Technical Guide For more than 175 years Benary has been creating outstanding ornamentals. Our breeding activities We love what have developed some of the leading we do– with all annuals, perennials and potted of our heart! ornamental plants. Benary has three breeding facilities: North America, the Netherlands, and Germany. This brings us closer to you and your markets.
Our main focus is on developing and selling ornamental varieties for the professional bedding plant market– bringing beauty to the world. Known worldwide as a leader in Begonias, Our breeding team strives to continuously Benary’s fine assortment includes some develop excellent new varieties in of the industry’s most sought after professional seed quality. varieties in Pansies, Pentas, Petunias, Marigolds, Impatiens and Rudbeckia, Thank you for working with us! just to name a few.
Our professional quality products are offered to growers through our wide network of distributors and brokers around the world.
Our long history as an independent family-owned business has allowed us to live our passion for breeding and to stay inspired by the beauty of our industry. 4 Table of Contents Products
Moisture Codes, Seed Technology 4
Begonia boliviensis F1 Sun Cities Collection 6
Begonia semperflorens 1F Cocktail™, Super Olympia™ 9
Begonia semperflorens 1F Sprint Plus, Nightlife 11
® Begonia tuberhybrida F1 Nonstop Joy 14
® Begonia tuberhybrida F1 Nonstop™, Nonstop™ Mocca, New Star, Illumination 17
® Begonia x benariensis F1 BIG 22
® Begonia x benariensis F1 Whopper 25
TM Begonia x hybrida F1 Funky 27 Celosia plumosa Fresh Look, Glorious, New Look™, Smart Look, Fashion Look 30 Gazania rigens ZanyTM 32
Helianthus annuus F1 Bert, Pacino™ 34
Impatiens walleriana F1 Lollipop 36 Pentas lanceolata Graffiti® 20/20, Graffiti® OG, Kaleidoscope, New Look™, Northern Lights 39
® Petunia x hybrida trailing F1 SUCCESS! 41 Petunia x hybrida grandiflora SUCCESS!® 360° / HD 44
Portulaca grandiflora 1F Stopwatch, Sundial 47 Ptilotus exaltatus Joey® 49 Rudbeckia hirta Denver Daisy, Prairie Sun 51 Tagetes patula Super Hero™ 54 Calocephalus brownii Bed Head® 57
® ® Pansy (Viola wittrockiana) F1 Cats™, Inspire DeluXXe , Inspire Plus 59
Primula elatior F1 Crescendo™, Piano 62
® Viola cornuta F1 Admire 64
Campanula carpatica F1 Pearl 67 Eucalyptus gunnii (divaricata) Silverdrop, Baby Blue 70 Lewisia cotyledon Elise, Special Mix 72
TM Platycodon grandiflorus 1F Pop Star 74 Moisture Codes and their meanings
Saturated (5) Water is easily observed when finger is pressed on cell. Water moves freely from the top of the plug to the bottom.
Wet (4) Media looks black and is not glistening. The media feels wet to the touch but there is very little water movement.
Moist (3) Water is not easily visible. When finger is pressed on the cell there is very little movement from top to bottom.
Medium (2) Media is not black, but now looks medium brown. There is no water movement when pressed with finger.
Dry (1) Media has changed color to a very light brown and is dry to the touch.
Seed Technology Seed forms
Coating Some plant species produce seed that has a very flat or irregular shape and, as a result, is complicated to single-sow. Coating the seed to give it a rounder shape and smoother surface can help to solve the problem. Thicker coatings tend to be used to improve sowability. This type of coating is also called encrustation. Thinner coatings are used to make seed placement easier to identify during the sowing process, and to act as markers.
www.benary.com 4 Pelleting Some crop species have extremely small seeds which cannot be single-sown. For this reason the raw seed is pelleted.
The seed is coated to build a pellet that is approximately 5 to 20 times the size of the actual seed it contains. Pellets allow plug growers to easily sow and control the number of seed per cell.
Multipellets Multipellets are just like standard pellets except each pellet contains several seeds. This makes producing some species such as lobelia erinus or portulaca easier by producing a bushy plant with just one pellet.
ApeX Many perennials from seed such as lavandula need to overcome a natural dormancy for proper germination. Methods such as resting the seed for a specific period of time, and chemical treatments can be used to ‘break’ this dormancy and insure that the seed has the optimum germination for growers. Benary ApeX treatment increases the young plant yield up to 15-30 %. Optimal storage: Up to 6 months at 41 °F (5 °C)
Priming Seed germination is initiated up to a certain stage of physiological development, then the seed is dried back and stored at low temperatures. Primed seeds germinate more quickly and more uniformly. The increased uniformity often continues well into the advanced young plant stage. This faster seedling development allows plug growers to use greenhouse space more efficiently. At the same time, faster seedling development reduces the number of losses that can occur during the critical germination period. Optimal storage: Up to 6 months at 41 °F (5 °C)
www.benary.com 5 Annuals
Begonia boliviensis F1 Sun Cities Collection Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, San Francisco
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and the temperature to 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) Central America until cotyledon expansion. On day 21 the temperature can be reduced further to 68 °F Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed (20 °C). For irrigation use warm water (above containers and landscape 64 °F / 18 °C) only.
Minimum Germination Rate: 85% Moisture: Begin with a media moisture level of saturated (5) from day 1-11. A saturated Seed Form: Pelleted media and high humidity is critical to success- ful begonia germination. Beginning on day 12, alternate between moisture levels wet (4) FLOWERING and moist (3). Allow the media to approach a Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant moist (3) before re-saturating to a wet (4). On requiring a day length > 13.5 hrs. to initiate day 21 the seedlings need to begin a good flowering. A night break can also be used, wet to dry cycle to aid rooting and avoid algae lighting for 5 hrs. during the night from formation. Once germinated the seedlings are 10 pm-3 am. sensitive to watering with too much pressure and water volume. Since they have just begun Flowering Mechanism: Tuberous begonia to root into the media. It is easy to dislodge are light accumulators.Day length extension the seedlings resulting in a lower number of and supplemental lighting will hasten flowering usable plants. Use a fine nozzle or water breaker and improve plant quality. with a gentle pressure and low water volume.
Humidity: Should be 95-100% until day 11; PLUG CULTURE then dehumidify and reduce to 60 %. Provide Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to seedling development should begin on the improve oxygen levels in the media. day of sowing until root emerge. Expect root emergence in 7-10 days. Light: Light is necessary for germination and will be beneficial for the germination process Cover: Do not cover the seed, light is and improve quality. If utilizing a germination required for germination. chamber, providing a light source of 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx) will improve germi- Sowing method: Sow 1 pellet per plug. nation and reduce stretch. Provide long days of 14-16 hrs. to improve germination and Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5 begonia are overall seedling quality. sensitive to high salt levels. Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early once Temperature: Keep at 72-74 °F (22-23 °C) germination is complete, approximately day until radicle emergence. Higher temperatures, 14. Lower rates of feeding at 50 ppm 2-3 exceeding 80 °F (27 °C) will inhibit germination. times per week will help to size up the Upon root emergence, on day 10-14 reduce seedlings. Under higher light conditions use
www.benary.com 6 a 17-5-17 fertilizer and under lower light a Growth Regulators: Very low rates of 14-4-14. Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray at 250 ppm (0.04%) can be used. B-Nine Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Maintain (daminozide) sprays at 500-750 ppm can also optimal conditions during the vegetative stage be made. Applications are usually made once from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. established in the final container, however, This stage is when the seedling root to the if a larger plug (72 tray) is being grown they edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 true leaf may need one application of Cycocel or stage where flower initiation occurs. B-Nine before transplanting.
Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 Fungicides: Apply preventative sprays for botrytis, pythium and rhizoctonia as needed. Light: Long days of 14-16 hrs. are required to keep plants from producing tubers and to initiate flowering. Light levels of 8-10 mols GROWING ON (25,000-30,000 lx) will improve quality and Media: Use a well-drained, growing hasten flowering. Only moderate levels of light substrate; pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.0-1.5 are required to keep plants vegetative. A minimum of 10-15 ft. candles (550 lx) is Light: Continue with long days of 14-16 hrs. all that is required to avoid tuber formation, until the day length is > 12 hrs. or mid March. however-higher light will benefit overall quality. Provide 10-12 mols (30,000-35,000 lx) for Supplemental lighting under low light optimal quality. If plants are placed under conditions providing 350-600 ft. candles short day conditions growth will become (3,500-6,000 lx) will improve quality. Shading uneven. Day length extension is very is required when light levels reach 3,500- important to continue vegetative growth. 4,000 ft. candles to prevent leaf edge burn. If light levels exceed 4,000 ft. candles provide shading to reduce the leaf temperature and Temperature: To achieve the shortest crop prevent leaf edge burn. time, on days 28-42 keep the temperature at 68-70. A slightly lower temperature of Temperature: After transplanting provide 67-68 °F (19-20 °C) will reduce stretch in 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) nights for the first 14 the seedlings. Boliviensisegonia are very days or until the roots reach the bottom of responsive to DIF. A 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) DIF will the container. Thereafter temperatures may also keep plants compact. Once roots have be lowered to 60-64 °F (16-18 °C). An ADT reached the bottom of the tray after day 42 (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) the temperature can be lowered to 64-67 °F will give the fastest finished crop. Tempera- (18-19 °C). tures below 57 °F (14 °C) will result in tuber formation and a delay of the crop. A DIF of Moisture: Use care to make sure that the 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) will result in a more compact media is not kept saturated and is allowed crop requiring little to no growth regulators. to dry back between waterings. Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and moist (3). Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels Allow media to approach level (3) before re- wet (4) and medium (2). Allow plants to saturating to level (4). Avoid allowing the media approach a medium (2) before re-saturating to become too dry since begonia are sensitive to a wet (4). Allowing plants to dry back too to high salts and root damage can occur. much can result in root damage.
Fertilizer: Alternate between a calcium-based Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing fertilizer (14-4-14 or 15-5-15) and an am- good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help monium-based fertilizer (17-5-17) at 50-100 lower the humidity and dry back the media, ppm nitrogen every 2-3 waterings. Fertilizer providing oxygen to the roots. applications can be gradually increased in the later stages of bulking where a constant feed Fertilizer: Alternate between calcium-based at 100 ppm is used. Under high light and long fertilizer 14-4-14 and an ammonium fertilizer days an ammonium-based fertilizer (20-10-20) 17-5-17 at 100-150 ppm. Keep the media at 50-100 ppm can also be used. EC at 1.5. Application of potassium nitrate
www.benary.com 7 can help to keep the plants more compact. Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. Under higher light and warmer temperatures a fertilizer with additional ammonium can be Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate used. Tall, stretched plants with few flowers at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. indicate too much ammonium. Stunted, Lowering the temperature to 60 °F (16 °C) chlorotic plants with marginal leaf burn indicate 1-2 weeks prior to shipping will help to tone a lack of calcium and magnesium. Under high the plants. light and extended day length an ammonium- based feed (20-10-20) at 100-150 ppm nitrogen can also be used. Plug Crop Time 288 tray 7-8 wks Growth Regulators: If needed, Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be used as a 128 tray 8-9 wks spray two weeks after transplanting at 300- 72 tray 9-10 wks 500 ppm (0,04%). Cycocel will not hasten flowering, but will increase the number of Finished Crop Time flowers. If using growth regulations two applications will likely be necessary. 288 tray 128 tray A negative DIF of 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) is also very 4” / 10 cm pots 7-8 wks 5-6 wks effective in height control. If using DIF then no additional PGR’s should be necessary. 6” / 15 cm pots 8-9 wks 7-8 wks 10” / 25 cm baskets 10 wks 8-9 wks Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity.
Common Diseases: Botrytis, pythium, rhizoctonia, powdery mildew and tomato 12-16” 16-20” Sun – spotted wilt virus. 30-40 cm 40-50 cm Partial shade
Expert Tip
Spacing the plants will increase overall plant quality. Do not cultivate too wet since the roots are sensitive to over-watering. Keep humidity levels low to avoid problems with powdery mildew. When finishing baskets Santa Cruz produces an abundance of self clea- ning flowers so hang in an appropriate location at maturity.
www.benary.com 8 Annuals
Begonia semperflorens 1F Cocktail™TM, Super OlympiaTM
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and seedlings root into the media. On day 11 Central America begin to alternate between a wet (4) and a moist (3) until day 21. On day 21 it is critical Product Use: Packs, pots, hanging baskets, to begin a good wet to dry cycle to prevent mixed containers and landscape algae growth and help with the uptake of nutrients. At this point you can alternate Minimum Germination Rate: 85% between a wet (4) and a medium (2).
Seed Form: Pelleted Humidity: 95-100% until day 11; then reduce to 40-60%
FLOWERING Dehumidify: On day 11 dehumidify, moving Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower from 100% to 40-60%. Provide proper regardless of day length. ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. Flowering Mechanism: Higher light intensity and warmer temperatures will hasten flowering. Light: Light is not necessary for germination Supplemental lighting during germination will but will be beneficial by giving a faster, more benefit but is not necessary. uniform germination. If germinating in a chamber supply 10-100 ft. candles (100- 1,000 lx); (50 Watt/m²) to prevent seedling PLUG CULTURE stretch. Protect seedlings from direct light Germination: Maintain optimal conditions when moving to Stage II. Once established for seedling development, beginning on the in Stage II the light levels can be increased. day of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect On days 12-14 light levels can be increased radicle emergence in 6-8 days. to provide light levels of 6-8 mols/day or 2,000-2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). Cover: No covering required. Light is not required for germination but will benefit, giving Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertigation a more uniform germination. water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Initial feeding should be with a balanced fertilizer Sowing method: 1-2 seeds or pellets per plug low in ammonium. Begin feeding with a 4-4-14; 14-2-14 or 17-5-17 fertilizer at Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5-0.75 50-60 ppm.
Temperature: Maintain 72-76 °F (22-24 °C) Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: days 1-11. For irrigation use warm water Maintain optimal conditions during the (above 64 °F / 18 °C) only. vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. When the seedlings root to the Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 true leaf first 10 days and on day 11 begin to dry them stage flower initiation will occur. back slightly to wet (4). This will help the
www.benary.com 9 Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 a grayish cast to the leaves. Avoid watering plants under high temperature and light when Light: Continue to protect from direct sunlight the leaf temperature is excessive. until they are well established. On day 21-22 the light levels can be raised to 10-12 mols/day Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing or 3,000-3,500 ft. candles (30,000-35,000 lx). good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, Temperature: Keep at 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) providing oxygen to the roots. night and day. When the roots reach the bottom of the cell the temperature can be Fertilizer: Moderate fertilization levels are lowered to 67 °F (19,5 °C). required. Fertilize the crop weekly with 100- 150 ppm nitrogen, using a complete balanced Moisture: Begin alternating between a wet fertilizer. Avoid high ammonium and high (4) and a medium (3) on day 12. To prevent nitrogen levels, because the foliage can grow algae it is important to begin a wet dry cycle very large. Avoid pH levels above 6.0, as on days 21 where the media will dry back within high pH can cause iron deficiency. Watch for a 24 hr. period. Good ventilation and horizontal low Ca and Mg levels since this can result in airflow will create such an environment. stunted plants with marginal leaf edge burn. Under high light conditions use an ammonium- Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early to improve based fertilizer (17-5-17) and under low light seedling quality. Under high light conditions use a calcium-based fertilizer (14-4-14). more ammonium-based fertilizers can be used (17-5-17) and under low light use a Growth Regulators: With proper moisture calcium-based fertilizer (14-4-14 or 14-2-14). and temperature management there should Initial feeding should start at 50-100 ppm and not be a need for growth regulators. If needed gradually work up to 100-150 ppm. apply Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) at 300- 500 ppm one to two weeks after transplant. Growth Regulators: No growth regulators should be necessary since growth can be Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long controlled by temperature and moisture periods of low light and high humidity. management. If seedlings are uneven a very light application of B-Nine (daminozide) or Common Diseases: Botrytis. Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be applied. Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. Fungicides: Scout for botrytis and phytoph- thora during the plug stage and apply specific Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate fungicides per the recommended rate. at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping.
GROWING ON Plug Crop Time Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.2-1.5 288 tray 7 wks
Light: Provide 12-14 mols/day (3,500-4,000 Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) ft. candles, 35,000-40,000 lx). Packs 5-6 wks Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) 4” / 10 cm pots 6-7 wks nights, 64-67 °F (18-19 °C) days for the first 10” / 25 cm baskets 7-8 wks 14 days or until the roots reach the bottom of the container. Thereafter temperatures may be lowered to 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) day and night. An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. 8-10” 8-10” Sun – 20-25 cm 20-25 cm Shade Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants dry back to at least a moist (3) before re-saturating to a wet (4). Extremely dry plants will have
www.benary.com 10 Annual
Begonia semperflorens 1F Sprint Plus, Nightlife
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and back slightly to wet (4). This will aid in the Central America seedlings rooting into the media. On day 11 begin to alternate between a wet (4) and a Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed moist (3) until day 21. On day 21 it is critical containers and landscape to begin a good wet to dry cycle to prevent algae growth and help with the uptake of Minimum Germination Rate: 90% nutrients. At this point you can alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2). Seed Form: Pelleted Humidity: 95-100% until day 11; then reduce to 40-60%. FLOWERING Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower Dehumidify: On day 11 dehumidify, moving regardless of day length. from 100% to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve Flowering Mechanism: Higher light intensity oxygen levels in the media. and warmer temperatures will promote earlier flowering. Supplemental lighting during Light: Light is not necessary for germination germination will benefit but is not necessary. but will benefit by giving a faster, more uni- form germination. If germinating in a chamber supply 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx); PLUG CULTURE (50 Watt/m²) to prevent seedling stretch. Germination: Optimum conditions for Protect seedlings from direct light when seedling development, beginning on the day moving to stage two. Once established in of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect stage two the light levels can be increased. radicle emergence in 6-8 days. On days 12-14 light levels can be increased to provide light levels of 6-8 mols/day or Cover: No covering required. Light is not 2,000-2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). required for germination but will benefit, giving a more uniform germination. Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertilized water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Initial Sowing method: Sow 1-2 seeds or pellets feeding should be with a balanced fertilizer low per plug. in ammonium. Begin feeding with a 14-4-14, 14-2-14 or 17-5-17 fertilizer at 50-60 ppm. Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5-0.75 Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Temperature: 72-76 °F (22-24 °C) days Optimum conditions during the vegetative 1-11. For irrigation use warm water (above stage from cotyledon expansion to flower 64 °F / 18 °C) only. initiation. This stage is when the seedlings root to the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs. first 10 days and on day 11 begin to dry them
www.benary.com 11 Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 lowered to 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) day and night. An ADT (average daily temperature) of Light: Continue to protect from direct sunlight 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. until they are well established. On day 21-22 the light levels can be raised to 10-12 mols/day Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels or 3,000-3,500 ft. candles (30,000-35,000 lx). wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants dry back to at least a moist (3) before re-saturating Temperature: 68–70 °F (20–21 °C) night to a wet (4). Extremely dry plants will have and day. When the roots reach the bottom of a grayish cast to the leaves. Avoid watering the cell the temperature can be lowered to plants under high temperature and light when 67 °F (19.5 °C). the leaf temperature is excessive.
Moisture: Begin alternating between a wet Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. (4) and a medium (3) on day 12. To prevent Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow algae it is important to begin a good wet to will help lower the humidity and dry back the dry cycle on day 21 where the media will dry media, providing oxygen to the roots. back within 24 hrs. period. Good ventilation and horizontal airflow will create such an Fertilizer: Moderate fertilization levels are environment. required. Fertilize the crop weekly with 100-150 ppm nitrogen, using a complete Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early to improve balanced fertilizer. Avoid high ammonium and seedling quality. Under high light conditions high nitrogen levels, because the foliage can more ammonium based fertilizers can be grow very large. Avoid pH levels above 6.0, used (17-5-17) and under low light use a as high pH can cause iron deficiency. Watch calcium based fertilizer (14-4-14 or 14-2-14). for low Ca and Mg levels since this can result Initial feeding should start at 50-100 ppm and in stunted plants with marginal leaf edge burn. gradually work up to 100-150 ppm. Under high light conditions use an ammonium- based fertilizer (17-5-17) and under low light Growth Regulators: No growth regulators use a calcium based fertilizer (14-4-14). should be necessary since growth can be controlled by temperature and moisture Growth Regulators: With proper moisture management. If seedlings are uneven a very and temperature management there should light application of B-Nine (daminozide) or be no need for growth regulators. If needed Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be applied. apply Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray at 250-300 ppm one to two weeks after Fungicides: Scout for botrytis and phytopht- transplant. hora during the plug stage and apply specific fungicides per the recommended labeled rate. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity.
