Source: AUBURN UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
HORTICULTURAL UTILIZATION OF AGRICULTURAL, INDUSTRIAL, MUNICIPAL, RESIDENTIAL AND WATERWAY RESIDUES
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
HATCH
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0198022
Grant No.
(N/A)
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Oct 1, 2003
Project End Date
Sep 30, 2009
Grant Year
(N/A)
Program Code
[(N/A)]- (N/A)
Recipient Organization
AUBURN UNIVERSITY
108 M. WHITE SMITH HALL
AUBURN,AL 36849
Performing Department
HORTICULTURE
Non Technical Summary
Opportunities exist in horticulture for the development of substrates, manufactured top-soils, mulches, fertilizers, and soil conditioners. Research is needed to determine suitable combinations of agricultural waste and processing residues, industrial and forestry byproducts, residential trimmer trash, biosolids, and dredge materials. Proposed research addresses needs for development and enhancement of sustainable ecosystems to protect natural resources and maintain biodiversity while meeting the USDA goal of a greater harmony between agriculture and the environment.
Animal Health Component
45%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
20%
Applied
45%
Developmental
35%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
1120399106010%
1122110106010%
1122123106010%
2050399106010%
2052110106015%
2052123106015%
4030399106010%
4032110106010%
4032123106010%
Knowledge Area
403 - Waste Disposal, Recycling, and Reuse; 112 - Watershed Protection and Management; 205 - Plant Management Systems;

Subject Of Investigation
2110 - Ornamental trees and shrubs; 2123 - Bedding/garden plants; 0399 - Watersheds and river basins, general;

Field Of Science
1060 - Biology (whole systems);
Goals / Objectives
To evaluate horticultural uses (such as field application, landscape use, and bagged goods) for agricultural, industrial, municipal, residential, and waterway residues. To evaluate physical, chemical, and biological activity of substrate blends, manufactured top soils, mulches, organic fertilizers and soil conditioners derived from agricultural, industrial, municipal, residential, and waterway residues. To determine the influence of blended materials from agricultural, industrial, municipal, residential, and waterway residues on growth and development of horticultural crops.
Project Methods
Landscape performance of Manufactured Top Soil blends will be determined using a series of constructed beds and mini landscapes. MTS blends will be used to construct planting beds that will be evaluated for long term structural integrity and plant growth in urban landscapes. Characterization of the blends will include physical, chemical, biological, and microbial analysis. These and other blends will also be incorporated into landscape trials to evaluate performance of these materials (degradation, odor, ease of handling) and their effects on plant growth. Container studies will also be implemented. Consumer ready products will be developed and evaluated.

Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Projects were initiated and continued from previous years using tank effluent from intensive aquaculture, potato waste, forest residuals, pinebark, spent tea grinds, cotton gin waste, tree trimmer waste, poultry litter, municipal solid waste compost, fired clay aggregates, and industrial manufacturing wastes in the production of nursery and greenhouse crops. Work continued with composts from: cotton gin waste, poultry litter, dairy manure, spent tea grinds, municipal household garbage, and forest byproducts in production of greenhouse and nursery crops. This research continues to demonstrate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels as bagged goods or as components of substrates. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products are being developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. Results should provide needed information concerning alternative substrates to pinebark. Research emphasis for 2009 was focused on: 1) Methods of container production, plant nutrition, and environmental effects for greenhouse crops, landscape trees and woody ornamentals; 2) Problems in landscape horticulture, and; 3) Use of various agricultural, industrial, municipal, and waterway wastes in horticultural channels as substrates. Twelve graduate students were working in these areas in 2009. Many presentations were delivered to industry audiences in research conferences in 2009. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Research results were presented at the Southern Nursery Association Research Conference in Atlanta in January 2009, attended by nursery, greenhouse and landscape professionals. We also hosted several open house research field days. One in Mobile for nursery growers, students, business owners and allied industry suppliers and extension personnel in October 2009, at Auburn in August 2009 for landscape professionals as a part of the Auburn Nursery and Landscape School, and at the North Auburn Fisheries Farm several times in 2009 as extension events to show effluent from tank produced fish being used in greenhouse production. We also had papers presented at the International Plant Propagators Society Meetings in Biloxi Mississippi in October 2009. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
Constrictions on supply of pine bark and other substrate components and mulch materials for the green industry continue to increase. Importation of lumber and paper products fail to generate bark and other residuals previously available for horticultural use. In particular there is a new emphasis on using bark as a biofuel source which further constricts its availablilty for horticultural use. Alternative substrates, mulches and fuel sources for the ornamental plant industry are needed. Agricultural, aquacultural, municipal, industrial, construction, smelting, and landscape wastes continue to be readily available with increasing disposal problems. Our research continues to demonstrate suitable avenues for disposal of many waste products through established horticultural methods of growing or maintaining plants. In addition, many waste products can be diverted into energy production. Many of these waste materials can be used to heat greenhouses and/or power generators emloyed in the green industry. The poultry industry also faces limits to traditional bedding material for broilers. If pine bark is used for poultry bedding, the horticultural industry may provide a means of disposal of spent bedding.

