Eustoma, which is also known by the name of the Irish rose, came to us from the southern regions of North America. The plant won the love of many people thanks to its large, simple flowers of various colors, as well as the gray leaves, which seem to be covered with wax. Its popularity is associated with such characteristics as excellent decorative qualities. Cut flowers for a long time do not lose their appearance.
Eustoma, cultivated in the garden, blooms from mid-July to October. First, the stem begins to branch in the central part, after which about 30 buds are formed on each branch. Then the plant turns into a kind of bouquet. The flowering of one eustoma, the cultivation of which is done on its own, lasts an average of two months. If you cut it to the root, then it will begin to grow again, after which it will again appreciate its brightness. The diameter of the flowers of this plant is 7-8 cm. Their color is purple, lilac, white, pink, sometimes with a multi-colored border. In a half-bloomed state, the flowers resemble rosebuds, and when they bloom completely, they become like a large poppy. The stems of the plant are quite strong and reach a height of 90 cm.
The most reliable and, in fact, the only way that eustoma is bred is to grow from seeds. The fact is that the plant does not tolerate any violations of the root system, so attempts to divide the bush will lead to failure. Moreover, cuttings do not take root. The seeds of these flowers are planted in the middle of winter, because the flowering begins around the fifteenth week after the first shoots appear. Sowing seedlings is best done in disposable plastic cups filled with wet peat. At the same time, it is recommended to put several seeds in each of them. Then they are placed under cellophane, which will provide a greenhouse effect. In the first two months, seedlings need diffused bright light. This will ensure their compact growth.
In February, cups with seeds of a plant such as eustoma, which is grown at home, must be moved to the windowsill. When the first spring sun rays appear, the rate of plant development will increase. The optimum temperature for the seeds of eustoma to sprout is from 20 to 25 degrees, and the first seedlings make their way out of the ground after two weeks. Until this time, seedlings are practically not watered.
Eustoma, which is grown in the garden, is transferred to a permanent place approximately in mid-May. A signal for this is the formation of adult leaflets in an amount of four to eight. The landing process is best done in the evening. As for the location on the site, the plant prefers a sunny place. In terms of soil, the ideal option for it is, without a doubt, chernozem.
Eustoma, which is grown independently, needs moderate watering. After the seedlings take root, it is advisable to feed the soil with high-quality mineral fertilizers intended for flowers. Very soon after pollination in boxes, a large number of seeds are formed, characterized by good germination. In the second generation, eustoma flowers will be very similar to their parents, and in the third and further they will have their own distinctive features. When growing this plant, do not forget about the prevention of diseases, for which it is sprayed with fungicides. As for wintering, the eustoma is transplanted into a pot, which is placed in a bright, cool room, and returned to its place in spring.