Begonia Sprint

* Earliest flowering green-leaved Begonia

* Reduced crop time for increased profitability

* Industry leading seed quality

* Increased seed germination

* Larger flowers

* Increased beauty in the pack and in the garden

* Excellent garden performance

* High consumer satisfaction

Large vibrantly colored flowers create an attractive display in the pack and in the landscape.

'Sprint' Begonias set the highest standards for germination and transplantable seedlings in the industry. 'Sprint's uniform flowering between colors translates into programmable production as separate colors and even in mix presentations. Early to flower in low light levels but able to withstand full sun locations, even in the deep south, 'Sprint' Begonias offer unmatched performance.

'Sprint' Begonias can be grown along side the new dark-leaved 'Nightlife' Begonia series for a uniform begonia crop.

Exposure: Full sun to shade

Garden height: 6-8" (15-20 cm)

Use: Packs, pots, containers, and landscape plantings

Germination: Begonias require light to germinate, do not cover seed or pellets. Germination occurs in 5-10 days at 75-80 °F (24-26 °C) with a relative humidity of 95 % or higher. For pelleted seed, slightly higher temperatures and 100% relative humidity aid in uniformity of germination. Germination media with a pH of 5.5-6.5 is optimum. Uniformly moist and well-drained soils are important.

Plug culture: During Stage II (10-14 days) gradually lower temperatures to

70-72 °F (21-22 °C). Maintain uniform soil moisture.

Do not allow young seedlings to dry out. Begin fertilization at

50-75 ppm nitrate nitrogen. During Stage III and IV continue to gradually lower temperatures to 65-70 °F (18-21 °C) and feed at 100 ppm nitrate nitrogen on a weekly basis. During this stage supplemental extended day lighting will decrease crop time and improve plug quality.

Transplant plugs: After 5-7 weeks (or after receiving your plug shipment) plant directly into finished container. Grow on at 62-68 °F (16-20 °C). Fertilize at 150 ppm nitrogen weekly watching to avoid excessive salt build-ups.

Media: pH 5.5-6.5 for optimum plant growth and quality

Cultural Hints: Monitor for fungus gnats and shore flies in the moist plug trays and treat appropriately. During cool dark periods watch for signs of Botrytis and Phytophtora. If temperatures rise, treatments of

B-Nine or Cycocel are effective growth regulators.

Crop Time: Packs North: 10-12 weeks, Packs South: 9-11 weeks, 4" (10 cm) Pots North:11-13 weeks, 4" (10 cm) Pots South: 10-12 weeks