Improving the technology of growing Prunus salicina Lindl. in container culture

The relevance of container culture in the cultivation of fruit plants in the northern horticultural zone is undeniable. Modeling of a substrate with desired properties and the quality of irrigation water are the most important factors that ensure high technology efficiency. The studies were conducted at the experimental base in the conditions of the South Urals of Russia and aimed at increasing the efficiency of growing Prunus salicina Lindl. in a container culture. The effect of the components of the substrate and the chemical composition of irrigation water on the biometric indicators and the intensity of the photosynthetic process of grafted plum plants was studied. According to the results of the experiment, quantitative criteria for the chemical composition of the suitability of water for irrigation of plum plants were determined. A significant relationship was established between the composition of the substrate and the quality of the plants when grown in container culture. A model of the substrate “loose structure + good water-holding ability + complex of macro- and microelements” is proposed. Systems based on soil and peat, as well as systems based on peat, have been studied. The complex of macro- and micronutrients was introduced into the substrate due to fertilizer of controlled release Basacote with a prolongation period of 6 months. It is recommended to apply Basacote 2.5-5.0 g L^‑1 of the substrate in preparation for planting, depending on the rootstock and plum cultivar. The use of Basacote provided the number of quality seedlings twice as much as in comparison with the control. As a result of research, the fundamental role of substrate and irrigation water at the development of Prunus salicina Lindl. plants in container culture were confirmed.