Quail Grass Celosia argentea var. cristata (Plumosa Group) Kimono Series

Water

The cockscomb, which is what Celosia argentea var. cristata (Plumosa Group) Kimono Series is commonly known as, should be watered regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during its growing season in the warmer months. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, with about one to two gallons of water each time. Ensure the top inch of soil is dry before watering again to prevent overwatering. It is preferable to water the cockscomb deeply and less frequently rather than shallow and frequent watering, as it encourages deeper root growth and resilience.

Light

The cockscomb thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideal locations are spots where the plant can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in extremely hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from scorching. Placing the cockscomb where it can get adequate light will ensure the best growth and flower production.

Temperature

Cockscomb prefers warm temperatures and is quite sensitive to cold. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but anything lower than that, especially frost, can damage or kill the plant. Maximum temperatures that the cockscomb can withstand without distress typically go up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great plant for warm climates.

Pruning

Pruning the cockscomb isn't necessary for plant health, but it can encourage a bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Snip off the tips of the stems occasionally during the growing season to promote branching. Pruning is best done in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, can also encourage more flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Cock's comb prefers a well-draining, loamy soil mix with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand can create a suitable environment. Ensure the soil is fertile by adding compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer to nourish the plant throughout its growth period.

Repotting

Cock's comb does not usually require frequent repotting as it is often grown as an annual. If grown as a perennial in suitable climates, repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil is exhausted, every 2 to 3 years, using the soil mix specified for optimal growth.

Humidity & Misting

Cock's comb thrives in moderate to high humidity levels; aim for a humidity range between 40% to 70%. Avoid environments that are too dry, as this can impede the plant's growth and vitality.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with warm temps.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, after frost with moist, rich soil.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Celosia argentea var. cristata (Cockscomb) Kimono Series starts its life as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist soil within 1-2 weeks under ideal conditions. Once the seedling emerges, it will develop its first set of true leaves and continue to grow, given sufficient light and water. As it matures, the plant forms a distinctive rosette of foliage followed by bold, plume-like inflorescences that show off a range of vibrant colors; this flowering stage occurs in the summer and can last several weeks. After pollination, which can be facilitated by insects or wind, the plant will produce seeds within the spent flowers as the blooms fade. These seeds can be collected for future planting or allowed to drop to the ground to self-sow, thereby completing the lifecycle. During the winter or in unfavorable conditions, the plant will die, unless grown as a perennial in warm climates or managed with care in colder regions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating the Celosia argentea var. cristata, commonly known as the crested cock's comb, is through seeding. This ornamental plant is typically sown indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date to give it a head start. Seeds should be lightly covered with a fine layer of soil and kept moist in a warm spot, around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (approx. 21 to 24 degrees Celsius). They usually germinate within one to two weeks. Once seedlings emerge and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved to the garden after the risk of frost has passed. It's essential to acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions gradually through a process called hardening off before planting them in their final location.