How to Cultivate Celosia in an Indoor Environment
Let's talk about how to cultivate celosia indoors and the related knowledge of indoor cultivation methods and precautions. Next, the editor will introduce the information to netizens.
Celosia, also known as "Red in Old Age," "Reed Flower Celosia," and "Red Celosia," is native to tropical regions, comes in many varieties, and is now a common ornamental plant found in gardens and parks worldwide. It can also be grown in indoor potted plants and has medicinal value. Here is an introduction to the indoor cultivation methods and precautions for celosia.
I. Indoor Cultivation Methods
1. Light Requirements
Celosia enjoys abundant sunlight, and during the growing season, it needs to ensure at least 4 hours of daylight. For potted plants on the balcony, shading is necessary during the summer.
2. Temperature Requirements
Celosia prefers a warm and hot environment, with a suitable growth temperature of 18 to 28℃. If the temperature during the flowering season is low, it cannot bloom normally, as flowering requires a temperature above 24℃. Celosia is not cold-tolerant, so in areas with cold winters, potted plants should be moved to a warm windowsill indoors to overwinter.
3. Watering and Humidity Requirements
Celosia likes moisture but fears waterlogging. When the soil is dry, water thoroughly, but do so moderately to prevent root rot and avoid splashing water on the plant to prevent rotting leaves and flowers. Potted plants on the balcony should be kept away from rain. Celosia prefers relatively dry air and the humidity should be controlled appropriately.
4. Soil Requirements
The suitable soil for growing celosia is fertile, loose, well-drained sandy loam.
5. Fertilizing Requirements
Celosia does not tolerate poor soil. During the growing season, apply a thin liquid fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium elements every 15 days, especially during the flowering period. After the flowers bloom, apply a thin compound liquid fertilizer every 10 days.
6. Disease and Pest Control
The common diseases of celosia are leaf spot and anthracnose, which are prone to occur in potted plants. Seedlings may also develop root rot and should be treated promptly. During the growing season, it is prone to small bridge bugs, which can be chemically controlled with 20% cypermethrin emulsion.
7. Propagation Method
Celosia is an annual plant, usually propagated by sowing. The seeds are black and glossy, and can usually be harvested from September to October. Sow in April to May, sprinkle the seeds directly on the potting soil, cover them with a thin layer of soil, lightly spray water, and keep the soil moist.
II. Precautions
Celosia requires frequent watering during the growing season and summer, and during high temperatures, the watering method can be used to ensure adequate water. When fertilizing celosia, control the amount of nitrogen fertilizer appropriately because excessive nitrogen can affect the formation and development of flowers.
For dwarf, multi-branched varieties of celosia, pinching the top can promote branching in seedlings. If the growth is too vigorous with dense leaves and branches, some leaves or lateral branches can be pruned.
The above information on how to cultivate celosia indoors and the indoor cultivation methods and precautions is provided for reference by green plant enthusiasts.