ORNAMENTAL PLANTS PLUG GROWING CHART

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STAGE 1* STAGE 2** STAGE 3*** STAGE 4****

Soil Soil Supp. Fertilizer Soil Soil Supp. Fertilizer Soil Soil Fertilizer Soil Total Plug Crop
Crop Cover1 Temp. Moisture Light2 Days Temp. Moisture Light3 (ppm)4 EC5 Days Temp. Light3 (ppm)4 EC5 Days Temp. (ppm) EC5 Days Time (weeks)6 Cultural Comments
Abutilon Yes 72-75°F (22-24°C) Wet 3 65-72°F (18-22°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-70°F (18-21°C) 75-100 1/wk <0.75 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk <0.75 7 4-5 Keep the media wet until radicle emergence, then reduce the moisture level. Do not let the seedling wilt.

Ageratum No 75-78°F (24-25°C) Medium 2-3 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Sensitive to high sodium levels and high salts. Control growth with DIF, B-Nine, A-Rest, Bonzi or Sumagic.

Alternanthera Yes Lightly 72-76°F (22-24°C) Wet Beneficial 5 65-72°F (18-22°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 75-100 1/wk <1.0 10-20 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk <1.0 7 4-5 Cycocel may cause phytotoxicity. A light covering with coarse vermiculite is helpful for moisture control, but light is beneficial for uniform germination.
(Alternanthera dentata)
Alyssum No 70-72°F (21-22°C) Medium 2-3 65-75°F (18-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-75°F (18-24°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Susceptible to damping-off. Control with less seeds per cell, moisture and fungicides. Control growth with DIF or B-Nine. High light (>2,500 f.c.) and low feed will cause yellowing of lower leaves and downy
(Lobularia maritima) mildew. If using multi-seed pellets, do not cover and mist/water thoroughly after sowing to assure the pellet dissolves.
Angelonia No 72-76°F (22-25°C) Medium Yes 4-5 68-72°F (20-22°C) Dry Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk <1.0 14-21 64-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk <1.0 7 5-6 Do not let the seedlings wilt or they may not recover. If necessary, B-Nine can be used to control stretch.

Asparagus Yes 72-78°F (22-25°C) Wet 14-21 72-78°F (22-25°C) Wet 50-75 1-2/wk < 0.75 21 70-74°F (21-23°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 21-28 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 7 10-12 Keep temperature warm and media moist throughout Stages 1 and 2 for best germination. Can pinch plants after Stage 2, but add 2 weeks to crop time. Feed with more 15-0-15 or other calcium fertilizers.
(Asparagus densiflorus Sprengeri group) Control growth with high light, cool temperature, feed and moisture.
Aster Yes 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 4-5 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 4-5 To prevent premature flowering, minimize stress due to high light, and low moisture and fertilizer. Do not hold plugs. Keep plants vegetative with night interruption (from incandescent lights) of 50 f.c. for 4
(Callistephus chinensis) hours in the middle of the night.
Bacopa No 68-74°F (20-23°C) Wet Yes 4-6 65-75°F (18-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 60-65°F (15-18°C) 100-175 1/wk <1.0 10-14 55-60°F (13-15°C) 100-175 1/wk <1.0 7 3-4 If using multi-seed pellets, do not cover and mist/water thoroughly after sowing to assure the pellet dissolves. B-Nine can be used to tone the plugs.

Begonia, Fibrous No 75-78°F (24-25°C) Wet Yes 6-7 72-78°F (22-25°C) Wet Yes 50-75 2/wk < 0.75 7-14 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.5 21-28 62-68°F (17-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 7 7-8 Uniform moisture is critical for good germination and early growth. Stage 2 seedlings will stall if fertility too low or too high, ammonium >10 ppm, or soil too dry. Watch for burn or stunting due to high
light (> 2.500 f.c. ).
Begonia, Tuberous No 72-75°F (22-24°C) Wet Yes 7-10 70-72°F (21-22°C) Wet Yes 50-75 2/wk < 0.75 7-14 68°F (20°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.5 28-35 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 7 8-9 Culture same as fibrous begonias, except keep Stages 1 and 2 soil temperatures lower. Use night interruption of 50 f.c. for 4 hours in the middle of the night to prevent tuber formation until daylength equals
12 hours (approximately mid-March to April 1).
Browallia No 75-78°F (24-25°C) Medium 4-5 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 14 68-72°F (20-22°C) 100-150 2/wk < 1.0 21 62-68°F (17-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 6-7 Needs warm temperature to grow. Avoid wilting or burning seedlings by keeping moderate moisture, low light (<2,500 f.c.) and rinsing fertilizer off leaves.

