggplant (Solanum melongena) transplant exhibiting
2 [radical, hypocotyl (stem), and leaf necrosis as a result of water stress because plants were
held beyond the permanent wilting point. Photo by: W. Garrett
cotyledons (seedling leaves) emergence] Owen.
of seedling production, begin fertilizing
Nutritional Monitoring Eggplant, transplants
with 50 to 75 ppm N from 15-0-15 or 15-5- and sometimes, plant loss.

15 once the cotyledons have fully
expanded (Nau, 2011). Continue fertilizing Summary
during Stage 3 (true leaves develop). At Providing eggplant transplants with low
Stage 4 (toning or hardening off for levels of fertility ranging from 100 to 150
transplant), increase fertility to 100 to ppm N and maintaining a substrate pH of
150 ppm N delivered from 14-0-14 weekly 5.8 to 6.5 will prevent most nutritional
(Nau, 2011). Maintain substrate EC below disorders from occurring.
0.6, 1.3, or 2.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2
Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods, Literature Cited
respectively. Plants grown under lower or Bryson, G.M., H.A. Mills, D.N. Sasseville,
fertility deficient conditions will become J.B. Jones, Jr., and A.V. Barker. 2014.
chlorotic and stunted while transplants Plant analysis handbook III. Micro-Macro
provided with excessive fertility will Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA.
develop large leaves and may exhibit
marginal leaf necrosis (Fig. 3). Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook,18th ed. Ball
Managing fertility during eggplant
transplant production can assist producers Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient sufficiency
in controlling growth. Avoiding range recommended for eggplant
ammoniacal-nitrogen fertilizers will (Solanum melongena) grown in
further assist growers in preventing greenhouses and production fields.
undesirable and excessive growth. Sufficiency
Growers may apply Sumagic (uniconazole), Element
Range 1
a plant growth regulator (PGR) registered Nitrogen (N) 4.00 – 5.00
for vegetable transplants, early in Phosphorus (P) 0.13 – 0.23
transplant production to control growth. It Potassium (K) 3.50 – 5.00
(%)
is recommended to always read and follow Calcium (Ca) 1.00 – 2.50
Magnesium (Mg) 0.30 – 1.00
label directions [application rate(s),
Sulfur (S) 0.29 – 0.60
application timing, personal protective Iron (Fe) 50 – 300
equipment (PPE), and re-entry interval Manganese (Mn) 40 – 250
(REI)] and conduct small in-house trials Zinc (Zn) 20 – 250
(ppm)
thereby determining appropriate Copper (Cu) 5 – 10
application rate for your operation, Boron (B) 25 – 75
market, and desired final plant size. 1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014) for eggplant grown
Growers often withhold water (water in greenhouses and production fields. These
stress) from plants to the point of wilting. values represent the most recently matured leaf
This is a common practice to control at the onset of flowering to small fruit
growth, but growers must be careful not development.
to stress plants beyond the permanent
wilting point which results in leaf rolling,
marginal leaf necrosis (Fig. 4), leaf drop,
2018

Geranium
(Pelargonium ×hortorum)
Geraniums require medium levels of fertilization, growing best
with 150 to 200 ppm N. Optimal substrate pH values are between
5.8 and 6.5. Geraniums are susceptible to both low and high pH
Project Sponsor
disorders, developing iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) toxicity at low
pH and Fe deficiency at low pH.
Geraniums
pH Category III to IV:
5.8 to 6.5
Fertility Category:
Medium
150 to 200 ppm N
EC Category B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm
© Brian E. Whipker
SME:
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical
PourThru:
conductivity (EC)] can cause lower leaf chlorosis 2.0 to 3.0 mS/cm
(yellowing) or reddening. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
1NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Geranium
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis
conductivity (EC)] can lead to marginal yellowing (chlorosis) (yellowing) on the upper foliage. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
and necrosis (browning). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Geraniums

Geraniums require medium levels of fertility. Growers should provide fertilization at 150
to 200 ppm N. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] from
inadequate fertilization can cause chlorosis (yellowing) or reddening on the lower foliage
(Fig. 1). High EC is an issue during propagation, as cuttings and seedlings are sensitive to
root burning (plasmolysis) and lower leaf necrosis (browning). For this reason,
fertilization should be maintained at 100 ppm N during propagation (Dole and Wilkins,
2005). Excess salts may build up in the substrate during stock plant production, leading
to plasmolysis and lower leaf necrosis (Fig. 2). Frequent leaching with clear water should
be implemented to control EC and prevent symptom development (Dole and Wilkins,
2005).
Substrate pH should be maintained between 5.8 and 6.5. Values beyond this range
commonly lead to high or low pH induced nutritional disorders (Whipker and Henry,
2017). High pH inhibits iron (Fe) uptake, causing interveinal chlorosis of the upper
foliage (Fig. 3). Low pH causes excessive uptake of Fe and manganese (Mn), which leads
to toxicity symptom development. Symptoms of Fe and Mn toxicity include a lower leaf
bronzing with dark brown to black spotting (Fig. 4).
Foliar Fe and Mn concentrations should remain below 500 ppm (Dole and Wilkins, 2005).
Previous reports of low pH induced Fe and Mn toxicity document foliar concentrations of
these two elements to be ~10× higher than in asymptomatic plants (Henry and Whipker,
2016). Monitoring substrate pH and periodic tissue sampling can help to determine if
symptoms are due to high or low Fe and Mn (Table 1). Iron deficiency can be remedied
Nutritional Monitoring Geranium
with an application of Fe chelate, while Table 1. Recommended range of leaf

Fe and Mn toxicity can be remedied by tissue analysis for geranium (Pelargonium
providing flowable lime to raise the pH. ×hortorum).
Summary Nitrogen (%) 3.29 – 4.80
© Brian E. Whipker
Maintaining moderate fertility at 150 to Phosphorus (%) 0.30 – 1.24
200 ppm N and a pH of 5.8 to 6.5 should Potassium (%) 2.50 – 6.26
enable you to grow healthy geraniums Calcium (%) 0.80 – 2.40
while preventing low or high pH induced Magnesium (%) 0.19 – 0.51
Sulfur (%) 0.25 – 0.70
nutritional disorders.
Iron (ppm) 100 – 580
Manganese (ppm) 40 – 325
Literature Cited Zinc (ppm) 7 – 100
Bryson, G.M. and H.A. Mills. 2014. Plant Copper (ppm) 5 – 25
analysis handbook IV, Micro-Macro Boron (ppm) 30 – 75
Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA. Molybdenum (ppm) 0.14 – 0.66
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014).

River, N.J.
Henry, J. and B.E. Whipker. 2016.

Geranium: Diagnosing lower leaf reddish-
brown spots. e-GRO Alert 5–17. p. 4.
Whipker, B.E. and J. Henry. 2017.

Geraniums: Diagnosing nutrient disorders.
e-GRO Alert 6–1. p. 6.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 4. Low pH leads to iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn)

toxicity, causing symptoms of chlorosis (yellowing) with dark
brown to black spotting (necrosis). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
2018

Gerbera
(Gerbera jamesonii)
Geberas require medium levels of fertilization, growing best with
150 to 200 ppm N. Optimal substrate pH values are between 5.8
and 6.2. Gerberas are susceptible to both low and high pH
Project Sponsor
disorders, developing iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) toxicity at low
pH and Fe deficiency at high pH.
Gerbera
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Medium
150 to 200 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© Brian E. Whipker
0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm

SME:
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical PourThru:
conductivity (EC)] can result in lower leaf chlorosis
(yellowing) or reddening of red-pigment containing
2.0 to 3.0 mS/cm
cultivars. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Gerbera
© W. Garrett Owen
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis
conductivity (EC)] due to an over-application of slow release (yellowing) on the upper foliage. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
fertilizer can lead to marginal leaf browning and necrosis
(death). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Gerbera

Gerberas require medium levels of fertility. Growers should maintain fertilization at 150
to 200 ppm N. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] can cause
chlorosis (yellowing) or reddening on the lower foliage (Fig. 1). High EC can lead to
marginal chlorosis or necrosis (browning) of the lower leaves (Fig. 2). To lower the EC,
apply clear water to leach excess salts.
Substrate pH should be maintained between 5.8 and 6.2. Lower or higher values beyond
this range commonly lead to low or high pH induced nutritional disorders (Whipker et
al., 2011). High pH inhibits iron (Fe) uptake, causing interveinal chlorosis of the upper
foliage (Fig. 3). Low pH causes excessive uptake of Fe and manganese (Mn), which leads
to toxicity symptom development. Toxicity of Fe and Mn exhibits symptoms of a lower
leaf purplish coloration with black spotting (Fig. 4). [This contrasts with phosphorus
deficiency which has purple leaves (Fig. 5).]
Foliar Fe and Mn concentrations should remain below 250 ppm (Bryson and Mills, 2014).
Previous reports of low pH induced Fe and Mn toxicity document foliar concentrations of
these two elements that were ~23× higher for Fe [3080 ppm] and 4× higher for Mn [1240
ppm] than in asymptomatic plants (Whipker and Henry, 2016). Monitoring substrate pH
and periodic tissue sampling can help to determine if symptoms are due to high or low
Fe and Mn (Table 1). Iron deficiency can be remedied with an application of iron
chelate, while Fe and Mn toxicity can be remedied by flowable lime application to adjust
(raise) the pH.
Nutritional Monitoring Gerbera
Summary
Maintaining moderate fertility at 150 to
200 ppm N and a pH of 5.8 to 6.2 should
enable you to grow healthy gerbera while
preventing low or high pH induced
Literature Cited
© Brian E. Whipker
Bryson, G.M. and H.A. Mills. 2014. Plant
analysis handbook IV. Micro-Macro
Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA.
Whipker, B.E. and J. Henry. Gerbera:

Diagnosing lower leaf purplish-black spots. Figure 4. Low pH leads to iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn)
toxicity, causing symptoms of dark brown to black spotting.
e-GRO Alert 5-16, p. 4. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Whipker, B.E., K.Y. Jeong, I. McCall, and

J. Frantz. 2011. Gerbera nutrition. p.6.1
to 6.11. In: K. Crone (ed), Sakata Gerbera
Manual, Morgan Hill, CA.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf

tissue analysis for gerbera (Gerbera
jamesonii).
© Brian E. Whipker
Nitrogen (%) 1.35 – 3.50

Phosphorus (%) 0.20 – 0.50
Potassium (%) 2.50 – 4.50
Figure 5. Lower leaves of a gerbera with a purple coloration due
Calcium (%) 1.00 – 2.50 to low phosphorus (P). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Magnesium (%) 0.20 – 0.70

Sulfur (%) 0.25 – 0.70
Iron (ppm) 50 – 200
Zinc (ppm) 25 – 200
Copper (ppm) 6 – 50
Boron (ppm) 20 – 60
Molybdenum (ppm) 0.20 – 0.60
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014) .
2018

Hydrangea, blue sepals
(Hydrangea macrophylla)
Fertilization practices and substrate pH levels must be customized for growing
blue or pink colored florist hydrangeas. Hydrangeas require low levels of
fertilization, growing optimally with 100 to 150 ppm N. For blue hydrangeas,
maintain substrate pH values between 5.2 and 5.5. In order to deepen the blue
coloration of the sepals, the substrate pH must be maintained below 5.5 and Project Sponsor
specialized fertilization practices need to be followed. In addition, hydrangeas
are susceptible to high pH disorders, developing iron (Fe) deficiency when the
pH exceeds 6.5.
blue sepals
Hydrangea,
pH Category I:
5.2 to 5.5
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© Brian E. Whipker
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
(yellowing). Photo by Brian E. Whipker. 1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Hydrangea, blue sepals
Insert Photo Here Insert Photo Here
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical
conductivity (EC)] can also result in lower leaf reddening. Photo conductivity (EC)] due to an over-application of aluminum
by Brian E. Whipker. sulfate can lead to marginal leaf browning and necrosis (death).
Photo by Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Blue Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas require a low level of fertility. Growers should maintain fertilization at 100
chlorosis (yellowing; Fig. 1) or reddening (Fig. 2) on the lower foliage. High EC can lead
to marginal chlorosis or necrosis (browning) of the lower leaves (Fig. 3). If the EC
increases beyond optimal levels, apply a few irrigations with clear water to lower it. If
the EC is excessively high, apply two clear water irrigations to leach excess salts (but
this more drastic step results in wasting your fertilizer investment and can be avoided by
monitoring the EC and taking action before it becomes excessive).
this range may lead to low or high pH induced nutritional disorders (Landis and Whipker,
foliage (Fig. 4). Iron deficiency can be remedied with an application of iron chelate.
Low pH causes excessive uptake of Fe and manganese (Mn), which can lead to toxicity
symptom development. Iron and Mn toxicity can be remedied by a flowable lime
application to adjust (raise) the pH.
Summary
Maintaining a low level of fertility at 100 to 150 ppm N and a pH of 5.2 to 5.5 should
enable you to grow healthy blue hydrangeas (Fig. 5) while preventing nutritional
disorders.
We appreciate the grant support of the Fred C. Gloeckner

Foundation for the NC State University Research on targeting
critical tissue aluminum levels in hydrangeas.
Nutritional Monitoring Hydrangea, blue sepals
Literature Cited Insert Photo Here

