EFFECTS OF FOLIAR SPRAYS OF METHANOL ON GROWTH OF SOME GREENHOUSE PLANTS

Foliar sprays of either 20% methanol or 20% methanol + nutrients (Carb onkick) in water, were applied weekly to greenhouse roses, tomato and cucumber during 4-6 weeks. The plants were grown at 18.7 degrees C air temperature in growth chambers placed in a greenhouse compartment, an d supplied with a photosynthetic photon flux density of 175 mu mol m(- 2) s(-1) for 18 h day(-1). No effects of the two foliar spray treatmen ts were found on any of the species, as compared to control plants gro wn either in the same chamber or in a separate chamber. Foliar sprays of aqueous methanol, at least so far, can not be recommended for green house crops under supplementary lighting during winter. The present re sults are discussed in relation to the positive effects of methanol pr eviously found in field and greenhouse crops.