GROWING ON Common Diseases: Botrytis. Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.2-1.5 Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. Light: Provide 12–14 mols/day (3,500-4,000 foot candles, 35,000-40,000 lx). Post Harvest: Fertilize with Potassium nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) nights, 64-67 °F (18-19 °C) days for the first 14 days or until the roots reach the bottom of the container. Thereafter temperatures may be
www.benary.com 12 Plug Crop Time
288 tray 6-7 wks
Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray)
Packs 4-5 wks
4” / 10 cm pots 5-6 wks
10” / 25 cm baskets 6-7 wks
* Nightlife approx. 1 week later
8-10” 10-12” Sun – 20-25 cm 25-30 cm Partial shade
Timing Sprint Plus
Days from sowing 50% Flower
White
Blush
Lipstick
Pink
Red
Orange
Orange Bicolor
Rose
Appleblossom
55 60 65 70
Timing Nightlife
Days from sowing 50% Flower
White
Red
Pink
Blush
Deep Rose
65 70 75 80
www.benary.com 13 Annuals
Begonia tuberhybrida F1 Nonstop Joy®
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and until cotyledon expansion. On day 21 the Central America temperature can be reduced further to 68 °F (20 °C). For irrigation use warm water (above Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed 64 °F / 18 °C) only. containers and landscape Moisture: Begin with a media moisture level Minimum Germination Rate: 85% of saturated (5) from day 1-11. A saturated media and high humidity is critical to Seed Form: Pelleted successful begonia germination. Beginning day 12, alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and moist (3). Allow the media to FLOWERING approach a moist (3) before re-saturating to Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant a wet (4). On day 21 the seedlings need to requiring a day length > 13.5 hrs. to initiate begin a good wet to dry cycle to aid rooting flowering. A night break can also be used, and avoid algae formation. Once germinated lighting for 5 hrs. during the night from 10 the seedlings are sensitive to watering with pm-3 am. too much pressure and water volume. since they have just begun to root into the media it Flowering Mechanism: Tuberous begonias is easy to dislodge the seedlings resulting in are light accumulators. Day length extension a lower number of usable plants. Use a fine and supplemental lighting will hasten nozzle or water breaker with a gentle pressure flowering and improve plant quality. and low water volume.
PLUG CULTURE Humidity: Keep at 95-100% humidity until Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for day 11 then dehumidify and reduce to 60%. seedling development, should begin on the Provide proper ventilation and horizontal day of sowing until root emergence. Expect airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. root emergence in 7-10 days. Light: Light is necessary for germination Cover: No covering of the seed is required. and will benefit the germination process and improve quality. If utilizing a germination Sowing method: Sow 1-2 seeds or pellets chamber, providing a light source of per plug. 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx) will improve germination and reduce stretch. Provide long Media: pH 5.5-5.8, EC 0.5. Begonias are days of 14-16 hr. to improve germination and sensitive to high salt levels. overall seedling quality.
Temperature: Maintain 72-74 °F (22-23 °C) Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early once germi- until root emergence. Higher temperatures, nation is complete, approximately day 14 exceeding 80 °F (27 °C) will inhibit germination. lower rates of feeding at 50 ppm 2-3 times Upon radicle emergence, on day 10-14 per week will help to size up the seedlings. reduce the temperature to 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) Under higher light conditions use a 20-10-20
www.benary.com 14 fertilizer and under lower light a 17-5-17. in the later stages of bulking where a constant Once seedlings are established the 17-5-17 feed at 100 ppm is used. Under high light fertilizer works well. Include a micro nutrient and long days an ammonium-based fertilizer package to give adequate supply of minor 20-10-20 at 50-100 ppm can also be used. elements. Growth Regulators: Very low rates of Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray Optimal conditions during the vegetative at 250 ppm (0.04 %.) can be used. B-Nine stage from cotyledon expansion to flower (daminozide) sprays at 500-750 ppm can also initiation. When the seedlings root to the edge be made. Applications are usually made once of the plug and reach the 4-6 true leaf stage established in the final container however, if a flower initiation will occur. larger plug (72 tray) is being grown they may need one application of Cycocel or B-Nine Media: Use a well-drained, growing substrate. before transplanting. pH 5.5-5.8, EC 1.25-1.5 Fungicides: Apply preventative sprays for Light: Long days of 14-16 are required to botrytis, pythium and rhizoctonia as needed. keep plants from producing tubers and to initiate flowering. Light levels of 8-10 mols (25,000-30,000 lx) will improve quality and GROWING ON hasten flowering. Only moderate levels of Media: Use a well-drained, growing light are required to keep plants vegetative. substrate. pH 5.5-5.8, EC 1.0-1.5 A minimum of 10-15 ft. candles (100-150 lx) is all that is required to avoid tuber formation Light: Continue with long days of 14-16 hrs. however, higher light will benefit overall until the day length is > 12 hrs. or mid-March. quality. Supplemental lighting under low light Provide 10-12 mols (30,000-35,000 lx) for conditions providing 350-600 ft. candles optimal quality. If plants are placed under (3,500-6,000 lx) will improve quality. Shading short day conditions growth will become is required when light levels reach 3,500- uneven. Day length extension is very important 4,000 ft. candles to prevent leaf edge burn. to continue vegetative growth. If light levels exceed 4,000 ft. candles provide shading to Temperature: Maintain the ideal temperature reduce the leaf temperature. Under hight light to achieve the shortest crop time on days conditions provide shading to prevent leaf 28-42 keeping the temperature 68-70 °F edge burn. (20-21 °C). A slightly lower temperature of 67-68 °F (19-20 °C) will reduce stretch in the Temperature: After transplanting maintain seedlings. Tuberous begonias are very 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) nights for the first 14 responsive to DIF where a 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) DIF days or until the roots reach the bottom of will also keep plants compact. Once roots the container. Thereafter temperatures may have reached the bottom of the tray, (after be lowered to 61-64 °F (16-18 °C). An ADT day 42), the temperature can be lowered to (average daily temperature of 67 °F (19 °C) 64-67 °F (18-19 °C). will give the fastest finished crop. Temperatures below 57 °F (14 °C) will result in Moisture: Use care to make sure that the tuber formation and delay the crop. A DIF of media is not kept saturated and is allowed to 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) will result in a more compact dry back between waterings. Alternate between crop requiring little to no growth regulators. moisture levels wet (4) and moist (3). Allow media to approach level (3) before re-saturating Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels to level (4). Avoid allowing the media to wet (4) and medium (2). Allow plants to become too dry since begonias are sensitive approach a medium (2) before re-saturating to high salts and root damage can occur. to a wet (4). Allowing plants to dry back too much can result in root damage. Fertilizer: Alternate between a calcium- based fertilizer (14-4-14 or 15-5-15) and an Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. ammonium-based fertilizer (17-5-17) at Providing good ventilation and horizontal 50-100 ppm nitrogen every 2-3 waterings. airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back Fertilizer applications can be gradually increased the media, providing oxygen to the roots.
www.benary.com 15 Fertilizer: Alternate between calcium-based Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. fertilizer 14-4-14 and an ammonium fertilizer 17-5-17 at 100-150 ppm. Keep the media Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate EC at 1.5. Application of potassium nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. can help to keep the plants more compact. Lowering the temperature to 61 °F (16 °C) Under higher light and warmer temperatures will help to tone the plants before shipping. a fertilizer with additional ammonium can be used. Tall, stretched plants with few flowers indicate too much ammonium. Stunted, Plug Crop Time chlorotic plants with marginal leaf burn 288 tray 7-8 wks indicate a lack of calcium and magnesium. Under high light and extended day length an 128 tray 9-10 wks ammonium-based feed (20-10-20) at 72 tray 10-11 wks 100-150 ppm nitrogen can also be used. Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Growth Regulators: If needed, cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be used as a 4” / 10 cm pots 7-8 wks spray two weeks after transplanting at 6” / 15 cm pots 9 wks 300-500 ppm (0.04%). Cycocel will not hasten flowering, but will increase the number 10” / 25 cm baskets 12-13 wks of flowers. A negative DIF of 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) is also very effective in height control. If using DIF then no additional PGR’s should be necessary. 8-10” 8-10” Partial shade – 20-25 cm 20-25 cm Shade Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity.
Common Diseases: Botrytis, pythium, rhizoctonia, powdery mildew and tomato spotted wilt virus.
Expert Tip
Spacing the plants will increase overall plant quality. Do not cultivate too wet since the roots are sensitive to over-watering. Keep humidity levels low to avoid problems with powdery mildew. When transplanting with multiple plants in a pot or basket make sure that the points of the leaves face outward since this is the direction that the flowers will be produced heaviest.
– Diego, Flower Breeder
www.benary.com 16 Annuals
Begonia tuberhybrida F1 NonstopTM, NonstopTM Mocca, New Star, Illumination®
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and the temperature to 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) Central America until cotyledon expansion. On day 21 the temperature can be reduced further to 68 °F Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed (20 °C). For irrigation use warm water (above containers and landscape 64 °F / 18 °C) only.
Minimum Germination Rate: 85% Moisture: Begin with a media moisture level of saturated (5) from day 1-11. A saturated Seed Form: Pelleted media and high humidity is critical to success- ful begonia germination. Beginning on day 12, alternate between moisture levels wet (4) FLOWERING and moist (3). Allow the media to approach a Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant moist (3) before re-saturating to a wet (4). On requiring a day length > 13.5 hrs. to initiate day 21 the seedlings need to begin a good flowering. A night break can also be used, wet to dry cycle to aid rooting and avoid algae lighting for 5 hrs. during the night from formation. Once germinated the seedlings are 10 pm-3 am. sensitive to watering with too much pressure and water volume since they have just begun Flowering Mechanism: Tuberous begonias to root into the media. It is easy to dislodge are light accumulators. Day length extension the seedlings resulting in a lower number and supplemental lighting will hasten flowering of usable plants. Use a fine nozzle or water and improve plant quality. breaker with a gentle pressure and low water volume.
PLUG CULTURE Humidity: Maintain 95-100% humidity until Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for day 11 then dehumidify and reduce to 60%. seedling development should begin on the Provide proper ventilation and horizontal air- day of sowing until root emergence. Expect flow to improve oxygen levels in the media. root emergence in 7-10 days. Light: Light is necessary for germination and Cover: No covering of the seed is required. benefit the germination process and improve quality. If utilizing a germination chamber, Sowing method: Sow 1-2 seeds or pellets providing a light source of 10-100 ft. candles per plug. (100-1,000 lx) will improve germination and reduce stretch. Provide long days of Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5 Begonia are 14-16 hrs. to improve germination and overall sensitive to high salt levels. seedling quality.
Temperature: Maintain 72-74 °F (22-23 °C) Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early, once ger- until roots emerge. Higher temperatures, mination is complete, approximately day 14. exceeding 80 °F (27 °C) will inhibit germination. Lower rates of feeding at 50 ppm 2-3 times Upon root emergence, on day 10-14 reduce per week will help to size up the seedlings.
www.benary.com 17 Under higher light conditions use a 17-5-17 and long days an ammonium-based fertilizer fertilizer and under lower light a 14-4-14. (20-10-20) at 50-100 ppm can also be used.
Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Main- Growth Regulators: Very low rates of tain optimal conditions during the vegetative Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray stage from cotyledon expansion to flower at 250 ppm (0.04 %.) can be used. B-Nine initiation. When the seedling root to the edge (daminozide) sprays at 500-750 ppm can also of the plug and reach the 4-6 true leaf stage be made. Applications are usually made once flower initiation will occur. established in the final container, however, if a larger plug (72 tray) is being grown they may Media: Use a well-drained, growing need one application of Cycocel or B-Nine substrate; pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 before transplanting.
Light: Long days of 14-16 hrs. are required Fungicides: Apply preventative sprays for to keep plants from producing tubers and to botrytis, pythium and rhizoctonia as needed. initiate flowering. Light levels of 8-10 mols (25,000-30,000 lx) will improve quality and hasten flowering. Only moderate levels of GROWING ON light are required to keep plants vegetative. Media: Use a well-drained, growing A minimum of 10-15 ft. candles (550 lx) is substrate; pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.0-1.5 all that is required to avoid tuber formation, however-higher light will benefit overall quality. Light: Continue with long days of 14-16 hrs. Supplemental lighting under low light Until the day length is > 12 hrs. or mid-March. conditions providing 350-600 ft. candles Provide 10-12 mols (30,000-35,000 lx) for (3,500-6,000 lx) will improve quality. Shading optimum quality. If plants are placed under short is required when light levels reach 3,500- day conditions growth will become uneven. 4,000 ft. candles to prevent leaf edge burn. Day length extension is very important to con- tinue vegetative growth. If light levels exceed Temperature: Maintaining the ideal temperature 4,000 ft. candles provide shading to reduce will achieve the shortest crop time. On days the leaf temperature. Under high light conditions 28-42 keep the temperature at 68-70 °F provide shading to prevent leaf edge burn. (20-21 °C). A slightly lower temperature of 67-68 °F (19-20 °C) will reduce stretch in Temperature: After transplanting maintain the seedlings. Tuberous begonias are very 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) nights for the first 14 responsive to DIF where a 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) DIF days or until the roots reach the bottom of will also keep plants compact. Once roots the container. Thereafter temperatures may have reached the bottom of the tray after day be lowered to 61-64 °F (16-18 °C). An ADT 42 the temperature can be lowered to 64-67 °F (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) (18-19 °C). will give the fastest finished crop. Tempera- tures below 57 °F (14 °C) will result in tuber Moisture: Use care to make sure that the formation and a delay of the crop. A DIF of media is not kept saturated and is allowed 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) will result in a more compact to dry back between waterings. Alternate crop requiring little to no growth regulators. between moisture levels wet (4) and moist (3). Allow media to approach level (3) before Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels re-saturating to level (4). Avoid allowing the wet (4) and medium (2). Allow plants to media to become too dry since begonias are approach a medium (2) before re-saturating sensitive to high salts and root damage can to a wet (4). Allowing plants to dry back too occur. much can result in root damage.
Fertilizer: Alternate between a calcium- Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing based fertilizer (14-4-14 or 15-5-15) and an good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help ammonium-based fertilizer (17-5-17) at lower the humidity and dry back the media, 50-100 ppm nitrogen every 2-3 waterings. providing oxygen to the roots. Fertilizer applications can be gradually increased in the later stages of bulking where a constant Fertilizer: Alternate between calcium-based feeding at 100 ppm is used. Under high light fertilizer 14-4-14 and an ammonium fertilizer
www.benary.com 18 17-5-17 at 100-150 ppm. Keep the media Timing NonstopTM EC at 1.5. Application of potassium nitrate can help to keep the plants more compact. Days from sowing 50% Flower Under higher light and warmer temperatures a fertilizer with additional ammonium can be Rose Petticoat used. Tall, stretched plants with few flowers indicate too much ammonium. Stunted, Yellow chlorotic plants with marginal leaf burn indicate Yellow Red Back a lack of calcium and magnesium. Under high light and extended day length an ammonium- Orange based feed (20-10-20) at 100-150 ppm Red nitrogen can also be used. Appleblossom
Growth Regulators: If needed, Cycocel Deep Rose (chlormequat chloride) can be made as a spray Deep Salmon two weeks after transplanting at 300-500 ppm (0.04 %). Cycocel will not hasten flowering, Pink but will increase the number of flowers. White A negative DIF of 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) is also very effective in height control. If using DIF then 95 100 105 110 115 additional PGR’s should not be necessary.
Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity. Timing NonstopTM Mocca
Common Diseases: Botrytis, pythium, Days from sowing 50% Flower rhizoctonia, powdery mildew and tomato spotted wilt virus. Cherry
Red Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. White Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate Bright Orange at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. Lowering the temperature to 61 °F (16 °C) Deep Orange will help to tone the plants before shipping. Scarlet
Yellow
Plug Crop Time Pink Shades
288 tray 7-8 wks 110 115 120 125 130 128 tray 9-10 wks
72 tray 10-11 wks
Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray)
New Star, Nonstop™, Illumination® Nonstop™ Mocca 4” / 10 cm pots 7-8 wks 8-9 wks
6” / 15 cm pots 8-9 wks 9-10 wks
10” / 25 cm baskets 11-12 wks 12-13 wks
8-10” 8-10” Partial shade – 20-25 cm 20-25 cm Shade
www.benary.com 19 Begonia BIG® in Beijing
BIG® Begonia, the most trusted begonia in its class. Period.
www.benary.com 20 Tiananmen Square, has been an iconic site in Chinese history since the Ming Dynasty. BIG® Red Bronze Leaf Begonias are planted around the square in intricate designs, wishing visitors happiness, success and good fortune. The uniformity, vigor, and outstanding color of BIG® Begonias make them ideal for these awe-inspiring plantings.
www.benary.com 21 Annuals
Begonia x benariensis F1 BIG®
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the Central America first 10 days and on day 11 begin to dry them back slightly to wet (4). This will help the Product Use: Packs, pots, hanging baskets, seedlings root into the media. On day 11 mixed containers and landscape begin to alternate between a wet (4) and a moist (3) until day 21. On day 21 it is critical Minimum Germination Rate: 85% to begin a good wet to dry cycle to prevent algae growth and help with the uptake of Seed Form: Pelleted nutrients. At this point you can alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2).
FLOWERING Humidity: 95-100% until day 11; then Flower initiation: Days 25-38 when 4-6 true reduce to 40-60%. leaves are present. Dehumidify: On day 11 dehumidify, moving Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower from 100% to 40-60% humidity. Provide regardless of day length. proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. Flowering Mechanism: Higher light intensity and warmer temperatures will hasten flowering. Light: Light is not necessary for germination Supplemental lighting during germination will but will benefit by giving a faster, more benefit but is not necessary. uniform germination. If germinating in a chamber supply 10-100 ft. candles (100- 1,000 lx); (50 Watt/m²) to prevent seedling PLUG CULTURE stretch. Protect seedlings from direct light Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for when moving to Stage II. Once established in seedling development, beginning on the day Stage II the light levels can be increased. of sowing until root emergence. Expect root On days 12-14 light levels can be increased emergence in 6-8 days. to provide light levels of 6-8 mols/day or 2,000-2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). Cover: No covering required. Light is not required for germination but will benefit, giving Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertigation a more uniform germination. water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Initial feeding should be with a balanced fertilizer low Sowing method: 1-2 seeds or pellets per plug. in ammonium. Begin feeding with a 14-4-14; 14-2-14 or 17-5-17 fertilizer at 50-60 ppm. Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5-0.75 Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Maintain Temperature: Maintain 72-76 °F (22-24 °C) optimal conditions during the vegetative stage days 1-11. For irrigation use warm water from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. (above 64 °F / 18 °C) only. When the seedlings root to the edge of the
www.benary.com 22 plug and reach the 4-6 true leaf stage flower Thereafter temperatures may be lowered to initiation will occur. 64-67 °F (18-19 °C) day and night. An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 will give the fastest finished crop. Once well established in the final container, approximately Light: Continue to protect from direct sunlight two to three weeks after transplanting from until they are well established. On day 21-22 a 288 plug, the temperature can be lowered the light levels can be raised to 10-12 mols/day further to 56-58 °F (13-15 °C). This will keep or 3,000-3,500 ft. candles (30,000-35,000 lx). the plants toned and prevents large leaves.
Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels night and day. When the roots reach the wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants dry back bottom of the cell the temperature can be to at least a moist (3) before re saturating to a lowered to 67 °F (19.5 °C). et (4). Extremely dry plants will have a grayish cast to the leaves. Avoid watering plants under Moisture: Begin alternating between a wet high temperature and light when the leaf (4) and a medium (3) on day 12. To prevent temperature is excessive. algae it is important to begin a wet dry cycle on days 21 where the media will dry back within Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing a 24 hr. period. Good ventilation and horizontal good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help airflow will create such an environment. lower the humidity and dry back the media, providing oxygen to the roots. Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early to improve seedling quality. Under high light conditions Fertilizer: Moderate fertilization levels are more ammonium-based fertilizers can be required. Fertilize the crop weekly with 100- used (17-5-17) and under low light use a 150 ppm nitrogen, using a complete balanced calcium-based fertilizer (14-4-14 or 14-2-14). fertilizer. Avoid high ammonium and high Initial feeding should start at 50-100 ppm and nitrogen levels, because the foliage can grow gradually work up to 100-150 ppm. very large. Avoid pH levels above 6.0, as high pH can cause iron deficiency. Watch for Growth Regulators: No growth regulators low Ca and Mg levels since this can result in should be necessary since growth can be stunted plants with marginal leaf edge burn. controlled by temperature and moisture Under high light conditions use an ammoni- management. If seedlings are uneven a very um-based fertilizer (17-5-17) and under low light application of B-Nine (daminozide) or light use a calcium-based fertilizer (14-4-14). Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be applied. In the finishing stages lowering temperatures Growth Regulators: With proper moisture to 55-58 °F (12-14,5 °C) will help to control and temperature management there should leaf size and stem elongation. Approximately not be a need for growth regulators. If needed two weeks after transplanting a plug, when apply Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray plants are established in the final container a at 250-300 ppm 1-2 weeks after transplant. very light application to Cycocel can be applied. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long Fungicides: Scout for botrytis and phytopht- periods of low light and high humidity. hora during the plug stage and apply specific fungicides as recommended on the label. Common Diseases: Botrytis
Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.2-1.5 Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. Light: Provide 12-14 mols/day (3,500-4,000 ft. candles, 35,000-40,000 lx).
Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) nights and day for the first 14 days or until the roots reach the bottom of the container.
www.benary.com 23 Plug Crop Time Timing BIG
288 tray 7-8 wks Days from sowing 50% Flower
128 tray 9-10 wks Pink Green Leaf Finished Crop Time Red Green Leaf
288 tray 128 tray Pink Bronze Leaf NEW
Jumbo Packs / 306 Packs 5-6 wks 3-4 wks Rose Bronze Leaf
4” / 10 cm pots (1*) 5-6 wks 4-5 wks Rose Green Leaf
5-6” / 13-15 cm pots (2-3*) 7-8 wks 6-7 wks Red Bronze Leaf
8” / 20 cm pots (3*) 8-9 wks 6-7 wks 70 75 80 85 10” / 25 cm baskets (3-4*) 9-10 wks 7-9 wks
*plants per pot
32” 16” Sun – 80 cm 40 cm Shade
Expert Tip
Do not hold in the plug stage too long. A root-bound plug will promote stretch and delay the crop. Reducing the temperature to 56-58 °F (13-15 °C) in the finishing stages 2-3 weeks after transplanting will keep plants toned with slightly smaller leaves.
– Tom, Senior Technical Manager
www.benary.com 24 Annuals
Begonia x benariensis F1 Whopper® Exclusivly available through Ball Seed in North America
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and seedlings rooting into the media. On day 11 Central America begin to alternate between a wet (4) and a moist (3) until day 21. On day 21 it is critical Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed to begin a good wet to dry cycle to prevent containers and landscape algae growth and help with the uptake of nutrients. At this point you can alternate Minimum Germination Rate: 90% between a wet (4) and a medium (2).
Seed Form: Pelleted Humidity: 95-100% until day 11; then reduce to 40-60%.
FLOWERING Dehumidify: On day 11 dehumidify, moving Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower from 100% to 40-60%. Provide proper regardless of day length. ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. Flowering Mechanism: Higher light intensity and warmer temperatures will promote earlier Light: Light is not necessary for germination flowering. Supplemental lighting during but will benefit by giving a faster, more uniform germination is beneficial but not necessary. germination. If germinating in a chamber supply 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx); (50 Watt/m²) to prevent seedling stretch. PLUG CULTURE Protect seedlings from direct light when Germination: Optimum conditions for moving to stage two. Once established in seedling development, beginning on the day stage two the light levels can be increased. of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect On days 12-14 light levels can be increased radicle emergence in 6-8 days. to provide light levels of 6-8 mols/day or 2,000-2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). Cover: No covering required. Light is not required for germination but will benefit, giving Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertilized a more uniform germination. water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Initial feeding should be with a balanced fertilizer Sowing method: 1-2 seeds or pellets per plug. low in ammonium. Begin feeding on day 10 with a 14-4-14, 14-2-14 or 17-5-17 fertilizer Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5-0.75 at 50-60 ppm.
Temperature: 72-76 °F (22-24 °C) days Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: 1-11. For irrigation use warm water (above Optimum conditions during the vegetative 64 °F / 18 °C) only. stage from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. This stage is when the seedlings Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the root to the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 first 10 days and on day 11 begin to dry them true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs. back slightly to wet (4). This will help in the
www.benary.com 25 Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. Once well established in the final container, Light: Continue to protect from direct sunlight approximately two to three weeks after until they are well established. On day 21-22 transplanting from a 288 plug tray, the the light levels can be raised to 10-12 mols/day temperature can be lowered further to 56-58 °F or 3,000-3,500 ft. candles (30,000-35,000 lx). (13-15 °C). This will keep the plants toned and prevent excessively large leaves. Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21°C) night and day. When the roots reach the bottom Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels of the cell the temperature can be lowered wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants dry back to to 67 °F (20 °C). at least a medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4). Extremely dry plants will have a Moisture: Begin alternating between a wet (4) grayish cast to the leaves. Avoid watering and a medium (3) on day 12. To prevent algae plants under high temperature and light when it is important to begin a good wet dry cycle on the leaf temperature is excessive. This can days 21 where the media will dry back within cause leaf burn. 24 hrs. period. Good ventilation and horizontal airflow will create such an environment. Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early to improve airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back seedling quality. Under high light conditions the media, providing oxygen to the roots. more ammonium based fertilizers can be used (17-5-17 and 20-10-20) and under low Fertilizer: Moderate fertilization levels are light use a calcium based fertilizer (14-4-14 or required. Fertilize the crop weekly with 14-2-14). Initial feeding should start at 50-100 100-150 ppm nitrogen, using a complete ppm and gradually work up to 100–150 ppm. balanced fertilizer. Avoid high ammonium and high nitrogen levels, because the foliage can Growth Regulators: No growth regulators grow very large. Avoid pH levels above 6.0, should be necessary since growth can be as high pH can cause iron deficiency. Watch controlled by temperature and moisture for low Ca and Mg levels since this can result management. If seedlings are uneven a very in stunted plants with marginal leaf edge burn. light application of B-Nine (daminozide) or Under high light conditions use an ammonium Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be applied. based fertilizer (17-5-17) and under low light In the finishing stages lower temperatures of use a calcium based fertilizer (14-4-14). 55-58 °F (12-14 °C) will help to control leaf size and stem elongation. Approximately two Growth Regulators: With proper moisture weeks after transplanting a plug, when plants and temperature management there should are established in the final container, a very not be a need for growth regulators. If needed light application of Cycocel can be applied. apply Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray at 250-300 ppm one to two weeks after Fungicides: Scout for botrytis and phytopht- transplant. A B-Nine application can also be hora during the plug stage and apply specific used as a spray at 500–750 ppm. fungicides per the recommended labeled rate. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity. GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.2-1.5 Common Diseases: Botrytis
Light: Provide 12-14 mols/day (3,500-4,000 Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips ft. candles, 35,000-40,000 lx). Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) nights, at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. 64-67 °F (18-19 °C) days for the first 14 days or until the roots reach the bottom of the container. Thereafter temperatures may be lowered to 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) day and night. An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F 32-40” 18” Sun – partial 80-100 cm 46 cm Shade
www.benary.com 26 Plug Crop Time Timing Whopper®
288 tray 7-8 wks Days from sowing 50% Flower
128 tray 9-10 wks Red Green Leaf Finished Crop Time Rose Green Leaf
288 tray 128 tray Red Bronze Leaf
4” / 10 cm pots (1*) 5-6 wks 4-5 wks Rose Bronze Leaf
6” / 15 cm pots (2-3*) 7-8 wks 6-7 wks 60 65 70 75 80 10” / 25 cm pots (3*) 10-11 wks 8-9 wks
10” / 25 cm baskets (3-4*) 9-10 wks 7-8 wks
*plants per pot
Annuals
Begonia x hybrida F1 FunkyTM
Family, Origin: Begoniaceae, South and PLUG CULTURE Central America Germination: Optimum conditions for seedling development, beginning on the day Product Use: Packs, pots, hanging baskets, of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect mixed containers and landscape radicle emergence in 7-10 days. Germination should be complete at 10 days unless Minimum Germination Rate: 85% optimum conditions are not provided.
Seed Form: Pelleted Cover: No covering of the seed is required.
Sowing method: 1-2 seeds or pellets per plug. FLOWERING Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5 – Begonias are requiring a daylength > 13.5 hrs. to initiate sensitive to high salt levels. Use a media low flowering. A night break can also be used, in soluble salts. lighting for 5 hrs. during the night from 10 pm-3 am. Temperature: 72-74 °F (22-23 °C) until radicle emergence. Higher temperatures, exceeding Flowering Mechanism: Tuberous begonias 80 °F (27 °C) will inhibit germination. Upon are light accumulators. Day length extension radicle emergence, on day 10-14 reduce the and supplemental lighting will shorten the length temperature to 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) until of time to flower and improve plant quality. cotyledon expansion has occured. On day
www.benary.com 27 21 the temperature can be reduced further to (25,000-30,000 lx) will improve quality and 68 °F (20 °C). For irrigation use tempered result in earlier flowering. Only moderate levels water (above 64 °F / 18 °C) only. of light are required to keep plants vegetatvie. A minimum of 10-15 ft. candles (100-150 lx) Moisture: Begin with a media moisture level is all that is required to avoid tuber formation of saturated (5) from day 1-11. A saturated however higher light will benefit the overall media and high humidity is critical to success- quality. Using supplemental lighting under ful begonia germination. Beginning day 12, low light conditions providing 350-600 ft. alternate between moisture levels wet (4) candles (3,500-6,000 lx) will improve quality. and moist (3). Allow the media to approach a Shading is required when light levels reach moist (3) before re-saturating to a wet (4). On 3,500-4,000 ft. candles since leaf edge burn day 21 the seedlings need to begin a good can occur. wet to dry cycle to aid rooting and avoid algae formation. Once germinated the seedlings are Temperature: The ideal temperature to sensitive to watering with too much pressure achieve the shortest crop time is on day and water volume since they have just begun 28-42 keeping the temperature at 68-70 °F to root into the media. It is easy to dislodge (20-21 °C). A slightly lower temperature of the seedlings resulting in a lower number of 67-68 °F (19-20 °C) will reduce stretch in the usable plants. Use a fine nozzle or water breaker seedlings. Tuberous begonias are very with a gentle pressure and low water volume. responsive to DIF where a 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) DIF will also keep plants compact. Once roots Humidity: 95-100% until day 11; then have reached the bottom of the tray after dehumidify and reduce to 60%. Provide day 42 the temperature can be lowered to proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to 64-67 °F (18-19 °C). improve oxygen levels in the media. Moisture: Use care to make sure that the Light: Light is necessary for germination. media is not kept saturated and is allowed to Lighting during germination will benefit the dry back between waterings. Alternate between germination process and improve quality. moisture levels wet (4) and moist (3). Allow If utilizing a germination chamber, providing media to approach level (3) before re-saturating a light source of 10-100 ft. candles to level (4). Avoid allowing the media to (100-1,000 lx) will improve germination. become too dry since begonias are sensiative Provide long days of 14-16 hrs. to improve to high salts and root damage can occur. germination and overall seedling quality. Fertilizer: Alternate between a calcium- Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early once germination based fertilizer (14-4-14 or 15-5-15) and an is complete, approximately day 14. Lower ammonium-based fertilizer (17-5-17) at 50-100 rates of feeding at 50 ppm 2-3 times per week ppm nitrogen every 2–3 waterings. Fertilizer will help to size up the seedlings. Under higher applications can be gradually increased light conditions use a 20-10-20 fertilizer and in the later stages of bulking where a constant under lower light a 17-5-17. Once seedlings feeding at 100 ppm is used. Under high light are established the 17-5-17 fertilizer works and long days an ammonium-based fertilizer well. Include a micro nutrient package to give (20-10-20) at 50-100 ppm can also be used. adequate supply of minor elements. Growth Regulators: Very low rates of Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) as a spray Optimum conditions during the vegetative at 250 ppm (0.04 %.) can be used. B-Nine stage from cotyledon expansion to flower (daminxzide) sprays at 500-750 ppm can also initiation. This stage is when the seedlings be made. Applications are usually made once root to the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 established in the final container however if a true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs. larger plug (72 tray) is being grown they may need one application of Cycocel or B-Nine Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 before transplanting.
Light: Long days of 14-16 hrs. are required Fungicides: Apply preventative sprays for to keep plants from producing tubers and to Botrytis, Pythium and Rhizoctonia as needed. initiate flowering. Light levels of 8-10 mols
www.benary.com 28 GROWING ON flowering, but will increase the number of Media: Use a well-drained, growing flowers. A negative DIF of 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) is substrate. pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.0-1.5 also very effective in height control. If using DIF then no additional PGR’s should be necessary. Light: Continue with long days of 14-16 hrs. until the daylength is > 12 hrs. or mid March. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long Provide 10-12 mols (30,000-35,000 lx) for periods of low light and high humidity. optimum quality. If plants are placed under short day conditions growth will become uneven. Common Diseases: Botrytis, Pythium, Daylength extension is very important to continue Rhizoctonia, Powdery Mildew and Tomato vegetative growth. If light levels exceed Spotted Wilt Virus. 4,000 ft. candles provide shading to reduce the leaf temperature. Under hight light conditions Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. provide shading to prevent leaf edge burn. Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate Temperature: After transplanting 65-68 °F at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. (18-20 °C) nights for the first 14 days or until Lowering the temperature to 61 °F (16 °C) will the roots reach the bottom of the container. help to tone the plants before shipping. Thereafter temperatures may be lowered to 62-64 °F (17-18 °C). An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the Plug Crop Time fastest finished crop. Temperatures below 288 tray 7-8 wks 57 °F (14 °C) will result in tuber formation and a delay of the crop. A DIF of 2-3 °F (1-2 °C) 128 tray 9-10 wks will result in a more compact crop requiring 72 tray 10-11 wks little to no growth regulators. Finished Crop Time Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow plants to 288 tray 128 tray approach a medium (2) before re-saturating 4” / 10 cm pots (1*) 8-9 wks 6-7 wks to a wet (4). Allowing plants to dry back too 6” / 15 cm pots (1-2*) 9-10 wks 7-8 wks much can result in root damage. 10” / 25 cm baskets (3-5*) 11-12 wks 9-10 wks Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing *plants per pot good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, providing oxygen to the roots.
Fertilizer: Alternate between calcium based 8-12” 8-10” Sun – partial 20-30 cm 20-25 cm Shade fertilizer 14-4-14 and an Ammonium fertilizer 17-5-17 at 100-150 ppm. Keep the media EC at 1.5. Application of potassium nitrate can help to keep the plants more compact. Under higher light and warmer temperatures Timing FunkyTM a fertilizer with additional ammonium can be used. Tall, stretched plants with few flowers Days from sowing 50% Flower indicate too much ammonium. Stunted, chlorotic plants with marginal leaf burn Light Pink indicate a lack of calcium and magnesium. Orange Under high light and extended daylength an ammonium-based feed (20-10-20) at Scarlet 100-150 ppm nitrogen can also be used. White
Growth Regulators: If needed, Cycocel Pink (chlormequat chloride) can be made as a spray 90 95 100 105 110 two weeks after transplanting at 300 ppm (0.04%). Cycocel will not promote early
www.benary.com 29 Annuals
Celosia plumosa Fresh Look, Glorious, New LookTM, Smart Look, Fashion Look
Product Use: Packs, pots, mixed containers Humidity: 95-100% until day 5; then reduce to and landscape 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. Minimum Germination Rate: 85% Light: Requires light for germination. Provide Seed Form: Pelleted (Romantica Coated) long days > 13 hrs. for the first 10-21 days to bulk the plant and prevent premature flower initiation. The Glorious series only requires FLOWERING 10-14 days to bulk the seedlings. Keep the Flowering Type: Obligate short day plant, light levels low at 6 mols, 2,000 ft. candles requiring short days to initiate flowering. (20,000 lx).
Flowering Mechanism: Higher light intensity Fertilizer: On day 5 begin fertilizing at 50 ppm and warmer temperature will decrease the using a well balanced feed. Use a 17-5-17 number of days to flower. fertilizer or similar and include supplemental iron at 0.5 ppm. Maintian the EC at 0.75.
PLUG CULTURE Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Germination: Optimum conditions for Optimum conditions during the vegetative seedling development, beginning on the day stage from cotyledon expansion to flower of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect initiation. This stage is when the seedlings radicle emergence in 2-4 days. root to the edge of the plug and reach the 2-4 true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs. Cover: Cover seed with a light layer of vermiculite. Media: pH 5.5-6.0; EC 1.0-1.25. Use a well drained media low in soluble salts. Sowing method: 1 seed per plug Light: Light levels can be increased to Media: pH 5.5-6.0; EC 0.5 < 8-10 mols, 2,500-3,000 ft. candles (25,000- 30,000 lx). Temperature: Germination temperature of 72-77 °F (22-25 °C) for the first 7-14 days. Temperature: Maintain night temperatures On day 14 reduce the temperature to 64-68 °F of 63-64 °F (17-18 °C) and day temperatures (18-20 °C). of 70-75 °F (21-23 °C).
Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) media Moisture: Alternate between moisture moisture level to remove the seed coating and levles of wet (4) and medium (2). Let the then reduce the moisuture level to a wet (4) moisture level apporach a medium (2) before on day 2-3. Alternate between a wet (4) and re-saturating to a wet (4). Never allow the a moist (3) until all seeds have germinated. media to dry out completely.
www.benary.com 30 Fertilizer: Increase the fertilizer levels by feed- can also be used. Sprays of paclobutrazol ing at 100-150 ppm using a well balanced at 2-3 ppm and light drenches at ½-1 ppm 17-5-17 fertilizer. Under high tlight conditions can be used. a 20-10-20 fertilizer can also be used at the same rate. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity. Growth Regulators: Applications of B-Nine (daminozide) sprays at 2,500 ppm work well. Common Diseases: Botrytis, pythium Bonzi (paclobutrazol) sprays and drenches and rhizoctonia can also be used. Sprays of paclobutrazol at 2-3 ppm and light drenches can be used. Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips
Fungicides: Preventative applications of Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate fungicides may be used for the contol of at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. rhizoctonia and pythium.
Fresh Look, New LookTM™, Smart Look, GROWING ON Fashion Look: Media: pH 5.5-6.0; EC 1.25-1.5 Plug Crop Time
Light: Provide light levels of 12-16 mols, 288 tray 4-5 wks 3,500-4,500 ft. candles (35,000-45,000 lx). Under long day conditions, in the late spring Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) and summer, giving well established plants a Packs 6-7 wks short day treatment of less than 12 hrs. will shorten the finished height. 4” / 10 cm pots 6-7 wks 6” / 15 cm pots 8 wks Temperature: 62-65 °F (17-18 °C) night, 65-70 °F (18-21 °C) day for the first 7-10 days or until the roots reach the bottom of the container. Thereafter the temperature may Glorious: be lowered to 61-62 °F (16-17 °C) night and 65-70 °F (18-21 °C) day. An ADT (average Plug Crop Time daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give 288 tray 4-5 wks the fastest finished crop. Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). In the final stages Packs 4-5 wks make sure to let the media dry back adequa- 4” / 10 cm pots 4-5 wks tely between watering. Never allow the plants to dry out completely. 6” / 15 cm pots 5 wks
Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Provi- ding good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the 8-10” 6-8” Sun media. 20-25 cm 15-20 cm
Fertilizer: Celosia require a moderate feed program. Fertilize with a complete fertiilizer, 17-5-17 at 150-200 ppm. Under higher light conditions use a 20-10-20 fertilizer or alternate between the two.