Publications

  • Blythe, E.K. and J.L. Sibley. 2009. Winter stem cutting propagation of Dwarf Burford holly without use of a conventional auxin treatment. HortTechnology 19:130-132.
  • Pickens, J.M., J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, D.E. Wells, J.W. Olive and E.K. Blythe. 2008. Light weight aggregate HydRocks: A novel approach to rooting and barerooting cuttings. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 58:573-577 (peer-reviewed, refereed).
  • Marble, S.C., C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley, G.B. Fain, H.A. Torbert, and J.W. Olive. 2008. Composted poultry litter as an amendment for substrates with high wood content. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 58:524-532 (peer-reviewed, refereed).
  • Sleeper, Adam M., M.S. 2009. Co-Chair with Dr. Jesse Chappell. Integration of intensive aquaculture and greenhouse crop production.
  • Marble, S. Chris, M.S. 2009. Co-Chair with Dr. Charles Gilliam. Evaluation of composted poultry litter use in horticulture. 128 pages.
  • Jones, Mallory A., M.S. 2009. Co-Chair with Dr. Wheeler Foshee. Effects of color to deter thrips and reducing the incidence of tomato spotted wilt virus. 81 pages.
  • Monday, Tyler A., M.S. 2009. Sweet potato production methods for biofuel use.
  • Pickens, J.M., J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, D.E. Wells, J.W. Olive and E.K. Blythe. 2009. Light weight aggregate HydRocks: A novel approach to rooting and bare root cuttings. North Amer. Regions Plant Propagator Newsletter 21(2):19.(Abstr).
  • Murphy, A.M., C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, H.A. Torbert, T.V. Gallagher, J.L. Sibley, and S.C. Marble. 2009. Amending pine bark supplies with WholeTree and clean chip residual. HortScience 44:555 (Abstr.).
  • Coneva, E., J.L. Sibley, and A.W. Caylor. 2009. Performance of rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei) cultivars in north Alabama. HortScience 44:1086 (Abstr.).
  • Bilgili, S.F., J.B. Hess, J.P. Blake, K.S. Macklin, B. Saenmahayak, and J.L. Sibley. 2009. Influence of bedding material on footpad dermatitis in broiler chickens. J. Applied Poultry Res. 18:583-589.
  • Boyer, C.R., C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert, and J.L. Sibley. 2009. Production of woody nursery crops in clean chip residual substrate. J. Environ. Hort. 27:56-62.
  • Pickens, J.M., G.B. Fain, J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam and J.W. Olive. 2009. Evaluation of clay aggregates in perennial offshoot production. J. Environ. Hort. 27:1-6.
  • Boyer, C.R., T.V. Gallagher, C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, H.A. Torbert, and J.L. Sibley. 2009. Availability of clean chip residual as a growth substrate in the southeast United States. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:208-211.
  • Murphy, A.M., C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, H.A. Torbert, T.V. Gallagher, J.L. Sibley, and S.C. Marble. 2009. Amending pine bark with alternative substrates. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:186-190.
  • Blythe, E.K. and J.L. Sibley. 2009. Cutting propagation of rose using basal and foliar applications of Woods Rooting Compound. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:450-453.
  • Wells, D.E., J.L. Sibley, J.L. Evers, C.H. Gilliam, and W.A. Dozier, Jr. 2009. Utilization of spent tea grinds as a substrate component in container production. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:176-179.
  • Sleeper, A.M., J.A.. Chappell, J.M. Pickens, W.G. Foshee, III, and J.L. Sibley. 2009. Integration of intensive aquaculture and greenhouse crop production. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:106-110.
  • Pickens, J.M., J.L. Sibley, G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam and J.W. Olive. 2009. The lightweight aggregate HydRocks as a perlite substitute. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:401-404.
  • Pickens, J.M., J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, S.F. Bilgili, J.B. Hess, K.S. Macklin, and J.O. Donald. 2009. Evaluation of bark-based poultry litter as a substrate component in nursery crop production. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 54:121-123.


Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Projects were initiated using tank effluent from intensive aquaculture, forest residuals, pinebark, spent tea grinds, cotton gin waste, tree trimmer waste, poultry litter, municipal solid waste compost, fired clay aggregates, and industrial manufacturing wastes in the production of nursery and greenhouse crops. Various materials were also evaluated as mulches, with particular concerns related to termites. Work continued with composts from: cotton gin waste, poultry litter, spent tea grinds, municipal household garbage, and forest byproducts in production of greenhouse and nursery crops. This research continues to demonstrate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels as bagged goods or as components of substrates. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products are being developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. Results should provide needed information concerning alternative substrates to pinebark. Research emphasis for 2008 was focused on: 1) Methods of container production, plant nutrition, and environmental effects for greenhouse crops, landscape trees and woody ornamentals; 2) Problems in landscape horticulture, and; 3) Use of various agricultural, industrial, municipal, and waterway wastes in horticultural channels as substrates or mulches. Ten graduate students are working in these areas. Many presentations were delivered to industry audiences in research conferences in 2008. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Research results were presented at the Southern Nursery Association Research Conference in Atlanta in August, 2008, attended by nursery, greenhouse and landscape professionals. Results were also presented at the Southern Region meeting of the International Plant Propagators Society annual meeting in Virginia in October, 2008. We also hosted several open house research field days. One in Mobile for nursery growers, students, business owners and allied industry suppliers and extension personnel in October 2008, at Auburn in August 2008 for landscape professionals as a part of the Auburn Nursery and Landscape School, and at the North Auburn Fisheries Farm in May 2008 as an extension event to show effluent form tank produced fish being used in greenhouse production. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
Constrictions on supply of substrate components and mulch materials for the green industry continue to increase. Importation of lumber and paper products fail to generate bark and other residuals previously available for horticultural use. Alternative substrates, mulches and fuel sources for the ornamental plant industry are needed. Agricultural, aquacultural, municipal, industrial, construction, smelting, and landscape wastes continue to be readily available with increasing disposal problems. Our research continues to demonstrate suitable avenues for disposal of many waste products through established horticultural methods of growing or maintaining plants. In addition, many waste products can be diverted into energy production. Many of these waste materials can be used to heat greenhouses and/or power generators emloyed in the green industry. The poultry industry also faces limits to traditional bedding material for broilers. If pine bark is used for poultry bedding, the horticultural industry may provide a means of disposal of spent bedding.

Publications

  • Brymer, B.J., M.S. Thesis. 2008. Assessment of composting methods for use in the green industry. 118 pages. Auburn University Department of Horticulture.
  • Wells, Daniel E., M.S. Thesis. 2008. Evaluation of spent tea grinds as an alternative horticultural substrate component. 110 pages. Auburn University Department of Horticulture.
  • Yang, Xiaomei, Ph.D. Dissertation. 2008. Effect of a nonionic surfactant on plant growth and physiology. 140 pages. Auburn University Department of Horticulture.
  • Lu, Wenliang, Ph.D. Dissertation. 2008. Utilization of municipal solid waste compost in horticulture. 199 pages. Auburn University Department of Horticulture.
  • Pickens, Jeremy M., M.S. Thesis. 2008. Substrate development using expanded aggregates. 113 pages. Auburn University Department of Horticulture.
  • Saenmahayak, B., K.S. Macklin, Bilgili, S.F., J.B. Hess, J.P. Blake, and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Microbial profile of bedding sources for rearing broiler chickens. Poultry Sci. 87 (Suppl.1): 102.
  • Bilgili, S.F., J.B. Hess, J.P. Blake, K.S. Macklin, and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Alternative bedding sources for rearing broiler chickens. Poultry Sci. 78 (Suppl.1): 159.
  • Boyer, C.R., T.V. Gallagher, C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, H.A. Torbert and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Survey of forest residual availability for nursery production in the southeast. HortScience 43:July(Abstr.).
  • Bilgili, S.F., J.B. Hess, J.P. Blake, K.S. Macklin, and J.L. Sibley. Alternative litter materials for rearing broiler chickens. International Poultry Scientific Meeting, Atlanta, GA. Jan. 25-26, 2008 (Abstr.).
  • Bilgili, S.F., J.B. Hess, K.S. Macklin, B. Saenmahayak, J.P. Blake and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Bedding alternatives for broilers. National Poultry Waste Management Symposium held Oct. 21-23, Des Moines, Iowa.
  • Boyer, C.R., H.A. Torbert, C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, T.V. Gallagher, and J. Sibley. 2008. Physical properties and microbial activity in forest residual substrates. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:42-45.
  • Marble, S.C., J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, and H.A. Torbert. 2008. Application of composted poultry litter as a fertilizer for landscape annual bedding plants. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:399-402.
  • Marble, S.C., C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley, G.B. Fain, H.A. Torbert, and J.W. Olive. 2008. Evaluation of composted poultry, Whole Tree, and clean chip residual as components of media for container grown nursery woody ornamentals. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:7-11.
  • Pickens, J.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, C.H. Gilliam, J.W. Olive, and G.B. Fain. 2008. Evaluation of the lightweight aggregate HydRocks as a rooting substrate. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:218-221.
  • Pickens, J.M., J.L. Sibley, G.B. Fain, J.W. Olive, M.S. Wilson, and C.H. Gilliam. 2008. Use of lightweight aggregate HydRocks as a bare-rooting substrate in perennial offshoot production. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:244-247.
  • Hu, X.P., J.L. Sibley, and H.A. Torbert. 2008. Evaluation of old and new commercial mulches for termite management in Alabama. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:478-480.
  • Wells, D.E., J.L. Sibley, J.L. Evers, C.H. Gilliam, and W.A. Dozier, Jr. 2008. Utilization of spent tea grinds as a substrate component in greenhouse crop production. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:12-15.
  • Brymer, W.J., J.L. Sibley, M.P. Dougherty, C.H. Gilliam, and O.O. Fasina. 2008. Evaluation of windrow composting versus in-vessel-digester composting of poultry litter for use in the green industry. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 53:152-154.
  • Fain, G.B., C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley and C.R. Boyer. 2008. Establishment of greenhouse-grown Tagetes patula and Petunia x hybrida in WholeTree substrates. ISHS Proc. IVth International Symposium on Seed, Transplant and Stand Establishment of Hort. Crops Acta Hort. 782:387-393.
  • Creamer, J. 2008. Research helps Milos market used tea leaves. AAES Impact. Research News from the Alabama Agricultural Expt. Station 6(3):1(Fall, 2008).
  • Rodda, K, (Sibley, J.L.). 2008. From filth to fluff: Tennessee company grinds garbage into media substrate. the Real Green Industry, October insert, 1 page between pages 32 and 33. Nursery Management and Prod.(NMPRO)24(10).
  • Wilson, M.S., J.L. Sibley, and J.M. Ruter. 2008. Rabbit tracks occurrence in crapemyrtle using various substrate application rates of manganese. Georgia Green Ind. Assoc. Journal 19(September-October):28.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbet and Sibley, J.L. 2008. Growth of woody plants in clean chip residual substrate. Georgia Green Ind. Assoc. Journal 19:18-22.
  • Lu, W., X. Yang, J.L. Sibley, A.W. Caylor, W.G. Foshee, III, Y. Zhang, J.S. Bannon, and C.H. Gilliam. 2008. Mixed municipal solid waste compost as a soil amendment on yield and heavy metal accumulation in okra and watermelon. J. Veg. Sci. 14:369-379.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert, and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Clean chip residue as a substrate for perennial nursery crop production. J. Environ. Hort. 26:239-246.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert, and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Clean chip residual: A substrate component for growing annuals. HortTechnology 18:423-432.
  • Tian, D.K., K.M. Tilt, F.M. Woods, J.R. Kessler, and J.L. Sibley. 2008. Post-harvest longevity and viability of cooler-stored lotus propagules. J. Environ. Hort. 26:101-104.
  • Lu, W., X. Yang, J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, J.S. Bannon, and Y. Zhang. 2008. Utilization of mixed municipal solid waste compost as a soilless potting component in greenhouse production of four floricultural crops. J. Environ. Hort. 26:75-79.
  • Boyer, Cheryl R., Ph.D. Dissertation. 2008. Evaluation of clean chip residual as an alternative substrate for container-grown plants. 204 pages. Auburn University Department of Horticulture.


Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

Outputs
Projects were initiated using dairy lagoon waste, forest residuals, pinebark, spent tea grinds, cotton gin waste, tree trimmer waste, poultry litter, municipal solid waste compost, fired clay aggregates, and industrial manufacturing wastes in the production of nursery and greenhouse crops. Various materials were also evaluated as mulches, with particular concerns related to termites. Many waste materials have also been evaluated for potential as fuel for greenhouse heating. Work continued with composts from: cotton gin waste, poultry litter, dairy manure solids, spent tea grinds, municipal household garbage, and forest byproducts in production of greenhouse and nursery crops and pelleting for transport and use as fuel. This research continues to demonstrate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels either directly as a fuel source or as components of substrates. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products are being developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. Results should provide needed information concerning alternative substrates to pinebark. Research emphasis for 2007 was focused on: 1) Methods of container production, plant nutrition, and environmental effects for greenhouse crops, landscape trees and woody ornamentals; 2) Problems in landscape horticulture, and; 3) Use of various agricultural, industrial, municipal, and waterway wastes as fuel and in horticultural channels as substrates or mulches. Twelve graduate students are working in these areas.

Impacts
Resource based research within horticulture is of utmost importance. Limitations for traditional substrates and mulch materials for the ever expanding nursery and landscape industries are increasing. Alternative substrates, mulches and fuel sources for the ornamental plant industry are needed. Agricultural, municipal, industrial, construction, smelting, and landscape wastes continue to be readily available with increasing disposal problems. Our research continues to demonstrate suitable avenues for disposal of many waste products through established horticultural methods of growing or maintaining plants. In addition, many waste products can be diverted into energy production. Many of these waste materials can be used to heat greenhouses and/or power generators emloyed in the green industry.