Bailey, D.A. 1989. Hydrangea production.
Timber Press Growers Handbook series 3.
Portland, OR.
Bryson, G.M., H.A. Mills, D.N. Sasseville,
© Brian E. Whipker
J.B. Jones, Jr., and A.V. Barker. 2014.
Plant analysis handbook III. Micro-Macro
Landis, H. and B.E. Whipker. 2017. Figure 4. High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis
Nutrient management strategies for (yellowing) on the upper foliage. Photo by Brian E. Whipker.
ensuring blue coloration of greenhouse
hydrangeas. e-GRO Alert 6-04, p. 6.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf

tissue analysis for hydrangea (Hydrangea
macrophylla).
Nutrient levels
when
Sufficiency
Element deficiency
Range 1
symptoms
appear 2
Nitrogen (%) 2.24 – 5.60 <1.50
Phosphorus (%) 0.25 – 0.70 <0.20
Potassium (%) 2.20 – 7.80 <1.00
Calcium (%) 0.60 – 2.00 <0.60
Magnesium (%) 0.22 – 0.61 <0.08
Sulfur (%) 0.20 – 0.70 --- 3
© Brian E. Whipker
Iron (ppm) 50 – 300 <60
Manganese (ppm) 38 – 300 <8
Zinc (ppm) 20 – 200 <20
Copper (ppm) 1 – 25 <4
Boron (ppm) 20 – 50 2<5
Figure 5. Blue coloration of hydrangea sepals is the result of
Molybdenum 0.09 – 0.22 <1 maintaining the substrate pH below 5.5, providing aluminum,
(ppm) and following fertilization practices that enhance aluminum
uptake. Mike Renfrow of Cyn-Mar Greenhouse in Pine Level, NC
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014). Note: No color type shows off his crop. Photo by Brian E. Whipker.
was specified in the data.
2 Source: Bailey (1989), based on the cultivar
‘Rose Supreme’
3 --- = not reported
2018

Hydrangea, pink/white sepals
(Hydrangea macrophylla)
Fertilization practices and substrate pH levels must be customized for growing
pink or blue colored florist hydrangeas. Because of the lack of pigment in
white colored sepals, those plants are usually grown similar to pink colored
cultivars. Hydrangeas require low levels of fertilization, growing optimally
with 100 to 150 ppm N. For pink hydrangeas, maintain substrate pH values Project Sponsor
between 5.8 and 6.2. In addition, hydrangeas are susceptible to high pH
disorders, developing iron (Fe) deficiency when the pH exceeds 6.5.
pink/white sepals
Hydrangea,
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© Brian E. Whipker
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
(yellowing). Photo by Brian E. Whipker.
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Hydrangea, pink/white sepals
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
conductivity (EC)] can also result in lower leaf reddening. Photo conductivity (EC)] due to an over-application of aluminum
by Brian E. Whipker. sulfate can lead to marginal leaf browning and death (necrosis).
Photo by Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Pink and White Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas require a low level of fertility. Growers should maintain fertilization at 100
chlorosis (yellowing; Fig. 1) or reddening (Fig. 2) on the lower foliage. High EC can lead
to marginal chlorosis or necrosis (browning) of the lower leaves (Fig. 3). If the EC
increases beyond optimal levels, apply a few irrigations with clear water to lower it. If
the EC is excessively high, apply two clear water irrigations to leach excess salts (but
this more drastic step results in wasting your fertilizer investment and can be avoided by
Substrate pH should be maintained between 5.8 to 6.2 (This is in contrast to the pH 5.2
to 5.5 range recommended for blue hydrangeas.) Lower or higher values beyond this
range may lead to low or high pH induced nutritional disorders (Landis and Whipker,
foliage (Fig. 4). Iron deficiency can be remedied with an application of iron chelate. Low
pH causes excessive uptake of Fe and manganese (Mn), which can lead to toxicity
symptom development. Iron and Mn toxicity can be remedied by a flowable lime
application to adjust (raise) the pH.
Summary
Pink hydrangea flowers need a higher substrate pH of 5.8 to 6.2, no aluminum sulfate
(AlSO4) applications, higher phosphorus rates of 10 to 20 ppm P and lower potassium
rates of 100 to 150 ppm K. Overall, a fertilizer ratio of 5 N : 2 P2O5 : 2 K2O is
We appreciate the grant support of the Fred C. Gloeckner
Foundation for the NC State University Research on targeting
critical tissue aluminum levels in hydrangeas.
Nutritional Monitoring Hydrangea, pink/white sepals
recommended for pink flowers and a Table 1. Recommended range of leaf

fertility rate of 100 to 150 ppm N. tissue analysis for hydrangea (Hydrangea
macrophylla).
White colored hydrangeas are typically Nutrient levels
grown similar to the pink cultivars. Sufficiency
when
Because white flowers lack pigment, there Element deficiency
Range 1
is no concern about avoiding AlSO4 symptoms
appear 2
applications.
Nitrogen (%) 2.24 – 5.60 <1.50
Literature Cited Phosphorus (%) 0.25 – 0.70 <0.20
Bailey, D.A. 1989. Hydrangea production.
Potassium (%) 2.20 – 7.80 <1.00
Timber Press Growers Handbook series 3.
Portland, OR. Calcium (%) 0.60 – 2.00 <0.60
Magnesium (%) 0.22 – 0.61 <0.08
Bryson, G.M., H.A. Mills, D.N. Sasseville, Sulfur (%) 0.20 – 0.70 --- 3
Iron (ppm) 50 – 300 <60
Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA. Manganese (ppm) 38 – 300 <8
Zinc (ppm) 20 – 200 <20
Landis, H. and B.E. Whipker. 2017.
Copper (ppm) 1 – 25 <4
Nutrient management strategies for
Boron (ppm) 20 – 50 2<5
ensuring blue coloration of greenhouse
Molybdenum 0.09 – 0.22 <1
hydrangeas. e-GRO Alert 6-04, p. 6. (ppm)
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014). Note: No color
type was specified in the data.
Insert Photo Here 2 Source: Bailey (1989), based on the cultivar
‘Rose Supreme’.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 4. High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis

(yellowing) on the upper foliage. Photo by Brian E. Whipker.
ccurrey@iastate.edu
ccurrey@iastate.edu
ccurrey@iastate.edu
2018

Lettuce
(Lactuca sativa)
Lettuce requires medium levels of fertilization, growing best with
150 to 200 ppm N or 1.0 to 2.0 mS/cm for hydroponic nutrient
solutions. Lettuce transplants grown in soilless substrates have a
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wider optimal pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Hydroponic solution pH
values should be maintained between 5.5 and 6.0 with an optimal
Lettuce
pH Category II to IV:
5.5 to 6.5 (substrate)
5.5 to 6.0 (hydroponic)
Fertility Category: Medium
150 to 200 ppm N (substrate)
1.0 to 2.0 mS/cm (hydroponic)
EC Category A, B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.4 to 0.9 mS/cm
© Josh Henry
SME:
0.9 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. Low soluble salts [referred to as
electrical conductivity (EC)] can cause lower leaf
PourThru:
chlorosis (yellowing) on green lettuce (Lactuca 1.3 to 3.0 mS/cm
sativa) cultivars (top) or a dark purpling on red
cultivars (bottom). Photo by: Josh Henry.
1NCState University www.fertdirtandsquirt.com

bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
3Iowa State University
ccurrey@iastate.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Lettuce
© Josh Henry
© Josh Henry
Figure 2. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical
conductivity (EC)] can cause excessive vegetative growth, conductivity (EC)] can cause chlorotic (yellow) and necrotic
premature bolting, and chlorotic (yellow) and necrotic (dead) (dead) spotting on the lower leaves of lettuce (Lactuca sativa).
spotting on the lower leaves of lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Photo Photo by: Josh Henry.
by: Josh Henry.
value of 5.8. Excessively high or low salts can significantly affect the quality of
greenhouse-grown lettuce. Additionally, tipburn caused by calcium deficiency is a
common issue.
Fertility Management of Lettuce

Symptoms of nutritional disorders can vary among green and red-leafed lettuce types.
Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] can cause chlorosis
(yellowing) or purpling on the lower foliage (Fig. 1). High EC can cause excessive
vegetative growth and can cause premature bolting (Fig. 2). Additionally, high salts
cause necrotic (dead) spotting on the lower foliage (Fig. 3). Low pH can cause stunting,
chlorosis, and necrotic spotting on the lower foliage (Fig. 4). High pH can limit iron (Fe)
availability, leading to interveinal chlorosis on the upper leaves (Fig. 5).
Lettuce transplants grown in peat-based or other soilless substrates requires medium

levels of fertility ranging from 150 to 200 ppm N. Liu et al. (2012) recommend
subirrigating transplants with 200 ppm N. To correct high EC, apply clear water to leach
excess salts. The substrate pH should be maintained between 5.5 and 6.5. Substrate pH
values >6.5 inhibit Fe uptake.
Hydroponic lettuce should be grown with a narrower pH range of 5.5 to 6.0, with an
optimal target value of 5.8. During germination, hydroponic lettuce should be fertilized
with 100 to 150 ppm N, maintaining a solution EC around 1.2 mS/cm. During production,
maintain a solution EC of 1.5 mS/cm.
Calcium (Ca) deficiency induced tipburn is

a common symptom observed in
greenhouse lettuce production (Fig. 6).
Symptoms appear as a marginal necrosis
and puckering that occurs primarily
around the tips of young immature leaves.
Calcium nitrate (CaNO3-) sources of
© Josh Henry
fertilizer can help alleviate this problem.
It is important to note that CaNO3- must
be maintained in a separate stock tank
than other fertilizers so as to prevent Ca Figure 4. Low substrate pH causes a dull purple coloration in red
from precipitating out of solution. Tipburn lettuce cultivars with chlorosis (yellowing) on the lower leaves
of lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Photo by: Josh Henry.
can be observed even with sufficient Ca
levels in substrate or hydroponic solutions
due to limited Ca mobility. Increasing
transpiration by providing adequate air
movement will help facilitate Ca
movement to the upper leaves.
Periodically take tissue samples from the

most recently matured leaves and submit
© Brian Whipker
for tissue analysis to help verify suspected
nutritional problems. The nutrient values
may then be compared with published
sufficiency values (Table 1).
Figure 5. High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis
Summary (yellowing) on the upper leaves of lettuce (Lactuca sativa).
Photo by: Brian Whipker.
Calcium availability and conditions
promoting uptake are important factors
for lettuce production. Maintaining
moderate fertility at 150 to 200 ppm N
(substrate) or 1.0 to 2.0 mS/cm
(hydroponic) and a pH of 5.5 to 6.0 or 5.5
to 6.5 for lettuce grown in hydroponic or
soilless substrates, respectively, should
© Josh Henry
produce healthy lettuce without

developing nutritional disorders.
Figure 6. Calcium (Ca) deficiency can lead to tipburn, which

includes symptoms of necrotic (dead) margins and puckering
around the tips of younger leaves of lettuce (Lactuca sativa).
Literature Cited
Brechner, M., A. Both, and C. Staff. 1996. Hydroponic lettuce handbook. Cornell
Controlled Environment Agriculture. p. 48.
Bryson, G.M. and H.A. Mills. 2014. Plant analysis handbook IV, Micro-Macro Publishing,
Inc., Athens, GA.
Currey, C.J. 2018. Lettuce and leafy greens 101: A production guide. Produce Grower
March:18−22.
Liu, J., W.R. Leatherwood, and N.S. Mattson. 2012. Irrigation method and fertilizer
concentration differentially alter growth of vegetable transplants. HortTechnology 22:56–
63.
Mattson, N. 2016. Growing hydroponic leafy greens. Greenhouse Product News Magazine
26(10):16–20.
Mattson, N. 2016. Iron deficiency of hydroponic leafy greens and herbs. e-GRO Edible
Alert 1–8. p. 5.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue analysis for lettuce (Lactuca sativa).
Sufficiency Range
Element
Substrate 1 Hydroponic 2
Nitrogen (N) 4.20 - 5.60 3.75 – 5.60
Phosphorus (P) 0.62 – 0.77 0.45 – 0.77
Potassium (K) 7.82 – 13.68 3.00 – 6.50
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 0.80 – 1.20 1.25 – 2.50
Magnesium (Mg) 0.24 – 0.73 0.45 – 0.78
Sulfur (S) 0.26 – 0.32 0.25 – 0.35
Iron (Fe) 168 – 223 50 – 150
Manganese (Mn) 55 – 110 55 – 110
Zinc (Zn) 33 – 196 25 – 60
(ppm)
Copper (Cu) 6 – 16 6 – 16
Boron (B) 32 – 43 15 – 45
Molybdenum (Mo) 0.29 – 0.58 0.33 – 0.58
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014) for greenhouse grown Boston or Butterhead lettuce. These values
represent the most recently matured leaves.

