How to Plant and Harvest Celosia

By Alisha Bredbrenner

Celosia comes in many forms but our favorite is Feather Celosia! The whimsical shape and texture provides a wonderful component to any garden or arrangement. We are lucky enough to receive gorgeous celosia from our growers, fresh cut for our arrangements. However, Celosia care in your garden is important! Here are some tips from planting to harvesting.

When to Plant Celosia Seeds

Start indoors 6-8 weeks before your final frost date, using a seed starting mix or kit.

Where to Plant Celosia Seeds

Celosia does it's best when it's planted in full sun. Rich, well-draining, moist soil - with lots of compost, are the best conditions for this plant.

How to Plant Celosia Seeds

Celosia seeds require light to germinate, so be careful not to cover them when planting.

Sow seeds directly onto the surface of your seed starting formula, but do not cover, they need light to germinate. Keep temperatures at a consistent 70-75° F and sprouts will emerge in 7-10 days. When seedlings emerge, ensure they get plenty of sunlight - thinning to 1 seedling per cell when they develop two leaves. Do not transplant to the garden until well after the final frost: above 65° F during the day and 50° F at night, otherwise, you'll experience stunted growth. Space about 9-12 inches apart.

How to Care for Celosia

Keep Celosia well watered, especially during dry period without natural rainfall. Pinching back the first bloom will encourage branching and bushier growth. Remove the plants after they die back in the fall.