Last updated on December 21st, 2024 at 04:49 pm
Celosia Plant Care. Also called (cockscomb) they are considered a tender annual as freezing temperatures will kill them. Great long-lasting beautiful feather-like flower for your garden mainly throughout the spring seasons. They come in many colors from deep reds, dark oranges, bright pinks, and lavender colors. Plant them after the last freeze in spring or after the last frost in your area.
Depending on the variety they will grow to about 4 to 8 inches in height and will spread about 5 inches. Make sure to keep your soil moist during the hottest part of the season, but not always wet. They are susceptible to spider mites and aphids so keep your eye own on those insects.
Most will grow from 6 inches to about 2 ft. depending on the type of Celosia you purchase. Other names they go by are fire plant and the flamingo plant.
Where to plant them?
Easy-to-grow plants try planting them in decorative pots this will work as they will fill out and give colorful flowers throughout spring and most of the early summer. I’ve seen them bloom into mid-fall. Plant them in masses for a great formal effect (see image below). To extend the blooming season be sure to deadhead expired blooms. Plant them in full sun or partial shade as they will do well in both places. Butterflies love Celosia plants so place them in rows for an awesome display of color during the spring seasons. See the photo below.
Fertilizing Celosia
Fertilize your Celosia plants about once per month. A well-balanced 20-20-20 mixture will work best and never let them dry out.
Adding a layer of mulch around your Celosia plants helps the soil retain moisture, especially during hot summer days. It reduces water evaporation, so you won’t need to water as often. The mulch also keeps the roots cooler, protecting the plant from heat stress. Organic options like wood chips or straw can even break down over time, improving soil quality. Just don’t pile it against the stems, as this can lead to root rot.
Celosia plants are considered perennials in USDA zones 11-12. However, they are classified as annuals in zone 0-10. Visit Wikipedia for more information on Celosia Plants.
Spider mites and mealybugs will attack these plants. Spray with a good insecticide to kill quickly or use Neem oil as this is an organic insecticide.
Celosia Plant Care
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