Photo Copyright © by
Amy J. Clark HadenLight:
Full Sun
Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile, loose
Planting Depth: Approximately 1/2 inch deep
Days To Germination: Approximately one week to ten days
Even though moonflowers bloom during the night, they still
require at least six hours of full sunlight per day to produce blooms. The seeds can
be started either indoors or out depending upon climate. In cooler regions it is
recommended to start them indoors at least six to eight weeks before outdoor planting
would normally begin. This ensures a good head start to the normal growing
season. If you don't know the frost dates for your area you can check them
out at Virtual Gardener by
going to the "regional gardener" section and then to "find your frost
date".
Whether planting outdoors or starting them indoors in pots,
it is recommended to lightly nick the seed's outer shell. Using a fingernail file or
sharp serrated knife, nick the seed's shell while holding each individual seed with a pair of
tweezers or pliers. Once the seed coat is nicked,
soak the seeds overnight in warm water and plant them the following day.
If starting the seeds indoors, use a good commercial seed starting
or potting mix. It is preferable to keep them under grow-lights for at least 14
hours per day but if this isn't feasible then a bright warm windowsill will also do.
Moonflowers cannot take cold so make sure that wherever you start them that
they will not be subjected to cold soil temperatures which can cause rotting
or stunted growth.
Unlike it's cousin the morning glory which prefers poor soil to
grow the most impressive flowers, moonflowers thrive in rich fertile soil that has plenty of
moisture. Adding compost to the area moonflowers are to grow in outside is a good
way to achieve this. Compost also helps keep the soil loose which
encourages root growth. Commercial fertilizers will also do if compost is not
available. As always when using commercial fertilizers, follow
manufacturer's instructions.
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