Answer to Question 1Different methods of watering container plants include by hand, by trickle tube, by
overhead irrigation (sprinklers), and with a capillary mat under the containers (for
bench growing). Hand watering is appropriate for small operations or for spot watering,
but is too costly for general use. Trickle tube systems are the most efficient in saving
water, but expensive to install. Rodents also tend to chew the tubes. Overhead irrigation
is cheaper to install and operate than trickle tube, but requires more water to do the
same job because some water is lost between containers or through evaporation. A
capillary mat under the containers is only used for bench growing, so it has a limited
application.
Answer to Question 2A good growing medium must:1.
Provide good drainage (sand, perlite, and bark are often used).
2. Be porous for good aeration (sand, perlite, and bark are often used).
3. Hold moisture well (peat moss is most often used).
4. Hold plant nutrients (some soil may be added).
5. Have the proper pH range (different plants require different pH).
6. Be sterile (free of insects, disease organisms, and weed seeds).
7. Be economical and easily obtained.
8. Be consistent in quality (always the same contents in the same percentages).
9. Encourage good root development (be compatible to the plant).
10. Transplant well to the soil in the plant's permanent location (a plant grown in bark
and peat may not transplant well to a clay soil).