2 Source: Bryson et al. (2014) for hydroponic leaf lettuce. These values represent the most
recently matured leaves.
2018

Marguerite daisy
(Argyranthemum frutescens)
Marguerite daisies require medium levels of fertility between 150
and 200 ppm N. Optimal substrate pH values range from 5.5 to 6.2.
Marguerite daisies can develop both low and high substrate pH
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disorders. High pH inhibits iron (Fe) uptake, leading to symptoms
of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper leaves.
Marguerite daisy
pH Category II, III:
5.5 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Medium
150 to 200 ppm N
EC Category B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm
SME:
© Josh Henry
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm

Figure 1. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical
PourThru:
conductivity (EC)] causes necrotic (brown) spotting 1.3 to 3.0 mS/cm
on the lower leaves of marguerite daisy
(Argyranthemum frutescens). Photo by: Josh Henry.
1NorthCarolina State University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Marguerite daisy
© Josh Henry
© Josh Henry
Figure 2. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity
conductivity (EC)] causes necrotic (brown) spotting and (EC)] causes stunting in marguerite daisies (Argyranthemum
a greyish cast on the lower leaves of marguerite daisy frutescens) compared to plants grown with adequate or high EC.
(Argyranthemum frutescens). Photo by: Josh Henry. Photo by: Josh Henry.
Low pH causes toxic accumulation of Fe and manganese in the lower leaves, leading to
black spotting.
Fertility Management of Marguerite Daisy

Marguerite daisies are often propagated by vegetative cuttings, therefore propagation
substrate should have low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)].
Cuttings should be fertilized with 75 to 100 ppm N once root initials are visible.
Alternatively, fertilizer may be applied once a week as a foliar spray of 100 to 150 ppm
N (Nau, 2011). Once roots are well developed, cuttings may be fertilized with 150 ppm
N, alternating between 20-10-20 and 15-0-15.
Once transplanted, marguerite daisies should be fertilized with a medium level of

fertility such as 150 to 200 ppm N provided by a complete fertilizer such as 13-2-13 or
15-5-15 (Gaydos et al., 2003). Another option is to alternate between a high and a low
phosphorus (P) fertilizer such as 20-10-20 and 15-0-15 (Nau, 2011). If using a constant
liquid feed program, it is important to occasionally leach excess salts by irrigating with
clear water. Other research indicates that slow release fertilizers may be used to grow
marguerite daisies. Optimal rates for several cultivars from the Molimba® series were 3
to 6 ounces per cubic foot of substrate using a 16-9-12 or 11-11-18 formulation
(Schroeter-Zakrzewska and Kleiber, 2012).
High substrate EC can cause necrotic (brown) spotting on the lower foliage (Fig. 1).
Additionally, high EC can cause excessive vegetative growth, causing stretch and leading
to an undesirable growth habit. In addition to necrotic spotting, the foliage may
develop a dull, greyish cast that is easily

distinguishable from the bright green
leaves of a healthy plant (Fig. 2). Low
substrate EC causes significant stunting
(Fig. 3), a delay in flowering, and an
overall pale green or chlorotic appearance
(Fig. 4).
© Josh Henry
Substrate pH should be maintained
between 5.5 and 6.2 (Gibson et al., 2007).
Values below this range cause iron (Fe) Figure 4. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical
and manganese (Mn) to become highly conductivity (EC)] causes stunting, chlorosis (yellowing), and
available for uptake and can cause Fe delayed flowering in marguerite daisies (Argyranthemum
frutescens). Photo by: Josh Henry.
and/or Mn toxicity. Toxic levels of Fe
(1,470 ppm) and Mn (655 ppm) in the
lower leaves can be seen in Table 1
compared with tissue values collected
from the lower leaves of healthy ‘Golden
Butterfly’ marguerite daisies. Symptoms
of low pH induced Fe and Mn toxicity
appear as black spotting on the lower
© Josh Henry
leaves (Fig. 5). In addition to black
spotting, the lower leaf margins will
develop a black coloration (Fig. 6). High
substrate pH initially causes plants to
develop a lighter green coloration (Fig. 7). manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of black spotting
High pH limits Fe uptake and can induce on the lower leaves of marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum
Fe deficiency, leading to a light chlorotic
(yellow) appearance on the upper foliage
(Fig. 8). Figure 9 also illustrates the
progression of high pH induced Fe
deficiency symptoms on marguerite daisy
leaves.
Table 1 lists recommended nutrient ranges

for marguerite daisies (Gibson et al.,
© Josh Henry
2007), which can help in diagnosing

suspected nutrient disorders. Conduct
routine foliar analyses to ensure nutrients
are within the recommended ranges. manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of black spotting
on the lower leaves of marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum
© Josh Henry
© Josh Henry
Figure 7. High substrate pH limits iron (Fe) availability, leading Figure 8. High substrate pH limits iron (Fe) availability, leading
to symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper to symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper
leaves of marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens). Photo leaves of marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens). Photo
by: Josh Henry. by: Josh Henry.
Summary
Maintaining medium fertility at 150 to 200 ppm N and a pH of 5.5 to 6.2 can help you to
produce healthy marguerite daisies without pH or EC related nutrient disorders.
Literature Cited
Gaydos, J., S. Jones, J. Williams, and M. Wilson. 2003. Tips on growing vegetative
annuals. O.F.A. Services, Inc., Columbus, OH. p 10–11.
Gibson, J.L., D.S. Pitchay, A.L. Williams-Rhodes, B.E. Whipker, P.V. Nelson, and J.M.
Dole. 2007. Nutrient deficiencies in bedding plants. Ball Pub., Batavia, IL. p. 79–90.
Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook volume 2: Crop production. 18th ed. Ball Pub., West Chicago,
IL. p. 249–250.
Schroeter-Zakrzewska, A. and T. Kleiber. 2012. Application of slow-release fertilizers in
growing marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens) Molimba® group. Ecological
Chemistry and Engineering A. 19(12): 1471–1484.
Nutritional Monitoring Marguerite Daisy
Garrett
W.W.
©© Owen Owen
Garrett
Figure 9. High substrate pH limits iron (Fe) availability, leading to symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the
upper leaves of marguerite daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens). Symptom progression from asymptomatic (left) to
highly symptomatic (right) is demonstrated here. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue analysis for marguerite daisies

(Argyranthemum frutescens).
Sufficiency Low
Element Healthy 2
Range 1 pH 3
Nitrogen (N) 6.53 – 7.28
5.10 4.74
Phosphorus (P) 0.58 – 0.73
0.33 0.24
4.36 5.68
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 1.78 – 1.79
1.84 1.13
0.43 0.55
Sulfur (S) 0.27 – 0.30
0.68 0.41
Iron (Fe) 56 – 66
399 1,470
Manganese (Mn) 234 – 236
524 655
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 21.5 – 30.9
46.2 52.5
Copper (Cu) 5.3 – 7.8
5.45 4.49
Boron (B) 47.5 – 58.8
85.3 101
2 Values obtained from the lower leaves of ~10 mature asymptomatic plants with pH and
EC values within the target range.

3 Values obtained from the lower leaves of 2 mature symptomatic plants with excessively
low substrate pH.
2018

Marigold
(Tagetes erecta & T. patula)
Marigolds require a low to medium level of fertility at 100 to 200
ppm N. The optimal pH range is between 5.8 to 6.2. This will avoid
low substrate pH induced iron (Fe) and manganese toxicities which
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occurs if the pH drifts lower than 5.5. Substrate pH values above
6.5 can also inhibit Fe availability.
Marigold
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low to Medium
100 to 200 ppm N
EC Category A, B:
1:2 Extraction:
© Brian E. Whipker
0.4 to 0.9 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 2.0 mS/cm
Figure 1. Lower leaves of a marigold exhibiting yellow PourThru:
and bronzing leaf coloration due to a low substrate pH.
1.3 to 3.0 mS/cm
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Marigold
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. Low substrate pH results in the lower leaves Figure 3. Progression of leaf symptoms due to a toxic
developing a bronzing coloration due to the accumulation of accumulation of iron and manganese induced by a low substrate
iron and manganese (toxicity). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. pH. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Marigolds

Marigolds are considered to require low to medium levels of fertility. Most growers
supply between 100 to 200 ppm N. The lower end of the N rate is commonly used to help
control excessive growth. Tissue nutrient levels found in healthy, newly expanded leaves
of African (Tagetes erecta) and French marigolds (T. patula) are listed in Table 1.
Marigolds should be grown with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2. This range will help avoid two
of the most common nutritional issues with the crop. The most disastrous is a low
substrate pH induced iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) toxicity that occurs if the pH drifts
lower than 5.5 (Figs. 1 to 3). Lower leaves will develop a bronze speckled appearance.
This is due to toxic levels of Fe, and sometimes Mn, accumulating in the tissue. Albano
et al. (1996) found that lower leaf symptoms developed when leaf tissue Fe levels
exceed 1000 ppm. One should denote that both Fe and Mn predominately accumulate in
the lower foliage and then progress up the plant. It will take a few weeks for plants to
grow out of this condition once the pH is corrected to the 5.8 to 6.2 range. Substrate pH
values above 6.5 can also inhibit Fe availability. This is why the optimal substrate pH
range is between 5.8 and 6.2 (Fig. 4). The range of 6.2 to 6.4 is the point in which
corrective procedures should begin.
Both nitrogen (N) deficiency (Fig. 5) and phosphorus (P) deficiency can occur with
marigolds. Nitrogen deficiency develops as an overall yellowing of the lower foliage or
overall plant. This disorder occurs when the fertilization rate is too low. Note that water
stress and tight spacing can also result in lower leaf yellowing. Phosphorus deficiency
usually appears as a lower leaf purple coloration. It is most commonly observed when
the growing temperatures are cool and low fertilization rates are used.
Nutritional Monitoring Marigold
Summary
Therefore, providing low to moderate
levels of fertility of 100 to 200 ppm N and
providing a substrate pH range of 5.8 to
6.2 will prevent most nutritional disorders
of marigolds.
Literature Cited
Albano, J.P., W.B. Miller, M.C. Halbrooks.
1996. Iron toxicity stress causes bronze
speckle, a specific physiological disorder
of marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) J. Amer.
Soc. Hort. Sci. 121(3):430-437.

analysis handbook IV, Micro-Macro Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)]
Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA. will result in an overall pale yellow coloration of marigold
(Tagetes erecta). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.

Floriculture: Principles and species. 2nd Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue
ed. Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle analysis for African (Tagetes erecta
© Brian E. Whipker
River, N.J. ‘Voyager Gold’) and French marigolds (T.
patula ‘Aurora Yellow’ and ‘Little Hero
Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook,18th ed. Ball Yellow’).
Sufficiency Range 1
PanAmerican. 2017. 2017 Seed product Element African French
marigold marigold
information guide. W. Chicago, IL.
Nitrogen (%) 2.20 – 5.50 3.32 – 3.62
Phosphorus (%) 0.23 – 0.67 0.49 – 0.54
Potassium (%) 1.50 – 2.19 2.79 – 2.88
Calcium (%) 0.88 – 2.74 2.36 – 2.72
Magnesium (%) 0.35 – 1.56 1.33 – 1.44
Sulfur (%) 0.18 – 0.88 1.34 – 1.44
Iron (ppm) 45 – 454 92 – 115
Manganese (ppm) 4 – 385 275 – 558
Zinc (ppm) 22 – 235 76 – 97
Figure 4. Reported and optimal pH range for marigolds based on Copper (ppm) 5 – 143 19 – 25
literature indicating upper and lower pH limits inducing
deficiencies and toxicities. Figure by: W. Garrett Owen. Boron (ppm) 15 – 39 34 – 40
Molybdenum (ppm) 0.10 – 0.60 0.22 – 0.62
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014). These values
represent the most recently matured leaves.
2018

New Guinea impatiens
(Impatiens hawkeri)
New Guinea impatiens require low fertility of 100 to 150 ppm N.
They prefer a pH within the range of 5.8 to 6.2. This range
prevents low substrate pH induced iron (Fe) and manganese
toxicities which occurs if the pH drifts lower than 5.5. Substrate pH Project Sponsor
values above 6.5 can also inhibit Fe availability and result in the
upper foliage developing interveinal chlorosis (yellowing).
Impatiens
New Guinea
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1. Lower leaves of a New Guinea impatiens PourThru:
(Impatiens hawkeri) exhibiting chlorosis (yellowing) and
blacking spotting of the leaf margin due to a low
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
substrate pH. Photo by W. Garrett Owen.
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring New Guinea impatiens
© W. Garrett Owen
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. Lower leaves of a New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens Figure 3. Substrate pH above 6.5 can inhibit iron (Fe) uptake
hawkeri) exhibiting chlorosis (yellowing) and black spotting of causing newly developed leaves of New Guinea impatiens
the leaf margin due to a low substrate pH of 4.6. Photo by: W. (Impatiens hawkeri) to become deficient in Fe and exhibit
Garrett Owen. interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of New Guinea impatiens

New Guinea impatiens should be grown with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2. Use recommended
1:2 Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods to determine and monitor substrate pH and
soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] values. Additionally, conduct
routine foliar analysis tests to monitor crop nutrient status. Tissue nutrient levels found
in healthy, newly expanded leaves of New Guinea impatiens are listed in Table 1.
Monitoring substrate pH and nutrient status will enable growers to avoid pH induced
Substrate pH below 5.8 causes increased uptake of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) to
toxic levels which will accumulate in leaf tissue (Table 1). Plants exhibiting Fe and/or Mn
toxicity will exhibit lower leaf chlorosis and black spotting or speckling along the leaf
margin progressing into the leaf (Fig. 1 and 2). Other symptoms may include stunting and
twisting or malformations of the new growth (Dole and Wilkin, 2005; Gibson et al.,
2007). Corrective procedures for low substrate pH should begin within the range of 5.5
to 5.8.
become deficient in Fe and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 3). If plants become
severely Fe-deficient, interveinal chlorosis intensifies and leaves become white (Fig. 4).
The symptoms then progress to mature leaves where the petioles and stem will exhibit a
light-pink coloration, necrotic (dead tissue) patches develop along the leaf midrib, and
pedicles, sepals, and flower buds develop a faded green-yellow color (Gibson et al.
2007). Corrective procedures for high substrate pH should begin within the range of 6.2
to 6.4.
New Guinea impatiens are highly sensitive

to EC (Nau, 2011) and are considered to
require low levels of fertility. In general,
provide 50 to 75 ppm N early in seed or
cutting production (Dole and Wilkins,
2005). Once young plants are transplanted
© Brian E. Whipker
into the final container, provide a low
fertilization rate of 0 to 100 ppm N for up
to 3 weeks until roots are established
(Nau, 2011; Dole and Wilkins, 2005;
Gibson et al., 2007). Thereafter, growers Figure 4. As a result of high substrate pH, severely iron (Fe)-
can increase fertility to medium levels of deficient New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) exhibit
intensified interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) where recently
100 to 150 ppm N until the crop is matured leaves become white and mature leaves are also
finished. affected. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Maintain substrate EC below 0.6, 1.3, or

2.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2 Extraction,
SME, or PourThru methods, respectively.
During early stages of growth, providing
too little fertility can cause lower leaf
chlorosis (yellowing; Fig. 5), leaf drop,
© Brian E. Whipker
poor branching and thin plants (Nau,
2011). Overfertilization will cause leaves
to appear dark, bluish tinged, shiny, wavy,
rippled and/or cupped (Fig. 6; Nau, 2011;
Dole and Wilkins, 2005). When EC values Figure 5. Providing insufficient fertility [low electrical
conductivity (EC)] during New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens
exceeded 1.5 mS/cm determined by the hawkeri) production can result lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing).
SME method, stunted growth and delayed Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
flowering can occur (Gibson et al., 2007).

