2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Gain fundamental knowledge of the plant-substrate-water-nutrient system to identify factors that control effects of chemical stressors and develop irrigation strategies for the efficient and effective application of poor-quality water to ornamental crops. 2. Establish a pilot-scale Algal Turf Scrubber for the purposes of testing the system for treating nursery runoff for excess nutrients and to continue research on composted algae as an alternative substrate. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): In team research, conduct fundamental and applied research in the lab and in the field to develop management practices and production systems to conserve water, improve production, and protect the enviroment. 3.Progress Report: This new bridging parent project 6618-13000-004-00D replaces expiring parent project 6618-13000-003-00D (February, 2012). Research is ongoing in accordance with the milestone statement on the use of composted algae as an alternative substrate for the production of containerized woody nursery crops. This research is not a completed scientific effort.