These 28-inch celosias are the originals that provide a dramatic background planting in any setting and are excellent long-lasting cut flowers. In our demonstration gardens, the eye was immediately drawn to these plants due to the stately grace of the stems and vivid colors--scarlet rose, carmine, gold, cream, and bronze. 50 seeds PLANTING Celosia argentea plumosa Annual Germination: 15-21 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface and press into soil; seeds need light to germinate Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperature for germination. Transplant 6-12” apart after the last frost. Sowing Outdoors: Direct sowing outdoors after the last frost, only in areas with a long growing season. Sow a few seeds every 4-6”, thin to 10-12” apart Growth Habit: Upright, branching Height and Width: 30” x 12” Spacing: 6-12” apart Light Needs: Full sun Soil Needs: Fertile, well-drained Approximate days to flower from seed: 90-100 days Uses: Cut flowers- fresh or dried, flower beds, cottage gardens, containers and planters, attracts pollinators Care: Amend soil with compost before transplanting. Apply a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks or use a time-release fertilizer at planting time for strong long-lasting growth. Drying flowers- Remove foliage and hang fresh-cut flowers upside down in a dark room with good airflow.
