Overview

Greenhouse propagation and ornamental production have traditionally relied on synthetic rooting hormones and soluble fertilizers to achieve uniform, high‑quality crops under increasing cost, labor, and sustainability pressures. This technology offers a microbial alternative, formulated specifically for greenhouse ornamental systems to enhance rooting while fitting into existing propagation programs.

The Opportunity

Researchers at The Ohio State University have identified naturally occurring plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) that produce the auxin IAA and improve root development and nutrient use efficiency in ornamentals grown under greenhouse conditions. By focusing on ornamentals and controlled‑environment production, this technology gives growers and input suppliers a practical biological tool that can be positioned alongside current rooting hormones and fertility practices.

Key Advantages

• Improved rooting: Increases root number, length, and surface area for more uniform, resilient liners.
• Operational efficiency: Supports lower use of synthetic rooting hormones and fertilizers
• Proven performance: Demonstrated benefits under commercial ornamental propagation conditions.
• Input reduction: Enables partial replacement or supplementation of synthetic rooting hormones and fertilizers.
• Supports sustainability: Helps growers advance biological and ESG initiatives

Commercial Applications

• Greenhouse propagation programs: Use in mist/prop benches and liner production for ornamentals
• Horticultural input portfolios: Basis for microbial rooting products for greenhouse and nursery channels
• Biostimulant lines: Propagation‑focused within broader biological product families
• Controlled-environment production: Applicable to greenhouses and indoor farms targeting ornamentals

Transform Your Propagation and Production Programs

Differentiate greenhouse propagation with data‑driven biological solutions that enhance consistency, quality, and sustainability. Ohio State is seeking industry partners to advance product development and commercialization.