2. To implement practices which reduce environmental impacts by reducing the volume of run off effluent leaving container nurseries.
3. To increase profitability of nursery container production through implementation of energy and nutrient efficient production practices.
2. To evaluate the effects of reduced irrigation volume and fertilizer rate on water efficiency, nutrient efficacy, and plant growth.
2. During the 1991 through 1994 extension program period a total of 55 training programs were conducted, 36~publications written and 24 applied studies conducted at nursery, or nursery study areas to demonstrate and implement best management practices.
Greenhouse and nursery crops production is big business in North Carolina. County agent farm income estimates (wholesale value) in 1991 were $293.9 million (51% greenhouse crops) and had grown to $358.4 million (51.8% greenhouse crops) in 1994. With rapid expansion in the nursery industry best management practices can be implemented as new production areas are constructed. Many nurseries already want to conserve and recycle irrigation water to enhance water supplies for new production areas. Vegetative filters, and sedimentation basin are currently being installed to improve recycled water quality. Cyclic irrigation is another technique that growers are adopting to improve water and nutrient efficacy in container production and reduce the volume of water leaving growing beds.
2. Cooperate with nurserymen to develop strategies to enhance irrigation efficiency, improve recycled water quality and increase profitability through energy conservation and water and nutrient efficiency.