Effects of Fertilizer Source and Rate on Zinnia Cut Flower Production in a High Tunnel

Sustainable nutrient management in high tunnel production is critical for optimizing crop yield and quality improving soil health. In this study, we investigated the influence of different pre-plant composts (composted broiler litter, vemicompost, cotton gin compost) combination with rates organic or conventional fertilizer on zinnia plant growth, marketable cut flower stems (>30 cm), nutrients a over two years. Results showed that general, compost influenced plants received composted litter had highest growth index. However, did not affect number stems. Fertigation during growing season Comparable nitrogen, from either fertilizer, produced similar numbers stems, suggesting used study can be as source flowers. After years under tunnel, soil-extractable phosphorus, sodium, zinc, pH significantly increased, salt accumulation should closely monitored response to sources long-term tunnels.