Good Report About The Effect Of Mechanical Stimulation On The

GROWTH AND BRANCHING OF A GARDEN ROSE

The Effect of Mechanical Stimulation on the Growth and Branching of a Garden Rose
In an effort to shape a potted plant to the required shape, it is necessary to control the branching and compact growth. Use of chemical regulators is common, but concerns about the health of the plant and of the environment prompt research into other areas. Research into the application of mechanical stimulation offers a potential alternative.
The experiment used the breed Rosa Hybrida ‘Radrazz’ Knock-out. Two frequencies were applied to young plants in two separate increments. The horizontal bar applying the frequencies passed back and forth over the top part of the plants. The first was once daily, three times a week for seven weeks. The applications occurred on three consecutive days followed by a rest. The other increment was five times daily, four times a week for five week. The bar passed every two hours starting at 0900.

Results

Significantly increased branching by reduced axis length resulted in both increments of application. In the 1/3/7 application, branching from the most proximal metamers of a 102% increase and a metamer length reduction of 8% in order 1 axes resulted; a length reduction in order 2 axes also occurred. Significant measurements were found in the branching of scaly metamers. A successive experiment demonstrated a significant difference in the length of the axis 1 metamers and length of the order 2 axis. In both experiments, other measurements showed no significant differences.
In the 5/4/5 application, branching from the most proximal metamers of a 97% increase and a metamer length reduction of 9% in order 1 axes resulted; also, this application showed significant length reduction in order 2 axes. Significant differences were seen in branching on scale metamers and on leafy metamers in the distal position. A successive experiment demonstrated a significant difference in the length of metamers and the length and diameter of order 1 axis. In both experiments, other measurements showed no significant differences.
Although it should be noted that the stem base is more rigid than the rest of the stem in this breed of rose; therefore, the basal branching increase is a long distance reaction by non-stimulated organs. These results are promising for alternative uses for basitone branching without chemicals.

Works Cited

Morel, P., et al. 'Effect Of Mechanical Stimulation On The Growth And Branching Of Garden
Rose'. Scientia Horticulturae 135 (2012): 59-64. Web.