To avoid high EC, it is recommended to
leach with clear water every third or
fourth irrigation (Nau, 2011). An
alternative is to monitor the substrate EC
levels, and if the substrate EC levels is
increasing over time, then switch to a few
© Brian E. Whipker
irrigations with clear water. This helps

avoid flushing out fertilizer that you
already paid for and provided to the crop.
Fertilizing with excessive ammoniacal-
nitrogen (NH4-N) has been reported to Figure 6. Overfertilization or excessive electrical conductivity
(EC) can result in the upper leaves of New Guinea impatiens
promote undesirable leaf expansion (Impatiens hawkeri) to appear shiny and wavy, rippled and/or
(larger leaves) and poor flowering cupped. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
(Nau, 2011). Additionally, excessive Bryson, G.M. and H.A. Mills. 2014. Plant
micronutrient levels in the substrate may analysis handbook IV. Micro-Macro
result in dieback of the growing tips, Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA.
marginal leaf necrosis of lower leaves,
and eventual plant collapse (Bailey, 1999). Dole, J.M. and H.F. Wilkins. 2005.
Therefore, it is important to provide New Floriculture: Principles and species. 2nd
Guinea impatiens with low to medium ed. Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle
(100 to 150 ppm N) fertility during crop River, NJ.
production.
Summary Rhodes, B.E. Whipker, P.V. Nelson, and
Providing New Guinea impatiens with low J.M. Dole. 2007. Nutrient deficiencies in
to moderate levels of fertility ranging bedding plants. Ball Publishing,
from 100 to 150 ppm N and maintaining a W. Chicago, IL.
substrate pH of 5.8 to 6.2 will prevent
most nutritional disorders from occurring. Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook,18th ed. Ball
Literature Cited
Bailey, D. A. 1999. Commercial production
of New Guinea impatiens. Horticulture
information leaflet 526:1–10.
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri)
grown with low substrate pH and recommended foliar nutrient concentrations for plants
grown with the recommended level of fertility.
Sufficiency Low
Element
Range 1 pH 2
Nitrogen (N) 2.0 - 4.1 2.1
Phosphorus (P) 0.3 - 0.8 0.4
Potassium (K) 1.0 - 4.5 1.1
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 0.5 - 2.7 2.1
Magnesium (Mg) 0.3 - 0.8 0.8
Sulfur (S) 0.2 - 0.8 0.8
Iron (Fe) 75 - 300 1060
Manganese (Mn) 50 - 250 825
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 25 - 100 40.9
Copper (Cu) 4 - 15 4.79
Boron (B) 20 - 80 39.6
2 Source: Owen and Whipker (2017).
2018

Ornamental Cabbage and Kale
(Brassica oleracea var. acephala)
Ornamental cabbage and kale are excellent plants for fall color.
Plants require medium levels of fertilization, growing optimally
with 150 to 200 ppm N. The target substrate pH values are
between 5.8 and 6.2. The most common nutritional disorder of Project Sponsor
ornamental cabbage and kale is providing insufficient fertility,
Cabbage and Kale

Ornamental
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Medium
150 to 200 ppm N
© Brian E. Whipker
EC Category B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm
Figure 1. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical SME:
conductivity (EC)] results in lower leaf chlorosis
(yellowing) of green leafed cultivars [right] or reddening 1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
of red leafed cultivars [left] of ornamental cabbage and
kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala). Photo by: Brian E. PourThru:
Whipker.
2.0 to 3.0 mS/cm
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Ornamental cabbage and kale
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. If the electrical conductivity (EC) is too low early in Figure 3. Excessively low soluble salts [referred to
the production cycle, plant growth will be limited or even as electrical conductivity (EC)] ultimately results
stunted. Carefully monitor the plant growth to avoid in lower leaf loss of ornamental cabbage and kale
excessively low fertility which will result in lower leaf (Brassica oleracea var. acephala). Photo by: Brian
discoloration and leaf drop. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. E. Whipker.
which results in lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) and drop. In addition, like all members
of the cabbage family, they are unforgiving if drought stressed and if wilted may exhibit
stalled growth.
Fertility Management of Ornamental Cabbage and Kale

Ornamental cabbage and kale require medium levels of fertility. Growers should
maintain fertilization at 150 to 200 ppm N during periods of normal growth. Low soluble
salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] results in lower leaf chlorosis
(yellowing) of green leafed cultivars or reddening of red leafed cultivars (Fig. 1). If the
EC is too low early in the production cycle, plant growth will be limited or even stunted
(Fig. 2). For growing plants in smaller sized pots, growers often use half the
recommended fertility rate. They then carefully monitor the plant growth to avoid
excessively low fertility which will result in lower leaf discoloration and leaf drop (Fig.
3).
For finishing, earlier recommendations suggested stopping fertilization to enhance

coloration of plants. Coloration is a function of temperature, and color development is
enhanced by temperatures in the 50 to 55 °F (10 to 13 °C) range. While the vibrancy of
color development will be hindered by excessive fertilization, adequate fertilization
rates still need to be provided to maintain overall plant quality. Research by Jamie
Gibson during his M.S. program at NC State University (Dr. Gibson is currently with
Syngenta) found that plant growth continues during coloration. These newly developing
leaves have a high demand for nutrients as they grow. If fertilization is curtailed, this
will result in the plant moving (translocating) the mobile elements [nitrogen (N),
phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)] from the lower leaves to the new growth. This
results in the development of nutrient clear water irrigations to leach excess

deficiency symptoms of lower leaf salts (but this more drastic step results in
yellowing or reddening, and ultimately wasting your fertilizer investment and can
leaf loss. To avoid lower leaf loss, it is be avoided by monitoring the EC and
common near coloration time to lower the taking action before it becomes
fertility to around 100 ppm N and monitor excessive).
the plants for signs of deficiencies –
making adjustments as needed. Additional Substrate pH should be maintained
details about fertilizer strategies for between 5.8 and 6.2. Lower or higher
ornamental cabbage and kale can be values beyond this range commonly lead
found in e-GRO Alert 3.45 Ornamental to low or high pH induced nutritional
Cabbage and Kale: Avoiding Lower Leaf disorders. High pH inhibits iron (Fe)
Loss (Whipker, 2014). uptake, causing interveinal chlorosis of
the upper foliage (Fig. 6).
Another fertility strategy used by
ornamental cabbage and kale growers for On many species, low substrate pH results
outdoor produced crops, is to provide a in excessive uptake of Fe and manganese
half rate of slow release fertilizer. This (Mn), which leads to toxicity symptom
helps maintain a baseline level of fertility development. Toxicity of Fe and Mn
in the pots even if there are periods of exhibits symptoms of a lower leaf purplish
heavy rain (i.e. tropical storms delivering coloration with black spotting. This has
2+ inches of rain). The remaining not been observed with ornamental
fertilizer needs are provided by liquid cabbage and kale by the authors in
fertilizer applications and can be adjusted greenhouse production.
over time as required.
Summary
Also note that drought stress will result in Maintaining moderate fertility at 150 to
lower leaf chlorosis and leaf loss (Fig. 4). 200 ppm N and a pH of 5.8 to 6.2 will
Ornamental cabbage and kale plants do enable you to grow healthy ornamental
not perform well when wilted and may not cabbage and kale while preventing high
fully recover. pH induced nutritional disorders.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Literature Cited

excessive EC. High EC can lead to Gibson, J.L., D.S. Pitchay, A.L. Williams-
marginal chlorosis or browning (necrosis) Rhodes, B.E. Whipker, P.V. Nelson, and
of the lower and/or upper leaves (Fig. 5). J.M. Dole. 2007. Nutrient deficiencies in
Leaf margin chlorosis on the younger bedding plants: A pictorial guide for
leaves will result in a cupping of the identification and correction. Ball
leaves as they continue to grow. If the EC Publishing, Inc., West Chicago, IL.
increases beyond optimal levels, apply a
few irrigations with clear water to lower
it. If the EC is excessively high, apply two
Whipker, B.E. 2014. Ornamental cabbage

and kale: avoiding lower leaf loss. e-GRO
Alert 3-45, p. 5.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 4. Drought stress of ornamental cabbage and kale
(Brassica oleracea var. acephala) will also result in lower leaf
chlorosis (yellowing) and leaf loss. Symptoms can mimic a low
electrical conductivity (EC) situation. Photo by: Brian E.
Whipker.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 5. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] due to an over-application of fertilizer can lead to marginal leaf
browning and necrosis (death). Symptoms are typically observed after the plants were drought stressed. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 6. High substrate pH leads to interveinal yellowing (chlorosis) on the upper foliage. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.

ornamental cabbage and kale (Brassica oleracea var.
acephala).
Nitrogen (%) 3.50 – 4.50

Phosphorus (%) 0.20 – 0.60
Potassium (%) 3.00 – 4.00
Calcium (%) 0.50 – 1.00
Magnesium (%) 0.20 – 0.40
Sulfur (%) 0.25 – 1.00
Iron (ppm) 50 – 300
Manganese (ppm) 59.7 – 77.5
Zinc (ppm) 20 – 75
Molybdenum (ppm) ---
2018

Pansy
(Viola ×wittrockiana)
Pansies require low fertility of 100 to 150 ppm N. Optimal substrate
pH values for pansies range from 5.5 to 5.8. Pansies can develop
both low and high substrate pH disorders. If substrate pH drifts
lower than 5.5, iron (Fe) and/or manganese toxicity occurs and is Project Sponsor
observed as lower leaf black spotting. Substrate pH values above 6.2
to 6.5 inhibits Fe availability and induce interveinal chlorosis.
Pansy
pH Category II:
5.5 to 5.8
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1. Low substrate pH causes toxic iron (Fe) and PourThru:
manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of black
spotting on the lower leaves of pansies (Viola 1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
×wittrockiana). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Pansy
© W. Garrett Owen
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 2. Low substrate pH causes toxic iron (Fe) and Figure 3. Lower leaf marginal necrosis occurs when toxic levels
manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of black spotting of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) accumulate in lower leaves of
progressing into the lower leaves of pansies (Viola pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana) induced by low substrate pH.
×wittrockiana). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
Fertility Management of Pansy

Pansies should be grown with a substrate pH range of 5.5 to 5.8. Substrate pH influences
nutrient availability and uptake, therefore use recommended 1:2 Extraction, SME, or
PourThru methods to determine and monitor substrate pH and soluble salt [referred to
as electrical conductivity (EC)] values. Additionally, conduct routine foliar analysis tests
to monitor crop nutrient status. Tissue nutrient levels found in healthy, newly expanded
leaves of pansies are listed in Table 1. Monitoring substrate pH and nutrient status will
enable growers to avoid pH induced nutritional disorders.
Substrate pH below 5.5 causes increased uptake of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) to
toxic levels which will accumulate in leaf tissue (Table 1). Plants exhibiting Fe and/or Mn
toxicity exhibit purple to black spotting along lower leaf margins (Fig. 1) that progresses
into the leaf (Fig. 2), developing into interveinal chlorosis (yellowing), and marginal leaf
necrosis (death; Fig. 3). Less common, Fe and/or Mn toxicity can be observed as reddish-
orange interveinal chlorosis of the lower leaves (Fig. 4). Corrective procedures for low
substrate pH should begin within the range of 5.0 to 5.4.
become Fe-deficient and exhibit faint marginal (Fig. 5) and interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 6).
If plants become severely Fe-deficient, interveinal chlorosis intensifies and leaves
become white or bleached (Fig. 7).
High substrate pH above 6.2 limits boron (B) availability and uptake, thus resulting in B
deficiency (Whipker et al., 2004a). Initial symptoms of B deficiency begin on new
growth, usually observed during the plug stage, with leaves and stems being distorted,
clubby, thick, and strap- or spoon-like

