DATE: November 12, 2008

CONTACT: James Brown-Faust, 864-656-4966
jfaust@clemson.edu

WRITER: Peter Kent, 864-656-4355
pkent@clemson.edu

Clemson researcher tells poinsettia growers to 'cool it' for eye-appealing plants

CLEMSON — Clemson scientist Jim Faust recently published research that will help poinsettia growers figure how low to set temperatures in greenhouses to have the plants look their best during the winter holidays. Adjusting the temperature also can save fuel costs, adding to the bottom line.

A floriculture physiologist, Faust works in two areas to help growers keep their plants at their peak. Faust is an internationally recognized expert in growing poinsettias.

The plant-cuttings industry depends on getting fresh young starter plants from Central America to grow out in the United States. Packing the cuttings so that they stay cool — not cold — during their trip to the states is a major challenge. Currently, cuttings are flown in, which is expensive. Faust and Scott Whiteside of Clemson's packaging science department are researching ways to configure ice packs in insulated cartons to keep the cuttings in good condition. Their goal is to develop a package that can be sent by boat, which cuts costs substantially.

The research can lower costs and raise revenues for growers at home and abroad. Poinsettias, which were first popularized in Greenville, are a multimillion-dollar seasonal business. Growers have only from Thanksgiving until Christmas to sell they plants. Research that helps them slow down or speed up plant development can ensure top-quality poinsettias when people want them.

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