Golden Yellow Lupine

20 Seeds

🌱 Seeding Steps for Golden Yellow Lupine

1. When to Sow

• Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before last expected frost (best for cooler climates).

• Outdoors: Direct sow in early spring or late fall (fall sowing works well in mild climates as seeds benefit from natural stratification).

2. Supplies Needed

• Lupine seeds (Golden Yellow)

• Seed trays or small pots (if starting indoors)

• Sterile, well-draining seed-starting mix

• Sandpaper or nail file (for scarification)

• Water

• Spray bottle or fine watering can

3. Seed Prep (Important!)

Lupine seeds have a hard seed coat, so preparation is crucial:

👉 Option 1: Scarification + Soaking

1. Lightly nick or rub each seed with sandpaper or a nail file — just enough to break the outer coat slightly.

2. Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours to speed germination.

4. Sowing Instructions

• Depth: Sow seeds ¼–½ inch (0.6–1.3 cm) deep.

• Spacing (if direct sowing): 6–12 inches apart, depending on mature plant size.

• Indoor trays: Use individual cells or small pots to avoid root disturbance later.

5. Germination Conditions

• Temperature: 15–21°C (59–70°F)

• Moisture: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Germination time: 14–21 days, sometimes longer if not scarified properly

• Light: Not essential for germination, but seedlings need full light after emerging.

6. After Germination

• Thin or transplant when seedlings have 2–3 sets of true leaves.

• Handle gently — lupines dislike root disturbance.

• If in trays, transplant into larger pots until ready for garden planting.

7. Hardening Off

• Begin 7–10 days before planting out.

• Gradually introduce seedlings to full sun, wind, and outdoor conditions.

8. Transplanting Outdoors

• Timing: After last frost and when soil has warmed slightly.

• Location: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0); poor soils are fine—avoid rich, high-nitrogen soils.

• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart

• Watering: Water regularly but avoid soggy soil.

🌼 Bloom Time & Notes

• First blooms: ~12–14 weeks after sowing (faster in optimal conditions)

• Deadhead for prolonged bloom period (if annual)

• May self-seed in favorable conditions