Veronica longifolia Vernique

The Veronica Vernique series flowers in the first year, and since the Vernique require no vernalization to flower, they can be grown similar to an annual. Blooming throughout spring and summer, they branch well and produce beautiful, full spikes. Vernique varieties grow 12 to 18 inches tall and 10 to 12 inches wide. They offer excellent mildew resistance. Great in landscapes and perennial gardens, they are hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8. Currently the series includes Blue, Dark Blue, Pink and White.

For more: Green Fuse Botanicals, www.green-fuse.com

Production:

• Crop planning from cell packs: For 4-inch (10 cm) pots, plant one plant per pot. Crops will finish in 5 to 7 weeks. For 6-inch (15 cm) pots, plant one plant per pot. Crops will finish in 9 to 11 weeks.
• Media: Choose a well-draining, balanced medium. Maintain pH at 5.5 to 6.2. Ensure proper root growth for flowering by watching electrical conductivity (EC) level, keeping it at 0.8 to 1.5 mmhos.
• Fertilizer Requirements: Provide 100 to 150 ppm N using a balanced feed to maintain foliage color. Include a micro element source as part of the fertilizer solution. Magnesium should be incorporated into your fertilizer programs.
• Temperature: Maintain 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C) nights and 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) days.
• Light: Provide high to medium-high light levels of 4,000 to 8,000 foot candles.
• Pinching Requirements: Pinch once established in the finished container or in the liner before transplanting. Removal of spent flowers will create continued flowering through the summer months.
• Growth Regulators: B-Nine is the most economical plant growth regulator. Spray at approximately 1,500 to 3,500 ppm. Plants will respond to Sumagic as well. Use PGRs at labeled rates.
• Pests/Disease: Monitor carefully for insects including aphids, thrips and whiteflies. For diseases, mildew, botrytis and rust are of primary concern. Preventive drenches and sprays are recommended.