Growth Regulators: Applications of B-Nine (daminozide) sprays at 2,500 ppm work well. Bonzi (paclobutrazol) sprays and drenches
www.benary.com 31 New Annuals
Gazania rigens ZanyTM
Product Use: Packs, Pots, Mixed Containers reduce to a moist (3). On day 6, after radicle and Landscape emergence, begin to alternate between and wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to Minimum Germination Rate: 85% approach a medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4). Gazania require slightly drier Seed Form: Raw moisture levels during and after germination.
USDA Hardiness Zone: 11 Humidity: 95-100% until day 4; then reduce AHS Heat Zone: 12-1 to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. FLOWERING Flowering Type: Facultative long day plant, Light: Light is not necessary for germination flowering more quickly under a longer day but can improve overall seedling perfor- length. mance. If utilizing a germination chamber provide 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx) to Flowering Mechanism: Longer day length, prevent seedling stretch after germination. higher light intensity and warmer temperatures will decrease the number of days to flower. Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0 Begin Flower initiation occurs when the plants reach feeding on day 5 using 50-60 ppm nitrogen. the 6-8 leaf stage. Supplemental lighting during Fertilize using a calcium based fertilizer 14- germination will benefit but is not necessary. 4-14 or 15-5-15. Lower phosphorous levels are recommended to keep seedlings more compact. Fertilized water should not exceed PLUG CULTURE an EC of 0.5. Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for seedling development, beginning on the Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: day of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect Optimum conditions during the vegetative radicle emergence in 4-6 days stage from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. This stage is when the seedling Cover: No cover is necessary; however, a thin root to the edge of the plug and reach the 6-8 layer of medium vermiculite will help improve true leaf stage when flower initiation occurs. moisture around the seed. Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.75-1.0 Sowing method: 1 seed per plug Light: Light levels can be increased to 8-10 Media: pH 5.5-5.8; E.C. 0.5-0.75 mols (2,500-3,000 ft. candles), (25,000- 30,000 lx) Temperature: 70-74°F (21-23 °C), until radicle emergence, then lower to 68-70 °F Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21 °C). To tone (20-21 °C) the plug before transplant reduce the temperature to 60 °F (16 °C) one week before Moisture: Begin with a wet (4) and on day 4 transplanting.
www.benary.com 32 Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels Growth Regulators: If growing cooler, no wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to reach growth regulators are necessary. If needed, a medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4). sprays with B-Nine (daminozide) at 2,500 Gazania prefer to be grown at a lower media ppm can be used. Under higher temperatures moisture. This also helps to control soft growth. the rate can be increased to 5,000 ppm. Cycocel (chlormequat) sprays at 500 ppm Fertilizer: Fertilize with a complete calcium can also be used with higher rates at higher based fertilizer 1-2 times per week. Use a temperatures. 14-4-14 or a 17-5-17 feed at 100 ppm nitrogen. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long Growth Regulators: Gazania are not very periods of low light, cooler temperatures and responsive to growth regulators. Growing at high humidity. lower temperatures will prevent seedling stretch. If needed, sprays with B-Nine (daminozide) Common Diseases: Botrytis is the primary at 2,500 ppm can be used. Under higher concern under conditions of low light and temperatures, the rate can be increased to high humidity. 5,000 ppm. Cycocel (chlormequat) sprays at 500 ppm can also be used with the higher Pests: Primarily Aphids and Thrips. rates at higher temperatures. Post Harvest to Maintain Quality: Fertilize Fungicides: Fungicide applications should with Potassium Nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks not be necessary unless plants are grown prior to shipping. under low light and cooler temperatures. Then an application at recommended rates would be beneficial. Plug Crop Time 288 tray 5-6 wks GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.0-1.5 Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray)
Light: After transplant gazania prefer high Packs 5-6 wks irradiance conditions so they should be grown in full sun. Provide light levels of 10-18 mols 4” / 10 cm pots 6-7 wks (3,000-5,000 ft. candles); (30,000-50,000 lx) 6” / 15 cm pots 7-8 wks Temperature: 60-62 °F (16-17 °C) nights, 64-65 °F (17-18 °C) days for the first 7-10 days or until the roots reach the bottom of the container. Thereafter temperatures may be 8-10” 8-10” Sun lowered to 55-60 °F (13-15 °C) night, with a 20-25 cm 20-25 cm moderate increase in day temperature.
Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media mo- TM isture to reach a medium before re-saturating Timing Zany to a medium. Days from sowing 50% Flower Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help Orange lower the humidity and dry back the media, Yellow providing oxygen to the roots. White
Fertilizer: Fertilize 1-2 times weekly using a Orange Flame complete fertilizer, 15-5-15, 17-5-17, at 150- 200 ppm nitrogen. Under warmer tempera- Pink tures and higher light conditions a 20-10-20 60 65 70 75 80 fertilizer can be used.
www.benary.com 33 Annuals
Helianthus annuus F1 Bert, PacinoTM
Product Use: Pots, mixed containers between wet (4) and medium (2), allowing and landscape the media to approach a medium (2) before re-saturating to wet (4). Minimum Germination Rate: 85% Humidity: 95-100% until day 5; then reduce Seed Form: Raw to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. FLOWERING Flowering Type: Facultative Short Day Light: Supplemental lighting and high light Plant– Under short day length they will initiate levels will improve seedling quality. Keep the and flower more quickly. Short day treatment day-length less than 13 hr. for optimum results. will result in a more compact plant. Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertilized Flowering Mechanism: High light intensity water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. and warmer temperatures shorten the total crop time. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Optimum conditions during the vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion to flower PLUG CULTURE initiation. This stage is when the seedlings Germination: Optimum conditions for root to the edge of the plug. seedling development, beginning on the day of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.25-1.5 radicle emergence in 3-5 days. Light: Provide high light levels of 10-14 mols, Cover: Cover seed with vermiculite or 3,000-4,000 ft. candles (30,000-40,000 lx). substrate after sowing. Temperature: 64-68 °F (18-20 °C) nights, Sowing method: 1-2 seeds per plug. Can 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) days. be sown directly into the finished container. Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 0.75 < wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to reach a medium (2) before re-saturating to Temperature: 70-75 °F (21-24 °C) until day a wet (2). Never allow the plants to dry out 5 and then reduce to 68-70 °F (18-20 °C). completely since yellowing of the older leaves Temperatures below 54 °F (12 °C) will result in will result. slow and uneven germination. Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early on day 5 Moisture: Saturate (5) for the first 2-3 days using a complete fertilizer at 50-75 ppm N. and then reduce the moisture level to moist Use a calcium-based fertilizer (14-4-14 or (3) on day 4. On day 10 reduce the media 15-5-15). Under high light conditions a moisture further to a medium (2). Alternate (17-5-17) fertilizer can be used.
www.benary.com 34 Growth Regulators: Growth regulator ap- Bonzi or Piccolo (paclobutrazol) can be made. plications can delay flowering by one week. If Helianthus respond well to a DIFF or morning needed, sprays with B-Nine (daminozide) can drop in temperature of 5 °F (2-3 °C). be made at 2,500 ppm. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long Fungicides: Preventative applications of periods of low light, cool temperatures and fungicides are recommended especially under high humidity. cooler conditions and low light levels. Common Diseases: Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Botrytis. GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.25-1.5 Pests: Primarily Aphids and Thrips.
Light: High light levels will shorten the crop Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate time and produce the best quality. Light at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. levels of 10-16 mols, 3,000-4,500 ft. candles (30,000-45,000 lx) are recommended. Plug Crop Time Temperature: 59-64 °F (15-18 °C) nights, 216 tray 2-3 wks 64-70 °F (18-21 °C) days. An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give 128 tray 3-4 wks the fastest finished crop. Finished Crop Time
Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels 216 tray 128 tray wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to reach a moisture level medium (2) before 5” / 12 cm pots 5-6 wks 4-5 wks re-saturating to a wet (4). Never allow the 6” / 15 cm pots 6-7 wks 5-6 wks media to dry out completely since yellowing of the lower leaves can occur. Gallon / 15 cm pots 6-7 wks 5-6 wks 8” / 20 cm pots (3*) 6-7 wks 5-6 wks Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Provi- *plants per pot ding good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media.
14-16” 8-10” Fertilizer: Helianthus require high fertilization Sun 35-40 cm 20-25 cm levels. Fertilize the crop weekly at 200-250 ppm nitrogen, using a potassium balanced fertilizer (N:K2O – ratio 1:1.5). Blended fertili- zers that are used for flowering can be used (11-7-23). If fertilizers with high potassium are not available then a complete calcium-based Expert Tip fertilizer can be used (14-4-14 or 15-5-15). Under high light levels a 17-5-17 fertilizer can Providing short day conditions in the early be used. Application of magnesium sulfate stages of production will result in a shorter (0.05%) can be made 1-2 times at 100 ppm finished plant. Application of growth to prevent magnesium deficiency. In case of regulators, B-Nine (daminozide) sprays can iron deficiency apply iron-chelate 1-2 times. delay flowering by up to one week.
Growth Regulators: If following good moisture management (allowing the media to dry back sufficiently between watering) no growth regulators should be needed. If plants require growth regulation B-Nine sprays can be made at 2,500 ppm. Application of growth regulators can increase the total crop time by up to one week. Near finish a light drench of
www.benary.com 35 Annuals
Impatiens walleriana F1 Lollipop
Product Use: Packs, hanging baskets Moisture: Keep media saturated (5) for the and mixed containers first 1-2 days or until radicle (root) emergence. On day 3 the moisture level can be decreased Minimum Germination Rate: 95% to a wet (4). Maintain a moisture level of wet (4) until approximately day 8, then reduce Seed Form: Raw to a moist (3). By day 11 start to alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2), allowing the media to reach a medium (2) before FLOWERING resaturating to a wet (4). Never allow any free Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower moisture on top of the seedlings going into regardless of day length. the night as this can cause tip abortion.
Flowering Mechanism: Irradiance will not Humidity: Maintain 95-100% until radicle affect flowering. Supplemental lighting during emergence; then reduce to 40-70% humidity. germination will be beneficial but is not Provide proper ventilation and horizontal necessary. Temperature will have a greater airflow to help dry back the media. This will affect on the total crop time. allow more oxygen to the roots improving seedling quality.
PLUG CULTURE Temperature: Maintain 72-75 °F (22-24 °C) Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for until day 6 then reduce slightly to 70-72 °F seedling development, should begin on the (21-22 °C). A germination temperature below day of sowing until root emergence Expect 70 °F (21 °C) will slow the speed and uniformity radicle (root) emergence in 3-5 days. of germination. Excessive temperatures above 77 °F (25 °C) can cause a thermodormancy. Cover: Seeds may be covered very lightly Temperatures below 65 °F (18 °C) may cause with a layer of vermiculite to maintain proper tip abortion and malformed seedlings. moisture levels. When trays are watered-in the media should be visible through the vermi- Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early on day 3 culite. with low rates of 25-5 ppm nitrogen using a calcium-based feed (14-0-14). Maintain an Sowing method: 1 seed per plug EC less than 0.75 for the first 7-10 days.
Media: pH 6.2-6.5. A low pH below 5.5 can Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: promote shoot tip abortion and cause sodium Maintain optimal conditions during the toxicity. EC 0.5-0.75 vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. When the seedlings root Light: Light is necessary for germination. to the edge of the plug and reach the 2-4 If utilizing a germination chamber provide true leaf stage flower initiation will occur. 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx) to aid in germination and reduce stretch upon Media: Keep pH 6.2-6.5, EC 0.75. germination. Maintain an EC of less than 1.0. If the EC
www.benary.com 36 levels are greater than 1.25 shoot tip abortion GROWING ON may occur. Media: pH 6.2-6.5, EC 0.75-1.0
Light: Provide light levels of 8 mols or Light: Provide light levels of 8 mols (2,500 ft. 2,500 ft. candles (25,000 lx). Supplemental candles), (25,000 lx). Supplemental lighting lighting can be used to produce sturdy can be used to produce sturdy seedlings. seedlings, especially under low light conditions. Lighting for the first two weeks supplying Temperature: Maintain 66-68 °F (17-18 °C) 350-400 ft. candles (3,500-4,000 lx). nights, 70-75 °F (21-24 °C) days. An ADT Lighting for more than two weeks in the early (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19.5 °C) stages of production can result in yellowing will give the fastest finished crop. of the leaves (phyto-oxidation). Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels Temperature: Maintain 66-68 °F (19-20 °C) wet (4) and medium. Allow the moisture level until the first set of true leaves. Thereafter to approach a medium (2) before re-saturating grow at 62-65 °F (17-18 °C) to hold and tone to a wet (4). the plugs. A temperature of 67 °F (19.5 °C) will give the shortest crop time. Humidity: 40-70% humidity is ideal. Note: Using DIF can result in yellow leaves Providing good ventilation and horizontal that can be eliminated by discontinuing DIF airflow to help lower the humidity levels and for approximately one week. dry back the media.
Moisture: Alternate between moisture Fertilizer: Fertilize every second or third levels wet (4) and medium (2). Let the media watering with a calcium based feed at approach a medium (2) before re-saturating 75-100 ppm nitrogen (13-2-13, 14-4-14). to a wet (4). Proper moisture management is Minimal fertilization will result in more compact effective in controlling growth. plants and promote flowering. Tall lush plants with flowers below the foliage or late flowering Humidity: 40-70% indicate too much fertilizer.
Fertilizer: Fertilize with a calcium-based feed Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide), (14-0-14, 15-2-15) at 75-100 ppm nitrogen. Bonzi (paclobutrazol) and Sumagic Fertilize every second or third watering using (uniconazol) are most effective. In the later a feed containing both potassium nitrate and stages of production, after transplanting the calcium nitrate. Minimal use of fertilizer will best means of controlling growth is the proper keep seedlings compact and promote flow- management of temperature, light, moisture ering. Avoid the use of phosphorous to prevent and fertilization. seedling stretch. Injection of phosphoric acid to control pH can result in seedling stretch. Fungicides: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity. Growth Regulators: Early applications of growth regulators are the best approach to Common Diseases: Pythium, rhizoctonia, control growth. In the later stages proper alternaria leaf spot, botrytis, tomato spotted management of temperature, light and wilt virus, pseudomonas, downey mildew and moisture will result in the highest quality impatiens necrotic virus. plugs. Growth regulators that can be used effectively are B-Nine (daminozide), Bonzi Pests: Primarily aphids, fungus gnats, (paclobutrazol) and Sumagic (uniconazol). spider mites and thrips.
Fungicides: Applications of fungicides can Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate be made, especially under low light and at 100-150 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. cooler conditions.
www.benary.com 37 Timing Lollipop Plug Crop Time
Days from sowing 50% Flower 288 tray 4-5 wks
Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Pink Lemonade (Light Pink)
Dragon Fruit (Lipstick) Packs 4-5 wks
Peach (Salmon) 4” / 10 cm pots 5-6 wks
Coconut (White) 10” / 25 cm baskets 6-7 wks
Tangerine (Deep Salmon)
Pomegranate (Carmine)
Bubblegum (Pink) 8-10” 8-10” Partial Cherry (Red) 20-25 cm 20-35 cm shade
Fruit Punch (Rose)
Raspberry (Violet)
Orange
50 55 60 65
Expert Tip
Lollipop Impatiens were bred to have a compact habit and only require growth regulators in the seedling stages. After transplanting maintain a good dry back between watering and use lower rates of fertilizer applications.
– Tom, Senior Technical Manager
www.benary.com 38 Annuals
Pentas lanceolata (carnea) Graffiti® 20/20, Graffiti® OG, Kaleidoscope, TM * New Look , Northern Lights *US Patent Number: 7,880,073
Product Use: Pots, Mixed Containers and deficiency may occur and if too low, an iron Landscape/Mass plantings toxicity can occur. EC < 0.5.
Minimum Germination Rate: 90% Temperature: 73-78 °F (23-26 °C). Once germination is completed with fully expanded Seed Form: Pelleted cotyledons, on day 14 the temperature can be lowered slightly to 72 °F (22 °C). Water USDA Hardiness Zone: 11 trays using tempered water with a minimum AHS Heat Zone: 12-1 temperature of 64 °F (18 °C). Media temperatures below 61 °F (16 °C) will inhibit the germination and growth. FLOWERING Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the regardless of day length. Very responsive to first 10 days. On day 11 begin to lower the irradiance and additional lighting. Providing a moisture slightly going to a medium (4). 14-16 hrs. day length, especially in the seed- Maintain a consistent moisture level without ling stages, will shorten the crop significantly. over saturating the media. Wide fluctuations In addition, growing at warmer temperatures in the media moisture levels can decrease will shorten the crop time. seedling development and losses can occur.
Flowering Mechanism: Maturity of the plant, Humidity: 95-100% until day 10; then reduce reaching the 3-5 leaf stage is the primary to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and mechanism. Supplemental lighting during horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in germination will benefit but is not necessary. the media.
Light: Light is not crucial for germination but PLUG CULTURE providing supplemental lighting will increase Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for the quality of the seedlings and uniformity of seedling development beginning on the day germination. If using a chamber provide a of sowing until radical emergence. Expect light source of 10-25 ft. candles (100-250 lx). radical emergence in 7-10 days. When moved into stage two the light levels can be increased to 6-8 mols/day, 2,000- Cover: No cover is necessary. 2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). On approximately day 21 the light levels can be Sowing method: 1 pellet per plug increased to 10-12 mols/day, 3,000-3,500 ft. candles (30,000-35,000 lx). Media: pH 6.2-6.5 Starting with the proper pH of the media will improve the performance Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 0.75. At this stage of the seedlings. Pentas can exhibit iron fertilized water should not exceed an EC of toxicity at lower pH levels, below 5.5. Pentas 0.5 Begin feeding on day 10 with 50 ppm require close attention to the proper media 14-2-14, 14-4-14 or 17-5-17. Keep phosphorous pH. If the pH is too high, a micro nutrient levels < 8 ppm, iron levels at 2-3 ppm.
www.benary.com 39 Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Media: pH 6.2-6.5 continue to monitor the Optimum conditions during the vegetative pH to make sure that it stays above 6.0. stage from cotyledon expansion to flower EC 1.0-1.2 Keep the EC level < 1.5. initiation. This stage is when the seedlings root to the edge of the plug and can reach Light: Provide high light levels of 12-16 the 3-5 true leaf stage where flower initiation mols/day, 3,500-4,500 ft. candles (35,000- occurs. If transplanted early flower initiation 45,000 lx). Long day treatment of 14-16 hrs. can occur after transplant. will shorten the total crop time significantly.
Media: pH 6.2-6.5 When media has a higher Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) nights, pH, iron is not as available to seedlings so a 72-74 °F (22-23 °C) days for the first 14 days slight increase in iron to the fertilizer can be or until the roots reach the bottom of the beneficial. 2-3 ppm iron is optimal. If needed, container. Thereafter temperatures may be iron levels can be adjusted to 0.5 ppm. At lowered to 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) nights and pH levels of 5.0-5.5 iron toxicity can occur. 68-74 °F (20-23 °C) days. Higher temperatures Flowable lime can be used to adjust the pH. are beneficial and will shorten the crop time. EC 0.75–1.0. Pentas do not seem to have a maximum tem- perature that will inhibit growth and flowering. Light: 12-16 mols/day, 3,500-4,500 ft. cand- les (35,000-40,000 lx). High light levels and Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels supplying supplemental lighting, especially in wet (4) and medium (2). the winter can greatly shorten the crop time by as much as 2-3 weeks. Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow will Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) As plants help lower the humidity and dry back the become more mature the temperature can media, providing oxygen to the roots. be lowered to 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) nights and 72- 74 °F (22-23 °C) days. Warmer tempera- Fertilizer: Under low light conditions fertilize tures will benefit and shorten the finish time. with a 14-4-14 fertilizer at 100-150 ppm and under high light conditions use a 17-5-17 Moisture: Alternate between a wet (4) and fertilizer at 100-150 ppm. Watch for calcium a medium (2). Allow the moisture level to and magnesium deficiencies which can cause approach a medium before re-saturating to a stunted plants. wet (4). Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) Fertilizer: Maintain the EC levels below 1.2. sprays at 2,500-5,000 ppm are very effective Under lower light conditions fertilize with a in height control. Light applications of Bonzi calcium based fertilizer, 14-4-14 at 100 ppm. (paclobutrazol) as a spray at 2-3 ppm can Under higher light use a 17-5-17 feed at 100 also be used. An A-Rest spray at 2-4 ppm is ppm. also effective in growth regulation.
