The eustoma, which is still known under thisname, like an Irish rose, came to us from the southern regions of North America. The plant has won the love of many people thanks to its large simple flowers of various colors, as well as the gray leaves that are covered with wax. Its popularity is connected 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 the middle of July to October. First, the stem begins to branch in the central part, after which about 30 buds are formed on each of the branches. Then the plant turns into a kind of bouquet. The flowering of one eustoma, cultivated on its own, lasts an average of two months. If you cut it to the root, then it will grow again, after which it will rejoice with its brightness. The diameter of the flowers in this plant is 7-8 cm. Their coloration is violet, lilac, white, pink, sometimes with a multicolored border. In the half-dissolved state, the flowers resemble rosebuds, and when they are completely dissolved, 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,which is bred eustoma - growing out of seeds. The fact is that the plant very badly tolerates any violations of the root system, so attempts to divide the bush will lead to failure. Moreover, the cuttings will not take root. Seeds of these flowers are planted in the middle of winter, because flowering begins about the fifteenth week after the first shoots appear. Seeding of seedlings is best done in disposable plastic cups filled with peaty moist soil. In this case, it is recommended to put several seeds in each of them. Then they are placed under the cellophane, which will provide a greenhouse effect. In the first two months the seedlings need diffuse bright light. This will ensure their compact growth.
In February, glasses with seeds of such a plant,as an eustoma, growing of which is made at home, it is necessary to move to the window sill. When the first spring sun rays appear, the rate of plant development will increase. The optimum temperature for seeding the eustoma grows from 20 to 25 degrees, and the first shoots break out of the ground in two weeks. Until this time, the seedlings are practically not watered.
Eustoma, the cultivation of which isalone, needs moderate watering. After the seedlings are rooted, it is desirable to feed the soil with mineral fertilizers of high quality, intended for flowers. Very soon after pollination in the capsule a large number of seeds are formed, characterized by good germination. In the second generation, the flowers of the eustoma 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 the wintering, the eustome is transplanted into a pot, which is placed in a bright cool room, and in spring is returned to the place.
