Here is a step-by-step guide for growing Vinca Magic Carpet plants from seeds in Indian climatic conditions:
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Start by selecting a location for your Vinca Magic Carpet plants that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Avoid areas with heavy winds or frost.
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Prepare the soil by mixing it with compost or well-rotted manure. The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic. You can also add vermicompost to improve the soil quality.
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Sow the Vinca Magic Carpet seeds directly in the ground or in seed trays. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. It's best to sow the seeds in the month of September-October.
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Water the seeds regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the seeds with a sprayer or watering can, so as not to disturb the seeds.
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Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, usually around 2-3 weeks, transplant them into individual pots or into the ground. Space the plants about 30 cm apart.
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Water the plants regularly, especially during the hot and dry months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Don't let the soil dry out completely.
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Fertilize the plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. You can use a water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20.
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Deadhead the plants regularly to encourage more blooms. Deadhead the flowers when they start to fade to promote more blooms.
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Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if necessary. Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.
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The plant will bloom in around 8-10 weeks after sowing. Vinca Magic Carpet produces an abundance of small, bright flowers. As it's a seasonal plant, it will die after blooming, so you have to re-sow the seeds every year for blooming.
Note: It's important to note that Vinca Magic Carpet prefers a warm climate, so it's best to grow them in the months of September-November and February-May. Avoid growing them during the monsoons and the extreme heat of the summer.