Cabbage/Kale, Flowering Yes 65-70°F (18-21°C) Medium 3-4 62-65°F (17-18°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 4-7 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 10-14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 4-5 Control early stretch with lower starter charge, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, and DIF. Use B-Nine or Bonzi if needed. Avoid lower yellow leaves and mildew by keeping
(Brassica oleracea) seedlings fed.
Calceolaria No 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 5-7 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Keep soil temperature above 70°F (21°C) and maintain uniform moisture for best germination. Avoid overwatering during Stages 3 and 4 to promote root growth and avoid disease. Watch for burn on leaves
due to high light levels. Control growth with DIF, moisture and Cycocel.
Campanula No 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium Yes 7-10 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-68°F (18-20°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 28-35 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 8-9 Keep daylength <14 hours to avoid premature flowering. Control growth with low temperature, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, DIF or Cycocel.
(Campanula carpatica)
Carnation Yes 65-70°F (18-21°C) Medium 5-7 65-70°F (18-21°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Best growth with cool temperature, low feed (<0.75 EC), low ammonium (<10 ppm) and high light (up to 3,000 f.c.). Control growth with moisture, and fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen.
(Dianthus caryophyllus)
Celosia No 75-78°F (24-25°C) Medium 4-5 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 To prevent premature flowering, minimize stress due to high light, and low moisture and fertilizer. Control height with DIF, Bonzi or Sumagic. Do not hold plugs. Reduce crop time if needed to keep vegetative.
Control damping-off with no cover, moisture and a preventative fungicide.
Cineraria, Florist No 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 5-7 68-70°F (20-21°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Avoid overwatering during Stages 3 and 4 to promote root growth and avoid disease. Watch for burn on leaves due to high light levels. Control growth with DIF, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form
(Pericallis X hybrida) of nitrogen, and B-Nine. Long days of 18 hours with HID lights will speed up flowering time.
Clarkia Optional 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium 8-10 65-68°F (18-20°C) Dry Yes None < 0.75 5-7 62-65°F (17-18°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 10-14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.5 3-5 4-5 Control early stretch with DIF, cool temperature, low moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, low starter charge, high light or B-Nine. Do not hold plugs. Best growth if grown cool with low
(Clarkia amoena, Godetia amoena) feeding and transplanted on time.
Coleus No 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 4-5 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 10 65-68°F (18-20°C) Yes 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Slow-growing varieties may need more frequent 20-10-20 feeding. Control growth with DIF, low moisture, high light, A-Rest or Bonzi. Sensitive to high salts (> 0.75 EC) in irrigation water.

Cosmos Yes 65-70°F (18-21°C) Dry 3-4 62-65°F (17-18°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 4-7 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 10-14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 4-5 Control early stretch with lower temperature, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, and low starter charge.

Cyclamen Yes 65-68°F (18-20°C) Wet No 21-28 70°F (21°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-14 68-72°F (20-22°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 21-28 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 9-10 Best germination if cool, wet and dark. Keep media pH 6.0 to 6.2. Control diseases with moisture and fungicides. Keep light levels <3,000 f.c. during warm weather. Feed with low ammonium fertilizers. Con-
trol moisture during Stages 3 and 4 for best roots.
Dahlia Yes 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 3-4 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 12-14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 4-5 Best germination if cool and dry with covering. Control growth with DIF, B-Nine, A-Rest or Bonzi.

