This Fast Fax provides general growing guidelines for Vinca Illumination (Vinca minor).

PROPAGATION

• Vinca are easy to root with most other spring plants.
• No special handling is required although bottom heat and rooting hormones will promote quicker root development.
• Propagate using 2 cuttings per cell for best results (provided in all orders from Paul Ecke Ranch).
  
  

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS

Media

• Sterile, well-aerated mixes are best.
• Optimum pH range is between 5.5 and 6.3.
• Water-holding capacity is important to achieve best consumer/post-production performance.

Irrigation/Fertilization

• Avoid excess irrigation throughout production.
• Feed with complete, balanced fertilizers at 200-250 ppm nitrogen (CLF). E.C. of 2.0-2.5 is a good target range under most conditions.
• Provide complete minor element program.
• Use of Osmocote® or other appropriate slow-release fertilizer products provide an alternative to constant liquid feed (CLF) programs.
• Provide periodic clear water applications if excess soluble salts accumulate.

Temperature/Humidity

• Establish crop at 65°F/18°C average temperatures.
• Once established, grow at:
  - 60-85°F/15-30°C day temperatures.
  - 55-70°F/13-21°C night temperatures.
• Provide good air circulation at all times.
• Maintain relative humidity below 70% to prevent diseases like Botrytis gray mold.

Light

• Adaptable to sun or shade, although leaves may burn or scorch under high light. Provide an average of 4,000-6,000 foot candles/43,100-64,600 lux for growing this crop.

Pinching

• Cuttings may be pinched soon after transplant to encourage branching.

INSECT AND DISEASE CONCERNS

Insect
· Aphids
-Fungus Gnats
-Whiteflies

Disease
- Pythium

USAGE

Grower: 4”, 6”, hanging baskets, combination planters, baskets and colorbowls.
Consumer: Annual groundcover, patio pots, mixed plantings, window boxes and rock gardens.

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