CHRISTMAS AURORA ™ SERIES Brighten Up the Late Season The varieties of Christmas Aurora are ideal for December poinsettia sales. An upright, narrow habit with a 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
QUEEN
RED
PRINCESS
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 chlormequat chloride spray at 500-1,000 ppm. • Southern Climate: Use 1-2 spray applications of daminozide (1,000 ppm)/chlormequat chloride (500 ppm) before September 20. • Late PGR applications: chlormequat chloride spray 500-750 ppm, end October 15. • Micro paclobutrazol 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 chlormequat chloride 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 chlormequat chloride 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
5
Highest-Quality Genetics From the Number One Supply Chain
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