Dianthus Optional 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 3-5 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Very sensitive to high salts during Stages 1 and 2. To promote early flowering, increase total light energy to the crop. Control growth with DIF, A-Rest, Bonzi, Cycocel or Sumagic.
(Dianthus chinensis, D. hybrida, D. barbatus)
Diascia Yes 65-70°F (18-21°C) Wet 4-6 65-72°F (18-22°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk <1.0 10-14 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-175 1/wk <.75 7 4-5 Plug tray sizes 406 to 288 are recommended. B-Nine at 2,500 ppm can be used at Stage 3 if needed.

Dichondra Yes 72-76°F (22-25°C) Medium 4-6 65-72°F (18-22°C) Low Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk <0.75 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-175 1/wk <.75 7 5-6 Plug development is faster with drier culture, but do not let seedlings wilt. B-Nine at 2,500 ppm a week before transplant promotes branching.
(Dichondra argentea)
Dracaena Spikes Yes 72-78°F (22-26°C) Wet 28 72-78°F (22-26°C) Wet 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 28 70-74°F (21-23°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 35-49 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 0.75 7 14-16 Keep temperature warm and media moist throughout Stages 1 and 2 for best germination. Crop time will be longer if transplanting into larger-cell plug tray. Avoid excessive drying as leaf tips will burn. Can
(Cordyline indivisa) use A-Rest to control height and fatten leaf blades.
Dusty Miller No 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 3-6 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-14 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 6-7 Keep foliage dry and avoid watering late in day to reduce disease. Use Zyban, Daconil or Chipco 26019 to control Alternaria. Control growth with DIF, B-Nine or Bonzi. Increase dusty leaves with nitrate feed,
(Senecio cineraria) low moisture and high light.
Eustoma No 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium Yes 10-12 68-72°F (20-21°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 14-21 65-68°F (18-20°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.2 29-35 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 2/wk < 1.0 7 9-11 Keep temperature below 78°F (25°C), but above 60°F (15°C) to avoid rosetting. Provide long days to improve flowering. Keep soil pH >6.0. Reduce moisture after cotyledon expansion to control algae. Do
(Lisianthus) not hold plugs until rootbound. Germinate on bench to provide 200 f.c. of light for best germination.
Gazania Yes 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 5-7 68-70°F (20-22°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 17-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Best germination if cool and dry with covering. Avoid overwatering in Stages 3 and 4. Control growth with DIF, moisture, fertilizer and high light.

Geranium Yes 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 3-5 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.2 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 2/wk < 1.0 7 5-6 Keep germination temperature under 75°F (24°C). Soil pH needs to be above 6.0 to avoid micronutrient toxicities. Control growth with DIF, Cycocel, Bonzi or A-Rest, but keep feed and light levels high. Control
(Pelargonium X hortorum, P. peltatum) Pythium with Subdue, and Botrytis with moisture, air movement and Daconil.
Gerbera Optional 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 7 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1-2/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.2 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 7 5-6 Best germination with constant temperature and medium to dry moisture, with coarse vermiculite covering. Keep plants fed. HID lights needed for best growth and flowering. Watch for whiteflies on older
plugs.
Gomphrena Yes 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 5-7 68-72°F (20-22°C) Dry None < 0.75 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.50 7 5-6 Avoid overwatering for best germination, root growth and control of disease. Control growth with DIF, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, low starter charge and high light. Low tem-
perature may slow growth too much. Very sensitive to most pesticides – use caution when spraying.
Helenium Yes 65-75°F (18-22°C) Wet 3-5 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk <1.0 10-14 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-175 1/wk 1.0- 7 3-4 Plug tray sizes 288 to 128 are recommended.
(Helenium amarum) 1.5
Hibiscus Yes 68-75°F (20-25°C) Medium 3-5 68-70°F (20-21°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 68-70°F (20-21°C) 100-150 1/wk <1.0 10-14 68-70°F (20-21°C) 100-175 1/wk <1.0 7 5-7 Plug tray sizes of at least 200 are recommended. Cycocel spray at 300 ppm 10 days after sowing if needed. Supplemental lighting will reduce crop time.
(Hibiscus moscheutos)
Hypoestes Yes Lightly 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 3-4 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-68°F (18-20°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Provide long days with HID lights for best growth. New varieties are genetically more compact. Use Cycocel or DIF to control growth. Under low light, use low ammonium fertilizer for best color.

