SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and press in lightly; requires light to germinate.
Seed To Bloom:
10-12 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Start indoors in sterile seed-starting mix in late winter, 10-12 weeks before last frost date. Cover with a light sprinkling of vermiculite to retain humidity until germination occurs. Keep at 70°F. Grow on cool until time to transplant out in spring
Starting Outdoors:
Not recommended.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Heirloom lobelia Mrs. Clibran was described as much in demand in the reporting of Clibran Nursery in England, circa 1903. It has the richest cobalt blue to purple petite blooms that may slow in flowering during the hottest part of summer, but picks up again in fall. This AGM award winner is easy to grow, add mulch but keep away from crown to keep the soil cool, deadhead as the flowering branches elongate and flowering starts to slow for flowers until mid-autumn. A brilliant choice for pots and windowboxes, seaside gardens, and garden edging. Site away from western exposure that receives hot sun in all but the most northern or coastal areas. Caution: toxic if ingested in significant amounts.
Watering Details:
At least 1" per week. Keep evenly moist, but not soggy, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil pH:
Most pH levels are tolerated.
Fertilizer:
Mix in 1-2" compost before planting. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer when establishing, then use flower fertilizer starting mid-summer.
Diseases & Pests:
Mostly trouble-free, but can get root and stem rots if soil stays saturated.
