SOWING:
Transplant:Transplant (recommended) - Sow 4-6 weeks before planting out. Transplant after last frost. Direct seed - Only in locations with a long growing season. Sow 1/8" deep, after last frost.
Germination Requirements: Barely Cover as light is needed for germination.
Days to Germination: Germinates in 8-14 days at 70-80 °F
GROWING:
Light Preference: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil high in organic matter. pH of 6.0-7.0 preferred.
Plant Height: 24-36 inches
Plant Spacing: 6" for cut flowers, 12" for landscape
Pinching: Pinching is recommended to encourage branching. Pinch, when plants are 6–12" tall
Flower Support: Flower support is recommended.
Days to Bloom: 75 days
HARVEST AND VASE LIFE:
Yield: 5-10 stems per plant
Harvest Fresh: Harvest when the flowers are fully developed, and stems are firm at the base of the bloom.
Harvest Dry: Harvest at the same stage of growth as you would for fresh flowers. Remove all the foliage and hang in a dark, well-ventilated location to dry.
Expected Vase Life: 10-14 days
Seed Saving: Celosia is pollinated by wind, so plants should be separated by at least 500 feet to maintain varietal purity. Another option is to cover flower heads with organza bags to prevent cross-pollination with other celosia of the same species.
Seeds are mature once they begin naturally falling from the seed head, which forms after the flower fades. You can cut the entire seed head and hang it in a dry, well-ventilated place to finish drying, or leave it on the plant and gently shake it every day or two. Because the seeds ripen gradually from the base of the head upward, harvesting may take several passes.
To collect the seeds, shake the seed heads into a bucket. Remove larger bits of plant material with a strainer, then winnow away the lighter chaff using a gentle breeze, a fan, or your breath.
USES:
Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Garden Beds, and Beneficial Insect Plantings
ALTERNATE NAME:
Cockscomb, brain flower
