Cockscomb Sowing Time and Potted Planting Methods

Cockscomb, also known as cockscomb flower, reed cockscomb, laolaihong, small-head cockscomb, and pen cockscomb, is an ornamental flower whose shape resembles a rooster's comb. Its flowers are relatively large and come in a rich range of colors, and its flowering season is in summer. Cockscomb is generally seen planted along roadsides or in parks, and now some friends also grow it in pots at home. When it blooms, it not only decorates the environment but also purifies the air. So when should cockscomb be sown? How do you grow it in pots?

I. When should cockscomb be sown?

Cockscomb can be propagated by cuttings, sowing, and other methods, but sowing is generally the most common way to propagate it. For open-field cultivation, April to May or August to October is usually chosen, mainly depending on the growing temperature for cockscomb. At 20-25°C, the germination rate of cockscomb is higher. Of course, to have flowers for a holiday such as National Day, we can delay sowing by one month, no later than June, and then we can enjoy cockscomb blooms at National Day.

Of course, with the development of growing techniques today, greenhouse flowers have become popular. With this method, sowing time is generally not restricted, as long as the indoor temperature can reach its growing temperature. However, we still recommend choosing spring or autumn for sowing to prevent difficulties in care.

Cockscomb seeds are relatively small. Before sowing, soak them in cold water for a week, then sow them, and they can be mixed with sand and mud and scattered together in the potting soil. For potted planting, pay attention to the thickness of the soil covering, generally using the standard that the seeds are no longer visible. Here, choose the pot size according to the size of the plant to increase its ornamental appeal.

II. How do you grow potted cockscomb?

1. Cockscomb has low soil requirements

Even though cockscomb has few requirements for soil, for the sake of its ornamental value, we should mainly choose acidic soil with good drainage, good aeration, and relative fertility. Generally, sand, wood shavings, and the like can be mixed in, which is more favorable for the growth of cockscomb. Remember, if you want good blooming and blooming on schedule, you must choose a soil type suitable for its growth.

2. Watering requires attention to technique

For cockscomb to bloom brightly, it must have sufficient water, but watering also requires technique. If you water too much and it cannot absorb it, root rot will result. At first, the leaves turn yellow and fall off, and gradually the whole plant dies. If water is lacking for a long time, the plant stays relatively small, is difficult to bloom, and the leaves are pale in color, and it will slowly die from lack of water as well. Therefore, watering must follow the principle of watering when dry and stopping when wet, decided according to the season and the moisture level of the potting soil. Reduce watering in winter, while in summer you can appropriately increase the number of waterings, and you can also increase air humidity by spraying water around the leaves, which has a cooling effect.

3. Suitable growing temperature and light

Cockscomb is a plant that likes warmth and light. Generally, 15-30°C is most suitable for its growth, so special attention must be paid to care in summer and winter. If the temperature is too high, the whole plant will lack water and get sunburned; if the temperature is too low, the whole plant will grow slowly and is also prone to dying.

If cockscomb is kept in a dark, damp room for a long time, it is not only prone to pests, but the lack of light will also affect plant size and flowering time. It must receive enough light every day so that its growth is not affected. If it is summer, it must be properly shaded, and at noon it should be moved indoors.

4. Appropriate topdressing is needed

In the soil for planting cockscomb, in addition to applying sufficient base fertilizer, a little organic fertilizer can also be added, but do not let it directly touch the roots. At the same time, during the vigorous growth period, appropriate topdressing can be applied, such as adding a certain amount of compound fertilizer, to promptly supplement trace elements. In this way, the leaves will not only be emerald green, but the plant will also bloom on schedule.

In summary, cockscomb is generally suitable for sowing in spring or autumn, but to coincide with holidays it can be sown earlier, as long as its growing temperature is reached. When growing cockscomb, be sure to pay attention to growing conditions such as soil, temperature, light, fertilizer, and water, so that you can grow beautiful cockscomb.