Lobelia pendula 'Lilac'

7000 seeds

How to Seed Lobelia pendula ‘Lilac’

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors or in shaded nursery trays: From October to February, when daytime temperatures are 15–25°C (59–77°F).

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as high heat and humidity in the Gulf region can prevent germination and cause plant stress.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Lobelia seeds are very fine — do not cover them with soil.
   Gently press them onto the moist surface of fine soil or seed mix and mist lightly with water.

3. Soil:
   Prefers light, fertile, and well-drained soil with good organic content.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% peat moss + 30% garden soil + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   The soil should remain moist but airy to prevent damping-off disease.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 18–22°C (64–72°F).

   • Requires bright light or filtered sunlight for germination (do not place in dark areas).

   • In the Gulf, provide morning sun with partial shade during hot afternoons.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 14–21 days under consistent moisture and mild temperatures.

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings reach 5–7 cm tall, transplant carefully into pots, baskets, or garden beds.

   • Space plants 15–20 cm apart for trailing and full coverage.

   • Handle seedlings gently, as Lobelia roots are delicate.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves and fade flowers.

   • Watering: Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist — Lobelia does not tolerate drying out.

   • Feeding: Use a mild liquid fertilizer every 3–4 weeks to encourage lush flowering.

   • Maintenance: Pinch or trim back leggy stems to maintain compact growth and stimulate more blooms.

   • The ‘Lilac’ Lobelia produces soft lavender-lilac trailing flowers, perfect for hanging baskets, borders, and window boxes.

   • Blooms beautifully from late winter to early summer in the Gulf.