Publications

  • Boyer, C.R., C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, J.L. Sibley, H.A. Torbert, and T.V. Gallagher. 2007. Lime and micronutrient use in clean chip residual substrate amended with composted poultry litter or peat for use in annual production. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Boyer, C.R., C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert, and J.L. Sibley. 2007. Clean chip residual amended with composted poultry litter as a substrate for Lantana camara. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, H.A. Torbert, T.V. Gallagher, and J.L. Sibley. 2007. Production of Buddleia davidii and Verbena canadensis in clean chip residual. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, H.A. Torbert, T.V. Gallagher, and J.L. Sibley. 2007. WholeTree as a substrate for Lantana camara. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert and J.L. Sibley. 2007. Forest residuals: New substrates for container-grown crops. HortScience 42:861(Abstr.).
  • Tian, D.K., K.M. Tilt, F. Dane. J.L. Sibley, and F.M. Woods. 2007. Response of container lotus (Nelumbo) to five types of fertilizers. HortScience 42:455(Abstr.).
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert and J.L. Sibley. 2007. Clean chip residual (CCR) substrate for container-grown perennials: Effect of supplemental nitrogen rates. HortScience 42:439(Abstr.).
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert and J.L. Sibley. 2007. Evaluation of clean chip residual and composted poultry litter as a growth substrate for container- grown Lantana camara. HortScience 42:454-455(Abstr. and Poster).
  • Lu, W., X. Yang, J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, J.S. Bannon, and Y. Zhang. 2008. Utilization of municipal solid waste compost as a soilless potting component in greenhouse production of four floricultural crops. J. Environ. Hort. 26:Accepted, in press.
  • Fain, G.B., C.H. Gilliam, A.L. Witcher, J.L. Sibley and C.R. Boyer. 2008. WholeTree substrate and fertilizer rate in production of greenhouse-grown Petunia (Petunia x hybrida Vilm) and Marigold (Tagetes patula L.). HortScience 43:Accepted, in press.
  • Fain, G.B., C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley and C.R. Boyer. 2008. WholeTree substrates derived from three species of pine in production of annual vinca. HortTechnology 18:13-18.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley, T.V. Gallagher, and H.A. Torbert. 2007. Performance of container-grown Loropetalum grown in clean chip residual substrate. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 57:(in press, peer-reviewed, refereed).
  • Olive, J.W. Sibley, J.L., R.A. Price and J.C. Stephenson. 2007. Use of river dredge, biosolids, and decomposed chipper waste media components for nursery container production. Proc. SNARes. Conf.52.
  • Wells, D.E., J.L. Sibley, J.L. Evers, C.H. Gilliam, and W.A. Dozier, Jr. 2007. Evaluation of spent tea grinds as a substrate component. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Fain. G.B., C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley, and C.R. Boyer. 2007. Production of hardy garden mums in WholeTree substrate. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Pickens, J.M. and J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, G.B. Fain and J.W. Olive. 2007. Use of lightweight aggregate Hydrocks as a weed barrier. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 52.
  • Carter, Philip A., M.S. Thesis 2007. Ice formation and the effects of cold acclimation on cold hardiness in a subtropical fruit species.


Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
Projects were initiated using cotton gin waste, tree trimmer waste, poultry litter, municipal solid waste compost, fired clay aggregates, industrial manufacturing wastes, and spent tea grinds in the production of nursery and greenhouse crops. Various materials were also evaluated as mulches, with particular concerns related to termites. Many waste materials have also been evaluated for potential as fuel for greenhouse heating. Work continued with composts from: cotton gin waste, poultry litter, municipal household garbage, and forest byproducts in production of greenhouse and nursery crops and pelleting for transport and use as fuel. This research continues to demonstrate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels either directly as a fuel source or as components of substrates. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products are being developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. Results should provide needed information concerning alternative substrates to pinebark. Research emphasis for 2006 was focused on: 1) Methods of container production, plant nutrition, and environmental effects for greenhouse crops, landscape trees and woody ornamentals; 2) Problems in landscape horticulture, and; 3) Use of various agricultural, industrial, municipal, and waterway wastes as fuel and in horticultural channels as substrates or mulches. Nine graduate students are working in these areas.

Impacts
Agricultural, municipal, industrial, construction, smelting, and landscape wastes continue to be readily available with increasing disposal problems. Our research continues to demonstrate suitable avenues for disposal of many waste products through established horticultural methods of growing or maintaining plants. In addition, many waste products can be diverted into energy production. Many of these waste materials can be used to heat greenhouses and/or power generators emloyed in the green industry.

