Lisianthus White

Description

Discover the beauty of Lisianthus White. With elegant white petals and long-lasting blooms, it’s perfect for arrangements, weddings, and bouquets.

Overview

• Common Name: Lisianthus
• Variety Name: White
• Scientific Name: Eustoma grandiflorum
• Quantity of Seeds: 20

Features and Benefits

• Flower Color: Pure white
• Stem Length: 50–90 cm
• Bloom Size: 5–7 cm
• Texture: Soft and velvety petals
• Fragrance: Light, subtle scent
• Seasonality: Best availability in late spring to early autumn in South Africa

Care and Handling

• Vase Life: 7–12 days with proper care
• Harvesting Tips:
  • Harvest in the morning when buds are half-open to ensure longevity.
  • Use clean, sharp tools to make a diagonal cut on the stem.
• Post-Harvest Care:
  • Remove lower foliage to prevent rot.
  • Place in clean water with a floral preservative.
  • Change water every 2–3 days.
  • Re-cut stems every 2 days to maintain water uptake.
• Storage:
  • Store at 2–4°C if not used immediately.

Planting Instructions

• Ideal Planting Time: Late summer to early autumn or spring in frost-free areas.
• Location:
  • Full sun to partial shade.
  • Well-drained soil enriched with organic compost.
• Spacing: 15–20 cm apart to allow airflow.
• Pinching: Not necessary, but deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering.
• Additional Tips: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Organic Fertilizing Options

• Type:
  • Balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5) during early growth.
  • During flowering, switch to a bloom booster fertilizer (low nitrogen, high phosphorus).
• Frequency: Every 4 weeks during active growth.

Common Pests and Diseases

• Pests: Aphids, thrips, and whiteflies.
  • Management:
    • Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
    • Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Diseases: Botrytis (grey mould), powdery mildew, and root rot.
  • Prevention:
    • Avoid overhead watering.
    • Ensure good air circulation.
    • Use fungicides if necessary.

Companion Plants and Herbs

• For Visual Appeal:
  • Lavender (soft complementary colour and texture)
  • Baby’s breath (Gypsophila) for a delicate filler
  • Snapdragons (Antirrhinum) for contrasting vertical height
• For Pest Control:
  • Marigolds to deter nematodes.
  • Basil to repel aphids.
• For Soil Health:
  • Clover or vetch for nitrogen-fixing properties.