Grower Facts

Bellis Bellissima
(Bellis perennis)

Germination
Bellis can be germinated equally well at 65 to 72°F (18 to 22°C). It will take 1 to 2 days longer to germinate at the lower temperature range. A medium covering of coarse grade vermiculite will improve the uniformity of the germination. Light is not required for germination. It takes about 3 to 5 days to germinate.

Plug Production
Plug Tray Size
Can be produced in 392-cell type plug trays. The average plug production time is 5 weeks.

Media
Use a well-drained, disease-free plug media with a pH of 5.8 to 6.2 and EC of 0.50 to 0.75 mmhos/cm.

Humidity
Maintain 95 to 97% relative humidity during germination.

Temperature
Plugs can be grown in the greenhouse at 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C) during Stage 2, and during Stage 3 & 4 the temperatures can be at 60 to 65°F (15 to 18°C).

Fertilizer
When cotyledons fully expand, start fertilizing with 50 ppm N twice a week. As the true leaves develop, increase the fertilizer rate to 100 ppm N. Maintain the plug media EC at 0.75 to 1.0 mmhos/cm and pH at 5.8 to 6.2.

Plant Growth Regulators
Not required.

Growing On to Finish
Container Size
Suitable for 306 Premium packs or 5-in. (12-cm) pots.

Media
Use a well-drained, disease-free, soilless growing media with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and a medium initial nutrient charge.

Temperature
Grow as cool as possible, but avoid freezing temperatures. Bellis can tolerate temperatures in the
range of 40 to 45°F (5 to 7°C). For forcing the crop when grown at these temperatures, grow at 55 to 58°F (10 to 12°C) for 4 weeks before sale.

Irrigation & Fertilization
Irrigate the crop as needed. Fertilize the crop weekly or as needed with 150 to 200 ppm N with a complete balanced fertilizer. Maintain the media EC at 1.50 to 2.00 mmhos/cm and pH at 5.8 to 6.5.

Plant Growth Regulators
Not required.