Lisianthus: Introduction to Its Place of Origin, Sowing Time and Germination Days

Lisianthus, also known as prairie gentian or Turkish gentian, has elegant and bright flower colors and a unique, lovely flower shape. It is one of the most popular types of potted flowers and cut flowers internationally. So, where is the place of origin of lisianthus? When should it be sown? How long does it take to germinate?

I. Where is the place of origin of lisianthus?

Lisianthus is native to the areas of Colorado, Nebraska, Texas and New Mexico in the United States. Starting in the 1970s, lisianthus began to become popular as a cut flower in places such as Japan and Korea.

II. When should lisianthus be sown? How long does it take to germinate?

Lisianthus is best sown indoors in pots in September-October or January-February. The seeds are very small and light-loving, so there is no need to cover them with soil. The suitable germination temperature is 22-25°C, and germination occurs 12-15 days after sowing. About half a month after germination, thin out or transplant the seedlings; the seedlings grow very slowly. From sowing to flowering takes 120-140 days, and cut-flower varieties take 150-180 days. In the seedling market, a small number of tissue-cultured seedlings and cuttings of lisianthus are also available.

III. How is lisianthus cultivated?

Lisianthus seedlings grow relatively slowly, so do not transplant them too deeply. When they have grown 4-5 true leaves, plant them in 10-15 cm pots. Use a potting soil made from leaf mold, garden soil and a small amount of decomposed organic fertilizer. In the early stage after planting, take care to keep the soil moist. In the middle stage of growth, gradually reduce the water supply to encourage the flower stems to become firm and upright. During the growing period, apply fertilizer once every half month; fully decomposed cake fertilizer water can be used. If a mid-season variety is used for pot cultivation, 20 days after planting spray the plants 2-3 times with a 0.03%-0.05% vitamin solution. For varieties with strong branching, pinch off the growing tips to encourage more branches and more flowers. High temperatures and long-day conditions can promote flower bud differentiation, achieving the goal of earlier flowering.