Can silver thiosulfate, as used on geraniums, also be used on other bedding plants like verbena and lantana to preserve the bloom? We use it as a light spray at 2oz/5gal on geraniums. Can it also be fogged?
Thanks,
Erin

Hi Erin -

Silver thiosulfate can be used on geraniums and it was once a very commen practice but many growers have shifted to using Ethyl Block to prevent shattering. In terms of using it on other crops such as lantana or verbena, it is not something we have experience with. Here again, many growers are using Ethly Block now instead as it is much safer for the plants, people, and the environment. You should consult the silver thiosulfate label to see if fogging is a method of application that can be used.

I have had great results using STS on other bedding plants. Salvia treated with it will keep their blooms until they turn brown and will keep them on in a hurricane. The best thing to do is get some out and try it on a small number of varieties early in production.

You can find plenty of information on the Internet for "EthylBloc". Another local nursery used it with great success last year and I plan on experimenting myself for next Spring.