Nutrition during production influences the rate of growth.
It also affects the quality of foliage plants after they reach the consumers.
One recommended fertilizer program consists of a constant feeding program. With
every watering, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are provided. An
alternative is to use a slow-release fertilizer in the growing media. Foliage
plants grown in soilless medium require fertilizers containing micronutrients.
The reason is soilless mix lacks the necessary micronutrients.
Acclimatization is the process in which a plant becomes
accustomed to a new environment. The transition from a warm, humid, well-lit
greenhouse to a cool, dry, and dim room in a building is stressful for most
plants. A common reaction by a plant under stress from a new environment is to
shed its leaves. Few plants demonstrate the shock of being moved as much as the
weeping fig. A slight change in conditions causes it to shed most of its
leaves.
Studies have shown that the plants that acclimatize the
quickest are those grown under low light conditions and that receive light
fertilization throughout production. Knowing this, growers can help prepare
plants for their ultimate destination.
First, the light intensity given the plants can be reduced
for two to six months prior to shipping. The length of time depends on the
species. By reducing the light intensity, the plants get accustomed to lower
light levels expected in their new home. Their leaves grow thinner, broader,
and produce more chlorophyll for the manufacture of food.
Over fertilization during production lessens the plant's
ability to acclimatize to a new surrounding. Fertilization stimulates growth.
Foliage plants acclimatize more quickly if growth is slowed. Therefore, to
better prepare plants, growers reduce fertility levels to slow plant growth.
Pests and Disease
Common pests of foliage plants include aphids, mites,
caterpillars, fungus gnats, mealybugs, scales and thrips. Pest problems can be
reduced with the use of pest-free stock plants. Sanitation and cultural
practices also help control pest problems.
Disease problems of foliage plants are most often associated
with watering practices. Over watering, usually caused by watering too
frequently, often leads to root rot. Fungal and bacterial diseases can attack
foliage. They become more of a problem when the leaves are wet.
Fluoride in the water is damaging to some plants. Dracaena,
palms, prayer plant, spider plant, and bromeliads are susceptible. Fluoride
damage is usually in the form of leaf tip burn or browning. Avoid growing media
with perlite and the use of super phosphate fertilizer.
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