ABSTRACT

HENSLEY, D.L. and C.F. FACKLER. 1984. Do water-holding compounds help in transplanting? Am. Nurseryman 159(3): 93.

A number of water-holding compounds have been introduced into the horticultural market within the past few years. Most of these are starch-hydrolyzed polyacrylonitrile copolymers and acrylamide and acrylic acid salt copolymers. These are sold under a number of brand names. The use of these and similar materials has improved the water status of plants during production. The purpose of this study was to determine if water-holding compounds are useful as transplant aids for ground covers. Root dips with Terra-Sorb had no effect on survival or growth. Root dips also did not help to establish these species. Little benefit is likely where rainfall is adequate or where supplementary irrigation is available.

• © 1985, International Society of Arboriculture. All rights reserved.