The castor oil plant is also called a palm tree because of its palmately lobed leaves. Many flower enthusiasts who saw it immediately wanted to add it to their gardens, but not everyone knows how to plant castor oil plants: growing from seed, when to plant. Some don't even know its name, which, incidentally, is not given to it by chance: its seeds resemble actual mites.
This plant was discovered in Africa, where it's considered a perennial. Our climate here isn't quite like that, so it's an annual plant that grows up to three meters tall. Although it's relatively easy to grow, it does require some attention. It should be planted in full sun, as it's native to warmer climates. Plant it in the second half of May, as it's sensitive to any cold snap. It's best to plant it in black soil and light soil, which will help it grow faster and become stronger. It's best to plant the castor bean outdoors in April; within a season, the small seedling will grow into a mature plant that will produce good, fertile seeds, which are arranged in several seeds per small ball.
Plant the seeds individually, at a depth of up to 3 cm. The seeds themselves take a long time to germinate because they have a very strong protective seed coat. Germination can be accelerated by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper and soaking them in water for 12 hours. Seedlings should appear in 4-5 days. Seedlings grow very quickly and rapidly, so keep an eye on the temperature; it should be at least 15 degrees Celsius, or the plant will stop growing.
To plant the plant in the ground, water it thoroughly first so you can easily remove it from the pot along with the soil. Replant the plant only after all spring frosts have passed and the seedling has died; then all your efforts will have been in vain.
Castor oil plants can also be planted in the soil using seeds, but only after the last frost has passed. Try to plant 3-4 seeds per hole, as only about 6 out of 10 seeds will sprout. However, it's possible that the seeds won't be able to break through the protective film and will begin to rot.
Castor oil plants don't require much care, so the only important part is watering regularly, as they will be actively growing and will need moisture. Don't forget to feed them with a nitrogen solution, especially when they're at their peak and need to gain strength and vitality.
The most important thing to remember is that when you plant the seeds, don't leave them in plain sight, as someone in your household might take them. Castor oil plant seeds are poisonous, and it only takes about 6 seeds for a child to be fatally poisoned, and 20 for an adult. Be sure to wash your hands with soap after planting, or better yet, wear gloves, and carefully inspect the area where you worked, as you could accidentally drop a seed.
There are now many varieties of castor oil plants, and it's very difficult to choose, since the most important thing is growth. For this purpose, a list of varieties and plant growth is provided:
Castor oil plant grows up to 1.5 meters,
Castor oil plant grows up to 3 meters,
Zanzibar castor oil plant grows up to 2 meters,
Castor oil plant grows up to 1.3 meters,
Castor oil plant Gibson grows up to 1.5 meters.
This article has taught you a lot about the castor oil plant, and now you can confidently plant it in your flowerbed or garden. Let your imagination run wild and create floral masterpieces that your friends and family will admire. Create your own color scheme that will delight you and lift your spirits.
Castor oil plant will go well in your flowerbed with a plant such as kochia.