Echinacea (Coneflower)

Echinacea (Coneflower) have always been a mainstay in the sunny perennial garden. Their popularity has skyrocketed in recent years due to intensive breeding programs that have produced fantastic new colors and introduced double and semi-double forms. They tolerate a wide range of conditions, including heat and drought. Plant in full sun, in average soil. Attractive cone heads add winter interest and are good for dried arrangements.

Plant: Center in pot and plant crown at or just below the soil surface. If planting plugs, make sure plug trays have been watered prior to transplanting. This will ensure quick and even root penetration into the surrounding new soil. If plugs are root bound, loosen the roots in the lower third of the plug prior to transplanting.

Grow: Grow in full sun at 55 - 60F minimum night temperatures. After growth appears, fertilize with 200 ppm Nitrogen every 7-10 days. Too much fertilizer can lead to root and crown rot.

Lightning: For early spring plantings, Echinacea will finish quicker if grown under long days. Provide supplemental night interruption light for a minimum of 14 hours light

PGR's: Most commercially available plant growth regulators are effective in controlling plant height. Consult label instructions.

Diseases: Mostly susceptible to botrytis, pythium, and aster yellow. Use preventive fungicides and good cultural practices to reduce susceptibility.

Growing Temperature:	65-70°F days, 55-60°F minimum night temperatures
Soil pH:	5.5-6.5
Fertility:	Echinacea do not like to be over fertilized. Over feeding in containers will reduce vigor can lead to root and crow rot.
Pests and Diseases:	Scout for aphids, leafhoppers and whiteflies. Can be susceptible to aster yellow, botrytis, crown and root rot, leaf sports and powdery mildew.
Potting and Timing:
Moisture:	Do not over water. As plants mature, allow to dry slightly between waterings.
Planting Level:	Place plug at soil level.
PGRs/Pinching:	PGRs can be beneficial in controlling height of Echinacea, especially those exposed to night interruption. Before lighting, consult your chemical specialist for application rates in your area.
Lighting:	Intermediate day plants, requiring 12 to 16 hours of day length to flower. Night interruption of 4 hours can be provided when days are short.