Container:
Premium 1 Gallon Pot
When to Plant:
Late winter to spring
Finish:
6-8 weeks
Container:
Premium 1 Gallon Pot
When to Plant:
Mid to late summer or late winter to spring
Finish:
7-9 weeks
Growing Temperature:
65° F
Holding Temperature:
50-60° F
Soil PH:
5.8-6.2
EC (What is EC?):
2.0-2.5 pour through method
Fertility:
Brunnera are light feeders, requiring nitrate levels of 50 ppm under a constant liquid feed program. Brunnera may benefit from additional iron applications. 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:
Vernalize for a minimum of 9 weeks at temperatures below 40° F for consistant flowering.
Pests & Diseases:
Aphids and slugs are the primary pests of Brunnera. Control both as needed. Aphids can be detected on or near the fresh new growth and on the underside of the leaves. Slugs are often difficult to locate, however leaf injuries will indicate their presence. Bacterial leaf spot (BLS) can affect Brunnera during hot and humid conditions, some of the newer genetics are much more resistant to BLS.
Potting & Timing:
Plant large plugs for a quick 6 week crop time.
Small plugs can be planted in late summer for early spring sales or plant in spring for a 7-9 week finish.
Moisture:
For potting soil use commercial planting media. Provide an average amount of irrigation, Brunnera do not tolerate very dry or very wet soil conditions.
Planting Level:
At the soil line or slightly above.
PGRs/Pinching:
If toning is required, spray applications of 2,500 ppm Daminozide (B-Nine or Dazide) or 5-ppm Uniconazole (Concise or Sumagic) are effective. One to two applications should provide adequate height control.
Lighting:
Brunnera are day neutral.
Provide light to moderate shade to avoid sun scorch.
Other Comments:
High light intensities can cause leaf scorch. We recommend growing Brunnera under at least 35% shade cloth during the summer months.
Grower Tips:
Drench with Banrot or Root Shield at transplant to avoid crown and root rots.
Avoid elevated EC levels in the soil.
One of the key traits of some Brunnera cultivars is the large leaf size. To achieve this look in a container, plant from a fresh (non-vernalized) 72ct plug in late winter to spring. Without vernalization, these will not flower and will put all of their energy into forming large foliage and a strong root system.
Vernalized plants will flower and form small leaves initially, with leaf expansion occurring after flowering is finished.