THE SCIENCE OF ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE.docx

**[THE SCIENCE OF ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE]** **What is Ornamental Horticulture?** Ornamental horticulture is the study of growing, arranging and tending decorative plants and flowers **Importance of Ornamental Horticulture** - **Aesthetics**: Ornamental plants add visual appeal to landscapes,...

**[THE SCIENCE OF ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE]** **What is Ornamental Horticulture?** Ornamental horticulture is the study of growing, arranging and tending decorative plants and flowers **Importance of Ornamental Horticulture** - **Aesthetics**: Ornamental plants add visual appeal to landscapes, gardens, and urban spaces, creating pleasant environments - **Cultural and Historic Value**: Many ornamental plants hold cultural and historical significance, reflecting regional traditions and stories - **Economic Impact**: Ornamental horticulture contributes to the economy through plant sales, landscaping services, and tourism attractions - **Environmental Benefits**: Plants improve air quality, reduce soil erosion, and provide habitats for wildlife - **Wellbeing**: Interacting with nature and beautiful landscapes has positive effects on mental and emotional well-being **Plant Selection and Design Principles** **[Plant Selection]** - **Climate Compatibility**: Choose plants that thrive in your local climate to ensure their health and longevity - **Site Analysis**: Evaluate sunlight, soil type, drainage, and wind conditions to determine suitable plant choices - **Biodiversity**: Select a diverse range of plants to promote ecosystem health and resilience **[Design Principles]** - **Unity and Harmony**: Create a cohesive look by using similar colors, textures, and forms throughout the design - **Balance**: Achieve visual equilibrium by distributing plant elements evenly within the space - **Rhythm**: Establish a sense of movement using repeated patterns or focal points - **Proportion and Scale**: Balance the size of plants with the surrounding space to avoid overwhelming or underwhelming arrangements - **Contrast**: Combine contrasting elements, such as color, shape, and texture, to create visual interest. **The Green Plant** The Green Plant Green plants produce and recycle the oxygen on which animal life depends. They capture the energy of the sun and convert it into forms usable by humans and other animals. Plants are the only living organisms capable of manufacturing their own food. **Plant Classification** For centuries, beginning with a Greek named Theophrastus in about 300 B.C., scientists have attempted to classify the planet's organisms into a tidy system that accommodates all current knowledge of the natural world and allows new knowledge to be added If an organism moved, had a nervous system, and could not make its own food, it was classified as an animal. If it was anything else, it was classified as a plant. 1. **Bryophytes**: These are non vascular plants, including mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. They lack true roots, stems, and leaves, and rely on diffusion for water and nutrient transport. 2. **Pteridophytes**: These are vascular plants that reproduce using spores. Ferns are a common example. They have true roots, stems, and leaves, and some can grow quite large. 3. **Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are seed-producing plants that do not produce flowers. They include conifers like pine trees and cycads. Their seeds are not enclosed in fruits. 4. **Angiosperms**: Angiosperms are flowering plants, the largest and most diverse group. They produce seeds enclosed within fruits. They are further divided into monocots (one seed leaf) and dicots (two seed leaves) **What is Botanical Classification?** Botanical classification, also known as plant taxonomy or systematics, is the scientific discipline that involves organizing and categorizing plants based on their shared characteristics, evolutionary relationships, and historical development. The primary goal of botanical classification is to provide a systematic and logical framework for understanding the diversity of plant life on Earth. By classifying plants, scientists can better study, communicate, and make sense of the immense variety of plant species **Historical Development** Botanical classification has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. However, modern botanical classification is largely attributed to the groundbreaking work of Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. Linnaeus developed a hierarchical system of classification that became the basis for the binomial nomenclature used today, where each species is given a unique two-part Latin name (Genus species). **Hierarchical Classification System** The botanical classification system is organized into a hierarchy of categories, each representing a different level of similarity and relatedness among plants. These categories, from broadest to most specific, are: **DOMAIN** This is a relatively newer addition to the classification system, indicating the highest level of categorization. Currently, there are three recognized domains: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. Plants belong to the domain Eukarya **Kingdom** Within the domain Eukarya, plants are classified in the Kingdom Plantae. This includes all multicellular, photosynthetic organisms. **Division/Phylum** The Kingdom Plantae is divided into various divisions or phyla, each representing a major group of plants with distinct characteristics. For example, angiosperms (flowering plants) and gymnosperms (cone-bearing plants) are different divisions. **Class** Divisions are further divided into classes based on additional characteristics. For example, within the angiosperms, you have classes like Monocots (e.g., grasses, lilies) and Dicots (e.g., roses, sunflowers). **Order** Classes are divided into orders, which represent more specific groupings of plants. Orders can include multiple families that share common features **Family** Orders are broken down i nto families, which are groups of related plants sharing even more specific characteristics **Genus** Families are further divided into genera (plural of genus), representing closely related species with very similar characteristics. **Species** The most specific level of classification, the species level identifies individual plant types. Species are characterized by their ability to interbreed and produce fertile offspring The hierarchical classification of a plant follows the pattern: Domain \> Kingdom \> Division/Phylum \> Class \> Order \> Family \> Genus \> Species. For example, for a rose, its classification might be: ROSE Domain: Eukarya Kingdom: Plantae Division: Angiosperms Class: Eudicots Order: Rosales Family: Rosaceae Genus: Rosa Species: Rosa gallica (for the Gallica rose) **What is Soil?