A Central European winter is far too cold for a plume, so the colorful flower is usually cultivated once a year. In fact, a Celosia thrives in its tropical home for several years. Reason enough to try hibernation. This guide explains how to do it.

The plume does not like cold at all

Celosia shivers from 10 degrees Celsius

When the night-time temperatures regularly fall below 10 degrees Celsius in autumn, it gets too cold for your plume on the balcony. A Celosia can only endure the minimum temperature of 5 degrees Celsius for a short time. So put the summer flower away in good time. The winter quarters should be like this:

  • At normal room temperatures, in a window seat that is as bright as possible and not in full sun
  • Alternatively at a cool 12-14 degrees Celsius in a partially shaded, not permanently dark location

If space allows, give your plume a breather in the cool place. The plant will be all the more vital and willing to bloom next season.

How to care for the plume in the winter quarters

The exact light and temperature conditions determine the rhythm of the water and nutrient supply during the winter period. Check regularly with your finger whether the surface of the substrate has dried and whether there is a need for watering. Flowering continues in a warm location, so you can fertilize with liquid every 4 weeks. Please clean the withered flowers as soon as possible to spare your Celosia the exhausting seed growth.

As part of a cool, low-light hibernation, the plume sheds its leaves and stops flowering. In this case, remove all plant parts that have been drawn in. In addition, the plant does not receive fertilizer until March. At the beginning of April, get the plant used to a brighter location and normal room temperatures. At the same time, you resume the nutrient supply.

tips

The colorful inflorescences of a plume are excellent for drying. When the summer flower is in full bloom, pick off the prettiest stalks and tie them into small bouquets. Hung upside down in a dark, airy place, the plume flowers dry within 10 to 14 days.

Category:

Herbs