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When to Plant Celosia in Delaware

Celosia (Celosia argentea) encompasses the vivid cockscomb (cristata) and feathery plumed (plumosa) types that explode with color in summer heat. Drought-tolerant and disease-resistant, they thrive in the hottest parts of the season and produce long-lasting blooms both in the garden and as cut or dried flowers. A reliable filler in sunny annual beds.

Delaware spans USDA hardiness zones 7b (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

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Click your county for exact Celosia planting dates based on your local frost dates.

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Celosia Planting Calendar for Delaware

Zone 7b ~235 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 18 · First frost: November 8 · 235 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 18 Feb 18 – Mar 4
Transplant Outdoors March 18 Mar 18 – Apr 1
Direct Sow March 18 Mar 18 – Apr 8
Bloom May 20 May 20 – Sep 30

Growing Tips for Delaware

Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost, or direct-sow after soil warms above 60°F. Does not transplant well from large pots — sow in small cells or direct-sow. Needs full sun and warm soil; cold stress causes stunting. Pinch first bloom to encourage branching. Water at the base; wet foliage encourages fungal issues. Excellent dried flower — harvest before seeds set for the best color retention.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Celosia in Delaware?

Planting dates for Celosia in Delaware depend on your USDA zone. Delaware spans zones 7b. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Delaware for planting?

Delaware contains USDA hardiness zones 7b. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: June 2026.