The property and effect of bioplastic pots on the growth and developmental physiology of lily and begonia

Three different injection molded bioplastic (BP) pots, BP 29, BP 32, and BP 45 pots, containing processed feather fibers, were evaluated. Growth and flowering of Lilium hybrid ‘Triumphator’ and Begonia ‘Bonfire’ were evaluated in new and reused BP pots. Net photosynthesis was measured and macro- and micro-elements were analyzed in ‘Triumphator’ lily. Ultrastructure of epidermis cells of ‘Triumphator’ lily were analyzed using a low temperature-scanning electron microscope (LT-SEM). Surface changes, the weight, and macro- and micro-elements of the BP pots were also analyzed. When lilies were grown in BP 32 pots, root and shoot growth were inhibited, flowering was delayed and the net photosynthesis was negative, grana development, and starch granules were not observed as compared to those in BP 45 pots. Changes in the surface of BP 32 pots after forcing lilies (used once) showed a distinct space between feather fibers and other constituents which could be due to the chemical changes resulting from absorption of water. When BP pots were analyzed for pH and macro- and micro-elements, the pH and the concentration of ammonium nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and iron were significantly higher in the new BP 32 than those of BP 29 and BP 45 pots. Based on the growth and development of lily and begonia and net photosynthesis and grana development of lily, and foliar analysis of begonia grown in three different BP pots, it is concluded that BP 45 is recommended to grow lily and begonia when proper levels of nutrition are maintained during culture. Poor root growth and development of ‘Triumphator’ lily grown in new BP 32 pots could be associated with leaching of toxic substances once the pots absorb water during the culture.