Tithonia Mix Seeds

General information about Tithonia Mixed Seeds

• No. of Seeds: Approx. 25 to 30 Seeds
• Sowing: Spring
• Germination: 7-14 days
• Harvest in: 8-10 weeks

What’s in the Box

• Tithonia Mixed Seeds
• Sowing instructions printed on backside of Seed Packet
• Recyclable Pouch

Introduction

Transform your garden into a vibrant haven with our premium Tithonia Flower Seeds! Known for their striking orange and red hues, these easy-to-grow seeds promise to add a burst of color and natural beauty to your outdoor space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, our Tithonia Flower Seeds are perfect for creating eye-catching borders, attracting pollinators, and enhancing your garden’s overall appeal. With a high germination rate and low maintenance requirements, these seeds are a must-have for any gardening enthusiast. Elevate your gardening experience and bring the warmth of Tithonia blooms to your home. Shop now for a garden that blooms with life!

Tithonia, commonly known as Mexican Sunflower, is a vibrant and easy-to-grow annual flower.

Guide to the Germination Process, Soil & Fertilizer, Watering & Pest Control Requirements for Tithonia Mixed Seeds:

▶ Seeds Germination Process

• Seed Selection and Preparation: Tithonia seeds benefit from scarification to improve germination rates. You can lightly sand the seeds or soak them in warm water for about 12-24 hours before planting to help break down the seed coat.
• Soil Preparation: Use a well-draining seed-starting mix or a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand. Tithonia seeds do not require overly rich soil. Tithonia prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Planting: Use seed trays or small pots filled with the prepared soil mix. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep. Tithonia seeds need light to germinate, so don’t bury them too deep. Space the seeds about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) apart to give each seedling enough room to grow.
• Watering: Water the soil gently to moisten it without making it soggy. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water as needed to keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Temperature: Maintain a temperature of 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal germination. Tithonia seeds require warmth to sprout.
• Light: Place the seed trays in a bright location or under grow lights. The seeds need light to germinate, so ensure they receive adequate light exposure.
• Germination Time: Tithonia seeds typically take 7-14 days to germinate, depending on temperature and moisture conditions.

▶ Soil & Fertilizer Requirement

• Soil Requirements
• Soil Type: Tithonia prefers well-draining soil. Sandy loam or loamy soil mixed with organic matter is ideal. Avoid heavy clay or poorly drained soil. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand can provide good drainage and aeration.
• Soil pH: Tithonia grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. You can test your soil pH using a home test kit or send a sample to a local extension service.
• Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and fertility. This also helps with moisture retention and provides essential nutrients.
• Fertilizer Requirements
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formulation. Tithonia benefits from balanced nutrition to support vigorous growth and blooming. Organic fertilizers like compost, fish emulsion, or seaweed extract can be used to provide nutrients and improve soil health.
• Application Rate: Excessive fertilizer can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.
• Timing: Mix compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting to ensure nutrients are available to the plants as they establish. Apply additional fertilizer once a month during the growing season, particularly during the active growth and blooming periods.
• Application Methods: If using granular fertilizer, apply it evenly around the base of the plant and lightly work it into the soil. For liquid fertilizers, follow the recommended dilution rates and apply it directly to the soil around the plants or as a foliar feed.
• Avoid Over-Fertilization: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can lead to excessive leaf growth with fewer blooms. A balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer is better for promoting flowering.

▶ Watering Requirement

• Frequency: Water newly planted Tithonia regularly to help establish their root systems. This typically means watering every few days to keep the soil consistently moist. Once established, Tithonia generally requires watering about once a week. However, this can vary based on weather conditions and soil type.
• Watering Technique: Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. This means applying enough water so that it reaches the root zone, which helps the plants develop a strong and resilient root system. Water at the base of the plants rather than from above. Overhead watering can increase the risk of fungal diseases by keeping the foliage wet.
• Soil Moisture: Tithonia prefers well-draining soil that remains moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Check soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil; if the top inch is dry, it’s time to water. Ensure that the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other problems. Good drainage is crucial for healthy Tithonia plants.
• Adjustments Based on Conditions: Increase watering frequency during very hot or dry periods. Tithonia can tolerate some drought, but consistent moisture supports optimal growth and flowering. Reduce watering if there has been significant rainfall. Overwatering in such conditions can cause issues with soil drainage and root health.
• Container Plants: Tithonia plants grown in containers may need more frequent watering than those planted in the ground, as containers dry out faster. Check the moisture level daily and water as needed. Ensure containers have proper drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.

▶ Pest Control Requirement

• Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth, buds, and undersides of leaves. They may cause curling or distortion of leaves. Introduce ladybugs or lacewings, which feed on aphids.
  • Control: Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to affected areas. A strong spray of water can dislodge aphids from plants.
• Spider Mites: Tiny, spider-like pests that create fine webbing on the underside of leaves. They cause a stippled appearance on leaves.
  • Control: Increase humidity around the plants by misting or using a humidity tray. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Whiteflies: Small, white, winged insects that fly up in clouds when disturbed. They feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and leaf drop.
  • Control: Use yellow sticky traps to catch adults.
    • Insecticidal Soap: Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
    • Natural Predators: Encourage or introduce natural enemies like parasitic wasps.
• Cutworms: Caterpillars that cut off young plants at soil level.
  • Physical Barriers: Place collars around the base of young plants to prevent cutworms from reaching them.
  • Handpicking: Inspect the soil and remove cutworms by hand.
• Leafhoppers: Small, wedge-shaped insects that cause leaf curling, yellowing, and may transmit plant diseases.
  • Control:
    • Insecticidal Soap: Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
    • Row Covers: Use row covers to protect plants from leafhoppers.