CHRISTMAS AURORA ® SERIES Brighten Up the Late Season The varieties of Christmas Aurora are ideal for December poinsettia sales. An upright, narrow habit and medium bract size is perfect for higher density production and dependable shipping, and their narrow shape makes them easy to sleeve. This reliable, predictable series works well in 6-in. (15-cm) pots. Plus, they are early to color — yet late to flower — providing an outstanding shelf life at retail and long-lasting enjoyment for consumers.
QUEEN
RED
8.5 WEEKS VIGOR
NARROW
POINSETTIA POINTER:
“Christmas Aurora finishes naturally in late November to early December, and can be held cool to target week 50-51 sales.” – James Doukas
CULTURE THAT WORKS
Growing On • Grows aggressively when branches develop, with strong growth October into early November; slows as finish approaches in late November. • Northern Climate: PGR limited to Cycocel spray at 500-1,000 ppm. • Southern Climate: Use 1-2 spray applications of B-Nine (1,000 ppm)/ Cycocel (500 ppm) before September 20. • Late PGR applications: Cycocel spray 500-750 ppm, end October 15. • Micro Bonzi drenches can begin in early October; overly aggressive PGR applications in October can result in smaller bracts. Late Growing Stages • Feed continuously until finish; watch media EC and reduce feed levels to avoid rapid increase; indicates plants' need for nutrition is waning. • High EC at finish can result in root damage, reduced shelf life and possible Pythium . • Finishes naturally in late November to early December; can be held cool to target week 50-51 sales; avoid dew point to prevent Botrytis . •
Propagation • Roots rapidly; plant from liner at 19-21 days; apply rooting hormone to base of cutting. • Uses feed aggressively; start feed program around day 7; failure to feed early enough will result in yellowing. • High vigor level; will require PGR application in propagation; 500-750 ppm Cycocel spray at day 15-20 and can be repeated if necessary. • Plant from liners to finished container when well rooted to prevent stretch. Early Finished Growth • Must be pinched early: at day 14-16 from a liner; at day 24-26 for direct-stick; failure to pinch early will result in uneven branching. • Apply light PGR when branches are 1-1.5 in. (2.5-4 cm) using Cycocel spray at 500-750 ppm; recommended to even out the branches. • Branching occurs rapidly after pinch; PGR may be needed at 7 days. • Very upright habit; can go to final spacing very early if needed; rings can be avoided, even in large pots.
SERIES POINSETTIAS
9
Highest-Quality Genetics From the Number One Supply Chain
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