** Soil is the upper layer of the Earth\'s crust composed of mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air. It serves as a habitat for plants, animals, and microorganisms and is essential for supporting life on Earth. **Soil Composition** Soil is composed of mineral particles (sand, silt, and clay), organic matter (decaying plant and animal material), water, and air. The proportions of these components determine the soil\'s texture, structure, and fertility. 25% Air 25% Water 45% Minerals 05% OM (Organic Matter) **Soil Horizons** Soil profiles are often divided into distinct layers called horizons. The main horizons include O horizon (organic matter), A horizon (topsoil), E horizon (leaching zone), B horizon (subsoil), and C horizon (weathered parent material) **Soil Formation** Soil forms through the process of weathering, where rocks are broken down into smaller particles by physical, chemical, and biological processes. Time, climate, parent material, topography, organisms, and human activities all influence soil formation. **Soil Properties** Various properties of soil include texture (proportions of sand, silt, and clay), structure (how particles clump together), pH (acidity or alkalinity), organic matter content, and nutrient levels. These properties affect soil fertility, drainage, and water-holding capacity. **Soil Erosion** Soil erosion is the process of soil being washed or blown away due to factors like water r unoff, wind, and human activities. It can lead to loss of fertile topsoil and degradation of land quality. **Soil Conservation** Methods to prevent soil erosion and degradation include contour plowing, terracing, cover cropping, no-till farming, and planting windbreaks. These techniques help maintain soil health and prevent nutrient loss **Soil Fertility** Soil fertility refers to the ability of soil to provide essential nutrients to plants. Fertilizers are often used to supplement nutrient levels in soil and enhance crop growth **Soil Classification** Soil can be classified into various types based on factors like texture, structure, and composition. The Soil Taxonomy system developed by the United States Department of Agriculture is commonly used for soil classification **Importance of Soil** Soil is vital for agriculture, providing a medium for plant growth and serving as a reservoir for water and nutrients. It also supports ecosystems, filters and purifies water, and plays a role in carbon and nutrient cycling. **WHY SOIL DIFFER** **Parent Material** The type of rock or sediment from which soil forms is known as parent material. Different types of parent materials, such as granite, limestone, or volcanic ash, result in different mineral compositions and initial soil characteristics. **Climate** Climate plays a significant role in soil formation. Factors like temperature, precipitation, and humidity affect the rate of weathering, organic matter decomposition, and other processes that shape soil properties. For example, soils in arid regions may have different characteristics than those in humid areas **Topography and Landscape** The slope, aspect (direction a slope faces), and elevation of a landscape influence soil development. Water movement and drainage patterns are affected by topography, leading to variations in soil moisture levels and erosion rates. **Time** The length of time that soil-forming processes have been at work in a particular location affects the maturity and depth of the soil profile. Older soils tend to have more distinct horizons and greater accumulation of organic matter and minerals. **Organisms** P l a n t s , a n i m a l s , and microorganisms interact with soil and influence its properties. Plant roots help break down rocks, and the decay of organic matter contributes to the development of soil structure and fertility. **Human Activities** Human activities like agriculture, construction, and urbanization can greatly impact soil properties. Farming practices, deforestation, and improper l and use can lead to soil erosion, compaction, and nutrient depletion. **Drainage and Water Regime** The way water interacts with soil affects its composition and structure. Well drained soils may have different characteristics compared to waterlogged or poorly drained soils. **Biological Activity** Microorganisms, insects, worms, and other soil-dwelling organisms contribute to nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and soil structure formation. These activities vary depending on environmental conditions **Geographical Location** Different regions of the world have unique geological, climatic, and ecological characteristics that shape the types of soils found there. Soils in deserts, forests, grasslands, and wetlands will all differ due to their distinct environments. **Human Management Practices** The way humans manage and treat soil, such as through agricultural practices, i rrigation, and the use of fertilizers and pesticides, can s i gnificantly alter soil properties and composition **SOIL SEPARATES** Soil separates refer to the 65 8/22/2024 individual mineral particles that make up soil. The three primary soil separates are sand, silt, and clay. These separates differ in terms of particle size and properties: **Sand**: Sand particles are the largest soil particles, with sizes ranging from 0.05 to 2.0 millimeters in diameter. They are visible to the naked eye and feel gritty to the touch. Sandy soils have good