Mina 'Spanish Flag'

65 seeds

How to Seed Mina ‘Spanish Flag’ (Mina lobata)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when daytime temperatures are mild (18–28°C / 64–82°F).

   • Indoors or nursery trays: From December to February for early transplanting before spring.

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as high Gulf heat reduces germination and causes weak flowering.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep in moist soil.
   Cover lightly and keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.

3. Soil:
   Prefers light, fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   Avoid heavy or clay soils that retain water.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F).

   • Provide bright light or full sun for vigorous growth.

   • In the Gulf, full morning sun and partial afternoon shade are ideal to protect from harsh midday heat.

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

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings are 8–10 cm tall, transplant carefully into large pots or garden beds near trellises or fences for climbing.

   • Space plants 30–40 cm apart to allow proper growth and air circulation.

   • Harden seedlings gradually before moving outdoors permanently.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full sun with light afternoon shade in hot regions.

   • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; water early morning or late evening.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during the growing season to promote lush foliage and vibrant blooms.

   • Support: Provide a trellis, arch, or fence for climbing — Mina is a vigorous vine.

   • Maintenance: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms.

   • The Mina ‘Spanish Flag’ produces beautiful cascading spikes of flowers that change color from red to orange, yellow, and cream — resembling a waving flag — ideal for trellises, balconies, and vertical gardens.

   • Blooms from late winter through early summer in the Gulf.