Common Name: Cape Forget-Me-Not, Summer Forget-Me-Not
Cold Stratification:
• Place seeds in moist sand or paper towel, seal in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 2–3 weeks at 35–40°F (1–4°C). Check weekly: If seedlings sprout in the fridge, remove them gently and plant immediately.
• Alternatively, sow seeds outdoors in late fall to allow natural winter stratification.
When to Sow:
Indoors:
• Sow seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost
Outdoors:
• Direct sow in early spring after danger of frost has passed
• Or sow in fall in milder climates
Light Requirements:
• Requires full sun for best flowering
• Will tolerate light afternoon shade in hot regions
Soil Requirements:
• Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil
• Adapts to poor or sandy soils
• pH range: 6.0–7.5
Sowing Instructions:
• Sow ⅛–¼ inch (3–6 mm) deep
• Lightly cover with soil and gently press down
• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy
• Ideal temperature for germination: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
• Germination occurs in 10–28 days
Watering:
• Keep moist during germination
• Once established, moderately drought-tolerant—water during prolonged dry periods
Spacing:
• Thin or transplant to 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) apart
Growing Tips:
• Produces stunning intense blue, star-shaped flowers on branching stems
• Excellent for borders, pollinator gardens, and cut flowers
• Blooms spring through summer
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming
• May self-seed under the right conditions
• Grown as an annual or short-lived perennial in Zones 6–9