How To Grow Morning Glory From Seeds
Morning glory seeds are the small, hard-shelled seeds of the morning glory flower. These seeds come in various colors and are known for their beautiful blooms and heart-shaped leaves. Morning glory seeds are commonly used for gardening and landscaping purposes.
How to Plant Morning Glory Seeds?
Planting morning glory seeds is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps to grow your own morning glory plants:
- Plant seeds outdoors after the last frost once the ground has warmed to about 64°F (18°C). Choose a sunny location in your garden or a large pot.
- Or start the seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost in your area.
- Plant in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and loosening it with a garden fork.
- Choose a site that is sheltered from strong, drying winds.
- Seeds can be slightly chipped and soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting to help with germination. Germination rates are improved by filing down the seeds just enough to break the coat. This encourages them to send out a root (it looks like a little worm).
- Or soak seed in a half water and half hydrogen peroxide 24 hours before planting.
- Cover lightly with ¼-inch of soil. Space seeds about 6 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly at planting and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Then, water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Seedlings should appear in about 7-21 days.
- Give them a fence, lattice, or trellis to climb.
- Enjoy the beautiful morning glory flowers as they bloom
Benefits of Morning Glory Seeds
Morning glory seeds offer several benefits:
- Ornamental Beauty: Morning glory flowers add a touch of beauty to any garden with their vibrant colors and unique shapes.
- Attract Pollinators: The flowers of morning glory plants attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which help with pollination.
- Low Maintenance: Morning glory plants are relatively easy to grow and require minimal care.
- Fast Growth: With the right conditions, morning glory plants can grow quickly and provide a lush green backdrop in your garden.
- Self-Seeding: Morning glory plants can self-seed, meaning they will come back year after year without the need for replanting.
Precautions and Considerations
While morning glory seeds have many benefits, it's important to be aware of the following precautions:
- Invasive Potential: Morning glory plants can be invasive in some regions, so it's important to check with your local gardening authorities before planting them.
- Seed Toxicity: Morning glory seeds contain alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Keep them away from children and pets.
- Skin Irritation: Some individuals may experience skin irritation when handling morning glory plants. It's recommended to wear gloves while gardening.
By following these planting tips and precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of morning glory flowers in your own garden. Happy gardening!