(Figs. 8A and B). Plants are often stunted
with a rosette appearance, foliage is
darker green, and most flowers abort, and
those surviving have partially formed
petals (Gibson et al., 2007). Advanced
© W. Garrett Owen
symptoms include necrosis of the primary
meristem resulting in axillary (secondary)
shoot growth. Corrective procedures for
high substrate pH should begin within the
range of 6.0 to 6.4. However, once plugs Figure 4. Low substrate pH causes toxic iron (Fe) and
or transplants exhibit B deficiency manganese (Mn) accumulation and symptoms of reddish-orange
interveinal chlorosis of the lower leaves of pansies (Viola
symptoms, it will be highly difficult to ×wittrockiana). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
reverse and recover plants using
corrective procedures. In severe
instances, symptomatic plugs or
transplants should be discarded.
To prevent B deficiency, determine if the

fertilizer or irrigation water contains
© W. Garrett Owen
adequate levels of B. Information can be
found on the fertilizer analysis label and
by submitting irrigation water for analysis.
If supplemental B is required, add B to the
fertilizer solution or apply weekly drench
Figure 5. High substrate pH limits iron (Fe) availability, leading
applications of 0.25 ppm B. For a 0.25 to symptoms of marginal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper
ppm B rate, mix 0.85 g borax (11% B) or leaves of pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana). Photo by: W. Garrett
Owen.
0.48 g Solubor (20% B) per 100 gallons of
water (Whipker et al., 2004a). Excessive B
can be toxic to plugs and transplants.
Though rare, toxicity symptoms include
spotty interveinal necrosis of older leaves,
bright yellow leaf margins turning red to
brown and becoming necrotic.
© W. Garrett Owen
Additionally, excessive Ca antagonizes B

availability and limits uptake of B,
potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg).
Therefore, limit Ca applications by
Figure 6. High substrate pH limits iron (Fe) availability, leading
avoiding calcium nitrate [Ca(NO3)2] –based to symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper
fertilizers. leaves of pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana). Photo by: W. Garrett
Owen.
Pansies are sensitive to high EC and are

considered to require low fertility. During
Stage 2 [radical, hypocotyl (stem), and
cotyledons (seedling leaves) emergence]
of plug production, provide 50 ppm N
(Dole and Wilkins, 2005). At Stage 3, (true
© Brian E. Whipker
leaves develop), increase fertility and
provide 100 ppm N weekly or at every two
or three irrigations. At Stage 4 (toning or
hardening off for transplant), increase
fertility to 100 to 150 ppm N and provide
Figure 7. As a result of high substrate pH, severely iron (Fe)- as needed. From Stages 2 to 4 of plug
deficient pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana) exhibit intensified
interveinal chlorosis where recently matured leaves become production, maintain EC values below 1.0,
white or bleached and mature leaves are also affected. Photo
by: W. Garrett Owen and Brian E. Whipker.
1.5, and 2.0 m mS/cm based on the
PourThru method, respectively (Dole and
Wilkins, 2005).
Once transplanted, continue to provide a

low fertilization rate of 100 to 150 ppm N.
In general, provide pansies with a
fertilizer containing no more than 40%
© W. Garrett Owen
ammoniacal- [ammonium + urea; (NH4-N)]

nitrogen or nitrate- (NO3-N) nitrogen
should comprise >75% of the total N
(Whipker et al., 2004b). During winter
Figure 8A. Pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana) exhibiting distorted,
months when plants are grown under
clubby, and thick leaves and stems due to high substrate pH cooler temperatures, avoid fertilizers
induced boron (B) deficiency. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
providing ammoniacal nitrogen because
leaves may develop a blue-purple
coloration similar to phosphorus (P)
deficiency (Dole and Wilkins, 2005).
Routinely check substrate EC and maintain

below 0.6, 1.3, or 2.0 mS/cm, based on
the 1:2 Extraction, SME, or PourThru
methods, respectively. When leaching is
limited or crops are overfertilized or
irrigated with water containing high
amounts of dissolved salts, excessive EC
Figure 8B. Pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana) exhibiting distorted, injury can occur. Symptoms of high EC
clubby, and thick leaves and stems due to high substrate pH
induced boron (B) deficiency. Photos by: W. Garrett Owen. include poor plant growth and lower leaf
chlorosis progressing to necrotic leaf
margins (Fig. 9) (Whipker et al., 2004b). If

EC levels begin to increase, switch to
clear water irrigations to avoid a build-up
of fertilizer salts in the substrate. If EC
levels become excessive, then leach the
substrate with clear irrigation water twice
© W. Garrett Owen
before providing fertility. It is best to
monitor the crop to avoid excessive EC
leach it out of the substrate.
Figure 9. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical
In some instances, growers amend slow- conductivity (EC)] cause poor growth of pansies (Viola
×wittrockiana) and lower leaf chlorosis (yellow) progressing to
release fertilizers into the substrate when necrotic (death) leaf margins. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
growing in large containers or in areas of
heavy rainfall where nutrients are
removed from outdoor grown crops. After
heavy rainfall, growers can provide 200 to
300 ppm N thereby replenishing leached
nutrients (Whipker et al., 2004b).
Regardless of fertility source, low EC
© Brian E. Whipker
results in stunted growth, lower leaf
chlorosis (Fig. 10) or purpling caused by
either P (Fig. 10) or zinc (Zn; Fig. 12)
deficiencies or cold growing
temperatures.
conductivity (EC)] causes lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) of
Summary pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Providing pansies with a low level of

fertility ranging from 100 to 150 ppm N
and maintaining a substrate pH of 5.5 to
5.8 will prevent most nutritional disorders
from occurring.
Literature Cited
© W. Garrett Owen

River, NJ.
Figure 11. Lower leaf chlorosis and purpling of pansies (Viola
×wittrockiana) can be a result of low soluble salts [referred to
as electrical conductivity (EC)] and phosphorus (P) deficiency.

bedding plants. Ball Publishing, W.
Chicago, IL.
© W. Garrett Owen
Whipker, B.E. and B. Krug. 2004a. Avoiding
boron problems, p. 41–42. In: B.E.
Whipker and T.J. Cavins (eds.). Pansy
production handbook. North Carolina
Commercial Flower Growers’ Association, Figure 12. Lower leaf marginal leaf purpling is a symptom of
Raleigh, NC. zinc (Zn) deficiency in pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana). Photo by:
W. Garrett Owen.
Whipker, B.E., B. Krug, and T.J. Cavins.

2004b. Managing pansy fertilization, p. 36–
40. In: B.E. Whipker and T.J. Cavins
(eds.). Pansy production handbook. North
Carolina Commercial Flower Growers’
Association, Raleigh, NC.
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for pansies (Viola ×wittrockiana) grown with low
substrate pH and recommended foliar nutrient concentrations for plants grown with the
recommended level of fertility.
Element Sufficiency Range 1 Low pH 2
Nitrogen (N) 2.5 – 4.5 2.95

Phosphorus (P) 0.25 – 1.00 0.18
Potassium (K) 2.5 – 5.0 4.20
Calcium (Ca) (%) 0.6 – 3.0 1.12
Magnesium (Mg) 0.25 – 0.75 1.43
Sulfur (S) 0.20 – 0.70 0.25
Sodium (Na) 0 – 0.5 0.75
Iron (Fe) 30 – 300 3,640
Manganese (Mn) 25 – 300 1,750
Zinc (Zn) (ppm) 20 – 100 196
Copper (Cu) 5 – 40 4.4
Boron (B) 20 – 80 61.1
1 Source: Whipker et al. (2014b).
2 Values obtained from the lower leaves of mature symptomatic plants with excessively low substrate
pH.
2018

Pepper, transplants
(Capsicum annuum)
Peppers grown for transplant require very low levels of fertilization
at <100 ppm N. Lower fertilization rates are desirable to limit
stretch and maintain compact growth. However, inducing nutrient
Project Sponsor
stress with excessively low nutrition can delay production and limit
yield potential. Optimal substrate pH values range from 5.8 to
transplants
Pepper,
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Ultra Low
<100 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
© W. Garrett Owen
0.2 to 0.3 mS/cm

SME:
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm
Figure 1. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical PourThru:
conductivity (EC)] can cause excessive vegetative
growth with large, drooping leaves on pepper 0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm
(Capsicum annuum). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
1NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Pepper, transplants
© Brian Whipker
© Brian Whipker
Figure 2. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. High pH can limit iron (Fe) availability, leading to
conductivity (EC)] can cause lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) on symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper
pepper (Capsicum annuum). Photo by: Brian Whipker. leaves of pepper (Capsicum annuum). Photo by: Brian Whipker.
6.2. Peppers are susceptible to both low and high substrate pH disorders. High pH
inhibits iron (Fe) uptake, leading to symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the
upper leaves. Low pH causes toxic accumulation of Fe and manganese in the lower
leaves, leading to black spotting.
Fertility Management of Pepper Transplants

Peppers grown for transplant require low levels of fertility. Fertilization should not
begin until a few days after germination. Plants should be grown with < 100 ppm N using
a complete fertilizer such as 20-10-20. Other recommendations suggest using high
phosphorus (P) fertilizers such as 15-22-17 or 15-16-17. These fertilizers may cause
excessive stem elongation, leading to tall, leggy plants. However, insufficient P can
significantly limit growth and quality of young pepper plants, leading to a longer
production period and lower potential yield.
Although we recommend growing pepper transplants with low fertility, it is important to

maintain sufficient nutrition to avoid deficiency symptoms. Low soluble salts [referred to
as electrical conductivity (EC)] can cause stunting and chlorosis (yellowing) on the lower
foliage (Fig. 1). Raising the fertilizer rate or fertilizing more frequently will help to
alleviate this problem. High salts cause excessive vegetative growth, leading to weak
plants with large leaves (Fig. 2). With excessively high salts, the lower leaves may
develop necrosis (death) and abscise from the plant. Too lower the substrate EC, apply
clear water to leach excess salts.
Substrate pH is important to monitor, as peppers are susceptible to both high and low pH
disorders. High substrate pH can inhibit iron (Fe) uptake and lead to Fe deficiency
symptoms of interveinal chlorosis

(yellowing) of the upper foliage (Fig. 3).
Symptoms may be confined to just the
youngest leaves in early instances of high
pH induced Fe deficiency (Fig. 4). Low
substrate pH makes iron (Fe) and
manganese (Mn) highly available for
uptake. This leads to symptoms of Fe and
Mn toxicity, which appears as black
© Brian Whipker
spotting on the lower leaves (Fig. 5).
Monitoring substrate pH and periodic tissue
sampling can help to determine if
symptoms are due to high or low Fe and Mn
leaf tissue concentrations. Iron deficiency
Figure 4. High pH can limit iron (Fe) availability, leading to
can be remedied with an application of symptoms of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on the upper
iron chelate, while Fe and Mn toxicity can leaves of pepper (Capsicum annuum). Photo by: Brian Whipker.
be remedied by flowable lime application

to raise the pH. Sufficiency ranges for
pepper leaf tissue are presented in Table 1.
Summary
Maintaining very low fertility at 100 ppm N
or less and a pH of 5.8 to 6.2 can help you
to produce healthy pepper transplants
without issues of high or low pH induces
nutrient disorders.
Literature Cited
Bass, L. 1999. Growing vegetable
transplants. NC State Extension
Horticulture Information Leaflet. © Brian Whipker

analysis handbook IV, Micro-Macro
Floriculture: Principles and species. 2nd Figure 5. Low substrate pH causes symptoms of dark purple
spotting on the lower leaves of peppers (Capsicum annuum).
ed. Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle These spots are caused by a toxic accumulation of iron (Fe) and
River, N.J. manganese (Mn). Photo by: Brian Whipker.
Dufault, R.J. 1998. Vegetable transplant

nutrition. HortTechnology 8:515–523.

peppers (Capsicum annuum).

Nitrogen (N) 4.0 – 5.0
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 0.9 – 1.5
Sulfur (S) 0.30 – 0.60
Iron (Fe) 30 – 150
Zinc (Zn) 25 – 80
(ppm)
Copper (Cu) 5 – 10
Boron (B) 20 – 50
1 Source: Bryson et al. (2014). Samples taken in production fields
prior to blossoming with the most recently matured leaf and petiole
included.
2018

Petunia
(Petunia ×atkinsiana)
Petunias propagated from both seed and vegetative cuttings are
considered to have a high fertilization requirement. Seed petunias
can be fertilized with 150 to 200 ppm N to maximize growth, while
Project Sponsor
vegetative-types require 200 to 300 ppm N. Optimal pH values are
between 5.5 and 6.2. The most common nutritional disorder is iron
Petunias
pH Category II to III:
5.5 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Medium
150 to 300 ppm N
EC Category B:
1:2 Extraction:
0.6 to 2.0 mS/cm
© Brian E. Whipker
SME:
1.3 to 4.4 mS/cm
conductivity (EC)] can cause symptoms of lower leaf
chlorosis (yellowing). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
2.0 to 6.6 mS/cm
1NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
2Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Petunia
© W. Garrett Owen
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical Figure 3. Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) due to iron (Fe)
conductivity (EC)] can cause symptoms of lower leaf necrosis deficiency is common on petunias (Petunia ×atkinsiana)
(browning). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. grown with high substrate pH. Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
(Fe) yellowing (chlorosis), which occurs when the substrate pH values exceed 6.4 and
thus limit Fe absorption and can lead to deficiency symptoms.
Fertility Management of Petunias
Petunias require high levels of fertility. Lower fertility at 150 to 200 ppm N is required
for seed propagated cultivars while higher rates of 200 to 300 ppm N are required for
cutting propagated petunias. Soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)]
found in the substrate should be lower for seed propagated petunias, while vegetative
petunias require higher EC values. In cases of excessively low EC, petunias develop
symptoms of lower leaf yellowing (chlorosis) (Fig. 1). Fertility should be increased to
remedy this situation. If EC becomes too high, symptoms of lower leaf browning
(necrosis) occur (Fig. 2). Leaching with clear water will help to reduce excess salts.
Substrate pH values between 5.5 and 6.2 should be maintained during petunia
production. A substrate pH level below ~6.4 is required to prevent Fe deficiency
symptoms. The common symptom associated with this deficiency is upper leaf
interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 3), but similar symptoms may be observed with manganese
(Mn) deficiency, although Mn deficiencies are rare. In sever Fe-deficient instances, leaf
tissue will become white or bleached (Fig. 4). Tissue sampling can help to determine
whether symptoms are caused by Fe, Mn, or both (Table 1). Iron deficiency can be
remedied with an application of Fe chelate. When substrate pH becomes too low, plants
can experience significant stunting (Fig. 5). Use flowable lime to increase the substrate
pH.
Nutritional Monitoring Petunia
Summary Table 1. Recommended range of leaf

