Love in a mist 'African bride'

1100 seeds

How to Seed Love-in-a-Mist ‘African Bride’ (Nigella damascena)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when temperatures are between 15–25°C (59–77°F).

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as high Gulf temperatures and humidity reduce germination and cause weak growth.

   • For early flowers, sow again in late September to take advantage of the cool season.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep directly in the garden or pots.
   Cover lightly with fine soil and water gently to keep moist.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, light, and fertile soil enriched with compost.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% compost + 20% peat moss + 10% perlite.
   Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot in humid conditions.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 15–20°C (59–68°F).

   • Requires full sun for best flowering, but can tolerate light afternoon shade in the Gulf’s stronger sunlight.

   • Cooler winter days promote compact, healthy growth.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 10–20 days under mild, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting & Spacing:

   • Love-in-a-Mist prefers direct sowing since it dislikes root disturbance.

   • If started in trays, transplant very gently while young.

   • Space plants 20–25 cm apart to allow air circulation and full flower display.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Full winter sun with light afternoon shade during warmer days.

   • Watering: Water regularly but moderately — keep soil slightly moist, never soggy.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks to enhance blooms.

   • Maintenance:

     • Remove faded flowers to prolong blooming.

     • Allow some seed pods to dry on the plant if you want to collect seeds.

   • African Bride produces pure white flowers with contrasting dark centers, followed by decorative seed pods perfect for dry floral arrangements.

   • Flowers bloom from late winter to early summer in the Gulf.