Verbena Propagation Tips
March 7, 2012 
Upon Arrival
Verbenas can be stored in a cooler down to 38 degrees F (5 degrees C) for up to 24 hours.
Rooting Time
Unrooted cuttings typically take about three to three and a half weeks to root in a 105-sized plug. These are fast rooters and are generally very easy to root.
Growing Media
High-porosity media like Fafard 1P Mix is ideal. Fertiss and Ellepot are also common. Keep pH at 5.8 – 6.2 and test media E.C. and pH at around three weeks after sticking and adjust as needed.
Pinching
Verbenas do need to be pinched. Try to leave at least 2 nodes below the pinch. Be sure to use good sanitation.
Temperature
Media temperatures of 72–74 degrees F are ideal. Once the cuttings are fully rooted, the temperatures can be lowered to control growth.
Misting
Spray CapSil at 2 to 4 ounces per 100 gallons one day after sticking to reduce wilting. Verbena does not require as much misting as other plants and six to seven days of misting are usually sufficient. Reduce the mist significantly as cuttings begin to root.
Fertilizer
Apply 100 parts per million (ppm) nitrogen (N) when cuttings start rooting, using a calcium-magnesium formulation of a balanced fertilizer with low phosphorus (ex. 14-4-14, 13-2-13, or 15-5-15 Cal-Mag). Fertilize daily with 150 ppm nitrogen (N) when fully rooted.
Plant Growth Regulators
Sprays of B-Nine plant growth regulator at a 2,500 ppm rate or Sumagic plant growth regulator at a 3 to 5 ppm rate (make sure to apply lightly) are suggested. It’s also worth trialing Florel plant growth regulator at 350 ppm or Florel (350 ppm) plus B-Nine (1,500 ppm) as a combination spray about 10 days after sticking and before pinching.
Fungicides
Spray fungicides at day two for botrytis control, alternating between fungicide classes. Fungicide options include Palladium, Medallion, Daconil ULTREX and Heritage fungicides. Occasionally, verbena will get cercospora and corynespora fungal leaf spot and this can be controlled with rotations of Daconil ULTREX, Heritage, Medallion or Palladium fungicides. Drench with a broad-spectrum fungicide (Subdue Maxx plus Medallion fungicide combinations) 2.5 to 3 weeks after sticking to maintain a healthy root system.
Insect Control
Scout for thrips.
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