| Positive | victorianblu | On Jul 25, 2008, victorianblu from Eureka, CA wrote: True cool tone medium pink double flower that deepens in color as time passes. The frilly flowers can get up to 2 1/2" ea. They have a medium fragrance that somewhat reminds me of juicy fruit gum. Because of the size of the flowers, this cultivar does get quite top heavy when in bloom....I suggest planning to provide something to support the stems...mine have reached heights ranging from 30-34". The flowers are very long lasting and make for a terrrific cut flower. If you keep cutting back, this princess will continue to perform. I would like to note that 3yrs years ago when I purchased this cultivar, I was blessed with a repeat performance the following growing season.
This cultivar is very easy to grow. I have had no issues with rust here on the North Coast....and believe me if it is going to happen, it would happen here! I have not had any issues with pests...this could be as a result that during the early growth period, I was using light spray mixture w/Neem Oil . And after allowing time for the Neem to wear down, I brought in my girlfriends(Ladybugs). At any rate, no pest problems have been encountered.
Regarding soil, I must fess up and report that I am lazy this way...and use Fox Farm soil products.( I am in no way associated with this company or trying to push this particular brand). My Snaps are in containers this year as we are in the midst of a major project. I used Fox Farm "Happy Frog" soil(not to be confused with their soil conditioner).The soil is light enough so that I don't have to worry about drainage issues with the large containers.
Regarding nutrients & ferts, I again must report that I am lazy and do not make my own. I use a combination of sorts. For the Snaps, I have been alternating and using the following: Spray-N-Grow and Fox Farms triple threat of Beastie Blooms, Open Sesame & Cha-Ching. This year, I have also brought in Bill's Fert just to see...will report later with my results.
Regarding sun, I have multiple containers...They do quite well areas with a shorter time exposure to sun....and can handle coastal offshore breeze & fog. I find that the containers that are not located to receive beaming full sun perform better. I have two containers situated wheas they receive morning sun w/ shade by 12:30 pm...these have proven to be the best performers.
Again, the cultivar is a true medium pink. For enthusiasts that keep to a specific color theme....if you are looking for a warm pink, this might not be the right color cultivar for you. With that, I highly recommend the "Double Azalea" pink...even if you are not crazy for Snaps as I was a few years ago, you might change your mind with this one. |