View Poster Application

EPSOM SALTS ON FERNS 2010

Applied Research

Charles Mitchell
EXTENSION SPECIALIST & PROFESSOR
ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM
AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Abstract

\r\n In 2008,  30 Alabama Master Gardeners participated in a large study to evaluate the effect of Mg as epsom salts on 2 types of ferns.  Treatments included 3 potting mixes and 2 epsom salt treatments.  The results indicated no measured response to any of the soil treatments in spite of the fact that efforts were made to use fertilizers that did not include Mg.  After further testing, we discovered that both the Osmocote ® 19-6-12 slow-release fertilizer and a water soluble 20-20-20 fertilizer both contained significant concentrations of Mg that were not included on the fertilizer label.  The experiment was repeated in 2010 with  40 Master Gardeners participating by evaluating the same treatments with 3 types of fern.  A water soluble 25-5-15 grade fertilizer was custom formulated that did not contain Mg.  After growing the ferns in hanging baskets from May through October and evaluating frond length, color and size at the end of the growing season, there were no statistical differences due to treatment on any of the three types of ferns studied.  In spite of the fact that many gardeners use epsom salts to fertilize ferns, we concluded that sufficient Mg was in the potting mix (peat and pine bark) to satisfy the needs of these three fern cultivars.

\r\n

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

Click to view Poster

Authors: C.C. Mitchell, J.R. Kessler, M.J. Kelley, C.B. Pinkston
  1. Mitchell, C. Extension Agronomist-Soils & Professor, Auburn University, Alabama, 36849
  2. Kessler, J. Professor of Horticulture, Auburn University, Alabama, 36849
  3. Kelley, M. Regional Extension Agent, Alabama Coop. Extension System, Alabama, 36849
  4. Pinkston, C. Regional Extension Agent, Alabama Coop. Extension System, Alabama, 35055