Growth Regulators: B-Nine (diminozide) Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long sprays at 2,500-5,000 ppm work well at periods of low light and high humidity. controlling growth. Common Diseases: Botrytis, Rhizoctonia Fungicides: Under conditions of low light and Pythium. Keep plants from becoming and high humidity fungicide applications too wet for any period of time. Preventative may be necessary. Follow the recommended fungicide drenches can be applied at the labeled rates. labeled rates.
Pests: Primarily Aphids, Thrips and Whitefly. GROWING ON Transplant Ready: 6-7 weeks from sowing Post Harvest: Fertilize with Potassium nitrate using a “288” plug tray. Add one week if less at 150 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. than optimal temperatures are experienced.
www.benary.com 40 Scheduling: The Graffiti® 20/20 has a shorter Plug Crop Time crop time of one week less compared to the ® ® 288 tray 6-7 wks Graffiti OG. The Graffiti 20/20 are also very uniform in flowering between the separate Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) colors. Schedule the Graffiti® 20/20 accordingly. All Pentas Graffiti® 20/20 4” / 10 cm pots 9-10 wks 8-9 wks Expert Tip 6” / 15 cm pots 10-11 wks 9-10 wks Pay close attention to maintaining a higher pH at or above pH 6.4. This will help with good seedling development and finished product. 8-16” 10-12” Sun 20-40 cm 25-30 cm
Annuals
Petunia x hybrida Trailing F1 SUCCESS!®
Family: Solanaceae on the day of sowing until root emergence. Expect root emergence in 3-5 days. Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed Cover: No covering is necessary. containers and landscape Sowing method: 1 seed/pellet per plug Minimum Germination Rate: 90% Media: pH 5.5-5.8; keeping the pH below Seed Form: Pelleted 6.0 will help to keep boron and iron available. EC <1.0 or 0.75-1.0
FLOWERING Temperature: Maintain 72-76 °F (22-24 °C) Flowering Type: Facultative long day plants. until root emergence and then reduce to Long days and high irradiance will promote 68-70 °F (20-21 °C). The temperature can flowering. be lowered on approximately day 5. Once cotyledons have expanded lower temperature Flowering Mechanism: Flowering is affected further to 65-68 °F (18-20 °C). by day length, irradiance and temperature. Moisture: Begin by watering to a saturated (5); applying enough water to help dissolve PLUG CULTURE the pellets. After sowing do not allow the Germination: Maintain optimal conditions pellets to dry back before moving to the for seedling development, should begin germination chamber or benches. Maintain
www.benary.com 41 a saturated (5) for 3-4 days or until radicle high light and long or extended days, an emergence. On day 5 reduce media moisture ammonium-based feed (20-10-20) is preferred. to a wet (4) for the next 5-6 days and on For more shoot growth, add an additional day 10-11 reduce further to a medium (2). ammonium treatment to the schedule. Alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2) To prevent stretching under low light and cool between watering. temperatures, reduce ammonium and apply only calcium-based fertilizer. Humidity: Maintain 95-100% until day 5; then reduce to 40-60%. Provide proper Growth Regulators: Petunias are very ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve responsive to B-Nine (daminozide) sprays in oxygen levels in the media. the early stages. Apply the first application early on day 14 as a spray at 2,500 ppm. Light: Light is necessary for germination. B-Nine can be used as the main growth If using a germination chamber provide regulator up until bud-set. Later applications 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx). can be used as a spray at 2,500-5,000 ppm. If applied too many times or when buds are Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0 visible it can cause smaller and even distorted flowers. Bonzi or Piccolo (paclobutrazol) spays Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: can also be used effectively. In the early stages Maintain optimal conditions during the rates vary depending on temperature and light. vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion These rates are between 3-5 ppm. A DIF of 5 °F to flower initiation. When the seedlings root (3 °C) can also be used effectively to control growth. to the edge of the plug and reach the 3-6 true leaf stage, flower initiation will occur. GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 Transplant Ready: Transplant as soon as the roots reach the edges of the cell and Light: Petunias need long days to flower. can be removed without being disturbed too To initiate buds under short days extend day much. SUCCESS!® petunias are less day length to 13.5-14 hrs. Under long day, low length sensitive and require fewer growth light conditions, supplemental lighting of regulators than other trailing petunias. 350-500 ft. candles (3,500-5,000 lx) may be necessary. Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.5-2.0
Temperature: Maintain 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) Light: Provide 12-18 mols (3,500-5, 000 ft. until day 26-28, then reduce the temperature candles) of light in the finishing stages. to 60-64 °F (15.5-18 °C). Keep temperatures Petunias need long days to flower. > 60 °F (16 °C) until ready to transplant. For the To initiate bud under short days, extend day fastest finish maintain an ADT of 67 °F (19.5 °C). length to 14 hrs. Under long day, low light With these temperatures some additional conditions, supplemental lighting of 350-500 growth regulators will need to be applied. ft. candles (3,500-5,000 lx) may be necessary.
Moisture: On approximately day 12 start to Temperature: After transplant maintain alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2) temperatures > 55 °F (13 °C) nights for the between watering. Allow the moisture level to first 6 weeks to initiate flower bud development. approach a medium (2) before re-saturating The night temperatures can be lowered further to a wet (4). to 50 °F (10 °C) to encourage basal branching and compactness. However, lower tempe- Fertilizer: Upon initial germination approximately ratures may also substantially decrease the days 5-7 begin feeding with 50 ppm nitrogen. number of flowers initiated. Growing at cooler Pay attention to the addition of boron since temperatures will produce a higher quality plant. low boron can cause tip abortion. Ideal boron An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F concentration is 0.5 ppm. Fertilize established (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. seedlings at 100-150 ppm nitrogen. Under high light conditions, apply an ammonium-based Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet feed (17-5-17). Under low light conditions, (4) and medium (2). Allow plants to almost reach apply a calcium-based feed (14-4-14). Under a medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4).
www.benary.com 42 Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing Plug Crop Time good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, 288 tray 4-5 wks providing oxygen to the roots. Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Fertilizer: Feed at 100-200 ppm nitrogen. Packs 3-4 wks Under high light conditions, apply an ammonium-based feed (17-5-17). To prevent 4” / 10 cm pots 4-5 wks stretching under low light conditions apply 6” / 15 cm pots 5-6 wks a calcium-based feed (14-4-14). Under high light and long days an ammonium-based feed 10” / 25 cm pots 7-8 wks (20-10-20) is preferred.
Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) as needed at 3,500-5,000 ppm. Apply B-Nine Timing SUCCESS!® before the buds are visible. Late applications can delay flowering and reduce flower size. Days from sowing 50% Flower Also responsive to Bonzi and Piccolo sprays (paclobutrazol), Sumac (uniconazol) or Burgundy B-Nine/Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) tank mix. Light drenches of Bonzi or Piccolo Salmon (paclobutrazol) can be used once established Silver Vein in the final container. Blue
Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long Pink periods of low light and high humidity. Red
Common Diseases: Botrytis, rhizoctonia. Rose
Violet Pests: Primarily aphids. White Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate 45 50 55 60 at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping.
10-12” 24-28” Sun 25-30 cm 60-70 cm
Expert Tip
Early flowering and unrivaled in growth, habit, and timing uniformity. Mix and match any colors together for an easy combo that will time perfectly.
– Scott, Area Sales Manager Benary+
www.benary.com 43 Annuals
Petunia x hybrida grandiflora 1F SUCCESS!® 360° / HD
Product Use: Packs, pots, hanging baskets, chamber or benches. Maintain saturation mixed containers and landscape (5) for 3-4 days or until radicle emergence. On day 5 reduce media moisture to wet (4) Minimum Germination Rate: 90% for the next 5-6 days. On day 10 reduce the moisture further to medium (2). Alternate Seed Form: Pelleted between wet (4) and a medium (2) between watering.
FLOWERING Humidity: 95-100% until day 5; then reduce Flowering Type: Facultative long day plant. to 40-60%. Reducing the humidity will help Long days and high irradiance will promote prevent seedling stretch. Provide proper flowering. ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. Flowering Mechanism: Flowering is affected by day-length, irradiance and temperature. Light: Light is necessary for germination. If using a germination chamber provide 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx). PLUG CULTURE Germination: Optimum conditions for Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertilized seedling development, beginning on the day water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Upon of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect initial germination, approximately day 5-6 radicle emergence in 3-5 days. begin feeding with 50 ppm nitrogen. Pay attention to the addition of boron since low Cover: No covering is necessary. Light is boron can cause tip abortion. Ideal boron required for germination. concentration is 0.5 ppm.
Sowing method: 1 pellet per plug Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Media: pH 5.5-5.8; keeping the pH below Optimum conditions during the vegetative 6.0 will help to keep boron and iron available. stage from cotyledon expansion to flower EC 0.5-0.75; less than 1.0 initiation. This stage is when the seedlings root to the edge of the plug and reach the 3-5 Temperature: 72-76 °F (22-24 °C) until ra- true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs. dicle emergence and then reduce to 68-70 °F (20-21 °C). The temperature can be lowered Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.25-1.5 on approximately day 5. Once cotyledons have fully expanded lower the temperature Light: Petunias are facultative long day further to 65-68 °F (18-20 °C). plants so a longer day length and higher light levels will promote early flowering. Provide a Moisture: Begin by watering to saturated (5); minimum day length of 11.5 hrs. To initiate applying enough water to help dissolve the flowering under short days, extend the day pellets. After sowing do not allow the pellets length to 13.5-14 hrs. Under long day, low to dry back before moving to the germination light conditions, supplemental lighting of
www.benary.com 44 350-500 ft. candles (3,500-5,000 lx) may be GROWING ON necessary. Petunia will flower more quickly Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.5-2.0 when young plants are given a long day treatment. Light: Provide 12-18 mols (3,500-5,000 ft. candles); (35,000-50,000 lx) of light in the Temperature: 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) until day finishing stages. Petunias need long days 26-28, then reduce the temperature to 60- to flower. To initiate bud under short days, 64 °F (15-18 °C). Keep temperatures > 60 °F extend the day length to 14 hrs. Under (16 °C) until ready to transplant. For the fas- long-day, low light conditions, supplemental test finish maintain an ADT of 67 °F (19.5 °C). lighting of 350-500 ft. candles (3,500-5,000 lx) may be necessary. Moisture: On approximately day 10 start to alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2) Temperature: After transplant, maintain between watering. Allow the media moisture temperatures > 55 °F (13 °C) nights for the level to approach a medium (2) before re- first 3-4 weeks to initiate flower bud develop- saturating to wet (4). ment. The night temperatures can be lowered further to 50 °F (10 °C) to encourage basal Fertilizer: Pay attention to the addition of branching and compactness. However, lower boron since low boron can cause tip abortion. temperatures may also substantially decrease Ideal boron concentration is 0.5 ppm. the number of flowers initiated. Growing at Fertilize established seedlings at 100-150 ppm cooler temperatures will produce a higher nitrogen. Under high light conditions, apply quality plant. An ADT (average daily tempe- an ammonium based fertilizer (17-5-17) or rature of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest (20-10-20). Under low light conditions, apply finished crop. a calcium based feed (14-4-14) or (15-15). Under high light and long or extended days, Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels an ammonium based feed (20-10-20) is wet (4) and medium (2). Allow plants to reach preferred. For more shoot growth, add an medium (2) before re-saturating to wet (4). additional ammonium treatment to the schedule. To prevent stretching under low Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Provi- light and cool temperatures, reduce ammonium ding good ventilation and horizontal airflow and apply only calcium based fertilizer. will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, providing oxygen to the roots. Growth Regulators: Petunias are very responsive to B-Nine (daminozide) sprays in Fertilizer: Feed at 100-200 ppm nitrogen. the early stages. Apply the first application Under high light conditions, apply an early, on day 7-10 as a spray at 2,500 ppm. ammonium based fertilizer (17-5-17) or Later applications can be used as a spray at (20-10-20).To prevent stretching under low 2,500-5,000 ppm. B-Nine can be used light conditions apply a calcium based feed as the main growth regulator up until bud set. (14-4-14) or (15-5-15). Under high light and If applied too many times or when buds are long days an ammonium-based feed visible it can cause smaller and even distorted (20-10-20) is preferred. flowers. Bonzi or Piccolo (paclobutrazol) spays can also be used effectively. In the early Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) as stages rates vary depending on temperature needed at 2,500-5,000 ppm. Apply B-Nine and light. Early applications as a spray at before the buds are visible. Late applications 2-3 ppm and later ones at 5 ppm. A DIF of 5 °F can delay flowering and reduce flower size. can also be used effectively to control growth. Petunias are also responsive to Bonzi and Note: Since the SUCCESS!® HD series was Piccolo (paclobutrazol) sprays, Sumac bred with a more compact habit it does not (uniconazol) or B-Nine/Cycocel (chlormequat require repeated applications of growth chloride) tank mix. Later sprays with Bonzi regulators. After the initial first application of and Piccolo can be made at 5-8 ppm with B-Nine on day 7-10 for toning the seedlings rates varying depending on light and tem- they should not require additional growth perature. Light drenches of Bonzi or Piccolo regulators. (paclobutrazol) can be used once established in the final container.
www.benary.com 45 Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long Plug Crop Time periods of low light and high humidity. 288 4-5 wks Common Diseases: Botrytis, rhizoctonia. Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. Packs 4-5 wks Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate 4” / 10 cm pots 5-6 wks at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. 10” / 25 cm baskets 7-8 wks
Timing SUCCESS!® 360° 12-14” 14-16” Sun Days from sowing 50% Flower 30-35 cm 35-40 cm
Burgundy
Burgundy Vein Timing SUCCESS!® HD Deep Pink
Deep Rose Days from sowing 50% Flower
Purple Red Purple Vein White Red Blue Rose Star Burgundy Salmon Vein Pink White Salmon Morn Blue Rose Star Light Yellow
Red Star 45 50 55 60 65
45 50 55 60
Expert Tip
SUCCESS!® 360° require moderate applications of growth regulators. Provide a good wet to dry cycle of watering to keep plants more compact.
– Tom, Senior Technical Manager
www.benary.com 46 Annuals
Portulaca grandiflora 1F Stopwatch, Sundial
Family: Solanaceae, Portulacaceae Temperature: 72-79 °F (22-26 °C).
Product Use: Packs, pots, mixed Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) media containers and landscape. Stopwatch is moisture to help break down the pellet. On slightly less spreading with an excellent day 2 start to reduce the moisture level to a branching habit, making it very suitable for wet (4) since Portulaca are very sensative to pack production and containers. high moisture levels.
Minimum Germination Rate: 85% Humidity: 95-100% until day 5; then reduce to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and Seed Form: Raw & Multipelleted horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media.
FLOWERING Light: Light is not necessary for germination Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant: but will benefit in the uniformity of germination. Requires long days greater than 11 hrs. for flower initiation to occur. Providing a daylength Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. In the early greater than 12 hrs. will ensure early flowering. stage fertilzed water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Flowering Mechanism: Long days, higher light levels and increased temperatures will Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: shorten the total crop time. Supplemental Optimum conditions during the vegetative lighting is beneficial during germination but stage from cotyledon expansion to flower is not necessary. Note: The critical day length initiation. This stage is when the seedlings root is 10 ½ hrs. where short days may cause the to the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 plants to rosette and not recover and flower. true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs.
Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.0-1.2 PLUG CULTURE Germination: Optimum conditions for Light: 6-8 mols/day (2000-2500 ft. candles / seedling development, beginning on the day 20,000-25,000 lx) Provide a daylength > of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect 12 hrs. to aid flower initiation. Minimum radicle emergence in 2-3 days. daylength required is > 10 ½ hrs. to prevent rosetting. In daylength extension, lower light Cover: No covering is necessary unless levels of 10-15 ft. candles (100-150 lx) are all drying down before emergence is a concern. that is required. Then cover lightly with vermiculite or media. Temperature: 70-72 °F (20-22 °C). Sowing method: 1 multi pellet per cell. Moisture: Once fully expanded cotyledons Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 0.5 High salt levels develop the media moisture should level can inhibit germination. alternate between a wet (4) and a moist (3).
www.benary.com 47 On day 14 begin to dry back to a medium (2). Fertilizer: Portulaca require moderate Allow the media to dry back to a medium (2) fertilization levels. Fertilize every other irrigation before re-saturating to a wet (4). alternating between a calcium based feed and an ammonium based fertiizer at 150-200 ppm. Fertilizer: Keep ammonium and phosphorous Alternate between a 15-0-15 or a 14-2-14 levels low by using a complete calcium based fertilizer and a 20-10-20 or a 17-5-17. fertilizer. Begin feeding at low levels of 50-60 ppm and gradually work up to feeding at 100 Growth Regulators: No growth regulators ppm using 14-0-14, 14-2-14 or 15-0-15 are necessary if allowing the media to dry fertilizers. When the plants become more back sufficiently between watering. If needed mature, at the end of the bulking stage, some that may be used are B-Nine, Bonzi higher rates of fertilizer can be applied at and Sumagic. 100-150 ppm. Under higher light conditions an occasional supplemental feeding with an Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long ammonium based fertilizer 20-10-20 at 150 periods of low light and high humidity. ppm can be made. Common Diseases: Phytopthora, pythium Growth Regulators: No growth regulators and rhizoctonia. should be necessary. Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. Fungicides: Apply fungicides as needed, especailly under low light conditions. Post Harvest: Fertilize with Potassium nitrate Portulaca are susceptible to rhizoctonia. at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping.
GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.2-1.5. Expert Tip Light: After transplanting provide plants with light levels of 18 mols/day (5000 ft. candles / Portulaca have a sensitive root system so 50,000 lx). over-watering or periods of high moisture levels result in a poor root system and Temperature: 65-68 °F (19-20 °C) nights, promote disease issues. Lighting of young 68-78 °F (20-24 °C) days for the first 14 days plants and providing long days >12 hrs. or until the roots reach the bottom of the will result in earlier flowering. container. Thereafter temperatures may be lowered slightly to 64-65 °F (18-19 °C) nights and 68-78 °F (20-24 °C) days. An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. Temperatures below 64 °F (18 °C) will inhibit flowering and vegetative growth. Plug Crop Time Moisture: Provide a good wet dry cycle. Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and 288 tray 4-5 wks medium (2). Allow plants to reach a dry (1) Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) before re saturating to a wet (4). Never allow plants to have any free moisture on them Packs 5 wks going into the night. This promotes disease 4” / 10 cm pots 5-6 wks issues, especially with rhizoctonia. 10” / 25 cm pots 6-7 wks Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, providing oxygen to the 8-10” 10-12” roots. Sun 20-25 cm 25-30 cm
www.benary.com 48 Annuals
Ptilotus exaltatus Joey® European Community Plant Variety Protection Applied For
Family, Origin: Amaranthaceae, Australia Humidity: 95-100% until day 5, then lower it to 40-60%. Product Use: Pots, mixed containers, landscape Light: Requires light for germination. Minimum Germination Rate: 85% If germinating in a chamber supply 10-100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx); (50 Watt/m²) to prevent Seed Form: ApeX seedling stretch. Protect seedlings from direct light when moving to Stage II. Once established in Stage II the light levels can be increased. FLOWERING On days 7-10 the light levels can be increased Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower to 6-8 mols/day or 2,000-2,500 ft. candles regardless of day length. (20,000-25,000 lx). Providing a day length > 12 hours will promote earlier flowering. Flowering Mechanism: Higher irradiance and warmer temperatures will promote earlier Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertilized flowering. Supplemental lighting during water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. germination is beneficial but not necessary. Initial feeding should be with a balanced fertilizer low in ammonium and phosphorous. Begin feeding on day 7 with a 14-4-14; PLUG CULTURE 14-2-14 or 17-5-17 fertilizer at 50 ppm. Germination: Expect radicle emergence in 5 days with complete germination in 7 days. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Maintain optimal conditions during the Cover: Requires light for germination. vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion Cover the seed very lightly with vermiculite. to flower initiation. When the seedlings root The seeds should be visible when watered in. to the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 true leaf stage flower initiation will occur. Sowing method: 1 seed per plug. Media: pH 5.5-5.8, EC 1.25-1.5 Media: Use a well drained media, pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5 Light: Continue to protect from direct sunlight until seedlings are well established. On day Temperature: Maintain 75-78 °F (24-25.6 °C) 21-22 the light levels can be raised to 10-12 for the first 7 days, then lower the temperature mols/day or 3,000-3,500 ft. candles (30,000- to 70-75 °F (21-24 °C). 35,000 lx). Higher light levels will facilitate early flowering and sturdy plants with large flowers. Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the first 3-4 days and then begin to dry them Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) back to a wet (4) on day 5-6. On day 7 begin night and day. When the roots reach the to alternate between a wet (4) and a medium bottom of the cell the temperature can be (2). Allow the moisture level to approach a lowered to 67 °F (19.5 °C). medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4).
www.benary.com 49 Moisture: Begin alternating between a wet Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels (4) and a medium (2) on day 7. To prevent wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants dry back to algae it is important to begin a good wet to a medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4). dry cycle on day 12 where the media will dry The drying back of the plants will help force back within a 24 hr. period. Good ventilation the roots to the bottom of the pot. and horizontal airflow will create such an environment. Avoid watering late in the day Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. and never allow plants to stay in a saturated Providing good ventilation and horizontal state for a 24 hr. period. Over watered plants airflow will help lower the humidity and dry will develop yellow lower leaves. back the media, providing oxygen to the roots. Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing early to improve seedling quality. Under high light conditions Fertilizer: Moderate to high fertilization levels slightly higher levels of ammonium can be are required. Avoid high levels of ammonium used. Under high light conditions fertilize with and high levels of nitrogen. Also keep phos- a 17-5-17 feed and under low light use a phorous levels lower. Feed with a complete calcium-based fertilizer 14-2-14 or 14-4-14. balance fertilizer 14-4-14 or 17-5-17 at Initial feeding should start at 50 ppm and 100-150 ppm. gradually work up to 100-150 ppm. Growth Regulators: Additional growth Growth Regulators: There are several regulators may be required approximately two growth regulators that can be used. B-Nine weeks after transplanting. Apply the same (daminozide) can be applied as a spray growth regulator rates as those used in the at 2,500-5,000 ppm. The higher rates are plug stages as needed. used under higher temperature and humidity levels. Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) can be Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long applied as a spray at 750-1,000 ppm. Sprays periods of low light and high humidity. using combinations of B-Nine (daminozide) Fungicides against soil borne diseases and + A-Rest are also effective. Combine B-Nine foliar diseases are recommended. at 2,500 ppm + A-Rest at 4 ppm and apply as a spray. Combinations of B-Nine and Common Diseases: Botrytis and phytopthora. Cycocel can be used as a spray with 2,500 ppm B-Nine + 500 ppm Cycocel. Bonzi Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. (paclobutrazol) does not seem to be very effective as a growth regulator. Sumagic Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate (uniconazol) sprays at 5 ppm can also be used. at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping.