Impatiens No 72-77°F (22-25°C) Wet Yes 3-5 70-72°F (21-22°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 10 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Keep temperature below 77°F(25°C) for best germination. Soil pH needs to be 6.0 to 6.2 to avoid micronutrient toxicities. Control growth with DIF, high light, low moisture and nitrate fertilizer. Use Bonzi or
(Impatiens walleriana) Sumagic if needed.
Impatiens, New Guinea Yes Lightly 77-80°F (25-26°C) Wet Yes 5-7 72-77°F (22-25°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 10 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 17-24 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 6-7 Keep temperature warmer than for regular impatiens for best germination. Soil pH needs to be 6.0 to 6.2 to avoid micronutrient toxicities. Separate colors may germinate and grow better than mixes. Avoid
(Impatiens hawkeri) use of ammonium unless growing warm (>75°F/24°C) and under high light.
Iresine Yes Lightly 72-76°F (22-25°C) Wet Beneficial 3-5 65-72°F (18-22°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 68-70°F (20-21°C) 100-150 1/wk <1.0 10-14 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-175 1/wk <1.0 7 4-5 Fertilizers low in ammonium nitrogen and phosphorus, and water management can be used to control stretch.

Lobelia No 75-80°F (24-26°C) Medium 4-6 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Control damping-off with moisture, fungicides and less seeds per cell. Control growth with DIF or B-Nine. High light (>2,500 f.c.) may burn leaves. Keep EC levels low. Flowering is enhanced with longer days.
(Lobelia erinus)
Marigold – French, Yes Lightly 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 2-5 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 4-5 Keep soil pH 6.0 to 6.2 to avoid micronutrient toxicities. Control growth, especially in triploids, with DIF, B-Nine, A-Rest, Bonzi or Sumagic. Provide 2 weeks of short days to African marigolds after germination
American, Triploid if sown after February 15 to promote flowering. Use Chipco to control Alternaria on African marigolds.
(Tagetes cvs.)
Millet, Ornamental Yes 72-78°F (22-25°C) Medium 3-5 65-72°F (18-22°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk <1.0 5-7 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-175 1/wk <1.0 7 2-3 Do not let plugs become rootbound or stressed. Plug tray size of 128 is recommended. Can be sown into final container for reduced crop time.
(Pennisetum glaucum)
Nicotiana No 75-78°F (24-26°C) Medium Yes 3-5 68-75°F (20-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 2/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.2 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 2/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Grow same as petunias. Provide long days (>14 hours) to promote earlier flowering. Feed more frequently, but control growth with DIF, moisture, light or B-Nine.

Nierembergia Optional 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 3-7 70-74°F (21-23°C) Dry Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 14 68-70°F (20-21°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.2 14-21 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 7 6-7 Control early seedling stretch in Stage 2 with moisture. Control growth with temperature, moisture, light and B-Nine. Keep feed levels up for best growth.

