Silene Mix

🔍 About Silene Mix

• Type: Annual, biennial, or perennial depending on species (e.g., Silene armeria is annual; Silene dioica is perennial)

• Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm), varies by species

• Bloom Time: Late spring through summer

• Light: Full sun to part shade

• Soil: Well-draining, average soil

📅 1. When to Sow

• Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before last frost

• Outdoors:

  • Spring: After last frost

  • Fall: In milder climates or for natural stratification

🌱 2. Starting Seeds Indoors

• Containers: Seed trays or small pots

• Soil: Well-draining seed-starting mix

• Sowing Depth: Lightly press seeds onto the soil surface; do not cover heavily, as they need light to germinate

• Water: Mist gently to keep the surface moist

🌡️ 3. Germination Conditions

• Temperature: 65–70°F (18–21°C)

• Light: Bright indirect light or grow lights

• Time: Germinates in 10–20 days

🌿 4. After Germination

• Remove humidity cover

• Water when the soil surface begins to dry

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

• Harden off before transplanting outdoors

🌷 5. Transplanting Outdoors

• Timing: After the last frost

• Spacing: 8–12 inches apart (depends on variety)

• Location: Sunny spot with well-drained soil

🌼 6. Direct Sowing Outdoors

• When: After frost in spring or in fall

• How:

  • Sow on the soil surface or very lightly cover

  • Keep moist until germination

  • Thin once established

📌 Extra Tips

• Some perennial Silene types may benefit from cold stratification (refrigerate seeds in moist paper towel for 2–4 weeks before sowing).

• Silene is drought-tolerant once established.

• Deadheading encourages more blooms, especially for annual species.

• Good for wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, and rock gardens.