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HANDLING AND CARE OF MANDEVILLAS Mandevillas, as young plants, are extremely temperamental and sensitive to handling and environmental factors. Once established, they become robust growers in warm weather, but -not without some demanding cultural attention. This paper is provided exclusively to Mandevilla growers of 'Ruby Star'PAT #8842, by OPI, licensed propagator of this patented plant. If after your review you have any questions, please feel free to call us toll-free at 1-800-762-0022.
After initial planting, water-in liners with a solution of wetting agent like AquaGro 2000L (350ppm = .5 tsp/gal) or spray with a solution of 100ppm. This helps to maintain the moisture around the root system and reduce water stress after planting. During rapid growth, the ammoniacal form of N is the most preferable. Incorporate 18-6-8 as the primary source of nutrients. Also, applications of fertilizers with high levels of phosphorous (Peters 9-45-15, Prolific 10-52-10 or PolyStart 8-30-5) have a very positive effect on growth of young plants. If necessary, top-dress with 16-6-10 to finish the crop. The most critical step in order to minimize losses is to have a well organized water management program. Young plants should not be allowed to dry out during first 14 to 21 days after planting. Adequate moisture is not only critical to young plant needs, but will also reduce stress resulting from the interfacing of the liner and container media. During the first fourteen days, we recommend watering every day. If in doubt about watering or if it only "looks like rain," water. Again, it has been our experience that gentle planting, followed by proper water management is most crucial for good survival rate(s). Unless receiving nursery is already combating a white fly population or Anthracnose leaf spot, suggest waiting one week after planting before starting the following preventive spray schedules. If white fly or Anthracnose is already present, immediately apply first application of pesticide(s). Remember, particularly with young plants in full sun crop areas, apply pesticides very early in mornings. Chemical effectiveness is also improved when possible to adjust water pH to 5 to 5.5. Spray crops at least weekly for disease prevention, primarily to safeguard against the spread of Anthracnose (leaf spot fungi). Recommended fungicides* to use on an alternating basis are Cleary's, Fore, Daconil and Domain. Select growing areas with good drainage. To deter nematodes, grow off ground or on blocks. Insects: thrips, aphids, spider mites and particularly white fiies are persistent pests controllable only through regimented spray programs. Following are recommended insecticides* that should be alternately used: Thiodan, M-Pede, Avid, Talstar, Margosan 0, Orthene Turf, Tree & Ornamentals (particularly for thrips) and Pentac Aquafiow (DO NOT USE Oxamyl [Vydate], Dursban or Dycarb). If fighting an existing population, we suggest twice weekly sprayings of Margosan mixed with Thiodan, followed by Margosan and M-Pede, followed by Margosan and Talstar, and so on. If problem persists, recommend additional applications once a week of Pentac Aquaflow with Enstar (DO NOT mix Pentac Aquaflow with other insecticides). A newer chemical, Marathon (a systemic granule) is a very effective control for white fly. Applied correctly, our tests indicate there should be no danger of phytotoxicities. For weed control in full-sun production, the pre-emergent herbicide OH II is safe and effective. Follow instructions carefully. |
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