Pansy Yes Lightly 65-75°F (18-24°C) Wet 3-7 62-75°F (17-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 60-75°F (15-24°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 55-65°F (13-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Reduce moisture in Stage 2 for best germination. Control root rots with moisture, pH and fungicides. Control growth in warm weather with moisture, light and feed, plus B-Nine, A-Rest, Bonzi or B-Nine/
(Viola x wittrockiana) Cycocel. Watch for boron deficiency. Ideal pH 5.4 to 5.8.
Pentas No 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 5-7 68-70°F (20-21°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-68°F (18-20°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 6-7 Keep soil pH 6.0 to 6.2 to avoid micronutrient toxicities. Control moisture to improve root growth in Stages 2 to 4 and prevent iron deficiency. Avoid cool temperatures during Stages 1 and 2 for best
germination.
Pepper, Ornamental Yes Lightly 72-78°F (22-25°C) Medium 5-7 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 70-75°F (21-24°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 10-14 68-70°F (20-21°C) 100-150 1/wk <1.0 7 5-6 Keep the media moderately moist until radicle emergence, then allow the media to dry moderately between irrigations. Do not let the seedlings wilt. Fertilize with 14-0-14, 15-0-15, 15-5-15 or similar
fertilizer.
Petunia No 75-78°F (24-26°C) Medium Yes 3-5 68-75°F (20-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 2/wk < 0.75 7-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Yes 100-150 2/wk < 1.2 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 2/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Provide long days (>14 hours) to promote earlier flowering. Feed more frequently, but control growth with DIF, moisture, light, B-Nine, Bonzi or Sumagic. Watch for boron or iron deficiency and high pH.

Phlox Yes 65-68°F (18-20°C) Dry No 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Best germination if cool, dry and dark. Apply protective fungicides and control moisture for root rots and damping-off. For best growth, minimize stress on seedlings due to temperature, moisture, high salts
(Phlox drummondii) and high light.
Plectranthus No 68-75°F (20-25°C) Wet Yes 5-7 65-72°F (18-22°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 68-72°F (20-22°C) 100-150 1/wk <0.75 14-21 64-68°F (18-20°C) 100-175 1/wk <1.0 7 5-7 Plectranthus argentatus may require B-Nine at 2,500 ppm at Stage 3.
(Plectranthus argentatus)
Poppy – Arctic, Icelandic No 65-70°F (18-21°C) Medium 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 21-28 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 6-7 Best growth if cool with medium moisture and light <3,000 f.c. Minimize stress to avoid burning foliage. Avoid overwatering to minimize disease. Shoot growth will be floppy and root growth very fine. Dis-
(Papaver nudicale) lodge plugs when transplanting.

Portulaca No 78-80°F (25-26°C) Medium 2-3 72-75°F (22-24°C) Dry Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Best growth if warm and dry. Control damping-off with moisture and fungicides. Control growth with DIF, light, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, or B-Nine.

Primula Yes 65-68°F (18-20°C) Medium Yes 7-10 65-70°F (18-21°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 14 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 28-35 60-70°F (15-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7-14 9-11 Keep light levels <1,500 f.c. in Stage 2 and <3,000 f.c. in Stages 3 and 4 to prevent burn. Primula is very sensitive to wilting due to moisture stress. In cool weather, maintain low ammonium levels for good
(Primula vulgaris, P. malacoides, P. polyantha) leaf expansion. In warm weather, feed with more 20-10-20 to keep green.
Ranunculus Yes 60-65°F (15-18°C) Wet 7-14 65-70°F (18-21°C) Wet 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-14 65-70°F (18-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 28-35 60-70°F (15-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7-14 9-11 Best germination if cool and moist. For best root growth, allow soil to dry between waterings. Keep light levels <1,500 f.c. in Stage 2 and <3,000 f.c. in Stages 3 and 4 to prevent burn and stunted growth.

Salvia Yes 75-78°F (24-26°C) Medium 5-7 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 68-70°F (20-21°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 7 5-6 Sensitive to high salts during early stages, but can take higher salts in later stages. Control growth with DIF, B-Nine, A-Rest or Bonzi. Blue salvia will require longer crop time. Holding plugs reduces rooting out
(Salvia splendens, S. farinacea) after transplanting.
Snapdragon No 70-75°F (21-24°C) Medium 4-8 65-70°F (18-21°C) Dry None < 0.75 7 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 14-21 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Control early stretch with low starter charge, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, DIF, B-Nine, A-Rest, Bonzi or Sumagic. Sensitive to high salts during early stages. Control disease with
(Antirrhinum majus) moisture, air movement and fungicides. Watch for leaf burn on sunny days.
Stock Optional 65-70°F (18-21°C) Medium 4-6 65-68°F (18-20°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 10-14 60-62°F (15-17°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 4-5 Avoid overwatering to control stretch and disease. Control growth with DIF, cool temperature, moisture, and fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen. Keep feed levels up to keep cotyledons from
(Matthiola) turning yellow. Exercise caution when selecting varieties, as flowering times and habits differ greatly.
Sunflower Yes 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium 3-5 68-72°F (20-22°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk <1.0 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-175 1/wk 1.0- 7 2-3 Can be sown directly into final container. Do not allow seedlings to wilt.
(Helianthus annuus) 1.5
Torenia No 75-80°F (24-26°C) Medium 4-6 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1-2/wk < 1.0 14-21 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1-2/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Grow same as vincas, except not as dry. Control growth with DIF, light, moisture, fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, or Bonzi.