Fungicides: Scout for botrytis and phytophthora during the plug stage and apply Plug Crop Time specific fungicides per the recommended rate. 288 tray 5-6 wks
128 tray 6-7 wks GROWING ON Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Media: pH 5.5-5.8, EC 1.2-1.5 4” / 10 cm pots 7-8 wks Light: Provide 12-14 mols/day (3,500-4,000 ft. candles, 35,000-40,000 lx). Well established 6” / 15 cm pots 8-9 wks plants can be grown at 16-20 mols/day 8” / 20 cm pots 9 wks (4,500-5,500 ft. candles, 45,000-55,000 lx).
Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) for the first 14 days or until the roots reach 12-14” 8-10” the bottom of the container. Thereafter tem- Sun peratures may be lowered to 65 °F (19 °C). 30-35 cm 20-25 cm An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop.
www.benary.com 50 Expert Tips
Do not hold plugs since plants should not reach a root bound state. Transplant plugs early or as scheduled.
Do not let the temperature levels drop below 50 °F (10 °C).
Keep plants on the dry side to promote better roots. Ptilotus develop a good root system very slowly. In periods of low light and lower temperature do not over water.
Pinching the plant once well established in the final container has esultedr in better branching. This is usually done when the plants reach 7-8 nodes and they are pinched back to 5-6 nodes.
Annuals
Rudbeckia hirta Denver Daisy, Prairie Sun
Family, Origin: Asteraceae, North America day of sowing until root emergence. Expect root emergence in 10-14 days depending on Product Use: Borders, pots, containers and temperature and moisture. cut flowers Cover: No cover is necessary however a light Minimum Germination Rate: 90% covering of vermiculite will aid in maintaining proper moisture and humidity levels during Seed Form: Coated germination.
Sowing method: 1-2 seeds per plug. Can FLOWERING also be sown directly into the final container. Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant; a day length > 13 hrs., with 6-8 true leaves will Media: A media with a pH 6.0-6.2. EC <1.0; result in flower initiation. that is low in soluble salts. Avoid media compaction to aid in root penetration. Flowering Mechanism: Primary mechanism is long days and maturity. Temperature: Maintain 68-74 °F (20-23 °C).
Moisture: Begin with a moisture level slightly PLUG CULTURE higher than a wet (4+) for the first 14 days Germination: Optimal conditions for or until root emergence has occurred. seedling development,should begin on the On day 15 begin to dry back the media
www.benary.com 51 slightly. Alternate between a moisture level DIF, or a morning drop in temperature of wet (4) and a medium (3). 5-10 °F (3-5 °C), is also very effective. Light sprays of either Bonzi (paclobutrazol) or Humidity: 95-100% until day 11; then reduce Sumagic (uniconozol) can also be used. to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in Fungicides: Preventative sprays with the media. fungicides should be done early to prevent foliar diseases. Apply sprays between days Light: Light is necessary for germination so 21-35 to prevent diseases such as botrytis. if using a germination chamber provide 10- 100 ft. candles (100-1,000 lx). Supplemental lighting is beneficial. Keep day length less GROWING ON than 13 hrs. for the first 4-5 weeks to keep Transplant Ready: Using a larger plug can help the seedlings from premature flower initiation. in manipulating day length to control growth. This is more critical after germination has occurred and seedlings are further developed. Media: pH 6.0-6.2, EC 1.5-1.75
Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Begin Light: Provide 3,500-5,500 ft. candles; feeding once germination is complete or on 12-20 mols (35,000-55,000 lx). To initiate approximately day 14. Fertilize with a calcium- flowering provide a day length of 14-16 hrs. based feed; 14-4-14, 17-5-17 or similar at The amont of time for flower initiation varies 50 ppm N. somewhat between varieties. Flowering initiation is well timed at 4 weeks after transplanting. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Maintain optimal conditions during the Temperature: Maintain 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion day and night. An ADT (average daily to flower initiation. When the seedlings root temperature) of 67 °F (19,5 °C) will give the to the edge of the plug and reach the 6-8 fastest finished crop. Temperatures below true leaf stage flower initiation will occur. 61 °F (6 °C) can increase crop time by up to three weeks. Media: pH 6.0-6.2, EC 1.0-1.5 Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels Light: Provide light levels between 2,500- wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to 4,500 ft. candles: 8-16 mols (25,000-45,000 approach a medium (2) before resaturating to lx). Continue to keep the day length less than a wet (4). 13 hrs. for the first 4-5 weeks or until the plants reach the 6-8 true leaf stage. Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal Temperature: Maintain 64-68 °F (18-20 °C). airflow will help lower the humidity, resulting in fewer disease issues. Dry back the media to Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels provide oxygen to the roots. wet (4) and moist (3). Allow the media to reach a moist (3) before re-saturating to a wet (4). Fertilizer: Fertilize with a well balanced calcium-based feed, 14-4-14; 15-5-15 or Fertilizer: Rudbeckia require a moderate 17-5-17 at 100-150 ppm N. Under higher feed program using a well balanced fertilizer. light conditions occasional feeding with a Fertilize with a calcium-based feed, 14-4-14 higher nitrogen fertilizer can be used, or 17-5-17 at 50-100 ppm N. Under higher 20-10-20 at 100-150 ppm N. light conditions an occasional feeding with a fertilizer having a higher nitrogen level can be Growth Regulators: Several options can be used; 20-10-20 at 100 ppm N. As seedlings used to control growth. Sprays with B-Nine at develop the fertilizer rate can be increased to 2,500-5,000 ppm are effective, especially in 100-150 ppm N. the seedling stages. Sprays with Bonzi (paclobutrazol) and Sumagic (uniconizol) can Growth Regulators: In the early stages be used. Light drenches with Bonzi 1-2 weeks B-Nine (daminozide) sprays at 1,250-2,500 after transplanting are also very effective. ppm are very effective in controlling growth. Alternative methods to control height involve
www.benary.com 52 day length manipulation. Approximately two Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate weeks after plants are established in their final at 100 ppm N 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. container and flower initiation has occurred Light sprays of B-Nine at 2,500 ppm can also place under short day conditions, 10 hrs. be used. day length to shorten height. Maintain short days for 1-2 weeks to reduce plant height up to 50%. Response on height control varies Plug Crop Time by variety. More compact varieties, like Toto, 288 tray 5-6 wks require a longer period of short day treatment. Average response is 30% height control. 128 tray 6-7 wks After short day treatment return to long days of 14-16 hrs. until flowering. Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) 6” / 15 cm pots 7-10 wks Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity.
Common Diseases: Botrytis and pythium. 20-30” 20-30” Sun Pests: Fungus gnats, shore fly and whitefly. 50-75 cm 50-75 cm
Expert Tip
Apply 2-3 weeks of short days to larger plugs before transplanting or to finishing pots after transplanting for a 20% reduction in finished plant height. 2 ppm Bonzi drench, moderate feeding, and adequate spacing also help with height control.
– Scott, Area Sales Manager Benary+
www.benary.com 53 Annuals
Tagetes patula Super HeroTM
Product Use: Packs, pots, mixed containers moisture level for the first 1-2 days and then and landscape reduce to wet (4) for the next 3-4 days. Thereafter, on day 6, once germination is Minimum Germination Rate: 85% complete with cotyledon expansion, reduce the media moisture to medium (2). Alternate Seed Form: Raw, detailed & film coated between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to reach a moisture level medium (2) before re-saturating to wet (4). FLOWERING Flowering Type: Day neutral plant, will flower Humidity: 95-100% until day 3; then reduce regardless of the day length. to 40-60%. By dehumidifying it will help prevent seedling stretch. Provide proper Flowering Mechanism: High light intensity ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve and warmer temperatures will shorten the oxygen levels in the media. total crop time. Light: Light is not necessary for germination. Providing a light source will improve speed PLUG CULTURE and uniformity of germination. If utilizing a Germination: Optimum conditions for germination chamber provide 10-100 ft. seedling development, beginning on the day candles (100-1,000 lx). Supplying light in the of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect germination chamber will greatly improve radicle emergence in 2-3 days. seedling performance. Keep light levels low, less than 250 ft. candles (25,000 lx) Cover: Seeds may be covered by a thin layer to prevent early flower initiation. of medium vermiculite to maintain moisture and humidity levels. Light is not necessary for Fertilizer: Maintain an EC of less than 0.75. germination. Begin fertilizing early on day 7 feeding at 50-60 ppm N, using a calcium-based fertilizer Sowing method: 1 seed per plug (14-2-14 or 13-2-13).
Media: pH 6.2-6.5 Keep the pH level above Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: 6.0 to prevent iron and manganese toxicity. Optimum conditions during the vegetative EC 0.5-0.75 Begin with an EC < 0.75 stage from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. This stage is when the seedlings Temperature: 72-75 °F (22-24 °C). On day 7, root to the edge of the plug. once cotyledons have expanded the tempe- rature can be lowered to 68-70 °F (20-21 °C). Media: pH 6.2-6.5 Continue to monitor the pH level. Keep the pH level above 6.0 to Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) media prevent iron and manganese toxicity.
www.benary.com 54 Toxicity will be exhibited by the lower leaves Thereafter, temperatures may be lowered having necrotic spots with a mottled further to 59-63 °F (15-17 °C) nights and discoloration. EC 0.75-1.0 64-68 °F (18-20 °C) days. Avoid lower temperatures since temperatures between Light: Provide 6-8 mols, 2,000-2,500 ft. 64-68 °F (18-20 °C) promote flower initiation. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). Light levels that An ADT (average daily temperature) of 67 °F are too high can cause premature flower (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. initiation. Moisture: Continue to alternate between Temperature: 64-68 °F (18-20 °C) until moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). plants form two sets of true leaves. Allow the media moisture to approach If stretching occurs, lower the temperature medium (2) before re-saturating to wet (4). further to 63-64 °F (17-18 °C). Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Moisture: Alternate between moisture Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the will help lower the humidity and dry back the media moisture level to reach a medium (2) media, providing oxygen to the roots. before re-saturating to wet (4). Do not allow seedlings to dry back too much since this Fertilizer: Marigolds require a moderate feed can cause premature flowering. program. Fertilize weekly with a complete calcium based fertilizer at 150-200 ppm N. Fertilizer: Fertilizer levels can be increased Recommended fertilizers are (14-4-14; to 100-150 ppm N. Continue using a calcium- 15-5-15; and 17-5-17) under high light based fertilizer (14-2-14: 15-5-15; or even conditions. Keep ammonium levels low since 17-5-17) under higher light conditions. too much ammonium will result in large leaves and can also damage the roots. Growth Regulators: No growth regulators should be necessary. If needed B-Nine Growth Regulators: No growth regulators (daminozide) sprays at 2,500 ppm can be made. should be necessary. Responsive to B-Nine (daminozide) sprays at 2,500 ppm. Fungicides: Preventative drenches are Bonzi or Piccolo (paclobutrazol) sprays can recommended for Rhizoctonia and Pythium. also be used.
Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long GROWING ON periods of low light and high humidity. Transplant Ready: Do not allow plugs to become root bound before transplanting. Common Diseases: Botrytis, pythium and rhizoctonia. Media: pH 6.2-6.5 Continue to make sure that the pH does not drop below 6.0 since Pests: Primarily Aphids and Thrips. iron and manganese toxicity can occur. Toxicity will be exhibited on the lower leaves Post Harvest: Fertilize with Potassium having necrotic spots with a mottled Nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. discoloration. EC 1.0-1.25
Light: Provide 8-10 mols, 2,500-3,000 ft. candles (25,000-30,000 lx). For a better branched plant give a short day treatment after transplanting (9-10 hrs.) for two to three weeks.
Temperature: 63-64 °F (17-18 °C) until plants are well established in the final container.
www.benary.com 55 Plug Crop Time Timing Super Hero™™™™™
288 3-4 wks Days from sowing 50% Flower
Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Harmony
Packs 3-4 wks Orange Bee
4” / 10 cm pots 4-5 wks Deep Orange
Flame
Orange
8-10” 6-8” Spry Sun 20-25 cm 15-20 cm Yellow
Yellow Bee
25 30 35 40
Expert Tip
The Tagetes Super Hero™ were bred without the use of growth regulators so they can be grown without them. If using B-Nine (daminozide) it only needs to be used to tone the plants.
– David, Flower Breeder
www.benary.com 56 Biennials
Calocephalus brownii Bed Head® Winterhardy Zone 10
Life Cycle: Biennial, perennial then need to be allowed to dry back to a wet (4) within 24 hours. Begin with a wet (4) and Product Use: This plant is excellent in mixed maintain this moisture level until germination containers, as a novelty impulse item or in a is complete. Allow trays to reach a moist low water use garden. Packs, pots, mixed (3) before resaturating to at wet (4). Prefers containers and landscape. slightly drier conditions for optimal results. Do not keep the media too wet or saturated (5). Minimum Germination Rate: 80% Humidity: 95-100% until day 20; then reduce Seed Form: Raw to 40-60%. If utilizing a germination chamber keep the plug trays in the chamber for the first 10 days and then move to the greenhouse FLOWERING with shade. Provide proper ventilation and Flowering Type: The flowering type is horizontal airflow. insignificant because flowering will only occur on very mature plants that are over Light: Avoid direct sunlight by shading 24 months old. seed trays after sowing. Maintain 6 mols of light, 2,000 ft. candles (20,000 lx). On day 21 begin exposure to higher light levels of 8 PLUG CULTURE mols, 2,500 ft. candles (25,000 lx). Germination: Optimum conditions for Continue to provide shade under high light seedling development, beginning on the day and high temperature. of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect radicle emergence in 14 days. Germination Fertilizer: Maintain an EC less than 0.75. may not be complete until 21 days. Begin fertilization on day 14 using low rates of a complete fertilizer at 50-60 ppm Nitrogen. Cover: Cover very lightly with vermiculite or Once two true leaves are present fertilizer other substrate. applicatons can be increased to 100 ppm nitrogen weekly. Recommended fertilizers are Sowing method: 4-6 seeds per cell if using calcium based complete fertilizers 15-5-15 plug trays. Using 6 seeds will result in a and 14-4-14. Supplemental iron applications fuller plug. are beneficial.
Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 0.5 < Plug Bulking: Optimum conditions from germination to the seedlings rooting to the Temperature: 68-75 °F (20-24 °C) The ideal edge of the plug cell. temperature is 70 °F (21 °C). After 10 days the temperature can be lowered slightly to Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.25-1.5 60-64 °F (16-18 °C). Light: Light levels can be increased to 8–10 mols, Moisture: Seed trays can initially be watered 2,500-3,000 ft. candles (25,000-30,000 lx). in to a saturated (5) media moisture level but
www.benary.com 57 Temperature: 60-64 °F (16-18 °C). Fertilizer: Use a moderate feed program. Fertilize at 150 ppm nitrogen using a well Moisture: Alternate between a media balanced calcium based fertilizer. moisture level of wet (4) and medium (2). Recommended fertilizers are: 15-5-15; Allow plants to dry back to a medium (2) 15-10-15; 14-4-14; and 16-4-24. Additional before re-saturating to a wet (4). Plants potassium and iron are beneficial during the prefer to be cultivated on the dry side. finishing stages. Maintain iron levels at 0.5 ppm.
Fertilizer: Calocephalus require a moderate Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) level of feeding. Fertilize at 150 ppm twice sprays at 2,500-3,500 ppm. Additional weekly with a calcium based fertilizer pinching or shearing, 2-3 times will result in 15-5-15, 15-10-15 or 17-5-15. Supplemental fuller plants but increase the total crop time. applications of iron are beneficial. Keep iron levels at 0.5 ppm. Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity. Growth Regulators: Apply B-Nine (daminozide) sprays at 2,500-3,000 ppm. Common Diseases: Botrytis, pytium, One to two applications can be made in the phytopthora and rhizoctonia plug stages. Another method of plant growth Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. regulation is to pinch or shear the young plants. At approximately 6 weeks plants can Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium be given a soft pinch to promote a sturdy nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. plant with better branching.
Fungicides: As needed apply fungicides for Not for resale or distribution outside the control of botrytis, pytium, phytopthora the USA and Canada. and rhizoctonia.
Plug Crop Time GROWING ON Transplant Ready: Do not transplant plugs 288 tray 6-7 wks too deep since it may result in additonal 128 tray 8-9 wks disease problems and losses. Finished Crop Time Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.5-1.75 288 tray 128 tray
Light: Provide light levels of 12-16 mols, Lager Packs (306) 9-10 wks 7-8 wks 3,500-4,500 ft. candles (35,000-45,000 lx). This is a full sun plant that can be produced 4” / 10 cm pots 10-11 wks 8-9 wks outdoors. Especially in the summer and fall. 6” / 15 cm pots 11-12 wks 9-10 wks
Temperature: 60-64 °F (16-18 °C) for the Gallon pots (6”) 11-12 wks 9-10 wks first two weeks. Thereafter temperatures can be lowered to 50-56 °F (10-13 °C). Plants can be produced at lower temperatures of 40-50 °F (4-10 °C) along with pansy and 8-10” 6-8” Sun – Partial viola. This will produce a high quality plant 20-25 cm 15-20 cm shade but add crop time.
Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Make sure that plants are allowed to dry back between watering. Calocephalus prefer drier cultivation.
Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media.
www.benary.com 58 Biennials
Pansy – Viola wittrockiana F1 CatsTM, Inspire DeluXXe®, Inspire® Plus
Family: Violaceae Moisture: Begin with saturated (5) for days 1-5 and then reduce to a moist (3) on day 6. Product Use: Packs, pots, mixed containers As the seedlings become fully developed with and landscape/mass plantings expanded cotyledons the moisture level can be decreased further to a medium (2) on day Minimum Germination Rate: 90% 9. At this point alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2) between watering. Seed Form: Raw & primed. Cats™ only raw. Humidity: 95-100% until day 5; then reduce to 40-60% to prevent hypocotyl stretch. FLOWERING Provide proper ventilation and horizontal Flowering Type: Day length neutral plant airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. will flower regardless of day length. Light: Light is not necessary for germination Flowering Mechanism: Irradiance is the to occur. If using a germination chamber primary mechanism that initiates flowering. providing a light source of 10-100 ft. candles High light intensity (12-18 mols/day), 3,500- (100-1,000 lx) will improve germination and 5,000 ft. candles (35,500-50,000 lx) will overall quality. Going into the second stage initiate flowering once plants reach 3-5 true of germination, on approximately day 6-7 the leaves (approximately day 15). Temperature light levels can be increased to 6-8 mols/day, is also critical to the number of days that 2,000-2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). flowering will occur. Long days will also This is after germination is finished. enhance flowering. Fertilizer: Begin feeding early using a calcium-based fertilizer at lower rates to keep PLUG CULTURE an adequate amount of calcium and nitrogen Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for supplied to the seedlings. On days 5-7 begin seedling development, should begin on the feeding with a calcium-based fertilizer day of sowing until root emergence. Expect (14-2-14; 13-2-13: 15-5-15 or 17-5-17) at root emergence in 2-4 days. 50-60 ppm. Maintain the EC between 0.5 and 0.75. Keep phosphorous levels between Cover: Cover lightly with a thin layer of 6-8 ppm and boron supplied at 0.5 ppm. coarse vermiculite. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Sowing method: 1 seed per plug. Maintain optimal conditions during the vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion to Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 0.5 flower initiation. When the seedlings root to the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 true Temperature: Maintain 65-68 °F (18-20 °F) leaf stage flower initiation will occur. until root emergence, then lower the temperature gradually to 62-65 °F (17-18 °C). Media: pH 5.5-5.8 Maintain pH levels in the lower range to avoid outbreaks of thielaviopsis
www.benary.com 59 and boron deficiencies which may cause Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) tip abortion. EC 0.75-1.0. Keeping the EC nights, 64-67 °F (18-19 °C) days for the first less than 1.5 can help control outbreaks of 14 days or until the roots reach the bottom thielaviopsis and other root problems. of the container. Thereafter temperatures may be lowered to 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) day and Light: The light levels need to be at 12-18 night. An ADT (average daily temperature) of mols/day, 3,500-5,000 ft. candles (35,000- 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. 50,000 lx). If high temperatures are experien- ced lowering the light level slightly to 8-10 Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels mols/day, 2,500-3,000 ft. candles (25,000- wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants reach a 30,000 lx) can help to further bulk the plug medium (2) before re-saturating to a wet (4). before flower initiation occurs. Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Temperature: Maintain 65 °F (18 °C) nights, 65-70 °F (18-21 °C) days. When seedlings Fertilizer: Fertilize with a calcium-based are well established the night temperature can feed-14-4-14, 15-5-15 or 17-5-15 at be lowered to 59 °F (15 °C) to tone the plants 100-150 ppm as needed. Phosphorus levels as flower initiation occurs. An ADT (average should be between 8-12 ppm and boron daily temperature) of 67 °F (19,5 °C) will give between 0.5-0.75. Keeping the EC below the fastest finish. 1.5 will help prevent root problems.
Moisture: Alternate between a wet (4) and Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) a medium (2) between watering. Let plants used as a spray at 2,500-5,000 ppm, A-Rest reach a medium before re-saturating to a wet (ancymidol) used as a spray at 3-4 ppm. At (4). Avoid reaching a dry (1) since this can times tank mixes are used combining B-Nine promote root problems. and A-Rest and B-Nine with Cycocel (chlor- mequat chloride). These combinations tend Fertilizer: Continue feeding with calcium- to give longer lasting effects. For specifics based fertilizers (14-4-14, 15-5-15 and 17- on these and other growth regulators please 5-17) at 100-150 ppm. Keep phosphorous contact a Benary representative. levels between 8-10 ppm and boron levels at 0.5 ppm in the irrigation water. Fungicide: Apply fungicides as needed to control root and leaf diseases. Follow the Growth Regulators: Several growth regulators labels recommended rates. can be used successfully to prevent hypocotyl stretch and control plants from getting too Common Diseases: Botrytis, alternaria leaf soft. Some commonly used growth regulators spot, downy mildew, thielaviopsis root rot and are: B-Nine (daminozide) used as a spray at cercospora leaf spot. 2,500-5,000 ppm; A-Rest (ancymidol) used as a spray at 3-4 ppm. At times tank mixes Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. are used combining B-Nine and A-Rest and B-Nine with Cycocel. These combinations Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate tend to give longer lasting effects. For specifics at 150 ppm 1-2 weeks. please contact a Benary representative.
Fungicides: Preventative drenches can be made with fungicides for the control of Thielaviopsis and other soil-borne diseases.
GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-5.8; keep the pH in the lower range; EC 1.25-1.5
Light: Provide 14-22 mols/day, 4,000- 6,000 ft. candles (35,000-50,000 lx).
www.benary.com 60 Plug Crop Time Timing Inspire® Plus
288 tray 4-5 wks Days from sowing 50% Flower
Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Blue Blotch
® Cats™, Inspire Inspire Light Blue NEW DeluXXe® Plus Marina Fall: Packs 5-6 wks 4-5 wks Metallic Blue Blotch Fall: 4” / 10 cm pots 6-7 wks 5-6 wks Pink Shades Spring: Packs 7-8 wks 6-7 wks True Blue Spring: 4” / 10 cm pots 8-9 wks 7-8 wks Violet
Violet Face
Yellow 6-8” 6-8” Sun – Partial 10-20 cm 15-20 cm shade Beaconsfield Blue Velvet
Lemon EU Timing Inspire DeluXXe® Lemon Blotch
Days from sowing 50% Flower Orange Red Blotch Blue Surprise White Blotch Pink Surprise Blotch Yellow Purple Wing Light Rose Blotch NEW Orange Blotch Rose Velour White White Yellow Blotch White Blotch 55 60 65 70 75 Yellow
Deep Blue Blotch
Deep Rose Blotch
Denim
Ocean
White Violet Wing
Yellow Blotch
Red Blotch
60 65 70 75 80
www.benary.com 61 Biennials
Primula elatior F1 CrescendoTM, Piano
Family, Origin: Primulaceae, Europe Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) for the first 7-8 days and then gradually reduce the Product Use: Pots, mixed containers and moisture level to a wet (4) once all of the landscape/bedding seeds have finished germination. When watering re-saturate to a saturated (5) for the Minimum Germination Rate: 85% first 11 days. Thereafter alternatebetween a moisture level wet (4) and moist (3) until day Seed Form: Raw 25. After day 25 the moisture level can be decreased to a medium (2) between watering.
FLOWERING Humidity: 95-100% until day 11, then reduce Flowering Type: Facultative long day plant. to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and Long day treatment will enhance flowering. horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. If using a germination chamber it is Flowering Mechanism: Maturity of the plant critical to maintain a high humidity near 100% having 6-8 true leaves and irradiance, with until all seeds have germinated. When the light levels of 12-14 mols and long days will seedling trays are removed from the chamber trigger flowering. make sure to maintain a high humidity level.
Light: Light is not necessary for germination PLUG CULTURE but can be beneficial if using a germination Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for chamber. Providing a light source of 10-100 seedling development, should begin on the ft. candles (100-1,000 lx) will reduce stretch day of sowing until root emergence. Expect and improve quality. When moving seedlings root emergence in 6-8 days from sowing. into the greenhouse keep the light levels at 4-6 mols (15,000-20,000 lx). Cover: Cover the seed lightly with a thin layer of medium vermiculite to maintain optimum Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. The EC of humidity levels around the seed. the fertilized water should not exceed 0.5.
Sowing method: 1 seed per plug. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Main- tain optimal conditions during the vegetative Media: pH 5.5-5.8 Use a porous well drained stage from cotyledon expansion to flower media low in soluble salts. EC < 0.5. Primula initiation. When the seedlings root to the edge are very sensitive to high soluble salts in the of the plug and reach the 6-8 true leaf stage, media. flower initiation will occur.
Temperature: Maintain 64-65 °F (18-19 °C) Media: pH 5.5-5.8 The pH needs to be Temperatures above 70 °F (21 °C) will reduce kept below 6.0. At a higher pH of > 6.2 iron germination rates. Once the cotyledons are and manganese may become deficient. EC fully expanded the temperature can be redu- 1.0-1.2. ced to 60-62 °F (16-17 °C) to prevent stretch.
www.benary.com 62 Light: 8-10 mols (25,000-30,000 lx). As Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Provi- plants mature to the 6-8 true leaf stage the ding good ventilation and horizontal airflow light levels can be increased further to 12-14 will help lower the humidity and dry back the mols (35,000-40,000 lx). Avoid direct sunlight media, providing oxygen to the roots. since damage can occur as a result. Fertilizer: During the finishing stages Temperature: Maintain 60-65 °F (16-18 °C) additional potassium is beneficial for flower until seedlings are rooted to the bottom of the development. Finish plants with an N:K ratio plug. Then the temperature can be lowered to of 1:3. In cool weather, maintain low 55-58 °F (12-15 °C) to tone the plants. ammonium levels to avoid excessive leaf expansion and vegetative growth. Alternate Moisture: Alternate between a moist (3) between nitrate based and calcium-based and a medium (2). Allow the soil to reach a fertilizers (12-4-20 at 100-150 ppm and medium (2) before re-saturating to a moist (3). 14-4-14 at 100-150 ppm). An occasional clear watering every third or fourth watering Fertilizer: Begin feeding early, on day14, will help to keep salt levels down. using a complete fertilizer such as a 17-5-17, 14-4-14 or 15-5-15 at 50-60 ppm. The Growth Regulators: With proper temperature fertilizer levels can be gradually increased to and moisture management there should be feeding every second or third watering at no need for growth regulators. If needed apply 100 ppm when the plants reach 21 days. B-nine (daminozide) as a spray at 2,500 ppm.
Growth Regulators: No growth regulators Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long should be necessary. periods of low light and high humidity.
Fungicides: Use of a preventative fungicide Common Diseases: Ramularia and botrytis. is recommended to control soil born diseases. Provide adequate ventilation and air circula- Use the rates recommended on the label. tion between plants.
Pests: Primarily aphids, cutworms, whitefly, GROWING ON fungus gnats, shore fly, leafminer and thrips. Media: pH 5.5-5.8; use a porous, well drained media; EC 1.2-1.5. Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. Light: Provide 12-14 mols (35,000-40,000 lx) for the fastest finish. Plug Crop Time
Temperature: For the first two to three 288 tray 6-7 wks weeks after transplanting or until the roots reach the bottom of the pot begin with 55-56 °F Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) (12-13 °C). When plants are well established the temperature can be lowered to 45-48 °F Crescendo™ Piano (7-9 °C) for 4-6 weeks. The temperature 14-15 wks 16-17 wks 4” / 10 cm pots (no vernalization can also be alternated between 50-54 °F (incl. vernalization) (10-12 °C) days and 34-36 °F (1-2 °C) nights. required) In the final stages of finishing the crop for spring grow at 50-57 °F (12-14 °C). Tempera- tures above 60 °F (16 °C) will decrease plant quality and result in smaller, lighter colored 8-12” 6-8” Sun – Shade flowers. Flowering pots can be stored in a 20-30 cm 15-20 cm cold storage room for 4 weeks at 33-36 °F (0.5-2 °C).
Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Water thoroughly pe- riodically to even up the crop and then begin to dry plants back with spot-watering.
www.benary.com 63 Biennials
Viola cornuta F1 Admire®
Family: Violaceae Moisture: Begin with saturated (5) for days 1-5 and then reduce to a moist (3) on day 6. Product Use: Packs, pots, mixed containers, As the seedlings become fully developed with landscape/mass plantings expanded cotyledons the moisture level can be decreased further to a medium (2) on day Minimum Germination Rate: 90% 9. At this point alternate between a wet (4) and a medium (2) between watering. Seed Form: Raw & Primed Humidity: 95-100% until day 5; then reduce to 40-60% to prevent hypocotyl stretch. FLOWERING Provide proper ventilation and horizontal Flowering Type: Facultative long day plant. airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. Long days will also enhance flowering. Light: Light is not necessary for germination Flowering Mechanism: Day length and to occur. If using a germination chamber irradiance are the primary mechanisms that providing a light source of 10-100 ft. candles initiates flowering. High light intensity, 12-18 (100-1,000 lx) will improve germination and mols/day, 3,500-5,000 ft.candles (35,500- overall quality. Going into the second stage 50,000 lx) will initiate flowering once plants of germination, on approximately day 6-7 the reach 2-3 true leaves. Cool night temperatures light levels can be increased to 6-8 mols/day, below 59 °F (15 °C) will promote early flowering. 2,000-2,500 ft. candles (20,000-25,000 lx). This is after germination is finished.
PLUG CULTURE Fertilizer: Begin feeding early using a Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for calcium-based fertilizer at lower rates to keep seedling development, should begin on the an adequate amount of calcium and nitrogen day of sowing until root emergence. Expect supplied to the seedlings. On days 5-7 begin root emergence in 3-4 days. feeding with a calcium-based fertilizer (14-2-14; 13-2-13; 15-5-15 or 17-5-17) at Cover: Cover lightly with a thin layer of 50-60 ppm. Maintain the EC between 0.5 coarse vermiculite. and 0.75. Keep phosphorous levels between 6-8 ppm and boron supplied at 0.5 ppm. Sowing method: 1 seed per plug. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC < 0.5 Maintain optimal conditions during the vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion to Temperature: Maintain 65-68 °F (18-22 °C) flower initiation. When the seedlings root to until root emergence, then lower the the edge of the plug and reach the 4-6 true temperature gradually to 62-65 °F (17-18 °C). leaf stage, flower initiation will occur. Once cotyledons are fully expanded the temperature can be reduced further to Media: pH 5.5-5.8. Maintain pH levels in the 62-64 °F (16.5-17 °C). lower range to avoid outbreaks of thielaviopsis
www.benary.com 64 and boron deficiencies which may cause Light: Provide 14-22 mols/day, 4,000-6,000 tip abortion. EC 0.75-1.0; keeping the EC ft. candles (35,000-50,000 lx). less than 1.5 can help control outbreaks of thielaviopsis and other root problems. Temperature: Maintain 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) nights, 64-67 °F (18-19 °C) days for the first Light: The light levels need to be at 12-18 14 days or until the roots reach the bottom of mols/day, 3,500-5,000 ft. candles (35,000- the container. Thereafter temperatures may 50,000 lx). If high temperatures are experienced be lowered to 62-65 °F (16-18 °C) day and lowering the light level slightly to 8-10 mols/ night. An ADT (average daily temperature) day, 2,500-3,000 ft. candles (25,000-30,000 of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished lx) can help to further bulk the plug. crop. Night temperatures below 59 °F (15 °C) will enhance flowering. Temperature: Maintain 65 °F (18 °C) nights, 65-70 °F (18-21 °C) days. When seedlings Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels are well established the night temperature wet (4) and medium (2). Let plants reach a can be lowered to 59 °F (15 °C) to tone the medium (2) before resaturating to a wet (4). plants. An average daily temperature of 67 °F (19.4 °C) will give the fastest finish. Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal.
Moisture: Alternate between a wet (4) and Fertilizer: Fertilize with a calcium-based feed a medium (2) between watering. Let plants 14-4-14; 15-5-15 or 17-5-15 at 100-150 reach a medium before re-saturating to a wet ppm as needed. Phosphorus levels should (4). Avoid reaching a dry (1) since this can be between 8-12 ppm and boron between promote root problems. 0.5-0.75. Keeping the EC below 1.5 will help prevent root problems. Fertilizer: Continue feeding with calcium- based fertilizers (14-4-14, 15-5-15 and Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) 17-5-17) at 100-150 ppm. Keep phosphorous used as a spray at 2,500-5,000 ppm, A-Rest levels between 8-10 ppm and boron levels at (ancymidol) used as a spray at 3-4 ppm. At 0.5 ppm in the irrigation water. times tank mixes are used combining B-Nine and A-Rest and B-Nine with Cycocel (chlor- Growth Regulators: Several growth regu- mequat chloride). These combinations tend to lators can be used successfully to prevent give longer lasting effects. hypocotyls stretch and control plants from getting soft growth. Some commonly used Fungicide: Apply fungicides as needed to growth regulators are: B-Nine (daminozide) control root and foliar diseases. Follow the used as a spray at 2,500-5,000 ppm; A-Rest labeled recommended rates. (ancymidol) used as a spray at 3-4 ppm. At times tank mixes are used combining Common Diseases: Botrytis, alternaria leaf B-Nine and A-Rest and B-Nine with Cycocel. spot, downy mildew, thielaviopsis root rot and These combinations tend to give longer lasting rercospora leaf spot. effects. Pansies are also very responsive to a DIF of 5 °F (3 °C). Pests: Primarily aphids and ahrips.
Fungicides: Preventative drenches can Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate be made with fungicides for the control of at 150 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. thielaviopsis and other soil borne diseases.
GROWING ON Transplant Ready: Under optimal conditions plugs are ready at 4 weeks.
Media: pH 5.5-5.8; keep the pH in the lower range. This will help control the outbreak of thielaviopsis. EC 1.25-1.5
www.benary.com 65 Timing Admire® Plug Crop Time
Days from sowing 50% Flower 288 tray 4-5 wks
Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) Lavender Pink Face
Yellow Spring Summer / Fall
Blue Packs 5-6 wks 4-5 wks
Deep Marina 4 / 10 cm pots 6-7 wks 5-6 wks
Deep Purple Face
Jolly Face NEW
Lemon Purple Wing 6-7” 6-7” Sun – Partial 15-18 cm 15-18 cm shade Marina NEW
Orange Purple Wing
Pink
Pink Surprise
Purple White Face
Ruby Gold
White Purple Wing
Yellow Blotch
Yellow Purple Wing
Deep Blue
Neon Purple Wing
White
Denim
Red Blotch
40 45 50 55 60
www.benary.com 66 Perennials
Campanula carpatica F1 Pearl
Product Use: Pots, hanging baskets, mixed Temperature: Maintain 68-72 °F (20-22 °C) day containers and landscape temperature, 61 °F (18 °C) night temperature. The fluctuation between day and night Minimum Germination Rate: Raw Seed temperatures will aid in the germination. 85%, Pelleted Seed 80% By day 14 the temperature can be maintained at 64-68 °F (17-20 °C). Seed Form: Raw & Pelleted Moisture: Begin with a moisture level wet (4) USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9 for the first 8-9 days. On day 10, after radicle AHS Heat Zone: 9-1 emergence reduce to a moist (3). On day 10 begin to alternate between a media moisture level moist (3) and a medium (2). Allow the FLOWERING media to approach a medium (2) before re- Flower initiation: Beginning from the initial saturating to a moist (3). Never allow the sowing. Flower initiation occurs approximately media to dry out completely. days 42-48 when 6-8 true leaves are present unless kept under short days. Humidity: 95-100% until day 12, then reduce to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and Flowering Type: Obligate long day plant horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in requiring a day length > 13 hrs. to initiate the media. flowering. Light: Requires light for germination. Flowering Mechanism: Day length > 13 hrs. Supplemental lighting during germination will is required to initiate flowering. Supplemental improve speed of germination and uniformity. lighting during germination will be beneficial During germination, and the first three weeks but is not necessary. after germination provide a day length of 10-12 hrs.
PLUG CULTURE Fertilizer: Sensitive to high EC in the early Germination: Maintain optimal conditions for stages so maintain and EC less than 0.5 for the seedling development, should begin on the first 10-14 days until germination is complete. day of sowing until root emergence. Expect radicle emergence in 10-12 days. Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Maintain optimal conditions during the Cover: No cover is necessary. vegetative stage from cotyledon expansion to flower initiation. This stage is when the Sowing method: Raw seed – sow 6-8 seedling root to the edge of the plug and seeds/plug; single pelleted seed-sow 2-3 reach the 6-8 true leaf stage where flower pellets/plug. initiation occurs.
