Helichrysum - Annual Perfect for Drying

Celosia is an annual from the amaranth family (lat. Amaranthaceae). Two variants of this annual are most commonly found in garden beds: plumed celosia (lat. Celosia argentea plumosa) and crested celosia (lat. Celosia argentea cristata). Celosias have undergone extensive breeding, resulting in various shades of inflorescences that stand out beautifully in any dried arrangement after drying. Try growing this interesting annual in your own garden.

In the following article, you will learn which types of celosia you can grow, discover why celosia loves the sun, find out how to grow celosia, and finally know when is the best time for planting in garden beds.

Celosia

Seeds of this very interesting plant are available in our e-shop. You can choose whether you prefer the plumed or crested variety - both are worth trying. Plumed celosia is a bushy-growing annual that can reach up to 60 cm in height with good care. It can be grown in garden beds as well as on balconies. It loves plenty of sunshine. The crested variety has a bizarre-looking flower that forms a sort of crest which twists in various ways. This variety also grows in a bushy manner but is slightly smaller, typically reaching a height of approximately 40 cm. The seeds in our e-shop are mixed so that many flowers in vibrant colors will bloom in your garden, ranging from yellow through orange and pink to red.

Celosias love sunny and warm locations.

The origin of celosia tells us a lot

Celosia probably originates from India, although this has never been fully confirmed. One thing is certain, however - today celosia is distributed almost worldwide. It grows wild in all tropical regions of the world and is cultivated outside its original climate zone as well. When growing, it's impossible to forget about its tropical origin - celosia requires as much sunshine as possible and especially a warm location protected from excessive waterlogging. A simple comparison applies to this plant: "celosia likes to keep its feet warm."

Celosia flowers are suitable for drying.

Growing Celosia

Celosia is not a particularly demanding plant to grow, as long as you provide it with favorable conditions. The more sunlight and associated warmth the plant receives, the better it will bloom. Plants should be protected from prolonged rainfall, as they do not tolerate waterlogging. Waterlogging of the soil can also be prevented by selecting suitable soil. Ideal is humus-rich, well-draining substrate that warms up easily. Celosia is the perfect plant for the driest spots in your garden. During the season, celosia can be occasionally fertilized and watered, but this is not a condition for success. Celosias are not susceptible to diseases and are not attacked by pests.

Celosia can also be grown in a planter placed in the sun.

Plant celosia only after the last frost

Celosia is a plant that is suitable for starting indoors. Celosias can be sown in seed trays or in a warm greenhouse as early as February, depending on the weather in a particular year. Seeds simply need to be spread on the surface of the growing substrate, pressed down slightly, and moistened. Young seedlings will begin to grow soon. Pre-grown plants are transplanted into the garden bed during April and May. It is ideal to protect celosias from cold using horticultural fleece. Even those who don't have the opportunity to start seedlings indoors need not despair–seeds can be sown directly into the soil during May. The recommended spacing for growing is approximately 30 x 30 cm. Celosia blooms from July to September. During this time, you can cut and dry the blooming flowers.

To keep the flowers beautifully colorful, dry them hanging upside down in a well-ventilated area without direct sunlight.

Celosia can also be grown indoors

Indoor conditions are not entirely ideal for celosia, but recently these plants have often been sold as short-term houseplants. Place celosia indoors on a south-facing window and try to ensure it gets plenty of fresh air. The plant will appreciate regular outdoor ventilation. An indoor plant will not be as vigorous as an outdoor one, but it will create almost the same impressive display.