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Thursday, June 12, 2025

Soilless Substrate Stratification- Enabling Nursery Producers to Grow More with Less

Dr. Kris Criscione

Time and Session Location

2:00 PM-3:00 PM

Willow A

CEUs Available 

GCLP, GA, TN, FL

Cost:

What You Will Learn:

Stratified substrates are gaining attention for their numerous benefits in plant production. By stratifying substrates, irrigation and fertilizer applications can be reduced by 25% and 20%, respectively. These substrates also improve moisture retention and gas exchange in containers, leading to healthier plants. Research shows significant improvements in root development when using stratified substrates. Additionally, they can reduce peat reliance by extending peat reserves and cutting applications by up to 50%, making them a sustainable choice for growing media. It’s a win for both your plants and the environment!

More About the Presenter (s):

Dr. Kristopher Criscione is the Nursery Production Specialist at Virginia Tech. He studied soilless substrates, irrigation and fertilizer, and root development throughout his Masters and PhD at Louisiana State University. His disciplines are primarily in rootzone management, exploring the container system in a holistic perspective. His lab direction focuses on the challenges the nursery industry currently and will continue to face in our constantly changing climate/industry.

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