Verbena Yes Lightly 75-80°F (24-26°C) Dry 4-7 72-75°F (22-24°C) Dry 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 10-14 68-72°F (20-22°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Best germination if dry during early stages. Sensitive to high salts at all stages. Use moisture and fungicides to control damping-off. Control growth with DIF, B-Nine or Bonzi.
(Verbena X hybrida)
Vinca Yes 78-80°F (25-26°C) Wet No 4-6 72-75°F (22-24°C) Medium Yes 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7-10 68-72°F (20-22°C) Yes 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 14-21 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 5-6 Best germination if warm, moist and dark. Best growth if warm, dry and low salts. Control growth with DIF, high light, B-Nine, A-Rest or Sumagic. Control disease with moisture, pH and fungicides.
(Catharanthus roseus)
Viola Yes 65-75°F (18-24°C) Wet 5-7 62-75°F (17-24°C) Medium 50-75 1/wk < 0.75 7 60-75°F (15-24°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 21-24 55-65°F (13-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 7 6-7 Same culture as pansies, but takes 1 week longer crop time. Use less chemical growth regulators to avoid stunting.
(Viola cornuta)
Zinnia Yes 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry 2-3 68-70°F (20-21°C) Dry None < 0.75 5-7 65-68°F (18-20°C) 100-150 1/wk < 1.0 10-14 62-65°F (17-18°C) 100-150 1/wk < 0.75 3-5 3-4 Best germination if cool and dry. Control stretch with low temperature and fertilizer low in P and ammonia form of nitrogen, high light, DIF, B-Nine or A-Rest. Control Alternaria with moisture, air movement and
Chipco 26019 or Zyban. Do not hold plugs.

Note: Growers should use the information presented here as a starting point. Crop times will vary depending on the climate, location,
time of year and greenhouse environmental conditions. Chemical and PGR recommendations are only guidelines. It is the responsibility of
the applicator to read and follow all the currrent label directions for the specific chemical being used in accordance with all regulations.
1
Cover: Generally coarse vermiculite is recommended. Its primary purpose is to maintain the moisture level around the seed while germinating. Pelleted seed is generally not covered, enabling the irrigation water to dissolve the pellet.
2
Light: Provide 10 to 100 f.c. from fluorescent bulbs when germinating in a chamber.
*Stage 1: Sow to radicle emergence 3
Supplemental Light: Provide 400 to 500 f.c. from HID/HPS lights to reduce crop time in low light short day periods in northern areas.
**Stage 2: Radicle emergence to cotyledon expansion 4
Fertilizer (ppm): Refers to the parts per million of nitrogen. Alternating 20-10-20 with 14-0-14, 15-0-15 or 15-5-15 is a suggested starting point for a fertilizer program. Fertilizers high in ammonia form of nitrogen and/or phosphorus tend to promote stretch.
***Stage 3: Cotyledon expansion to growth of all true leaves 4
Soil EC: Electrical conductivity expressed as mmhos/cm from a 2:1 dilution. © 2009 Ball Horticultural Company BHC09294 Printed in the U.S.
****Stage 4: Growth of all true leaves to toning for transplanting/shipping BALL is a registered trademark of Ball Horticultural Company in the U.S.
5
Total Plug Crop Time: The number of weeks for a Spring crop. This is intended as a guide only. It may also be registered in other countries.