Celosia 'Cramers Rose'

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

SEED DEPTH: 1/8"

GERMINATION: 8 - 14 days at 21 - 27°C

HEIGHT: 24 - 36"

MATURITY: 90 - 100 Days

SPACING: 6 - 12"

PINCH: 6 - 8"

HOW TO GROW:
Transplant (recommended): Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Light is required for germination, so cover seeds very lightly to hold them in place. Bottom water or mist gently to avoid displacing them. Use a heat mat to maintain a soil temperature of 21–26°C, as celosia needs warmth to germinate. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors after the last frost.

Direct Seed (alternative): Direct sowing is only recommended in zones with a long growing season. Sow seeds outdoors after the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed. Thin seedlings to a final spacing of 6–12" apart.

Pinching: Pinching the tops of young plants can encourage branching and a more abundant bloom. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong the flowering season.

Soil Preference and Watering: Celosia is a heat-loving plant that thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing: Celosia is a heavy feeder. Amend the soil with compost before planting and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks throughout the growing season.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers are fully developed. For drying, which is a popular use for celosia, harvest stems when the flowers are firm and have a papery feel. Hang bunches upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.