Maintaining high fertility at 200–350 ppm tissue analysis for petunia (Petunia
N and a low pH of 5.5–6.2 should facilitate ×atkinsiana).
healthy, vigorous growth while preventing Element Sufficiency Range 1
nutritional disorders for petunias. Nitrogen (%) 3.85 – 7.60

Phosphorus (%) 0.47 – 0.93
Literature Cited Potassium (%) 3.13 – 6.65
Calcium (%) 1.20 – 2.81
Magnesium (%) 0.36 – 1.37
analysis handbook IV, Micro-Macro Sulfur (%) 0.33 – 0.80
Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA. Iron (ppm) 84 – 168
Dole, J.M. and H.F. Wilkins. 2005. Manganese (ppm) 44 – 177
Floriculture: Principles and species. 2nd Zinc (ppm) 33 – 85
ed. Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle Copper (ppm) 3 – 19
River, N.J. Boron (ppm) 18 – 43
© W. Garrett Owen
Figure 4. Severe cases of iron (Fe) deficiency caused by high pH

can bleach (white) the upper foliage. Photo by: W. Garrett
Owen.
Stunted Growth With Low pH
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 5. Low substrate pH causes significant stunting in

petunias (Petunia ×atkinsiana). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
2018

Primula
(Primula vulgaris)
Primula require low fertility of 100 to 150 ppm N. They prefer a pH
within the range of 5.5 to 6.2. Substrate pH values above 6.2 can
inhibit iron availability and induce interveinal chlorosis or yellowing
of the upper foliage. Primula are sensitive to excessive soluble salts Project Sponsor
[referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] and may result in
marginal leaf burn or necrosis.
Primula
pH Category II,III:
5.5 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N
EC Category A:
1:2 Extraction:
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm
© Brian E. Whipker
SME:
0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
Figure 1. High substrate pH above 6.2 will inhibit iron PourThru:
(Fe) uptake causing newly developed and recently
matured leaves to become Fe-deficient and exhibit 1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
marginal and interveinal chlorosis (yellowing). Photo
by: Brian E. Whipker.
1Michigan
State University
wgowen@msu.edu
2NCState University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Primula
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. Substrate pH below 5.5 will inhibit magnesium (Mg) Figure 3. Substrate pH below 5.5 will inhibit magnesium (Mg)
uptake causing lower or older leaves to become Mg-deficient uptake causing lower or older leaves to become Mg-deficient
and exhibit interveinal chlorosis. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) and intensify to
overall leaf chlorosis. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker
Fertility Management of Primula

Micronutrient deficiencies or toxicities are common during primula production.
Interveinal or marginal chlorosis (yellowing) or necrosis (death) may develop due to high
substrate pH or over fertilization or high soluble salts [referred to as electrical
conductivity (EC)].
Primula should be grown with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.2. Tissue nutrient levels found in
healthy, newly expanded leaves and critical tissue values of primula are listed in Table 1.
This range will enable growers to avoid high and low pH nutritional disorders.
recently matured leaves to become Fe-deficient and exhibit marginal and interveinal
chlorosis (Fig. 1). Corrective procedures for high substrate pH should begin within the
range of 6.2 to 6.4. Maintaining substrate pH below 6.2 will reduce the likelihood of Fe-
deficiency from occurring; however, applications of chelated micronutrients, such as Fe
may be used to correct these deficiency symptoms.
to become Mg-deficient and exhibit interveinal chlorosis (Fig. 2) and intensify to overall
leaf chlorosis (Fig. 3). Corrective procedures for low substrate pH should begin within
the range of 5.3 to 5.5. Monthly applications of supplemental Mg in the form of
magnesium sulfate (MgSO4; Epsom salts) at a rate of 8 oz./100 gallons of water in areas
with naturally occurring Mg in the water supply or 16 oz./100 gallons of water in areas
lacking Mg in the irrigation water (Whipker, personal communications) may be required if
plants exhibit interveinal chlorosis of lower or older leaves.
Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient sufficiency

range recommended for primula (Primula
vulgaris).
Sufficiency
Element
Range 1
Nitrogen (N) 2.50 – 3.30
(%)
Calcium (Ca) 0.60 – 1.00
© W. Garrett Owen
Sulfur (S) 0.18 – 0.29
Iron (Fe) 75 – 155
Zinc (Zn) 40 – 45
(ppm)
Figure 4. Primula (Primula vulgaris) are sensitive to excessive Copper (Cu) 5 – 10
soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] and Boron (B) 30 – 35
may result in marginal leaf burn or necrosis (death). Photo by:
W. Garrett Owen.
Plants may become chlorotic if substrate is kept too wet or drain poorly. Allow substrate
to dry thoroughly between irrigations, but avoid permanent wilting.
Primula are highly sensitive to excessive EC levels. Substrate EC should remain below
0.6, 1.3, or 2.0 mS/cm, based on the 1:2 Extraction, SME, or PourThru methods,
respectively. Accumulation of fertilizer salts in the substrate may result in marginal leaf
burn or necrosis (Fig. 4) and mimic water stress symptomology. To avoid high EC, it is
recommended to keep the fertilization rate low (100 to 150 ppm N). If levels begin to
increase, switch to clear water irrigations to avoid a build-up of fertilizer salts in the
substrate. If EC levels become excessive, then leach the substrate with clear irrigation
water twice before providing fertility. It is best to monitor the crop to avoid excessive
EC levels than to waste fertilizer by having to leach it out of the pots.
During propagation, specifically Stage 2 [radical, hypocotyl (stem), and cotyledons

(seedling leaves) emergence] of seedling production, begin fertilizing at 50 to 75 ppm N
provided from 14-0-14 (Dole and Wilkins, 2005; Karlsson, 1997). At Stage 3 (true leaves
develop) and during production increase fertility to 100 to 150 ppm N provided from a
well-balanced calcium nitrate [Ca(NO3)2] -based fertilizer with micronutrient
supplements.
During winter months when plants are grown under cooler temperatures, fertilize with
nitrate based fertilizers such as Ca(NO3)2. Avoid fertilizers providing ammonium (NH4-N)
such as 20-10-20 or 20-20-20. Avoid ammoniacal-based fertilizers which can cause
excessive vegetative growth and leaf expansion. Additionally, cold growing temperature
or low fertility can result in premature bud set on small plants (Dole and Wilkins, 2005).
Primula can become phosphorous (P)

deficient during production.
Symptomology of P-deficient primula
include newly developing leaves to curl
inward and lower leaves become bronzed
with brown veins (Karlsson, 1997).
Summary
Providing primula with low fertility
ranging from 100 to 150 ppm N, limit
ammoniacal-based fertilizers, and
maintaining a substrate pH of 5.5 to 6.2
will prevent most nutritional disorders.
Literature Cited
Bryson, G.M., H.A. Mills, D.N. Sasseville,

River, NJ.
Karlsson, M.G. 1997. Primula, p. 107–111.

In: M.L. Gaston, S.A. Carver, C.A. Irwin,
and R.A. Larson (eds.). Tips on growing
specialty potted crops. Ohio Florist
Association, Columbus, OH.
Brian E. Whipker1 Paul Cockson1 Josh Henry1 W. Garrett Owen2
2018

Tomato, transplants
(Solanum lycopersicum)
Tomato transplants require low levels of fertilization, growing optimally with
100 to 150 ppm N continuously to maximize growth. Lower fertilization rates of
50 to 75 ppm N are often used to manage growth. This requires careful
management of nutrients to avoid nutritionally stressing and diminishing the
yield potential of transplants. Optimal substrate pH values range from 5.8 to Project Sponsor
6.2. Tomatoes are susceptible to both low and high substrate pH disorders,
developing iron (Fe) and manganese toxicity at low pH and Fe deficiency at high pH.
Tomato,
transplants
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low
100 to 150 ppm N continuous.
(Lower levels of 50 to 75 ppm can
be used to manage growth, but
nutrient and water stress should
be avoided or the yield potential
of the plants will be
compromised.)
EC Category A:
© Brian E. Whipker
1:2 Extraction:
0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm
SME:
Figure 1. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical 0.9 to 1.3 mS/cm
(yellowing). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. PourThru:
1.3 to 2.0 mS/cm
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Tomato, transplants
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
conductivity (EC)] can result in lower leaf reddening, which conductivity (EC)] due to an over-application fertilizer can lead
denotes phosphorus (P) is limited. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. to marginal leaf browning and necrosis (death). Photo by: Brian
E. Whipker.
Fertility Management of Tomato Transplants

Young tomato plants grown for transplants require low levels of fertility. The exact rates
for nutrients depend on your market or finished plant quality. To maximize plant growth
in the greenhouse and early yield performance in the field, fertilization rates should
maintained between 100 to 150 ppm N (Weston and Zandstra, 1989). Lower levels of 50
to 75 ppm N are commonly used by growers to control growth. These levels can provide
sufficient nutrition thereby avoiding nutritional deficiencies, yet not go too high to avoid
excessive growth. One must also consider that plant age plays a part in yield potential.
Early yield is diminished if the plants are held too long and become pot bound (≈>6
weeks old). In addition, the use of water stress to control growth can also negatively
impact early yield. Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] can
cause chlorosis (yellowing; Fig. 1) or reddening (Fig. 2) on the lower foliage. Increasing
the fertilization rate will overcome the situation. High substrate EC can lead to
marginal chlorosis or browning (necrosis) of the lower leaves (Fig. 3). To lower substrate
EC, apply clear water to leach excess salts.
Maintaining growth control of tomato transplants presents unique challenges. Sumagic

(uniconazole) is registered for use as a plant growth regulator (PGR) for very young
seedlings. Growers must read and follow the label instructions, especially when using
this product for the first time. Sumagic is a very potent PGR, and excessive levels can
result in plant stunting. Because of few height control options later in the production
cycle of transplants, growers often rely upon a low phosphorus (P), low ammoniacal-
nitrogen, and low urea strategy. Avoiding these three fertilizer sources will aid in
controlling excessive stretch. Instead, Literature Cited

growers should utilize a fertilizer source Bryson, G.M. and H.A. Mills. 2014. Plant
blended from calcium nitrate and analysis handbook IV. Micro-Macro
potassium nitrate, such as a 15-0-15. Publishing, Inc., Athens, GA.
Periodic applications of a low P containing
© Brian E. Whipker
fertilizer providing 5 ppm P will help avoid Weston, L.A. and B.H. Zandstra. 1989.
the development of a P deficiency. Transplant age and N and P nutrition
effects on growth and yield of tomatoes.
Substrate pH should be maintained HortScience 24(1):88-90.
between 5.8 and 6.2. Lower or higher
values beyond this range commonly lead
to low or high pH induced nutritional
disorders. High pH inhibits iron (Fe) Insert Photo Here
uptake, causing interveinal chlorosis of
the upper foliage (Fig. 4) and thus, plants
are Fe deficient. Low pH causes excessive
uptake of Fe and manganese (Mn), which
© Brian E. Whipker
leads to toxicity symptom development.
Toxicity of Fe and Mn exhibits symptoms
of a lower leaf purplish coloration with
black spotting (Fig. 5). Monitoring
substrate pH and periodic tissue sampling
Figure 4. High substrate pH leads to interveinal yellowing
can help to determine if symptoms are (chlorosis) on the upper foliage. Photo by: Paul Cockson.
due to high or low Fe and Mn leaf tissue
concentrations. Iron deficiency can be
remedied with an application of iron
chelate, while Fe and Mn toxicity can be
remedied by flowable lime application to
adjust (raise) the pH. Sufficiency ranges
for foliar tissue are presented in Table 1
(Bryson and Mills, 2014).
© Brian E. Whipker
Summary
Maintaining low to moderate fertility at 50
to 150 ppm N and a pH of 5.8 to 6.5
should enable you to grow healthy tomato Figure 5. Low pH leads to iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn)
transplants while preventing low or high toxicity, causing symptoms of dark brown to black spotting.
pH induced nutritional disorders.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue

analysis for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum).
Nitrogen (%) 3.0 – 5.0

Phosphorus (%) 0.3 – 0.6
Potassium (%) 3.0 – 5.0
Calcium (%) 1.0 – 2.0
Magnesium (%) 0.3 – 0.5
Sulfur (%) 0.3 – 0.8
Iron (ppm) 40 – 100
Zinc (ppm) 25 – 40
1Source: Bryson et al. (2014) for indeterminate
tomatoes in production fields at the 5-leaf stage of
age. These values represent the most recently
matured leaf and petiole tissue.
2018

Zinnia
(Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are excellent bedding and summer color plants. Plants
require low to medium levels of fertility, growing best with 100 to
200 ppm N. The target substrate pH values are between 5.8 and
6.2. The most common nutritional disorders of are insufficient Project Sponsor
fertility, which results in lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) and drop;
Zinnia
pH Category III:
5.8 to 6.2
Fertility Category:
Low to Medium
100 to 200 ppm N
EC Category B:
© Brian E. Whipker
1:2 Extraction:
0.4 to 0.9 mS/cm
SME:
conductivity (EC)] results in lower leaf chlorosis 0.9 to 2.0 mS/cm
(yellowing) of zinnia (Zinnia elegans). Photo by: Brian E.
Whipker. PourThru:
1.3 to 3.0 mS/cm
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Zinnia
© Brian E. Whipker
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 2. If the electrical conductivity (EC) is too low early in Figure 3. High soluble salts [referred to as electrical
the production cycle of zinnia (Zinnia elegans), plant growth conductivity (EC)] due to an over-application of fertilizer can
will be checked or even stunted (right plant, versus a well lead to marginal leaf browning and death (necrosis) of zinnia
fertilized plant on the left). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. (Zinnia elegans). Symptoms are typically observed after the
plants were drought stressed. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
high substrate pH, which results in interveinal chlorosis of the youngest leaves; and low
substrate pH which results in black spotting of the older leaves.
Fertility Management of Zinnia

