CELLULOSE ACETATE AS A SOILLESS MEDIUM FOR THE PRODUCTION OF VEGETABLE TRANSPLANTS

Spun cellulose acetate was studied as an alternative medium to peat/vermiculite in the commercial production of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) transplants for fresh market. Data indicated that 6-week-old tomato transplants grown in cellulose acetate had reduced fresh weight, dry weight, and height compared to transplants grown in peat/vermiculite. Muskmelon plants grown in cellulose acetate vs. those grown in peat/vermiculite had significantly less dry weight after 20 and 45 days in the field. Total yield and fruit size were unaffected by the use of cellulose acetate as an alternative medium for transplant production in either crop, however, tomato fruit maturity was delayed.