Media: pH 5.5-6.2, EC 0.5 Sensitive to high Media: pH 5.5-6.2, EC 0.5-1.0 Use a salt levels during germination. well-drained media low in soluble salts.
www.benary.com 67 Light: Supplemental lightling is beneficial transplanting depending on the temperature. but keep the day length to 10-12 hr. to bulk Supplemental lightling is beneficial but only the plants. Continue to keep the plants use a 10-12 hrs. photoperiod. Campanula under short days for the duration of the plug can also be grown in the summer and in the production. fall when the day length is becoming short (less than 12 hrs.). They can be moved into a Temperature: Maintain 64-68 °F (17-20 °C) greenhouse and use a long day treatment to until roots are well established then lower the bring them into flower. In this case provide temperature to 62-65 °F (16-8 °C). In the last a day length of 14-16 hrs. Either use day two weeks of plug production the temperature length extension or night interruption, lighting can be lowered further to 58-60 °F (14-16 °C) from 10 pm to 2 am. They only require 10 ft. nights and 65-70 °F (18-21 °C) days. candles (100 lx) to initiate flowering. In spring production once flower buds are visable the Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels long day treatment can be discontinued. wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to approach a medium (2) before re-saturating to Temperature: Maintain 59-64 °F (13-18 °C). a wet (4). Try to maintain the moisture level at Once established in the final container the a moist (3) as much as possible. Never allow temperature can be lowered to 55-59 °F the plugs to dry out completely. (13-15 °C) but the cooler growing temperatures will lengthen the overall crop Fertilizer: Moderate fertilizer requirements time. Plants grown at the lower temperatures using a regime that supplies slightly higher will have larger flowers. For the fasted finish levels of potassium. Use a balanced fertilizer grow at 65-67 °F (18-19 °C). low in ammonium to prevent high nitrogen levels. If possible use a potassium based Moisture: The best approach is to water fertilizer (N: K2O-ratio: 1:1.5). Blended fertilizers plants thoroughly to a wet (4) and then let that can be used are 11-7-23, 17-5-17 and them dry back alternating between moisture 14-4-14. Begin feeding with low rates on levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the approximately day 14-16 using 40-50 ppm media to approach a medium (2) before nitrogen. As the plants develop further the re-saturating to a wet (4). Avoid drying the rate can be increased to fertilizing weekly at media out completely since root damage 100 ppm nitrogen. can occur.
Growth Regulators: Sprays of B-Nine Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. (daminozide) at 1,500-2,500 ppm are very Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow effective in toning the plants and controling will help lower the humidity and dry back the grown. Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) spays media, providing oxygen to the roots. at 300-500 ppm can also be used effectively. Campanula are sensitve to Bonzi (paclobutrazol Fertilizer: Campanula require a light to and uniconazol). moderate fertilization program. Use a balanced fertilizer low in ammonium to prevent high Fungicides: Apply fungicides during long nitrogen levels. If possible use a potassium periods of low light and high humidity. based fertilizer (N: K2O-ratio: 1:1.5). Blen- Especially for soil born diseases. ded fertilizers that can be used are 11-7-23, 17-5-17, 14-4-14. Either use a constant feed program at 50-75 ppm nitrogen or fertilize GROWING ON weekly at 150-200 ppm N. During finishing in Media: pH 5.5-6.2, EC 1.0 the fall do not fertilize after mid-September.
Light: In spring production after the plants Growth Regulators: Sprays of B-Nine are established in the final container, approxi- (daminozide) at 1,500-2,500 ppm are very mately 3-4 weeks after transplanting they effective in toning the plants and controlling can be given long days to bring them into growth. Cycocel (chlormequat chloride) spays flower. Continue to grow newly transplanted at 500-750 ppm can also be used effectively. plants under short days until the plants fill approximately ¾ of the pot for 4” (10 cm) Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long pots or approximately 3-4 weeks after periods of low light and high humidity.
www.benary.com 68 The most common problems are with soil born diseases and later with botrytis. Expert Tips Common Diseases: Botrytis, pythium and rhizoctonia. Campanula Pearl can be grown in three different methods. Pests: Primarily aphids, thrips and spider mites. 1. In the greenhouse and moved outdoors when well established. Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. 2. In the spring utilizing the optimal conditions provided by the greenhouse.
Plug Crop Time 3. In the summer outdoors with the possibility of forcing them in the fall. 288 tray 8-9 wks When producing them in the summer 128 or 144 tray 9-10 wks a higher quality can be achieved by providing a short day treatment to bulk Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) the young plants before the long days. 4” / 10 cm pots 12-14 wks Use care in transplanting to make sure 6” / 15 cm pots / gallon 14-15 wks that the plants are not transplanted 10” / 25 cm baskets 14-16 wks too deep keeping the media from settling around the crown of the plant. Transplant at the soil level of the plug. Use a moderate fertilization program in production avoiding high levels of 6-8” 6-8” ammonium. Sun 15-20 cm 15-20 cm The total crop time is greatly influenced by temperature. Production at temperatures of 65-67 °F (18-19 °C) will give the shortest crop time. Bulk young plants under short days until plants are close to filling the finished container. When campanula are produced under long days the young plants can be bulked using a short day treatment of less than 12 hours.
www.benary.com 69 Perennials
Eucalyptus gunnii (divaricata) Silverdrop, Baby Blue Silverdrop is considered a tender Perennial surviving in warmer climates.
Product Use: Packs, pots, mixed containers Temperature: 68-77 °F (20-25 °C) and landscape Moisture: Begin with a saturated (5) media Minimum Germination Rate: 85% moisture for the first 2-3 days and on day 4 reduce to a wet (4). Maintain a media moisture Seed Form: Raw of wet (4) until day 9 or until radicle emergence has occurred. On day 9 alternate between USDA Hardiness Zone: 8-10 moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2), allowing AHS Heat Zone: 12-1 the media to reach a medium (2) before re- saturating to a wet (4).
FLOWERING Humidity: 95-100% until day 9; then reduce to Flowering Type: Not Applicable. Plants are 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and horizontal grown for their unique foliage and used in airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. ornamental applications like mixed containers and as bedding plants. Light: Requires light for germination. Protect seedlings from direct sun light until seedlings Flowering Mechanism: NA - Higher light are well established. intensity and warmer temperatures will shorten the total production time. Plants Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 0.75. Fertilized grown in ground and large containers can water should not exceed an EC of 0.5 for the be used to provide branches and leaves for first two weeks. Fertilize early on day 9 with ornamental use. a complete balanced fertilizer 14-4-14 or 15-5-15 at 50-60 ppm N.
PLUG CULTURE Plug Bulking: This stage is when the Germination: Optimum conditions for seedling root to the edge of the plug. seedling development, beginning on the day Silverdrop is grown for the unique foliage of sowing until radicle emergence. and not for a flowering product. Expect radicle emergence in 7–9 days. Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.0-1.5 Cover: No covering is needed. A thin cover of vermiculite can be used to help maintain Light: High light levels are beneficial. moisture and humidity. Provide 8-10 mols, 2,500-3,000 ft. candles, (25,000-30,000 lx) Sowing method: 1-3 seeds per plug. Using 2-3 seeds per plug will result in a fuller Temperature: Grow at 61–64 °F (16-18 °C). finished product. Especially when used as a Do not cultivate at temperatures below component in mixed containers. 54 °F (12 °C).
Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC <0.75 Moisture: Alternate between media moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the
www.benary.com 70 media moisture level to reach a medium (2) During the winter fertilize less frequently at before re-saturating to a wet (4). three to four week intervals. Application of magnesium sulfate (0.05%) can be made Fertilizer: Eucalyptus require high fertility. 1-2 times at 100 ppm to prevent magnesium Fertilizer levels can be increased to 150-200 deficiency. In case of iron defficiency apply ppm weekly using a complete balanced iron-chelate 1-2 times. In larger containers a fertilizer 15-5-15 or 17-5-17. Under high light slow release fertilizer can be used effectively. and temperature a 20-10-20 can be used. Growth Regulators: During the finishing stages Growth Regulators: Growth in the early stages no growth regulators should be necessary. is slow so usually no growth regulators are required. A common practice is to give a soft Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long pinch to the main shoot or cut back seedlings periods of low light and high humidity. for better branching. B-Nine (daminozide) sprays at 2,500-5,000 ppm can be used. Common Diseases: Botrytis can be present Light applications of Bonzi or Piccolo under very wet and cool conditions. (paclobutrazol) sprays can also be used. Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips. Fungicides: Preventative applicatons of fungicides are recommended. However Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate eucalyptus are fairly resistant to disease. at 100 ppm 1–2 weeks prior to shipping. If needed apply fungicides for root problems, pythium and rhizoctonia. Plug Crop Time
288 tray 7-8 wks GROWING ON Media: pH 5.5-6.2; EC 1.25-1.70 128 tray 9-10 wks Finished Crop Time Light: High light intensity is required for opti- mal growth. Provide 10-18 mols, 3,000-5,000 288 tray 128 tray ft. candles (30,000-50,000 lx). 306 Packs 6-7 wks 5-6 wks Temperature: Grow at 61-64 °F (16-18 °C) 4” / 10 cm pots 6-7 wks 5-6 wks nights, 68-70 °F (20-21 °C) days. Plants can 6” / 15 cm pots / gallon 9-10 wks 7-8 wks handle slightly lower growing temperatures without problems. Do not cultivate at tempe- ratures below 54 °F (12 °C). Eucalyptus does not tolerate frost. 22” / 30 cm 8-10” Sun Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels (in the first year) 20-25 cm wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media moisture level to reach a medium (2) before resaturating to a wet (4). Under high light and warm temperatures plants will require more frequent watering. During winter and cooler conditions cultivate slightly drier. Expert Tip
Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing The 306 Pack or 4” (10 cm) pots work good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help perfect for mixed containers. lower the humidity and dry back the media. Using 3 seeds per cell will result in a fuller centerpiece in larger mixed containers. Fertilizer: High fertilization levers are required. Fertilize weekly with a complete balanced fertilizer (15-5-15, 17-5-17) at 200–300 ppm nitrogen. Under higher light conditions in the late spring and summer a 20-10-20 fertilizer can be used. Avoid high levels of ammonium.
www.benary.com 71 Perennials
Lewisia cotyledon Elise, Special Mix
Family, Origin: Montiaceae (Portulacaceae), Moisture: Keep substrate saturated (5) for NW Africa. the first 10 days, then reduce to a wet (4) until radicle emergency. After radicle emergence Product Use: Pots, Jumbo Packs, Mixed has occurred allow the media to dry back Containers, Beds, Borders, and Rock Gardens. to moist (3).
Minimum Germination Rate: 75% Humidity: 95-100% until root emergence; then reduce to 40-60%. Provide proper Seed Form: ApeX Seed ventilation and horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels in the media. USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-8 AHS Heat Zone: 7-1 Light: Lighting is not required for germination but can be beneficial if using a germination chamber. Providing a light source of 10-100 FLOWERING ft. candles (100-1,000 lx) will reduce stretch Flowering Type: Facultative long day plant. and improve quality. When moving plugs into Long days and high light levels will facilitate the greenhouse, keep light levels at 4-6 mols, earlier flowering. 1,500-2,000 ft. candles, (15,000-20,000 lx). Avoid direct sunlight to prevent damage. Flowering Mechanism: Maturity of the plant having 6-8 true leaves and high irradiance, with Fertilizer: Maintain EC < 0.5. Fertilized water long day’s will initiate flowering. Will flower should not exceed an EC of 0.5. After germi- reliably in the first year without vernalization. nation has occurred fertilize with a complete fertilizer (14-4-14) or (15-5-15) at 50 ppm N.
PLUG CULTURE Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: Germination: Optimum conditions for Optimum conditions during the vegetative seedling development, beginning on the day stage from cotyledon expansion to flower of sowing until radicle emergence. Expect initiation. This stage is when the seedlings radicle emergence in 14-21 days. root to the edge of the plug and reach the 6-8 true leaf stage where flower initiation occurs. Cover: Cover seed with a light layer of medium vermiculite. Media: pH 5.5-6.0; EC 1.0-1.2
Sowing method: 1 seed per plug Light: 8-10 mols, 2,500-3,000 ft. candles, (25,000-30,000 lx). As plants mature to the Media: pH 5.5-6.0; EC < 0.5. Lewisia are 6-8 true leaf stage, light levels can be increa- sensitive to high salts in the media. sed further to 12-14 mols, 3,500–4,000 ft. candles (35,000-40,000 lx). Temperature: Maintain 64-68 °F (18-20 °C) until root emergence. Temperature: 63-68 °F (17- 20 °C).
www.benary.com 72 Moisture: Maintain a moist (3) substrate, Common Diseases: Botrytis. Provide adequate and avoid excessive watering. Roots are slow ventilation and air circulation between plants. growing so allow the media to approach a medium (2) before re-saturating to a moist (3). Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips.
Fertilizer: Maintain EC 1.0-1.2. Excessive N Post Harvest to Maintain Quality: Fertilize can lead to stretching and soft growth. Begin with potassium nitrate at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks feeding weekly using a complete fertilizer (15- prior to shipping. 5-15) at 100 ppm N. Rates can be increased up to 150 ppm N as seedlings develop. Plug Crop Time
Growth Regulators: No growth regulators 288 tray 7-8 wks should be necessary. 128 tray 9-10 wks Fungicides: Use of a preventative fungicide Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray) is recommended to control soil-borne diseases. Use recommended rates on the label. 4” / 10 cm pots (1*) 10-12 wks
6” / 15 cm pots (3*) 12-14 wks GROWING ON *plants per pot Media: pH 5.5-5.8; EC 1.2-1.5
Light: Provide 12-14 mols, 3,500-4,000 ft. candles (35,000-40,000 lx) for the fastest finish. 5-7” 3-8” Partial shade – 12-16 cm 15-20 cm Sun Temperature: Finish plants cooler at 50-65 °F (10-18 °C) for best quality. As plants begin to flower the temperature can be increased.
Moisture: Maintain an even moisture level as close as possible to moist (3) throughout production. Allow the media moisture level to reach a medium (2) before re-saturating to a moist (3). Roots are slow to develop so use care not to over water. Water thoroughly periodically to even up the crop and then begin to dry plants back with spot watering.
Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, providing oxygen to the roots.
Fertilizer: Maintain EC 1.2-1.5. Excessive N can lead to stretching and soft growth. Fertilize weekly using a complete fertilizer (15-5-15) or a (17-5-17) under high light levels at 150 ppm N.
Growth Regulators: With proper temperature and moisture management, there should be no need for growth regulators. If needed, apply B-nine (daminozide) as a spray at 2,500 ppm.
Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long periods of low light and high humidity.
www.benary.com 73 Perennials
Platycodon grandiflorus 1F Pop StarTM
Product Use: Pots, mixed containers Moisture: Begin with saturated (5) media for and landscape the first 4 days. On day 5 begin to reduce the moisture level to wet (4) for the next 4-5 days. Minimum Germination Rate: 90% Once the cotyledons have expanded reduce further to moist (3). This should occur on day Seed Form: Raw 11-12. Begin to alternate between a moisture level Wet (4) and a Medium (2). Let the media USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9 approach medium (2) before re-saturating to AHS Heat Zone: 9-1 wet (4).
Humidity: 95-100% until day 6; then reduce FLOWERING to 40-60%. Provide proper ventilation and Flowering Type: Day-neutral plant horizontal airflow to improve oxygen levels platycodon flower regardless of the day in the media. length, but providing long days and high irradiance greatly affects earlier flowering. Light: Light is necessary for germination. If utilizing a germination chamber, provide light Flowering Mechanism: High light intensity levels of 10-100 ft. candles, (100-1,000 lx). and warmer temperatures will shorten the Providing light during germination will benefit time to flower. Supplemental lighting during and improve quality. Protect seedlings from germination will benefit but is not necessary. direct sun light by shading. Higher light levels build stronger plants. Young seedlings need to be protected from high light Fertilizer: Maintain an EC < 1.0. Fertilized levels until they are well established. water should not exceed an EC of 0.5. Begin fertilizing early using a calcium-based feed, 14-4-14 or 15-5-15 at 50-60 ppm. PLUG CULTURE Germination: Optimal conditions for seedling Plug Bulking and Flower Initiation: development, beginning on the day of sowing Optimum conditions during the vegetative until radical emergence. Expect radicle stage from cotyledon expansion to flower emergence in 3-4 days. initiation. This stage is when the seedling roots to the edge of the plug. Cover: No covering is necessary. Media: pH 5.5-6.0. EC 0.75-1.0 Sowing method: For 4” (10,5 cm) pot 1 seed per plug ; For 5-6” (12 cm) pot 4 seeds per plug. Light: As the seedlings become well established they can be given higher light Media: pH 5.5-6.0. EC 1.0 <; 0.5-0.75 levels of 6-10 mols, 2,000-3,000 ft. candles (20,000-30,000 lx). Continue to Temperature: 68-70 °F (20-21 °C), after protect seedlings from direct sunlight. germination has occurred the temperature can be reduced slightly to 65-68 °F (18-20 °C). Temperature: 65-68 °F (18-20 °C)
www.benary.com 74 Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels Fungicide: Apply fungicides during long wet (4) and Medium (2). Allow the media to periods of low light and high humidity. approach medium (2) before re-saturating to wet (4). Platycodon prefer slightly drier media Common Diseases: Botrytis conditions for good root development. Pests: Primarily aphids and thrips.
Fertilizer: Begin fertilizing at 100-150 ppm Post Harvest: Fertilize with potassium nitrate using calcium-based fertilizers 14-4-14; at 100 ppm 1-2 weeks prior to shipping. 15-5-15; 17-5-17 and 20-10-20 under high light conditions. Plug Crop Time
Growth Regulators: If needed apply a B-Nine 288 tray 4-5 wks (daminozide) spray at 750-1,000 ppm to keep seedlings from stretching. Avoid higher rates 128 tray 5-6 wks of B-Nine since leaf edge burn may occur. Finished Crop Time (from 288 tray)
4” / 10 cm pots 8-10 wks GROWING ON 6” / 15 cm pots 13-14 wks Media: pH 5.5-6.0. EC 1.0-1.5
Light: Provide light levels of 12-14 mols, 3,500-4,000 ft. candles (35,000-40,000 lx). Once plants are established providing long 6-8” 6-8” Sun days of 16 hrs. and light levels of 16-18 mols, 15-20 cm 15-20 cm 4,500-5,000 ft. candles (45,000-5,000 lx) for 3 weeks will shorten crop time and produce strong plants. Timing Pop StarTM Temperature: 65-68 °F (18-20 °C) nights, 70-74 °F (21-23 °C) days for the first two Days from sowing 50% Flower weeks after transplanting. Thereafter temperatures may be lowered to 62-65 °F Pink (16-18 °C) day and night. An ADT (average Blue daily temperature) of 67 °F (19 °C) will give the fastest finished crop. White 90 95 100 105 Moisture: Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2). Allow the media to reach medium (2) before re-saturating to wet (4). Allowing the media moisture level to dry Production Schedule back will encourage good root development. Sowing
Humidity: 40-60% humidity is ideal. Providing Potting good ventilation and horizontal airflow will help lower the humidity and dry back the media, Sale providing oxygen to the roots. JFMAMJ JASOND
Fertilizer: Higher rates of ammonium can now be used in the feed program. Fertilize at 150-200 ppm N using a 17-5-17 or 20-10-20 fertilizer. Under high light conditions 20-10-20 Expert Tip can be used. If using B-Nine (daminozide) sprays do not Growth Regulators: B-Nine (daminozide) apply more than 1,000 ppm. Higher rates sprays at 1,000 ppm can be made as needed can cause leaf edge burn. Plants may also two weeks after transplanting. Higher rates be too compact with a smaller flower. may cause leaf edge burn.
www.benary.com 75 We care– we deliver sustainable seeds with “beauty inside®”
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G.A.P. ensures high quality products by
• Preserving of resources • Acting socially minded • Sustainable production
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www.benary.com 76 Your Benary Team Contact us– we are committed to your success!
Matthias Mart Doreen Rowe Sales & Marketing Manager NA Customer Service [email protected] [email protected]
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Ernst Benary of America, Inc. 2759 Wagner Court, Suite A DeKalb, IL 60115-8732, USA Phone: +1 815 756 4546 Fax: +1 815 756 9128 E-Mail: [email protected]
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