Vol. 124 (2011): Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society
Ornamental, Garden & Landscape

Components of Sustainable Production Practices for Container Plant Nurseries

Alex Bolques
Florida AandM University/CESTA, Gadsden County Extension, 2140 W. Jefferson Street, Quincy, FL 32351-1905
Gary Knox
University of Florida/IFAS Department of Environmental Horticulture, North Florida Research and Education Center, 155 Research Road, Quincy, FL 32351
Matthew Chappell
University of Georgia, Horticulture Department, 211 Hoke Smith Building, Athens, GA 30630
Linda Landrum
University of Florida/IFAS/NFREC-Live Oak, 7580 Co Rd 136, Live Oak, FL 32060
Edwin Duke
Florida AandM University, College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, Tallahassee, FL 32307

Published 2011-12-01

Keywords

  • container plants,
  • green industries,
  • nursery production,
  • integrated pest management

Abstract

Sustainable production practices in container plant nursery operations are methods developed to conserve or reduce natural resources needed to produce a crop. These include production practices aimed at reducing the levels of chemical fertilizers and pesticides; managing insects, diseases and weeds by utilizing an integrated pest management approach; reducing, reusing or recycling materials and supplies; increasing production efficiency; and using conservation practices aimed at reducing water consumption, managing runoff and controlling erosion. A listing of sustainable nursery production practices derived from literature review and selective nursery operation site visits in Florida and Georgia are provided.