Container:
Premium 1 Gallon Pot
When to Plant:
Late spring to early summer for the following spring
Finish:
All summer required for finish, then vernalize as directed. Baptisia grown from plugs will have a prostrate growth habit the first summer. Upon emergence the following spring the habit will be more upright and normal.
Notes:
Plant slightly deep with crown 1/2 inch below soil.
Container:
Premium 2 Gallon Pot
When to Plant:
Late winter to late spring
Finish:
6"/Gallon - 8-12 wks; 10-12"- 8-12 wks
Growing Temperature:
Rooting out and Growing on 55-60° F
Holding Temperature:
40-50° F
Soil PH:
5.8-6.5
EC (What is EC?):
2.0-3.0 pour through method
Fertility:
Requires 100-150 ppm fertilizer for optimal growth. For Controlled Release or Slow Release Fertilizer, see your preferred supplier for recommended rates for incorporation or top dressing, as it varies by fertilizer.
Vernalization:
8-10 weeks if planted from plugs during early summer.
Pests & Diseases:
Leaf spots, powdery mildew (Erysiphe and Microshaera), rust (Puccinia), root rots.
Potting & Timing:
Generously graded bare root plants should bloom the first year.
Plugs can be planted in late spring to early summer and sold the following spring. This option yields the greatest number of stems per pot.
Forcing plants under cool temperatures will help control height and will intensify flower color but may increase crop time.
Baptisia will flower in 8-10 weeks at 50-60° F.
Moisture:
Water well after planting and increase watering as the foliage emerges. Dry to moderate moisture levels.
Planting Level:
Plant crown just below soil surface for bare root. Plant plugs 1/2" below the soil surface.
PGRs/Pinching:
Drench with Uniconazole (Sumagic/Concise) at 1 ppm once plants reach 6 inches in height.
Toning sprays at 5 ppm can be applied later if more control is needed. Best height control is growing Baptisia under cooler temperatures.
Lighting:
Provide high light levels. Grow under clear poly or outdoors.
Grower Tips:
Do not pinch vernalized Baptisia before they flower.
Pay attention to the planting depths of bare root and plugs, and be sure to cover the eyes with soil when planting bare root.
It is recommended to plant bare root in 2 gallon containers as these have the depth needed to support the plant.
If a 1 gallon container is desired, roots can be trimmed to fit the container.
1 gallon containers will have a short shelf life due to the massive root system that develops.