GrowerFacts
Dianthus Ideal Select (Dianthus chinensis x barbatus)
Germination
Light is required for germination. Use a well-drained, disease-free medium with a pH of 5.8 to 6.2, and EC about 0.75 mmhos/cm. Cover the seed with a medium layer of coarse grade vermiculite at sowing. It takes about 3 to 4 days to germinate.
Plug Production
Plug Tray Size
Best produced in 406-cell size plug trays.
Sowing
Use a well-drained, disease-free medium with a pH of
5.8 to 6.2, and EC about 0.75 mmhos/cm. Cover the seed with a medium layer of coarse grade vermiculite at sowing. It takes about 3 to 4 days to germinate.
Temperature
Germination: 64 to 68°F (18 to 20°C)
Cotyledon emergence: 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C) days,
60°F (15°C) nights
True leaf expansion: 60°F (15°C) days, 55°F (13°C)
nights
Light
Light is required for germination.
Humidity
Maintain 95 to 97% relative humidity during germination until the cotyledons emerge.
Fertilization
Beginning at Stage 3, fertilize 2 times per week with 50 ppm N. Increase the nitrogen concentration to 100
ppm after 1 week, and continue this program until the plugs are finished. Maintain the EC at 0.5 to 0.75 mmhos/cm and increase to 1.0 mmhos/cm at Stages 3 and 4. Maintain pH at 5.8 to 6.2 throughout.
Growth Regulators
Treat 3 week-old plugs with a foliar spray of Bonzi at 6 ppm for toning. One application in the plug stage is sufficient.
Plug Production Time
Allow 4 to 5 weeks in 406-cell plug trays.
Growing On to Finish
Container Size
Best grown in packs and 6-in. (15-cm) pots or gallons with 3 plants per pot.
Media
Use a well-drained, disease-free soilless medium with a medium initial nutrient charge and a pH of 5.8 to 6.5.
Temperature
Provide 60 to 75°F (15 to 24°C) days and 50 to 60°F (11 to 15°C) nights.
Fertilization
After plants are established, apply a calcium-based fertilizer or 15-5-15 at 150 ppm, 1 to 2 times per week. Dianthus require adequate calcium in their fertilization program.
Growth Regulators
Foliar sprays of 20 ppm Bonzi can be applied 2 to 3 times to control height. The frequency of application is determined by the rate of plant growth, time of the year and location. First application can be done 2 weeks after transplant, followed by subsequent applications
at weekly interval.
Crop Scheduling (from sow to flower) Late Spring/Early Summer: 9 to 10 weeks Late Summer/Winter: 12 to 13 weeks
“Information copied from the breeder.
Muller will not accept any liability for failure and/or damage as a consequence of incorrect and/or inexpert cultivation by or on behalf of the Buyer.”