Effects of short interval cyclic flooding on growth and survival of three native shrubs

Abstract

The effect of short interval cyclic flooding on root and shoot growth of 'Shamrock' inkberry holly (Ilex glabra), 'Henry's Garnet' sweetspire (Itea virginica), and 'Winterthur' possumhaw (Viburnum nudum) was studied in a greenhouse in Auburn, AL. Liners (4.4 inches long) of each species were planted into trade 1-gal pots in 1 pine bark:1 peat by volume (PB:P) or fine textured calcined clay (CC). 'Shamrock' inkberry holly and 'Henry's Garnet' sweetspire were planted 18 Apr. 2008; the experiment was repeated with the addition of 'Winterthur' possumhaw on 16 June 2008. Plants were flooded to substrate level for 0 (non-flooded), 3, or 7 days. Flooding cycles were repeated at least five times with 7 days of draining between each flood cycle. During draining, plants received no irrigation. Nonflooded plants were watered as needed. Flooded plants for all species except 'Winterthur' possumhaw showed decreased root dry weight, shoot dry weight, and final growth index when compared with non-flooded plants. Survival was higher in CC than PB:P for both experiments. All plants maintained good visual quality and shoot growth. As a result, overall, these plants seemed tolerant of flooding despite differences in growth.