CULTURE – FINISHING GUIDE
Florel Application Prior and Post-Pinch (Florel Sandwich) • Applications of Florel at rates from 200 to 400 ppm 5 days prior and 5 days after pinch help ensure good branching in varieties and conditions where branching can be inhibited. • This can cause a “PGR effect” that will continue through the crop cycle. It is not necessary on many new, very free-branching varieties. Early PGR Application • To reduce internode length, encourage even branching and produce a plant better suited for pinching, apply Cycocel 750 to 1,200 ppm spray or B-Nine 1,000 ppm/Cycocel 750 ppm tank mix spray prior to pinch. • Start applications in propagation and continue after transplant, as needed. • Apply after pinching, when new shoots measure at least 0.75 in. (2 cm), and repeat. This will even out the branches and reduce apical dominance.
• Keeping the ADT at 68 to 73°F (20 to 23°C) is a good target. • Providing the correct temperature is especially important after initiation, and high temperatures remain a challenge for poinsettia growth.
Keep ADT at 68 to 73°F (20 to 23°C)
Growing On PGRs • Use only PGR sprays -- no drenches – until shoots are 2 in. (5 cm) in length. • Use Cycocel 750 to 1,200 ppm spray or B-Nine 1,000 ppm/Cycocel 750 ppm tank mix spray early in the crop cycle to reduce stress and even out the branching. • Avoid PGR applications within 1 week of initiation. • Stop PGR applications by October 10 (natural season crop), except for micro-drenches of Bonzi. • Use only very low rates (1/10 to 1/20 ppm) during the bract expansion period in October and early November (natural season crop). • Use late applications of Bonzi drench at 0.5 ppm to improve shelf life. This is best done at full bract coloration, just before pollen shed. • Do not apply prior to full color.
Improved habit with proper PGR use
Flower Induction • Most varieties will begin to induce flowers between September 10 and 25. • Light pollution can delay flowering. Blackout and long-day lighting can be used to manipulate maturity dates. • Excessive heat also can delay flowering. Avoid warm nights above 72°F (22°C) from 1 week prior to initiation through October 10. Temperatures • Ideally, keep day temperatures between 75 and 86°F (24 and 30°C) and night temperatures between 61 and 72°F (16 and 22°C) for optimal plant development. • Leaves will unfold at the highest rate around 75°F (24°C) average daily temperature (ADT). • At around 80°F (27°C) ADT, development will slow.
PRO TIP Stop B-Nine applications by September 14.
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