When it comes to inventing new flower species, Danziger says it aims to “create varieties that are more efficient for growers while still maintaining a beautiful, retail-ready plant that draws home gardeners in.”
The global floriculture company believes it has achieved this with its latest hybrid impatiens series, SOL LUNA PRIME™, which flowers up to seven days earlier than traditional New Guinea Impatiens. “This will give growers much-needed flexibility in terms of shipping and preparing for peak sales periods,” says Ori Danziger, Deputy CEO at Danziger.
On top of its early bloom time, it also has a high degree of uniformity across all six of its available colours, (light salmon, orchid, peach, pearl, red, and white), and can adapt to both differing weather conditions and pot sizes, including quarts, gallons, and hanging baskets.
Danziger believes that it’s this ability to deliver a consistent appearance despite the conditions – it’s also said to recover well from wilting and therefore enjoy a long shelf life – is what will most appeal to retailers. “In the current market, versatility is essential. SOL LUNA PRIME™ hybrid impatiens fits the bill,” says Danziger. “Its mounded, well-branched habit means it won’t become leggy, and it continues to look vibrant throughout the season, whether planted in containers, hanging baskets, or landscapes.”
And for gardeners, Matthew Skinner, Sales Manager UK at Danziger, believes it's the plant’s capability to thrive in both sun and shade that will draw them in. “Many home gardeners don’t fully understand light requirements,” says Skinner. “Providing them with a colourful, flexible hybrid impatiens series opens up planting opportunities and makes them feel more successful in the garden. As we all know, successful gardeners become repeat customers.”
What growers need to know |
SOL LUNA PRIME™ has a relatively short growth cycle, with an average finish time of four weeks. To achieve the best results, Danziger recommends keeping pH levels between 6.0 and 6.5. The series is also less sensitive to higher EC levels, which adds to its appeal for growers looking for a resilient variety. As with all hybrid impatiens, SOL LUNA PRIME™ responds to temperature to grow and flower. Grow warm to finish faster at an average of 22° for maximum growth. Growing cooler can be done but will add time. SOL LUNA PRIME™ does not require any pinching and is daylength neutral. From weeks 7-8 fertilisation should be at 80 to 125 ppm N to maintain EC at no more than 1.0. |
About Danziger
Danziger is a global leader in bedding plant breeding, cut flower breeding, and foliage production, backed by one of the largest R&D departments in the world. More than 100 scientists, researchers, and professional breeders work to invent new varieties that are more durable, efficient, profitable, and BEAUTIFUL. Founded in 1953, the family-owned company is committed to bringing personal service to its customers.
For growers seeking more in-depth advice on cultivating the SOL LUNA PRIME™ hybrid, watch this video or visit the Danziger website.