Publications

  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, H.A. Torbert, T.V. Gallagher, and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Evaluation of freshly chipped pine tree substrate for container-grown Lantana camera. HortScience 41:1027 Abstr. 40.
  • Tian, D., K. Tilt, F. Woods, J.L. Sibley and F. Dane. 2006. Effect of fertilization on growth of ornamental lotus in containers. HortScience 41:1071. Abstr. 63.
  • Johnson, C.N., D.J. Eakes, A.N. Wright, and J.L. Sibley and L.L. Bruner. 2006. Influence of substrates on rooting Clematis socialis stem cuttings. HortScience 41:497.
  • Lu, W., J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, J.S. Bannon, and Y. Zhang, 2006. Estimation of U.S. bark generation and implications for horticultural industries. J. Environ. Hort. 24:29-34.
  • Pickens, J.M. and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Evaluation of Hydrocks as a substrate component for horticulture crops. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:314-316.
  • Fain, G.B., C.H. Gilliam and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Processed whole pine trees as a substrate for container-grown plants. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:59-61.
  • Fain, G.B. C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley and C.R. Boyer. 2006. Evaluation of an alternative, sustainable substrate for use in greenhouse crops. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:651-654.
  • Brooks, K.M., G.J. Keever, J.L. Sibley and J.E. Altland. 2006. Growth response of crapemyrtle to production light level and supplemental fertilizer. J. Environ. Hort. 24:192-196.
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert and J.L. Sibley. 2006. A new substrate for container-grown plants: Clean chip residual. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 56:in press peer-reviewed, refereed.
  • Simpson, C.V., C.H. Gilliam, G.R. Wehtje, J.L. Sibley, and J.E. Altland. 2006. Growth stage and time of the year effects on nursery crop tolerance to Diuron. J. Environ. Hort. 24:237-241.
  • Brooks, K.M., G.J. Keever, J.L. Sibley and J.E. Altland. 2006. Growth response of crapemyrtle to coppicing and production light level. J. Environ. Hort. 24:149-154.
  • Brooks, K.M., G.J. Keever, J.E. Altland, and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Growth and flowering of crapemyrtle in response to tree shelters. J. Environ. Hort. 24:155-159.
  • Tian, D., K.M. Tilt, F.M. Woods, J.R. Kessler and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Postharvest longevity and quality of cooler-stored lotus propagules. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:380-383.
  • Lu, W. and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Modeling of water requirements for container production using overhead irrigation. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:518-520.
  • Tian, D., K.M. Tilt, F.M. Woods, J.L. Sibley and F. Dane. 2006. Summary of development, introduction and marketing strategy to share lotus in the Southeast United States. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 56:xx-xx. non-refereed.
  • Fasina, O.O., D. Bransby, J. Sibley and C.H. Gilliam. 2006. Heating of greenhouse with biofuel pellets. Paper No. 06-4183. ASABE International Meeting, Portlant, OR. July 9th - 12th.
  • Blackwood, Kenneth R., M.S. Thesis 2006. Performance of Acer saccharum L. taxa in North Alabama.
  • Johnson, Connie, M.S. Thesis 2006. Stem cutting propagation of the endangered species, Clematis socialis (Kral).
  • Boyer, C.R., G.B. Fain, C.H. Gilliam, T.V. Gallagher, H.A. Torbert and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Clean chip residual: A new substrate component for container-grown plants. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:22-25.
  • Johnson, C.N., D.J. Eakes, A.N. Wright, J.L. Sibley and L.L. Bruner. 2006. Influence of substrates on the propagation of Clematis socialis stem cuttings. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 51:357-359.
  • Thompson, J.M., A.G. Appel, J.L. Sibley, G.J. Keever, and W.G. Foshee, III. 2006. Comparative water relations of three sympatric terrestrial slugs: (Stylommatophora: Agriolimacidae, Limacidae, and Philomycidae). J. of Alabama Academy of Sciences 77:3-4:181-192.
  • Chesnut, H. Wayne, M.S. Thesis 2006. Determination of optimal temperatures for induced chilling of red maple cultivars.
  • J.L. Sibley, W. Lu, C.H. Gilliam, A.N. Wright, and M. Schaeffer. Jan., 2006. Evaluation of various industrial, construction, and municipal wastes as pine bark amendments in container nursery plant production. Center for Applied Nursery Research 2005 Res. Reports, Univ. of Georgia. J.T. Midcap, Ed. Jan. p. 37-41.
  • Jackson, K., Sibley, J.L. 2006. All dirt is not equal. Alabama Living 59:6:26,44.
  • Ray, D., Sibley, J.L.. 2006. MaterDirt: AU professor has the dirt on better tomatoes. Neighbors 31:5:3,16-18.
  • Sibley, J.L., W. Lu, C.H. Gilliam, A.N. Wright and M. Schaeffer. 2006. Evaluation of various industrial, construction, and municipal wastes as pine bark amendments in container nursery plant production. GA. Green Ind. Assoc. Journal 17:2:44-46.
  • Tian, D., K.M. Tilt, and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Southern blight: deadly curse for peonies. American Nurseryman 204:8:8-9. Circulation 14,000.
  • Blythe, E.K, and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Enhancing Auxin Applications. Ornamental Outlook 15(10):20-22.
  • Blythe, E.K., J.M. Ruter, J.L. Sibley, and K.M. Tilt. 2006. Evaluation of Foliar and Substrate Applications of Auxin for Rooting Stem Cuttings of Dwarf Yaupon Holly. Holly Society Journal. Accepted, in press.
  • Fain, G.B., C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley and C.R. Boyer. 2006. Establishment of greenhouse-grown herbaceous ornamental plants in WholeTree substrates. 4th ISHS International and 8th National Symposium on Seed, Transplant and Stand Establishment of Horticultural Crops, San Antonio, TX. Abstr. and Poster.
  • Jackson, B.E., J.M. Kemble, A.N. Wright, and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Harvest yields of greenhouse tomatoes grown in pine bark-amended cotton gin compost. HortScience 41:1023. Abstr. 298.
  • Jackson, B. E., A.N. Wright, and J.L. Sibley. 2006. Root growth of three horticultural crops grown in pine bark-amended cotton gin compost. HortScience 41:1054. Abstr. 45.
  • Wright, A.N., J.L. Sibley, L. Waters, D. Williams, and J. Eakes. 2006. International opportunities in horticulture at Auburn University. HortScience 41:975. Abstr.


Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
Projects were initiated using cotton gin waste, tree trimmer waste, smelting slag, brewers mash, and municipal garbage compost and in container production of nursery crops. Work continued with composted cotton gin byproducts and composted municipal household garbage in greenhouse and nursery crops. This research continues to demonstrate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products are being developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. Results should provide needed information concerning alternative substrates to pinebark. Research emphasis for 2005 was focused on: 1) Methods of container production, plant nutrition, and environmental effects for landscape trees and woody ornamentals; 2) Problems in landscape horticulture, and; 3) Use of various agricultural, industrial, municipal, and waterway wastes in horticultural channels. Three graduate students are working in these areas.

Impacts
Agricultural, municipal, industrial, construction, smelting, and landscape wastes continue to be readily available with increasing disposal problems. Our research continues to demonstrate suitable avenues for disposal of many waste products through established horticultural methods of growing or maintaining plants.

Publications

  • Wright, A.N., J.L. Sibley, and W. Lu. 2005 (Jan., 2005). Evaluation of composted municipal waste as an amendment to pine bark for use in container ornamental production. Center for Applied Nursery Research 2004 Res. Reports, Univ. of Georgia. J.T. Midcap, Ed. Jan. p. 68-69.
  • Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley, and J.M. Ruter.2005 (Jan., 2005). Cutting propagation with auxin applied via the rooting substrate. Center for Applied Nursery Research 2004 Res. Reports, Univ. of Georgia. J.T. Midcap, Ed. Jan. p. 1-3.
  • Thompson, J.M., J.L. Sibley, W.G. Foshee, III, G.K. Keever, and A. Appel. 2005. Effect of copper hydroxide on slug feeding. J. Environ. Hort. 23:167-170.
  • Jackson, B.J., A.N. Wright, J.L. Sibley and J.M. Kemble. 2005. Root growth of three horticultural crops grown in cotton gin compost amended pine bark. J. Environ. Hort. 23:133-137.
  • Jackson, B.J., A.N. Wright, D.M.Cole, and J.L. Sibley. 2005. Cotton gin compost as a substrate component in container production of nursery crops. J. Environ. Hort. 23:118-122.
  • Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley, K.M. Tilt, and B. Zinner. 2005. Monolithic slag as a substrate for rooting and bare-rooting stem cuttings. J. Environ. Hort. 23:67-71.
  • Cole, D.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, D.J. Eakes, and K.M. Tilt. 2005. Effect of cotton gin compost on substrate properties and growth of azalea under differing irrigation regimes in a greenhouse setting. HortTechnology 15:145-148.
  • Simpson, C.V., G. Wehtje, C.H. Gilliam, J.L. Sibley, and J.E. Altland. 2005. Diuron sorption by pine-bark substrate and foliar vs. root absorption by yellow woodsorrel (Oxalis stricta). J. Weed Technology 19:532-538.
  • Wilson, J.C., E.K. Blythe, D.M. Cole, E.L. Vinson, III and J.L. Sibley. 2005. Nitrogen release rate differs by fertilizer source. Small Fruits Rev. 4:85-92.
  • Johnson, C.N., D.J. Eakes, L.L. Bruner, A.N. Wright, and J.L. Sibley. 2005. Effects of substrate physical properties on rooting stem cuttings of the endangered species Clematis socialis. Kral. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:407-410.
  • Lu, W., J.L. Sibley, M.Schaefer, and X. Yang. 2005. Nursery use of municipal garbage compost. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:68-72.
  • Lu, W., J.L. Sibley, C.H. Gilliam, Y. Zhang, and J.S. Bannon. 2005. Current status of bark supply in the U.S. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:354-358.
  • Sibley, J.L., C.H. Gilliam, W.G. Foshee, III, A.N. Wright, and G.B. Fain. 2005. Development of nursery crop substrates from recycled materials and composted poultry litter. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:127-130.
  • Fasina, O.O., D.I. Bransby, J.R. Kessler, C.H. Gilliam, and J.L. Sibley. 2005. Pelleted poultry litter provides viable fuel source for greenhouse heat. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:362-364.
  • Blythe, E.K. and Sibley, J.L. 2005. Use of a thickening agent for application of auxin to cuttings of hibiscus and rose. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:392-394.
  • Jackson, B.E., A.N. Wright, and J.L. Sibley. 2005. Effect of cotton gin compost and pine bark substrate blends on root growth of two horticulture crops. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:54-58.
  • Tian, D., K. Tilt, J. Sibley, F. Dane and F. Woods. 2005. Effects of soil level and fertilization on performance of container lotus. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:138-142.
  • Olive, J.W. Sibley, J.L., R.A. Price and J.C. Stephenson. 2005. Landscape application of a manufactured topsoil comprised of harbor dredge and biosolids. Proc. SNA Res. Conf. 50:484-485.
  • Thompson, Jody M., M.S. Thesis. Alternative controls for gastropods in horticultural crops. May, 2005.


Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04

Outputs
Projects were completed using waterway dredge soils with Class A municipal biosolids in container production of nursery crops. Work continued with composted cotton gin byproducts and composted municipal household garbage in greenhouse and nursery crops. This research is beginning to indicate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products are being developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. Results should provide needed information concerning alternative substrates to pinebark. Research emphasis for 2004 was focused on: 1) Methods of container production, plant nutrition, and environmental effects for landscape trees and woody ornamentals; 2) Problems in landscape horticulture, and; 3) Use of various agricultural, industrial, municipal, and waterway wastes in horticultural channels. Two graduate students are working in these areas.

Impacts
Agricultural, municipal and industrial wastes continue to pose disposal problems. This research is beginning to show the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products will be developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value. The results could also lessen the dependence on pinebark as a substrate in the greenhouse and nursery industry. Alternative uses for the number one animal waste in Alabama, poultry litter are being developed.

Publications

  • Mayfield, J.L., L. Ozanne, C.C. Mitchell, E.H. Simonne, and J.L. Sibley*. 2004. Laboratory and greenhouse evaluation of quicklime sources for suitability as agricultural liming materials. Comm. Soil Sci. and Plant Anal. 35:1167-1183.
  • Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley*, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2003. Cutting propagation with auxin applied via a stabilized organic rooting substrate. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 53:275-283.
  • J.L. Sibley*, D.M. Cole, and W. Lu. 2004. Waste is a terrible thing to mind. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 54:(in press).
  • Croxton, S.D., J.L. Sibley*, W. Lu, and M. Schaefer. 2004. Evaluation of composted household garbage as a horticultural substrate. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 49:296-299.
  • Lu, W., J.L. Sibley*, J.S. Bannon, Y. Zhang, and C.H. Gilliam. 2004. Estimation of U.S. bark supply. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 49:300-305.
  • Jackson, B.E., A.N. Wright, D.M. Cole and J.L. Sibley*. 2004. Cotton gin compost as a substrate component in container production of ornamental plants. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 49:67-69.
  • Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley*, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2004. Substrate application of auxin for rooting cuttings of Elaeagnus x ebbingei. Proc. South. Nurs. Assoc. Res. Conf. 49:349-352.
  • Wright, A.N., J.L. Sibley*, and W. Lu. 2004. Evaluation of composted municipal waste as an amendment to pine bark for use in container ornamental production. Center for Applied Nursery Research 2004 Res. Reports, Univ. of Georgia. J.T. Midcap, Ed. In press.
  • Brass, T.J., W.G. Foshee, III, and J.L. Sibley*. 2004. Use of fresh sawdust as a nitrogen source in sweet corn production. J. Veg. Crop Prod. 10:89-98.
  • Blythe, E.K., J.L. Sibley*, K.M. Tilt, and J.M. Ruter. 2004. Auxin application to stem cuttings of selected woody landscape plants by incorporation into a stabilized organic rooting substrate. J. Environ. Hort. 22:63-70.
  • Cole, D.M. and J.L. Sibley*. 2004. Waste not, want not. American Nurseryman 200(9):44-47.


Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

Outputs
Projects were initiated using waterway dredge soils, Class A municipal biosolids, composted cotton gin byproducts and composted municipal household garbage in container production of nursery crops. This project technically began in October 2003, therefore these projects are not complete.

Impacts
This research will indicate the feasibility for redirecting various waste or residual materials to horticultural distribution channels. In some cases, the research will lead to a reduced dependency on land fills. In some cases value-added products will be developed from materials with little or no current commercial or aesthetic value.

Publications

  • Cole, David M., M.S., 2003. Cotton gin compost as a horticultural substrate. 116 pages.
  • Cole, D.M., J.L. Sibley, E.K. Blythe, D.J. Eakes, and K.M. Tilt. 2002. Cotton gin compost as an alternative substrate for propagation. Com. Proc. Int. Plant Prop. Soc. 52:388-392 (peer-reviewed, refereed).