Abstract

Cuttings of Bougainvillea glabra were placed in 80-ml (4.9 in³) containers containing rooting medium mixed with various concentrations of biosolids (1, 2.5, 5 and 7.5%) from two sources (Herzliyya and Haifa). Two biosolids-free control media were used (with or without addition of mini-Osmocote fertilizer). Half of the cuttings were treated with IBA. The rooting percentage was improved by adding biosolids to rooting media. Treating cuttings with IBA without biosolids was inferior to some of the biosolid treatments. Root development was significantly stimulated by the biosolids compared with a slow-release fertilizer treatment. However, the effect of biosolids on shoot development was slightly improved. Generally, high concentrations of Herzliyya biosolids showed the best results in rooting and growth, whereas Haifa biosolids were best at lowest concentrations.