Four Star Culture Guide - 2019 - 11

BEGONIA
Pegasus®

NUTRITION
pH: 5.5 - 6.0
EC: (2:1 extraction method) .6 - .9
Constant feeding at 75ppm - 100ppm nitrogen with a
fertilizer selected for grower's water quality and soil mix is
recommended. Or, feed 200ppm once per week if preferred.

LIGHT/LIGHTING
Pegasus® Begonias should be grown in a high to moderate
light area of the greenhouse for optimal plant development.
Supplemental daylength lighting is not required. Pegasus is
primarily grown and sold as a foliage plant, but can flower
when exposed to 11 hours or less daylength per day.

TEMPERATURE
Rooting out: 65 - 72 F
Growing on: 65 - 75 F
Holding: 62 - 65 F

GROWTH REGULATORS
Desired plant habit and quality can be achieved by controlling
soil moisture levels, greenhouse temperatures and humidity
levels, and by supplying proper light levels to the plant.
Additionally, providing adequate spacing will also produce a
higher quality plant. If required, a spray application of B-Nine®
(daminozide) at 2,500ppm is effective to control growth.

WATERING
Maintain moderate soil moisture. Allow the soil to cycle from
moist to moderately dry levels. Avoid both severe dry downs
and long periods of wet soil, especially in poor weather
conditions. Also avoid excessive soil moisture levels with
freshly transplanted plants.
To prevent water spotting or burning on sunny days, it is best to
water earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.
TIMING
4" - 5"/Grande™: 6 - 7 weeks with one 50 cell plant.
6"/1GL Royale™: 7 - 8 weeks with one 50 cell plant.
8": 8 - 9 weeks with one 50 cell plant.
10" - 12" Hanging Basket: 9 - 11 weeks with three to four
50 cell plants.
PLANTING
The 50 Liner plants should be planted into a well-drained soil
mix selected to match individual water quality and fertilizer
blends. Water in thoroughly without saturating the mix and
maintain a constant moderate soil moisture level for the first
seven to 10 days to establish new rooting. Pinching should not
be needed.

PEST and DISEASE MANAGEMENT
There should be little instance of disease if basic cultural
guidelines are followed. Over-watering can lead to Botrytis,
Stem Rot, or Fungus Gnat issues. Control humidity levels and
provide adequate air movement. Avoid over-fertilization.
OUTDOOR GROWING SCHEDULE
Pegasus Begonias finish best in a controlled greenhouse
environment, but can be moved outdoors after all threat of frost
has passed and weather is consistently warm (approximately
late May to early June in Michigan). This recommendation is
based on average spring weather and should be adjusted for
unseasonably severe or unseasonably mild conditions.
OTHER TIPS
* Dislodge the 50 Liners from their cells within the
liner tray when planting. This will avoid breaking
the plants at the soil line or "tearing" the roots from
the tray's cell.
* Avoid over-watering and over-feeding Begonias. Both can
cause serious plant quality and health issues.

The rates and chemicals listed are based on our southeast Michigan growing conditions, and are not recommended for nationwide application.
Please adjust the rates and spray applications to your location and facility.

Four Star Culture Guide - 2019

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