The effects of potting substrate compositions on the growth of potted hellebore (Helleborus × hybridus)
Description
The potted hellebore is widely favored in horticulture owing to its diverse flower colors and special flower shapes. As a potted plant with remarkable ornamental value, it enjoys promising development prospects in the ornamental plant market. However, scientific literature remains scarce regarding the effects of different composite substrates on the growth of Helleborus×hybridus, the focus of this study. Given its distinctive aesthetic value and the crucial significance of the substrate for its growth, this study examined the growth status of potted seedlings in various substrate compositions. Key growth and photosynthetic parameters were measured, and a comprehensive evaluation was carried out using principal component analysis (PCA). Results demonstrated that the substrate containing imported peat mixed with vermiculite (1:1 ratio) yielded optimal plant growth, followed by coconut coir combined with vermiculite (1:1). These findings provide practical insights for selecting environmentally sustainable and cost-effective substrate components for hellebores cultivation. We believe that the present paper will be of interest to the readership of your journal.