drainage due to the large pore spaces between particles, but they can struggle to hold onto Add a footer water and nutrients. **Silt**: Silt particles are smaller than sand particles, ranging from 0.002 to 0.05 millimeters in diameter. Silt feels smooth and flour-like when dry, and it has better water holding capacity than sand. However, silt soils can become compacted and may drain less efficiently. **Clay**: Clay particles are the smallest soil particles, with sizes less than 0.002 millimeters in diameter. Clay feels sticky and can be molded when wet, but it becomes hard and compacted when dry. Clay soils have excellent water and nutrient retention, but poor drainage **SOIL TEXTURE** **Soil Texture**: Soil texture refers to the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay in a soil. Soil texture greatly influences the soil\'s water-holding capacity, drainage, aeration, and nutrient availability. Soil texture is typically classified using a soil texture triangle, which visually represents the percentages of sand, silt, and clay in a soil sample - **Sandy Soils**: These soils have a higher proportion of sand and low amounts of silt and clay. They tend to drain quickly but can struggle to retain water and nutrients. - **Loam Soils**: Loam soils have a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay, creating a well draining soil with good water-holding capacity. Loam soils are often considered ideal for most types of plants due to their balanced characteristics. - **Clay Soils**: Clay soils contain a significant proportion of clay particles and have high water-holding capacity and nutrient retention. However, they can become compacted and poorly drained. - **Silt Soils**: Silt soils have a higher proportion of silt and are often found in floodplains. They can be fertile but may also be prone to compaction and erosion. **PGR** **What is plant growth regulators?** These are naturally occurring or synthetic substances that regulate various aspects of plant growth and development. They play a crucial role in controlling processes like cell division, elongation, differentiation, flowering, and fruit development. There are five main types of plant growth regulators: auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, and ethylene. 1. **Auxins**: Auxins are primarily responsible for cell elongation and maintaining apical dominance (the inhibition of lateral bud growth by the terminal bud). They also promote root formation in cuttings and play a role in phototropism (bending of plants towards light) and gravitropism (response to gravity). Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is a natural auxin. 2. **Gibberellins**: Gibberellins stimulate stem elongation, seed germination, and flowering. They are used in agriculture to increase fruit size and improve seed germination rates. Gibberellic acid (GA3) is a common synthetic gibberellin 3. **Cytokinins**: Cytokinins are involved in cell division and differentiation. They work in conjunction with auxins to regulate various developmental processes. Cytokinins promote lateral bud growth, delay senescence (aging), and enhance nutrient mobilization. One natural cytokinin is kinetin. 4. **Abscisic Acid (ABA)**: ABA is often referred to as the \"stress hormone\" because it regulates responses to environmental stressors such as drought, cold, and salt. It promotes seed dormancy and inhibits growth processes under unfavorable conditions. 5. **Ethylene**: Ethylene is a gaseous hormone that influences fruit ripening, leaf abscission (shedding), and responses to mechanical stress. It also plays a role in plant responses to biotic stresses like pathogens and insects **PGR Applications** **Agriculture**: Growth regulators are used in agriculture to control plant growth, promote flowering, increase fruit yield, and regulate fruit ripening. **Horticulture**: They are used to manipulate plant growth for ornamental purposes, such as controlling the size and shape of plants. **Propagation**: Growth regulators are used in tissue culture and propagation techniques to induce root formation and accelerate growth. **Fruit Storage**: Ethylene can be used to control the ripening of fruits during storage, extending their shelf life. **Weed Control**: Synthetic auxins can be used as herbicides to control the growth of unwanted plants. **Regulation**: It\'s important to note that the application of growth regulators should be done carefully, as improper usage can lead to unintended consequences. **Samples of commercially available plant growth regulators and their uses in the Philippines** **[Auxin-Based Products]:** **Clonex**: A rooting gel containing IBA, used for promoting root development in cuttings during plant propagation. **Rhizopon**: Contains IBA and is used for rooting cuttings of various plants, including ornamental and fruit crops **[Gibberellin-Based Products: ]** **Promalin**: A mixture of gibberellins and cytokinins, used to promote flowering, fruit set, and fruit enlargement in various crops. **[Cytokinin-Based Products:]** **BactoFil**: Contains cytokinins and beneficial microbes for promoting plant growth, root development, and stress tolerance. **Agri-K**: Contains cytokinins and other growth-promoting substances for enhancing crop yield and quality. **[Ethylene-Based Products: ]** **Ethephon** (**Ethrel**): Contains ethylene-releasing compounds and is used to induce flowering, regulate fruit ripening, and improve fruit coloration. **[Plant Growth Promoters and Stress Alleviators: ]** **Organic Seaweed Extracts**: Derived from seaweed, these products contain natural growth-promoting substances and micronutrients for enhancing plant vigor and stress tolerance **[Fruit Ripening Agents: ]** **Ethephon (Ethrel)**: As mentioned earlier, ethylene releasing compounds are commonly used to induce uniform ripening in fruits. **[Turf Growth Regulators: ]** **Primo Maxx:** As mentioned earlier, this growth regulator can be used in turf management to control growth and improve turf quality. **[Plant Growth Regulators for Plantation Crops: ]** **Paclobutrazol**: Used to manage vegetative growth and enhance flowering in various plantation crops like mangoes