Eustoma - growing from seeds

Let's take a closer look at this wonderful plant called eustoma, also known as Spanish rose. It's a delicate, beautiful flower that delights with its vibrant blooms. So, let's look at eustoma: growing from seeds indoors, how and when to sow, and other ways to propagate it.

With proper care, eustoma can grow for 2 to 3 years without repotting. It can be grown in offices and residential spaces, conservatories, on insulated balconies, and outdoors in flowerbeds, rose gardens, and gardens. With proper pruning, the bush acquires an exceptionally beautiful crown. The variety of colors allows for a wide variety of flowerbed arrangements. Flowers can also be grown for cut flowers, creating magnificent, colorful, and delicate bouquets.

Reproduction

Eustoma is propagated either by sowing in the spring or by root division in the fall. It goes on sale in June and July, when the buds begin to appear. These plants can be planted directly in the ground, and will continue to bloom until frost. Repeat blooming can be achieved by moving them to a greenhouse or conservatory.
See also: How to grow petunias.

Growing seedlings yourself

Eustoma prefers soil with a high humus content; perlite can be added, with a pH of 6.5-7.0. There are cases where seedlings were grown only in vermiculite, without soil or fertilizer. Seeds are sown in the spring (February-March), not covered, but lightly pressed with a wooden stick. Then, moisten and cover with glass or plastic wrap.

Maintain a temperature of 20-25°C. Spray the seeds and ventilate them daily (you can poke holes in the film), and moisten the substrate. Be sure to check—if the soil is still wet, do not moisten it. Remove the glass or film when the first cotyledon leaves appear.

When three true leaves emerge (approximately 10 weeks), the seedlings are transplanted into separate containers. Care must be taken to ensure the roots are contained within the soil and undamaged. Eustoma is a sun-loving plant, and its seedlings are grown under a grow light. After transplanting, the temperature is reduced to 16-20 degrees Celsius.

Pricking out is another method of growing from seeds. This is done when the seedlings reach approximately 2.5 centimeters. Take a bunch of 3-5 seedlings and transplant them into a 5-centimeter diameter peat pot. For the first five days, keep the seedlings in the shade and water them generously. Transplanting occurs when the sprouts reach 10 centimeters.

Care

The plant should be shaded from the scorching sun, although a little direct sunlight won't hurt. Eustoma requires ample watering, misting it daily, but avoiding moisture on the flowers and buds. Fertilizing should be done weekly.
It's important to maintain a consistent watering schedule. Water after checking to see if the soil is dry. The soil for eustoma should be well-drained, nutritious, and loose, with some sand and peat added. If the soil is slightly acidic, add ash or lime. If these conditions are met, the plant will grow quickly and bloom profusely. Remove faded flower buds. A few buds can be left to produce seeds. The seeds are dried and used the following year (hybrids are an exception).

Possible pests and diseases

Eustoma is rarely attacked by pests and is relatively resistant to diseases. Problems that may occur include aphids, leaf miners, and whiteflies. Overwatering and cold conditions can lead to gray mold.
See also: Tomatoes for open ground in the Moscow region without pinching.