This FASTFACTS provides general growing guidelines for Sunscape® Daisies (Osteospermum ecklonis & Osteospermum fruticosum).

PROPAGATION

• For best results in propagation use a rooting hormone with up to 3000 ppm IBA. Mixtures that include up to 500 ppm NAA work well too.
• Bottom heat enhances root development. Maintain soil temperature between 70-75°F/ 21-24°C during the first 2 weeks of propagation. Once roots initiate, reduce to 60ºF/15ºC.
• Growth regulators like B-Nine® or Cycocel® can be applied as sprays to prevent stretch. Begin applications approximately 1 week after sticking and spray weekly until transplanting.
• Avoid excessive misting during propagation that results in cooler media temperature, slow rooting and stretch.

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS

Media

• Sterile, well-aerated mixes are best.
• Optimum pH range is between 5.5 and 6.3.
• Consider that the water-holding capacity that is best for consumer performance may be greater than what is ideal for production.
• Adjust components of mix for greenhouse or field container production as appropriate.

Irrigation/Fertilization

• Avoid excess irrigation when plants are young.
• Feed with complete, balanced fertilizers at 250 ppm nitrogen (CLF). E.C. of 2.5 is optimum. Alternate with calcium nitrate on a regular basis.
• Provide complete minor element program.
• Use of Osmocote® or other appropriate slow-release fertilizer products may be beneficial in supplementing a CLF program, especially if growing under field conditions, and may provide improved performance for the consumer.
• Sunscape Daisies may turn yellow along leaf margins if excess sodium is present in water supply or fertilizer mixes. Additional calcium can help counter these symptoms.
• Provide periodic clear water applications if excess soluble salts accumulate.

Temperature/Humidity

• Establish crop at 60-65°F/15-18°C average temperatures.
• Once established, grow at:
  - 50-70°F/10-21°C day temperatures.
  - 40-60°F/5-15°C night temperatures.
• Low night temperatures encourage flowering.
• Provide good air circulation at all times.
• Maintain relative humidity below 70% to prevent diseases like Botrytis gray mold.

Light

• Bright light is ideal for this crop. Retractable roof greenhouses and field production are suggested.
• Provide a minimum of 5,000-6,000 foot candles/ 53,800-64,600 lux.
• In low light regions, the Side Series Osteospermum blooms earlier than other cultivars.
• Sunscape Daisies are not photoperiodic but bloom quicker under long day conditions.
• Use of supplemental light (14-16 hours, beginning at midnight) is beneficial for early spring flowering.

Pinching

• Pinch out growing tip 1-2 weeks after transplanting once a good root system is established. For 4” pots and baskets, pinch to 4-5 nodes. For 6” pots or larger, pinch to 6-7 nodes.

Spacing

• Plants can be established pot-tight but should be spaced before foliage touches.
• Cultivars with a spreading growth habit can be grown closer together to force a more upright form.
• Spacing required for production:
  - 4” pots: 8-9” centers
  - 6” pots/1 gal.: 14” centers
  - 8” pots: 24” centers

Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs)

• Cold temperatures and high light are the best control methods for preventing stretch.
• Chemical growth regulators can be used to maintain crop growth. Applications should be made before flower buds are visible.
• Spray applications of B-Nine® at 2500 ppm have worked well during the first 3-4 weeks after pinch. Avoid higher rates that delay flowering or later applications that can cause changes in the flower presentation.
• Drench applications of Cycocel® at 3000 ppm can be used for growth control. Apply the solution volume based on growing container size and label directions. Complete application before visible bud.
  Spray applications of Cycocel at 750 ppm may also be used to control height. Using sprays will require 2 or 3 applications starting after pinch and through visible bud stage.

INSECT AND DISEASE CONCERNS

Insect
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
- Fungus gnats
- Spider mites
- Thrips
- Whiteflies

Disease
- Botrytis (gray mold)
- Root and stem rots
- Viruses

When grown in protected greenhouse environments, insect and disease pressures are less than with field production.

CROP SCHEDULING

*a minimum of 4-5 weeks cold temperature, 40-50ºF/5-10ºC, vernalization is required to initiate flower buds.

Note: In low light regions, Side Series Osteospermum will bloom earlier than other cultivars.

USAGE

Grower: Ideal early spring crop in multiple container sizes. Can be grown compatibility with other ‘cool’ crops like pansies, perennials, cyclamen and regal geraniums.

Consumer: Gardens, patio pots and mixed planters.

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