Refrigerator time

[Carlo A. Balistrieri]

>Conclusions:
>
>1. One month's refrigeration is probably enough cold to allow the corm to
>"think" that it has experienced a winter. However, the latent period between
>replanting and emergence is prolonged.
>
>2. Refrigeration beyond three months probably gains nothing, and at some
>point the corm will break dormancy even if in continuous cold.
>
>I'm sure that plant physiologists can provide some logic to these
>observations. Fire away, everybody!
>
>Jim McClements

Jim, et al,
I'm curious as to whether anyone has looked at what long term effects (on
health or viability) this "pushing" has on the plants. For my part, the
dormant period in pots in the basement is fine. It gives me (and the plants)
a bit of a break.

There has been some indication that forcing things like crocus, hyacinth,
tulips, etc. has a permanent and negative effect on the bulbs. I know it's
not the same process but...

Carlo


Carlo A. Balistrieri, J.D.        Email: CABalist at facstaff.wisc.edu
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