Cosmos Limara Lemon Seedling Tray

For best results with Limara Lemon, plant one rooted plug per gallon container. Use a well-drained soil in full or partial sun with light feed (100-150 ppm N), a pH of 5.5-5.8, and an EC (via 2:1 extraction) of 0.6-0.9. Provide average daily temperatures of 60-65 and don't pinch or use PGRs. Watch for whiteflies, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot.

Yellow flowers bloom from mid-spring until frost.

This plant doesn't require pinching.

Space containers for adequate airflow and sunlight penetration around the base and foliage of each plant. We recommend spacing 4-inch, gallon, or 10-inch containers 12-18" on center for good ventilation and disease prevention. Adjust spacing in your commercial greenhouse as needed for your plants.

Once the plant establishes roots, you may apply daminozide or chlormequat chloride as needed to control height. Drought stress and negative DIF are also effective height control methods. 

Scout for whiteflies and spider mites as part of your Integrated Pest Management plan. 

Whiteflies are small, winged insects that eat plant sap and cause yellowed leaves and stunted growth. Severe infestations can lead to plants dying. Prevent infestations by sanitizing surfaces and tools and removing debris. Introduce natural predators and use sticky traps to control populations. Insecticidal soaps and oils are also effective against this pest.

Spider Mites are tiny pests that cause stippling, yellowing, and webbing on foliage by feeding on plant sap. They flourish in warm, dry environments. Use correct water and fertilizing practices; over-fertilizing can attract spider mites. Proper humidity levels, predatory mites or ladybugs, and insecticidal soaps or oils may prevent or address a spider mite infestation.

Watch for signs of powdery mildew and root rot. Take basic preventative measures in your greenhouse as part of Integrated Pest Management, including watering at the base of each plant, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, using proper fertilizer and light, maintaining a clean and debris-free environment, and sanitizing equipment. Provide adequate spacing and good airflow for seedling plugs.

Root Rot occurs in poorly drained or overly wet soil which becomes the host for several types of fungi. It causes stunted growth, wilting, and root system decay. Prevention is the best treatment and most root rot problems can be avoided by using clean, well-draining media, appropriate containers, and good watering practices for finishing seedling plugs. Inspect plants for signs of disease regularly. Repot infected plants in well-draining soil, adjust your watering schedule, provide better airflow, and use a fungicide if needed.

Powdery Mildew is a fungal disease that thrives in humid conditions, appearing as a white or gray coating on foliage and flowers. Provide good airflow in your greenhouse. We recommend horizontal airflow fans to help control humidity levels alongside a dehumidifier or manual venting. Remove and destroy infected plants and apply fungicides as needed or preventatively. Look for the active ingredients myclobutanil, trifloxystrobin, or potassium bicarbonate to combat Powdery Mildew threatening your seedling plugs.

We recommend planting one seedling plug per 4-inch or 6-inch container. Use well-drained soil and completely bury the ellepot in the center of the container.