February 2025 - 10

ASK THE EXPERT » DÜMMEN ORANGE
MASTERING
I'CONIA®
BEGONIAS
Expert tips from Dümmen Orange
D
ümmen Orange has established itself as a
leader in the horticulture industry, providing
innovative and high-performing plant varieties. Their
I'Conia®
begonias have become a favorite among
growers and consumers alike. In this Q&A, we spoke
with Kelly Nicholas, Head of Technical Services for
North America, at Dümmen Orange and discussed
what makes this series so special and how to ensure
success when growing these stunning plants.
Why are begonias, particularly your I'Conia®
brand, so popular among growers? What sets
I'Conia®
begonias apart from other varieties
I'CONIA®
Miss Miami
in terms of performance or appeal?
" This series is popular among consumers making it
a must-have for the grower, " Nicholas said. " I'Conia®
full of varieties that make a dramatic statement for the
consumer - they are a mixed-use crop suitable for
hanging baskets, mono pots and mixed combinations
or even in the landscape. They are versatile
enough to be in both sun and shade exposures. "
What are the most important first steps growers
should take when their begonia liners arrive?
" If receiving unrooted cuttings (URC) the grower
should unbox and stick immediately - I'Conia®
Dümmen Orange
Ask the Expert
is
3. Increase light slowly as soon as
the cuttings are off the mist.
(proof with client)
begonias
are stick priority one, " Nicholas said. " If you are receiving
already rooted liners, then the most important step
is to plant immediately upon receipt. A held and root
bound liner will result in blind finished plants. "
What are the key propagation tips growers need to
know to ensure healthy rooting and early success?
* I'Conia®
should not propagate next to
other types of elatior/reiger begonia; they
do not have the same requirements.
* Apply only enough mist to regain and maintain
turgidity - these pair well in propagation
with dry or fast crops for the best success.
* Be sure to have under bench/
floor heat running above 72°F.
* Lighting for 16+ hours (day extension).
* Provide a humid microclimate around the cuttings.
If high humidity is not possible, consider
covering the crop with remay.
* Provide a " Goldilocks " environment; everything
should be " just right " - any stress can lead to
poor-quality plants.
1. Maintain a low-stress, warm
environment. Heating is required
throughout the growing cycle.
2. Provide even temperatures, fertility and light.
3. Avoid dry down and don't water too heavily.
* No pinching. Pinching incorrectly will cause
blindness, and it is not necessary to grow a
beautiful plant.
What are your top tips for managing and preventing
common challenges like disease, overwatering, or
nutrient deficiencies?
" Maintain a strong fertigation program throughout
the cycle utilizing a well-balanced mix. Consider
two fertigations followed by clear water on a cycle, "
Nicholas said. " Keep a strong scouting program
for both pests and disease. Proper environmental
conditions such as plant spacing, moisture and light
levels will help avoid diseases. It is good practice
to treat preventatively, either with beneficials or
chemical rotation, for broad mites because often,
when you realize you have them, it is too late. "
Learn more at na.dummenorange.com.
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Once begonias are established, what are the
most critical factors for successful growth?
* Light
1. 16-18 hours per day (by extension) required
from propagation to 2/3 finish size.
2. High-quality light and light penetration
are critical (DLI = 10-16 moles/
day). Having properly spaced plants
will help with light penetration.
http://na.dummenorange.com
February 2025

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