Celosia 'Castle series' (common name)

Plant family: Amaranthaceae

Genus: Celosia

Species: plumosa 

Cultivar: castle series

200 mg packet

Plant type: Annual

Colors: Orange

Bloom time: Spring - fall

Texture: Medium

Growth rate: Medium

Height: 12" - 24"

Width: 4" - 18"

Light requirements: Full sun

Soil needs: Consistently moist, moderately fertile, well drained, rich soil with a ph of 5.5-7.0.

Care: Plant established plants 12" - 18" apart. Root stimulator will encourage quicker rooting and stronger root system. Use a slow release fertilizer at planting time or begin using water-soluble fertilizer at planting time and continue to use every 3 weeks throughout the growing season. Apply 3 inches of vegetative mulch around plants in summer to help retain soil moisture. Dead head to keep plants neat and prevent self seeding. Remove plant after first frost.

Pests and diseases: Spider Mites, Fungal Leaf Spot, Root and Stem Rot.

Propagation: Sow seeds directly into garden in the fall or sow indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to last frost. Sprinkle seeds over soil mix and cover to a depth of 1/8". Thoroughly moisten soil and keep moist throughout germination. Soil should not be soggy.  Transplant to garden when all danger of frost is gone. Six week old seedlings will bloom in about 2 months.