Zinnias require low to medium levels of fertility at 100 to 200 ppm N. Growers should
maintain fertilization at 100 to 200 ppm N during periods of normal growth. Low soluble
salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] results in lower leaf chlorosis
(yellowing; Fig. 1). If the EC is too low early in the production cycle, plant growth will
be checked or even stunted (Fig. 2).
On the opposite end of the spectrum is excessive EC. High EC can lead to marginal
chlorosis or browning (necrosis) of the lower leaves (Fig. 3). If the EC increases beyond
optimal levels, apply a few irrigations with clear water to lower it. If the EC is
excessively high, apply two clear water irrigations to leach excess salts (but this more
drastic step results in wasting your fertilizer investment and can be avoided by
this range commonly lead to low or high pH induced nutritional disorders. High substrate
pH greater than 6.4 inhibits iron (Fe) uptake, causing interveinal chlorosis of the upper
foliage (Fig. 4).
Low pH causes excessive uptake of Fe and manganese (Mn), which leads to toxicity
symptom development. Toxicity of Fe and Mn exhibits symptoms of a lower leaf purplish
coloration with black (Fig. 5) or red

spotting (Fig. 6). Foliar Fe and Mn
concentrations should remain below 300
ppm (Bryson and Mills, 2014). Monitoring
substrate pH and periodic tissue sampling
can help to determine if symptoms are
© Brian E. Whipker
due to high or low Fe and Mn (Table 1).
Iron deficiency can be remedied with an
application of iron chelate, while Fe and
Mn toxicity can be remedied by flowable
lime application to adjust (raise) the pH. Figure 4. High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis
(yellowing) on the upper foliage of zinnia (Zinnia elegans).
In addition, especially for summer crops,
tip burn of the youngest leaves around the
flower bud is associated with an
environmentally induced calcium (Ca)
deficiency (Fig. 7). More details can be
found in e-GRO Alert 3-44 (Whipker, 2014).
Summary
© Brian E. Whipker
Maintaining low to moderate fertility at
100 to 200 ppm N and a pH of 5.8 to 6.2
will enable you to grow healthy zinnias
while preventing high or low pH induced
Figure 5. Low substrate pH leads to black spotting on the
lower, older foliage of zinnia (Zinnia elegans). Photo by: Brian
Literature Cited E. Whipker.

analysis handbook IV. Micro-Macro

© Brian E. Whipker
bedding plants: A pictorial guide for

identification and correction. Ball
Publishing, Inc., West Chicago, IL.
Whipker, B.E. 2014. Zinnia: Tip burn of

Figure 6. Low substrate pH leads to red spotting on the lower,
Young Leaves. e-GRO Alert 3-44, p. 5. older foliage of zinnia (Zinnia elegans). Photo by: Brian E.
Whipker.
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 7. Tip burn on the leaves surround the flower
bud is the result of limited calcium (Ca) in zinnia
(Zinnia elegans). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue

analysis for zinnia (Zinnia elegans).
Sufficiency NC State
Element
Range 1 Critical Range 2
Nitrogen (%) 3.50 – 5.78 1.66
Phosphorus (%) 0.40 – 0.74 0.10
Potassium (%) 2.40 – 3.25 0.89
Calcium (%) 1.75 – 2.37 0.53
Magnesium (%) 0.89 – 1.48 0.10
Sulfur (%) 0.25 – 0.37 0.11
Iron (ppm) 80 – 150 47.0
Manganese (ppm) 200 – 300 10.8
Zinc (ppm) 50 – 115 9.2
Copper (ppm) 5 – 23 0.9
Boron (ppm) 35 – 67 23.4
Molybdenum (ppm) 0.3 – 0.5 --- 3

2 Gibson et al. (2007). Based on when deficiencies
were first observed.
Part 2.
Nutritional Monitoring
Resources
2018

Keeping in the Know:
pH and EC Monitoring
The basic fundamentals of growing plants are fertilizer, substrates,
and water. Understanding the interactions among these three
Project Sponsor
elements within the pot is why we establish a plant nutrition
management and monitoring program. In-house nutrient monitoring provides key pH and
soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] information needed for successful
crop production. If the substrate pH is too high, then interveinal chlorosis (yellowing)
occurs (Fig. 1). Too low of substrate pH results in purplish-black or red discoloration of the
lower leaves (Fig. 2). Lower leaf chlorosis is the typical symptom that occurs if the
substrate EC is too low (Fig. 3). Leaf margin necrosis can occur if the EC is too high (Fig.
4). Careful monitoring of the substrate pH and EC will help to avoid nutrient disorders.
Establishing a nutritional monitoring program is easy by following the steps provided here.
pH and EC Testing Methods

In greenhouse production, three primary methods are used to monitor a crop’s nutritional
status: Saturated Media Extract (SME), 1:2 Extraction, and PourThru.
A. Saturated Media Extract Method

This is the main procedure used by commercial substrate testing labs. It would involve
the submission of a substrate sample of around 2 cups in volume.
Steps:
1. Typically, a handful of substrate is removed from the side of ~15 to 20 pots for a
composite sample. The handful is taken from the middle third of the pot. This
provides the best representative sample of the nutritional status of the pot.
2. Combine all samples into one container. Remove any large roots and debris.
3. Mix the sample so it is homogenous and to ensure that a representative sample is
obtained.
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring pH and EC Monitoring
4. The sample can then be packaged and prepared to be shipped to a commercial lab
for analysis.
5. Note: if submitting a sample directly from a new bag, bale, or tower, slightly
moisten the substrate before packaging the sample for shipment. By doing so, the
water and lime will react during shipping, thereby providing a representative
reading of the substrate pH.
Advantages:
• Besides obtaining pH and EC values, labs also will report on the other nutrients in the
substrate. Periodically obtaining a complete analysis of nutrient levels is extremely
beneficial during the growing season.
Disadvantages:
• Must be sent out to a commercial lab in most cases to obtain more detailed nutrient
levels besides pH and EC.
• Cost associated with the test and shipping.
• Destructive removal of the substrate and root damage.
• Takes a few days before results are known, therefore halting any corrective actions
needed.
B. 1 to 2 Extraction Method
The 1:2 Extraction Method has historically been the primary method used to conduct in-
house testing because it is so easy to perform. It is used less often now after the
PourThru method (Method C below) for greenhouse crops was introduced by NC State
University.
Steps:
1. Typically, a handful of substrate is taken from the side of ~10 pots for a composite
sample. The handful is taken from the middle third of the pot. This provides the
most representative sample of the nutritional status of the pot.
2. Combine all samples into one container. Remove any large roots and debris.
3. Mix the sample so it is homogenous and to ensure that a representative sample is
obtained.
4. Note: if submitting a sample directly from a new bag, bale, or tower, place 2 cups
in a plastic bag, slightly moisten the substrate, and allow it to sit for 4 days. The
water will react with the lime during this time, allowing for a representative
reading of the substrate pH.
5. After 4 days, place 1 cup of substrate in a large plastic container with a holding
capacity of at least 3 cups.
6. Add 2 cups of distilled water and thoroughly stir the sample to ensure it is all wet.
The solution will often have a soupy consistency because of the excess water.
7. Wait at least 30 minutes and up to 60 minutes before testing for pH and EC values.
During this time, calibrate the pH and EC meter (Fig. 5) by following instructions
provided by the manufacture.
8. Because of the extra water used, the recommended EC values will be lower than
the recommendations for the SME and PourThru methods. Compare results to the
recommended ranges.
Advantages:
• This is a quick and easy method to use. Because you can conduct this test in-house it is
very cost-effective way to monitor the substrate pH and EC.
Disadvantages:
• Destructive removal of the substrate and root damage.
C. PourThru Method
Over 15 years ago, NC State University lead the research adaptation of the PourThru
method for determination of optimal pH and EC range for greenhouse crops. Since that
time, this method has become the preferred method for in-house testing of pH and EC
values for North American greenhouse growers.
Steps:
1. Irrigate the crop 30 to 60 minutes before starting, using fertilized water if you
typically fertigate. To know if you irrigated enough, check or watch to see if water
is dripping from the bottom.
2. After 30 to 60 minutes when the containers have stop dripping, place a saucer
under the pot.
3. Add 1 to 3 oz (3 to 100 ml) of distilled or de-ionized water.
4. Collect 1 to 2 oz (35 to 50 ml) of leachate for sampling.
5. Calibrate the pH and EC meter by following instructions provided by the
manufacture.
6. Test 3 to 5 pots per group to determine a representative pH and EC of the crop.
Advantages:
• This method is quick and easy to conduct. In addition, the plants roots are not
disturbed because no substrate is removed.
Disadvantages:
• Customized recommendations must be followed for top verses sub-irrigated crops. This
is because fertilizer salts accumulate in horizons differently depending if the plant is
top irrigated (in which case salts accumulate at the bottom of the pot) or sub-irrigated
(in which case salts accumulate at the top of the pot).
Interpretation
Substrate pH values are similar no matter which of the three methods you use. Because
of the dilution variation among the methods, one will see differences in EC values.
Table 1 contains EC interpretation values for comparison.
Tracking Values Over Time

A group of university researchers from Virginia Tech, Clemson University, University of
New Hampshire, and NC State University developed a free web-based tracking tool for
plotting PourThru pH and EC values over time. The project was funded by AFE and HRI.
It can be accessed at grozonetracker.com.
© W. Garrett Owen
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 1. Iron (Fe) chlorosis (yellowing) induced by elevated Figure 2. When the substrate pH goes too low, the lower leaves
substrate pH levels readily occurs above pH 6.3 to 6.5. A develop a purplish-black or red discoloration. Photo by Brian E.
nutritional monitoring program will help prevent this situation. Whipker.
Photo by: W. Garrett Owen
© W. Garrett Owen
© Brian E. Whipker
Figure 3. Lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) is an indication that Figure 4. Excessive soluble salts [referred to as electrical
soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] in the conductivity (EC)] result in leaf margin burn. Photo by: W.
substrate are too low. In-house EC monitoring will confirm low Garrett Owen.
fertility, it will not identify which element is limited. Submit a
substrate sample to a commercial lab for complete analysis.
© Josh Henry
Figure 5. Select a combination pH and EC meter that is value
priced, easy to calibrate, and reports soluble salts [referred to
as electrical conductivity (EC)] in mS/cm. Photo by: Josh
Henry.
Table 1. Electrical conductivity [EC (also referred to as soluble salts)] interpretation

ranges (in mS/cm) for various substrate extraction methods. Values are based on
actively growing plants that have medium nutrient requirements and are irrigated
overhead 1.
1:5
Interpretation Saturated Media 1:2 PourThru PourThru
(Used in
Ranges Extraction (SME) Extraction (top irrigated) (sub-irrigated)
Europe)
Very Low 0 – 0.75 0 – 0.25 0 – 0.11 0 – 1.0 0 – 0.75
Low 0.76 – 2.0 0.26 – 0.75 0.12 – 0.35 1.0 – 2.6 0.76 – 2.0
Normal 2.0 – 3.5 0.76 – 1.25 0.36 – 0.65 2.6 – 4.6 2.0 – 3.5
High 3.5 – 5.0 1.26 – 1.75 0.66 – 0.89 4.6 – 6.5 3.5 – 5.0
Very High 5.0 – 6.0 1.76 – 2.25 0.9 – 1.10 6.6 – 7.8 5.0 – 6.0
Extreme >6.0 >2.25 >1.1 >7.8 >6.0

1 Adjust ranges 25 to 30% lower for sub-irrigated plants or plants that required a lower overall nutrient
level. Adjust ranges 25 to 30% higher for heavy feeders.
2018

Establishing an In-house Substrate
Monitoring Tool Kit
To establish an in-house substrate testing tool kit, here are a few
items to consider.
Project Sponsor
When selecting a pH and EC meter, what do we look for?
We prefer a combination pH and EC meter (Fig. 1). They are easy to calibrate by hand. It
is preferred that the EC values are expressed in mS/cm for quick comparisons with
published values. There are a few low cost options that growers may want to consider.
The Hanna 9813-6 meter costs around~$200. It is what we use at NC State and Michigan
State Universities for extension sample diagnosis in the field, our research, and in the
floriculture classes. An alternative, Hanna GroLine 9814 can be used and costs around
~$250. The Milwaukee Instruments MW802 meter is another low cost option priced at
~$150.
When assembling a PourThur kit, what do we need?

