The objective of this study was to compare the effects of flurprimidol or paclobutrazol on the growth of four bedding plant species: nicotiana (Nicotiana ×sanderae), portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora), verbena (Verbena ×hybrida), and zinnia (Zinnia elegans). Plants were treated 10 days after transplanting with foliar sprays of five concentrations (in mg·L–1): 5, 10, 20, 40, or 80 from each plant growth regulator. Phytotoxicity symptoms were not observed on plants sprayed with flurprimidol or paclobutrazol. Foliar sprays of flurprimidol at 20 mg·L–1 and paclobutrazol at 80 mg·L–1 provided sufficient growth control of nicotiana for retail sales, while concentrations of 40 to 80 mg·L–1 flurprimidol produced more compact plants for wholesale production. For portulaca only flurprimidol sprays of 40 and 80 mg·L–1 produced plants that were proportionate to the container. Foliar sprays of flurprimidol at 20 mg·L–1 and paclobutrazol at 40 mg·L–1 controlled growth of verbena and zinnia suitable for retail sales, while concentrations of 40 mg·L–1 flurprimidol and 80 mg·L–1 paclobutrazol provided more compact plants which may be useful for wholesale growers. Concentrations were based under Florida conditions and should be adjusted for other areas.
Plant Growth Regulator and Soil Surfactants’ Effects on Saline and Deficit Irrigated Warm-Season Grasses: I. Turf Quality and Soil Moisture
