Tips for Producing Surdiva Scaevolas
S untory has transformed one of the most heat-tolerant bedding plants by making scaevolas more manageable to grow and maintain. Native to Australia and Polynesia, scaevola is grown as an annual but is a perennial by nature. While the native species has a wild, rangy habit, Surdivas have a mound- ing, semi-trailing habit, producing distinctive fan-shaped flowers on short terminal spikes. The three colors – Blue, Light Blue and White – are very uniform and fill out containers nicely. Plants are drought tolerant, making them ideal for low- maintenance situations. Surdiva scaevolas are capturing atten- tion and recognition at leading university trials.
General Culture Rooted cuttings should be planted as soon as possible into 4-inch pots or larger. Use a well-drained peat/perlite mix with a pH of 5.6-6.0 and maintain a substrate EC of 2.0. Slow-release fertilizer is recommended in addition to liquid fertilizer with a longevity of three to four months. Water plants prior to wilting and allow substrate to dry out between waterings to reduce the risk of root rot.
Crop Timing • 4-inch pots – six to seven weeks with one liner and one pinch • 6-inch pots – seven to eight weeks with one liner and two pinches • 10-inch baskets – 12-15 weeks with three liners and two to three pinches. Less pinching is required when plants are grown cool. Pests & Diseases Monitor for whiteflies, thrips, leaf min- ers, aphids and mites. Prevent Botrytis, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia and Pythium. A broad-spectrum fungicide drench is recommended after planting.
iron sulphate drenches (avoid foli- age contact) or iron chelate sprays or drenches. Purpling of the foliage can be a result of low phosphorous and is more prevalent in some colors. Moderate or high levels of phosphorous can cause yellow-red coloring in older foliage. Plant Growth Regulators The use of growth regulators on this crop is not necessary. Pinching can encourage the correct shape and act as a form of growth control. B-Nine (paclobutrazol) drench and Sumagic (uniconazole) work well on scaevola.
Extra iron applications may be required to promote good leaf color. Apply as
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Suntory Spring Production Guide
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