Eustoma is a beautiful plant whose unblown inflorescences resemble roses. Its biological name is lisianthus. Under favorable conditions in open ground, the stem can reach a height of 1 m or more. It can only be grown from seed, as other propagation methods are impossible due to its fragile root system. The process is painstaking and time-consuming. To ensure the plant begins to bloom as early as possible, the seeds should be planted in the fall.
Necessary conditions for eustoma
The plant requires neutrally acidic soil with high fertility. Lime can reduce acidity. You can prepare your own substrate by mixing peat, sand, and compost in a 1:1:1 ratio. Regular application of fertilizers containing nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus is necessary. When planted outdoors, lisianthus requires a sunny, sheltered location.
Lisianthus thrives on warmth, so it needs protective cover when temperatures drop. Water should not be cold. Ideally, use settled water. Water moderately; excess moisture will lead to plant diseases. Regular fungicide treatments are recommended for disease prevention. The large-flowered variety is suitable for the garden. Lisianthus height, flower shape, and color vary depending on the variety. The following series are the most popular:
- Flamenco;
- The Little Mermaid;
- Kyoto;
- Echo;
- Mariachi;
- Florida;
- Madge.
How to sow seeds
Before sowing, the soil should be disinfected with a potassium permanganate solution. The growing container should be sterile. For the seeds, use a shallow container. Spread the soil in it and lightly moisten it with a spray bottle. Space the seeds at least 2 cm apart, leaving about 3 cm between rows. There's no need to cover them with soil. Spray with water again. Then cover with plastic wrap, leaving a ventilation hole. Periodically, if a large amount of condensation accumulates, open the container and remove the excess moisture.
You may be interested in:Lisianthus requires long days of at least 16 hours per day. Therefore, after sowing the seeds, place a light source about 30 cm above the container. The plant is heat-loving, with an optimal growing temperature of 22°C (72°F), and at least 18°C (64°F) at night. With proper sowing and care, the first shoots appear in 10-14 days. Watering should be regular and moderate. After a couple of leaves appear, transplant the seedling into a deeper pot. When transplanting, it's important not to damage the root system, so plant with the soil still on the roots. At this stage, apply a fungicide, and fertilize after 7 days.
Planting in open ground
Planting in the garden is possible when the eustoma has grown eight leaves. Before this, the plant must be gradually hardened off. Transplanting into open ground is only possible when the weather is consistently warm. Nighttime temperatures should not fall below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Cold is harmful to the plant. The site should be weed-free and sunny. Fertilize before planting. It is important to retain the old soil on the roots. Space the seedlings at least 20 cm apart.
You may be interested in:Continue watering when the top layer of soil dries. It's important to protect the leaves from moisture to prevent fungal infections. To stimulate growth, pinching after the first eight leaves appear is recommended. Fertilizing with potassium and nitrogen strengthens the root system and promotes vigorous growth. When grown properly, lisianthus will begin to bloom 5-7 months after sowing. Faded blooms should be removed regularly. As the shoot grows, it should be tied to a support.
Eustoma, also known as the thornless rose, is demanding. growing a flower from seeds Lisianthus requires careful care, warmth, and sufficient light. To ensure summer blooms, sow the seeds in the fall. Planting outdoors is possible after warm weather sets in. The plant should overwinter in a pot indoors.