Traditionell odling av utplanteringsväxter – utan kemisk retardering eller avancerad klimatstyrning

Sammanfattning: Since the 1960´s chemicals have been used for controlling the growth of house and bedding plants. Chemical growth controllers allow plants to be grown tightly together and makes them easily transportable. The substances for growth control which are permitted in the growing of ornamental flowers are carcinogenic and acutely toxic according to Swedish Chemical Agency. There is ongoing research aimed at phasing out the use of such retardants but research is currently conducted in, and is primarily used for, modern greenhouses. Modern growing technology also depends heavily upon computers analysis and environmental/climate controlled greenhouses. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how it is possible to grow premium bedding plants without chemical retardants or advanced environmental controls. A popular increase in environmental and health concerns have raised the demand for eco-friendly, small-scale, locally grown house and bedding plants. This work shall provide useful for the professional grower or hobby gardeners and their respected needs. The aim is to clarify how the cultivation of robust, compact, and flower-rich bedding plants is performed without the use of chemical retardants or access to modern climate -controlled greenhouses. The results will be a summary of the parameters to be considered during eco-friendly cultivation and plausible arguments for the growth of bedding plants without the use of chemical retardants. Hopefully, the thesis will also contribute to the already growing consumer awareness for eco-friendly bedding plants and help increase locally grown production.