Combo Companion: Syngenta’s Kwik Kombos

Each liner in the Kwik Kombos program includes a select mix of plants that has undergone extensive production trialing – from propagation to finish and outdoor performance – to assure a blend of plants that complement each other and grow well together. Selected for color, compatibility and strong retail presentation, the Kwik Kombos program maximizes production efficiency and increases margins for growers.

Each recipe features three select GoldFisch varieties in a single 30mm x 40mm that is rooted for five weeks, pre-pinched and ready for transplant. New for 2011, growers have the option to purchase unrooted cuttings. Growers receive 300 unrooted cuttings (3×100/mix) for every 100 Kwik Kombos liners ordered. The plant-and-go process eliminates the design and setup delays typical on production lines and dramatically increases transplanting productivity.

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Kwik Kombos Finishing

Transplant liners upon arrival. If that is not possible, space on benches in a greenhouse and thoroughly water until the media is saturated. When transplanting, place the rooted liner slightly below the level of media in the container and make sure the root ball is covered.

• 6-inch to 1-gallon pots: Situate the liner in the center of the pot and plant just one liner per pot (ppp) to finish in six to eight weeks.

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• 10- to 12-inch baskets or containers: Plant 3-ppp in a triangle with equal space between the liners and the edge of the 10- or 12-inch basket or patio pot to finish in seven to nine weeks. Three liners per pot are recommended for 12-inch baskets. However, use only 2-ppp, but a pinch 10 to 14 days after transplant is recommended, extending production time to nine to 12 weeks.

Growth regulators help provide a full and dense finish, especially under lower light conditions. Rates and applications vary depending on the combination selected and its components. Monitor growth closely and utilize PGRs and/or DIF temperature controls for denser finished plants. PGR recommendations include a Bonzi growth regulator drench at a rate of 1 to 3 ppm.

Another alternative is a B-Nine spray at a rate of 2,500 ppm. Keep the Bonzi drench less than or equal to 1 ppm for mixes containing scaevola, bidens and Magelana verbena. Pinching is not needed in a 6-inch or 1-gallon pot but is recommended in larger containers.

If done, pinch 10- to 12-inch baskets or containers five to six weeks before sale date, allowing enough time for a premium flowering finish. When pinching, use a disinfectant registered to kill viruses (Virkon-S, Rely-On, tri-sodium phosphate, etc.), sterilize hands and pruners routinely. Kwik Kombos grow best in the greenhouse under moderate-to-high light conditions. Use supplemental lighting in northern climates under dark, cloudy conditions.

The Kwik Kombos Program

An eight-week lead time is required on all orders. Retail tags, pots and signs are available through The John Henry Company.
Rooted Cuttings:

• Available: week 45/10 – 24/11
(six-week lead time for rooting)
• Order Minimums: 204/order, 102/mix
• Pack per box: 408/204 half box
Unrooted Cuttings:
• Available: week 40/10 – 19/11
• Order Minimums: 500, 100/mix
• Pack per box: 500

More information on the Kwik Kombos program is available at SyngentaFlowersInc.com.

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