Streptocarpus ‘Ladyslippers’

With several variety shades of blue, as well as a few other colors, Green Fuse Botanicals Inc.’s streptocarpus ‘Ladyslippers’ are great for growers looking to sell indoor potted plants. ‘Ladyslippers’ will bloom continuously for months indoors, and also works well for patios. It can also be grown in full shade and its production season is year round.

Production:

• Let soil remain damp between irrigation. Sub-irrigation is recommended to keep water off leaves and flowers.
   
• Keep humidity levels low by venting in the afternoon. This will help control disease.
   
• Daytime temperature should remain between 65°F and 80°F, and 65°F to 68°F during the night.
   
• Use 1,000 to 1,500 foot-candles for lighting. Slightly lower levels should be used during summer conditions. Keep leaf temperatures at a minimum to prevent scalding or damage.
   
• To maintain color of foliage, use 100 to 125 ppm nitrate fertilizer with a balanced feed. Calcium and potassium nitrate based feeds work best.
   
• Maintain electrical conductivity at 0.8 to 1.0 mmhos.
   
• Proper pH level for Streptocarpus is 6.0.
   
• Use of Sumagic or B-9 growth regulators are effective without concern of stunted growth. Use at label rates.
   
• Top of liner should not be buried below new soil level when transplanting.
   
• ‘Ladyslippers’ will flower early and be smaller in size during initial flowering. Pinch for three to four weeks to keep plants clean and help promote plant growth.

Did you know?
‘Ladyslippers’ can be grown in 6- to 12-inch pots for weekly sales, spring production, combination baskets or patio containers.