How to Grow Cockscomb (Celosia)

For a splash of color, it's hard to beat cockscomb. Available in a range of brilliant, sunset colors, this annual (grows just one year) grows 10 inches to 3 feet and comes either in an attractive form with a graceful plumelike flower, or in a rather bizarre but interesting shape that looks a little like a brain.

Things You'll Need

• Garden Spades
• Seeds
• Plants
• Fertilizers
• Watering Cans
• Garden Trowels

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Check with your local nursery for seedlings, which are widely available. Cockscomb is easy to start from seed, too.

   • 2

     Plant seedlings 8 inches apart in full sun and well-drained soil.

   • 3

     Plant seeds indoors six to eight weeks before your region's last frost, then plant outdoors 8 inches apart.

   • 4

     Keep soil moist. Cockscomb does best in hot, slightly dry conditions, but will wilt if overly dry. Avoid wetting the flowers or leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

   • 5

     Fertilize every four weeks or so. Cockscomb benefits from regular fertilizing.

   • 6

     Pull out and discard in fall, once frost kills these plants.