Few Useful Tips For Enhancing The Growth And Development Of Plants

By Author: Gooderham Horticulture Ltd
Total Articles: 10
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Proper plant growth is dependent upon a number of factors. In the lack of proper growing conditions with regard to temperature, light and water requirements, plants may fail to develop.

Factors affecting plant growth

The key factors responsible for plant growth include:

Light

Light is the most important factor that affects plant development. For proper plant growth, it is important to ensure that they receive proper amount of sunlight. For plants grown in interiors, artificial lighting may fail to be a substitute for the sunlight required by the plants. The food production by a plant is dependent upon the amount of sunlight it receives.

Hence for interior plants, usage of incandescent or plant growth lamps are highly recommended to ensure proper growth of plants in areas which lack proper sunlight. The following symptoms may occur when the plant receives inadequate light:

• Lack of growth.
• Longer internodes on new growth.
• Smaller size of new leaves.
• Lighter colour of new leaves.
• Dying out of older leaves.

Temperature

Most plants ...
... may require moderate temperatures for growth. Extremely high or low temperatures may restrict their growth. Most summer plants thrive well in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees F whereas winter plants may grow between temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees F.
For interior plants, the temperatures may be controlled by adjusting the temperature and usage of air conditioning and thermostats.

Water

Different types of plants may require variable amount of water for growth. Excess water may suffocate the roots of the plant and low water levels may cause the plant to die. The appropriate amount of water required by plants depends on the following factors:

• The type of plant.
• The plant size as larger plants may require more water.
• The amount of moisture present in the soil.
• The amount of light received by the plant.

Water quality can also affect the plant growth. Water, which is high in fluorine and chlorine content, may restrict the plant growth. It is advisable to allow the water to stand for a few days before using it to water plants. This can eliminate the excess fluorine and chlorine from it.

Mineral nutrients

Fertilizers may help in plant growth provided they are used in appropriate quantities. Over fertilization may damage the plant roots and hence restrict its growth. Different plants may require fertilizers varying in minerals and nutrients. It is hence important to use the right type of fertilizers in appropriate quantities to support plant growth.

Soil

While growing plants, it is advisable to ensure that the soil is aerated and drained. This increases its capacity to hold nutrients and water and hence supports plant growth.
Growth of plants can be enhanced by ensuring proper supply of essential nutrients, water and sunlight.