Regardless of propagation method, by seed or by cuttings (vegetative propagation), proper management of the growing medium is one of the keys to successful spring crops.

Seed Propagation
Germination mixes should be:

• Free of sticks and other debris
• Free of weed seed and disease organisms
• Lightweight and fine textured
• Physical properties test should reflect a 10-12% air-filled porosity
• Low in nutrients - EC should be less than 1.0 mS/cm (saturated media extract)*
• Managed to maintain pH of 5.5-5.8*

During Seedling Germination

• Maintain soil temperature at 68-86°F*
• Cover seeds if required*
• Use acid treatments to adjust water alkalinity to a 60-100 ppm bicarbonate level if necessary

Fafard^® Germination Mix and Fafard Young Plant Mix are made with sphagnum peat, fine perlite and vermiculite. Fafard PP Mix is made with sphagnum peat and fine perlite and Fafard Plug Mix #1, is a germination mix made with 100% sphagnum peat.

Vegetative Propagation
Fafard growing media 1P Mix, 2 Mix and 2P Mix are recommended.

For vegetative propagation

• Mix air-filled porosity should be at least in the 12-18% range
• Maintain pH at 5.5-6.0 and EC below 1.0 mS/cm (SME)
• Fertilize as soon as the plants come out of mist in anticipation of transplanting
• Use bottom heat (68-77° F soil temperature)
• Time mist to keep humidity high and the substrate moist. Once roots form, the misting intervals and duration should be reduced to avoid an over-saturated condition.
• The incorporation of biofungicides or a controlled-release fertilizer, like Osmocote^® Start, can encourage faster rooting and reduced crop time

* Check the culture sheets for each crop to confirm details regarding EC, pH, temperature and more.

Osmocote^® is a registered trademark of Everris International BV, its affiliates, or partners.