1. pH/EC meter
2. pH standard(s) of pH 4.0, 7.0 and 10.0.
• We prefer to use colored standards. pH 4.0 standards are typically yellow. pH 7.0
standards are typically pink. For single point calibration electrodes, a pH 7
standard is typically used.
3. EC standard of 1.413 mS/cm is used for many models, but check with the
recommendations. This solution is typically clear.
4. Storage solution.
• This solution is only used to keep the electrode from drying out and placed in the
protective electrode cap.
5. Distilled or de-ionized water.
6. Wash bottle.
• We find it useful for rinsing the electrode between samples).
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Monitoring Tool Kit
7. Plastic saucers.
• We typically use 5-10 clear plastic saucers. These cost less than $1 each.
Consider purchasing different sizes that will fit under smaller or larger
containers.
8. Sample cups.
• We use 3 oz. plastic Dixie cups which cost ~$3 per 80 count.
9. Paper towels for wiping off the electrode.
An example of a PourThru kit is provided in Fig. 1.
© Josh Henry
Figure 1. An example of a PourThru kit. The kit contains a plastic box for
carrying and storage of a combination pH and EC meter that is value
priced, easy to calibrate, and reports soluble salts [referred to as
electrical conductivity (EC)] in mS/cm. It also includes calibration and
storage solutions, distilled water, saucers, small cups, and paper towels.
2018

Corrective Procedures for
Modifying Substrate pH and
Electrical Conductivity (EC)
When the pH or substrate electrical conductivity (EC) drifts into Project Sponsor
unwanted territory, adjustments must be made. Below are the
standard corrective procedures used to modify the substrate pH
and EC for greenhouse grown crops in soilless substrates. For first
time users, please test on a few plants to help you master the
procedure.
Low Substrate pH Correction

When iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) toxicity becomes a problem, adjust the substrate
pH by raising it to levels within the recommended pH range. Corrective procedures to
raise low pH levels are listed below. Switching to a basic fertilizer when the substrate
pH is nearing the lower limit will help stabilize the pH. If the pH is below the
recommended range, then corrective procedures will need to be implemented.
Flowable lime is one option. Using a rate of 2 quarts per 100 gallons of water will
typically increase the substrate pH by roughly 0.5 pH units. Two quarts can be used
through an injector. Additional applications can be made if needed. Potassium
bicarbonate (KHCO3) can also be applied. A rate of 2 pounds per 100 gallons of water will
increase the substrate pH by roughly 0.8 pH units. This treatment will also provide
excessive potassium (K) and cause a spike in the substrate EC. A leaching irrigation with
clear water is required the following day to restore the nutrient balance (the ratio of
K:Ca:Mg) and lower the EC. As always, remember to recheck your substrate pH to
determine if reapplications are needed.
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
wgowen@msu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring pH and EC Corrective Procedures
pH Adjustment Recommendations
Flowable Lime
• Use 1 to 2 quarts per 100 gallons of
water.
Rinse foliage.
• Avoid damage to your injector by using
rates of 2 quarts per 100 gallons of
© W. Garrett Owen
water, or less.
• Can split applications.
Hydrated Lime
• Mix 1 pound in 3 to 5 gallons of WARM High substrate pH leads to interveinal chlorosis (yellowing) on
water. Mix twice. Let settle. Decant the upper foliage of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii). Photo by: W.
Garrett Owen.
liquid and apply through injector at
1:15.
• Caustic (rinse foliage ASAP and avoid skin
contact)
Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO3)

• Use 2 pounds per 100 gallons of water
© W. Garrett Owen
• Rinse foliage immediately.
• Provides 933 ppm K.
• Leach heavily the following day with a
complete fertilizer to reduce substrate
EC and restore nutrient balance.
Advanced symptomology of elevated substrate pH in which the
• Rates greater than 2 pounds per 100 leaves have an overall chlorotic (yellow) coloration and can
gallons of water can cause phytotoxicity! become bleached (white) observed for petunia (Petunia
×atkinsiana). Photo by: W. Garrett Owen.
High Substrate pH Correction

The target pH for many species is between
5.8 and 6.2. Higher pH values will result in
Fe deficiency and lead to the
development of interveinal chlorosis on
the upper leaves. Check the substrate pH
© Brian E. Whipker
to determine if it is too high. Be careful

when lowering the substrate pH, because
going too low can be much more
problematic and difficult to deal with.
Typical symptomology of low substrate pH induced iron
Figure 4. Low pH leads to iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) (Fe)/manganese (Mn) toxicity on the leaves of geranium
toxicity, causing symptoms of chlorosis (yellowing) with dark (Pelargonium ×hortorum). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
brown to black spotting (necrosis). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
© Brian E. Whipker
Symptoms of excess soluble salts [referred to as electrical © Brian E. Whipker Lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) of pansies (Viola ×
conductivity (EC)] with the associated tissue necrosis (death) of wittrockiana) associated with low soluble salts [referred to as
zinnia (Zinnia elegans). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker. electrical conductivity (EC)]. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
Acid-based Fertilizer
If the substrate pH is just beginning to increase, then first consider switching to an
acidic-based fertilizer. These ammoniacal-nitrogen (N) based fertilizers are naturally
acidic and plant nitrogen uptake will help moderate the substrate pH over a week or
two.
Acid Water Drench

Some growers use this intermediate correction if pH levels are not excessively high and a
quick lower of the substrate pH is desired. Use sulfuric acid to acidify your irrigation
water to a pH 4.0 to 4.5. Apply this acid water as a substrate drench providing 5 to 10%
excessive leaching of the substrate. Rinse the foliage to avoid phytotoxicity. Results
should be visible within 5 days. Retest the substrate pH and repeat if needed.
Iron Drench
If the levels are excessively high, then an Fe chelate application can be made to the
substrate.
Below are the options.
Iron Chelate Drench (options)

• Iron-EDDHA: mix 5 ounces in 100 gallons of water
• Iron-DTPA: mix 5 ounces in 100 gallons of water
• Iron sulfate: mix 4-8 ounces in 100 gallons of water
• Apply as a substrate drench with sufficient volume to leach the pot.
• Rinse foliage immediately.
• Avoid use on iron efficient plants (geraniums).
Low EC Correction
If low EC problems occur, increase the
fertilization rate to 300 ppm N for a few
© Brian E. Whipker
applications before returning to the
recommend fertilization rate for the crop.
High EC Correction
Excessively high fertilization rates will
result in a marginal leaf burn. Check the Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)]
can result in lower leaf reddening in tomato (Solanum
substrate EC to confirm your diagnosis. lycopersicum), which denotes phosphorus (P) is limited. Photo:
Values greater than 6.0 mS/cm based on Brian E. Whipker.
the PourThru sampling method can be

problematic for many plants.
Switch to Clear Water Irrigations

If the substrate EC is just beginning to
increase over time, then leach with a few
clear water irrigations to lower EC levels
by flushing out the salts.
© Brian E. Whipker
Clear Water Leaching
If the EC values are excessively high,
leach the substrate twice with back-to-
back clear water irrigations. Then allow
the substrate to dry down normally before Lower leaf chlorosis (yellowing) of dahlia (Dahlia ×hybrida) is
retesting the EC. If EC levels are still too associated with low soluble salts [referred to as electrical
conductivity (EC)]. Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
high, repeat the double leach. Once the
substrate EC is back within the normal
range, use a balanced fertilizer at a rate
of 150 to 200 ppm N.
For more details, refer to e-GRO Alert 7-2

(Whipker et al., 2018).
© Brian E. Whipker
Low soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)]

will result in an overall pale yellow coloration of marigold
(Tagetes erecta). Photo by: Brian E. Whipker.
2018
Conversions
When the substrate pH or electrical conductivity (EC) drifts above
or below optimal ranges for normal plant growth, adjustments must
be made. Corrective procedures are used to adjust the substrate pH
and EC for greenhouse grown crops in soilless substrates. Methods
Project Sponsor
required to adjust substrate pH and EC require labelled products
and rates that are often in standard or metric units and conversion is required. Therefore,
the tables provided herein will assist in converting units for accurate corrective
applications.
Unit of measure and Metric conversions

abbreviation To convert To Multiple
Unit of from obtain by
Abbreviation
Measure Liquid
Liter L or l
Fluid ounces
33.814
Milliliter mL or ml (fl. oz.)
Teaspoon tsp. Pints (pt.) 2.1134
Liters (L)
Tablespoon tbsp. Quarts (qt.) 1.0567
Ounce oz.
Gallons (gal.) 0.2641
Fluid Ounce fl. oz.
Milliliters (mL) Fluid ounces (fl. oz.) 0.3381
Pint pt.
Gallons Liters (L) 3.7853
Quart qt.
Gallon gal. Dry
Gram g Grams (g) Ounces (oz.; dry) 0.03527
Kilogram kg Kilograms (kg) Pounds (lbs.) 2.20462
Pound lb. Tablespoon (tbsp.; dry) Ounces (oz.) 0.3333

wgowen@msu.edu
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Nutritional Monitoring Conversions
Unit of measure, abbreviation, and

equivalents for liquid measure (volume)
Fluid
Liters Milliliters Teaspoons Tablespoons Pints Quarts Gallons
ounces
(L) (ml) (tsp.) (tbsp.) (pt.) (qt.) (gal.)
(fl. oz.)
3.785 3,785 768 256 128 8 4 1
0.946 946 192 64 32 2 1
0.473 473 96 32 16 1
0.030 30 6 2 1
0.015 15 3 1
0.005 5 1
0.001 1
Unit of measure, abbreviation, and

equivalents for dry measure (weight)
Kilograms Grams Ounce Pounds
(kg) (g) (oz.) (lbs.)
0.4535 453.592 16 1
0.02834 28.3495 1
0.001 1 © Josh Henry
e-GRO Alert Cooperating Universities

www.e-gro.org
CONTRIBUTORS
Dr. Nora Catlin
FloricultureSpecialist
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Suffolk County
nora.catlin@cornell.edu
Dr. Chris Currey

Assistant Professor of Floriculture
Iowa State University
ccurrey@iastate.edu
Dr. Ryan Dickson

Extension Specialist for Greenhouse
Management & Technologies
University of New Hampshire
ryan.dickson@unh.edu
Thomas Ford
Commercial HorticultureEducator
Penn State Extension
tgf2@psu.edu
Dan Gilrein
Entomology Specialist
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Suffolk County
dog1@cornell.edu
Dr. Joyce Latimer

Floriculture Extension & Research
Virginia Tech
jlatime@vt.edu
Heidi Lindberg
Floriculture Extension Educator
Michigan State University
wolleage@anr.msu.edu
Dr. Roberto Lopez

rglopez@msu.edu
Dr. Neil Mattson

Greenhouse Research & Extension
Cornell University
neil.mattson@cornell.edu
Dr. W. Garrett Owen

Floriculture Outreach Specialist
wgowen@msu.edu
Dr. Rosa E. Raudales

Greenhouse Extension Specialist
University of Connecticut
rosa.raudales@uconn.edu
In cooperation with our local and state greenhouse organizations
Dr. Beth Scheckelhoff
Extension Educator – GreenhouseSystems
The Ohio State University
scheckelhoff.11@osu.edu
Lee Stivers
Extension Educator – Horticulture
Penn State Extension
WashingtonCounty
ljs32@psu.edu
Dr. Paul Thomas

University of Georgia
pathomas@uga.edu
Dr. Ariana Torres-Bravo

Horticulture/ Ag. Economics
PurdueUniversity
torres2@purdue.edu
Dr. Brian Whipker

NC State University
bwhipker@ncsu.edu
Copyright © 2018
Where trade names, proprietary products, or specific
equipment are listed, no discrimination is intended and
no endorsement, guarantee or warranty is implied by
the authors, universities or associations.
Fert, Dirt, and Squirt is an effort led by e-GRO to educate and assist
greenhouse growers of ornamental, fruiting, and edible crops with
monitoring pH, EC, and plant nutrition. The collection of crop-
specific nutritional monitoring factsheets provides growers with
optimal pH and EC values to keep crops in check and on track.
When pH and EC deviates from the crop-specific optimal values,
procedures to correct and prevent nutritional disorders are
required and provided within this guide for greenhouse growers.
Project Sponsor

2018 Nutritional Monitoring Book

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Fert, Dirt, & Squirt:

Monitoring pH & EC of Greenhouse Crops

W. Garrett Owen, Editor

© 2018 W. Garrett Owen, Josh Henry and Brian Whipker

Fert, Dirt, and SquirtTM is trademarked

Front and back cover images by W. Garrett Owen.

For more information and other publications, please visit:

Part 1. Crop Factsheets

Part 2. Nutritional Monitoring Resources

We present this collection of in-house nutritional monitoring information and

Josh Henry s a dual major Ph.D. student in the Department of

Brian E. Whipker is a Professor of floriculture at North Carolina

For more information and other publications, please visit:

Christopher Currey is an Assistant Professor of Horticulture at

For more information and other publications, please visit:

Nutritional Monitoring Series

0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

Fertility Management of Basil

For direct-sown basil seeds, begin a

In hydroponic systems, basil can be grown

Basil does have a higher requirement for

Literature Cited Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient sufficiency

Nau, J. 2011. Ball redbook, 18th ed. Ball

Figure 7. Comparison of basil (Ocimum basilicum) plants grown

Nutritional Monitoring Series

0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

Fertility Management of Calceolaria

oz./100 gallons of water in areas with

Substrate EC should remain below 0.6,

clear irrigation water twice before

Aimone, T. 1986. Culture notes:

Currey, C.J. 2017. Cool calceolaria.

Table 1. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis for Calceolaria (Calceolaria ×herbeohybrida

Table 2. Target nutrient values for substrate1.

Table 3. Target nutrient values for nutrient

Nutritional Monitoring Series

0.6 to 0.9 mS/cm

Fertility Management of Calibrachoa

Substrate soluble salts [referred to as electrical conductivity (EC)] levels should be

deficient in Fe and exhibit interveinal

Substrate pH below 5.8 can result in

Krug, B. and C. Smith. 2013.

Schoellhorn, R. 2013. Growing calibrachoa

Nutritional Monitoring Series

Fertility Management of Celosia

to low EC. This red coloration is also

for celosia, along with critical nutrient

Figure 7. High substrate pH results in interveinal chlorosis

Table 1. Recommended range of leaf tissue analysis for

Nutritional Monitoring Series

Fertility Management of Garden Chrysanthemum

In general garden chrysanthemums do not exhibit symptoms of accumulated Fe and/or

(first color to sale). Nau (2011) indicated

Controlled release fertilizers can be used

cuttings. Controlled release fertilizers are

transplant (Yates, 2015). To achieve this, Summary

Regardless of fertility delivery method, Literature Cited

Low EC symptoms such as stunted plants,

Nitrogen (N) 4.00 – 6.00 4.00 – 6.30

Nutritional Monitoring Series

0.4 to 0.6 mS/cm

Fertility Management of Cineraria

Mg deficiency (Hammer, 1997) and

After initial transplant and during the first