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Sanvitalia

Solaris

Solaris is a creeping zinnia with a multitude of small yellow flowers. This plant is a great addition to mixed containers and in garden plantings. It is also very heat tolerant and thrives in the warmest of conditions. Its mounded habit is ideal for production in 4” – 6” pots and 1 gallon containers. Typical crop timing is 10 – 16 weeks including time in propagation.

Sanvitalia is available from the Paul Ecke Ranch as an unrooted or rooted cutting.

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In the Greenhouse…….

Propagation
Solaris can be propagated in various tray sizes including 72, 84, and 105’s. Stick one cutting per cell.

Media

Bottom Heat

  • Bottom heat will promote healthy root development.
  • Maintain bottom heat at 70-75°F/21-24°C.
  • Mist will cool the media temperature. Monitor media temperature closely and frequently.

Rooting Hormones

  • The use if rooting hormone is not required, however it may be beneficial in promoting uniformity and time to rooting.
  • Either liquid or powder formulations work equally well. Choose a product with up to 3000 ppm IBA.

Misting

  • Average days with mist vary from 4-7 days depending on environmental conditions in the greenhouse.
  • Mist cuttings so they remain turgid but avoid over misting that results in saturated media.
  • Over misting will result in slow rooting and possible problems with root rot and botrytis.

Propagation Cycle: 4 weeks

Growing ON……….
Media

Choose a media with the following traits:

  • Good aeration
  • Porosity between 5-15%
  • Sterile
Irrigation /Fertilization
  • Avoid excess irrigation and fertilization when plants are young.
  • Fertilizer Regime
    • Begin fertilizing 2 weeks after transplant
    • Choose a complete balanced fertilizer complete with minor elements
    • Feed with 250 ppm nitrogen
    • Alternate with calcium nitrate or a cal –mag fertilizer on a regular basis. Additional iron may be needed – apply as iron chelate or iron sulfate (always rinse foliage when using iron sulfate)
    • A slow release product may also be used to supplement a constant liquid feed program and may provide improved performance for the consumer
  • Maintain pH between 5.8-6.2
  • Optimum EC 2.5 mmhos. Provide periodic clear water applications if excess salts accumulate.
Temperature/Humidity
Portulaca grows best when kept warm.

Temperature regime:

Establishing temperatures: 65°F/18°C average daily temperature

Temperatures for growing on: 70-80°F/21-26°C average daily temperatures and 55-65°F/13-18°C night temperatures.

Relative Humidity:
Maintain relative humidity below 70% and provide good air circulation to avoid problems with botrytis.

Light
Sanvitalia prefers bright light.
For best results provide:
  • 5000 foot candles/53,800 lux minimum
  • 6000 foot candles/64,600 lux maximum
Spacing
Establish plants pot tight than space to:
  • 4” pots – 5-6” centers (approximately 2 per sq. ft.)
  • 6” pots/1 gallon – 14” centers
  • 8” pots – 18” centers
Pinching
1st pinch- 1-2 weeks after transplant
2nd pinch- prune or shear to shape as needed

*plants grown in 6” and 1 gallon containers will benefit from a third pinch for added fullness.

Plant Growth Regulators
  • Plant growth regulators should not be necessary. Good light, adequate space, and appropriate moisture stress will help keep the plants compact.
Insect and Disease Concerns
Insects
  • Fungus gnats
  • Thrips
  • Whiteflies
Diseases
  • Botrytis
  • Root and stem rots

For recommended chemical controls for disease and insects please consult The Flower Fields Federal Disease Control Chart (463K) and The Flower Fields Federal Insect & Mite Control Chart (541K) at www.ecke.com. Always consult the chemical’s label for rates, mixing instructions and restrictions.

CROP SCHEDULING

Product Form

# Liners per pot

Weeks to establish prior to pinch*

Total crop time* (weeks)

4"

1

1

6-8

6” and 1 gallon

1-2

1-2

10-12
*To enhance branching Sanvitalia may benefit from multiple pinches which will increase total crop time

If you have questions about Bacopa in production please post your question on our live bulletin board at www.EckeRanchTechHelp.com or call 760-753-1134 and choose option#3 for Technical Support.

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We hope the information provided will be helpful. It is based upon data and knowledge (including information provided by the recipient) considered to be true and accurate, but without independent investigation and is offered for the recipient's consideration, investigation and verification, but we do not warrant the results to be obtained. Please read all statement, recommendations, or suggestions in conjunction with any conditions of sale or use which apply to any products, or systems recommended by us. No statement, recommendation, or suggestion is intended for any use which would infringe any patent/copyright.

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