Seed Treatment
COLD STRATIFICATION:
- Moisten a paper towel or small amount of vermiculite.
- Place the seeds inside and seal them in a plastic zip bag. Refrigerate for 2–4 weeks.
- Check weekly for early sprouts—? if any seedlings emerge, remove them from the bag immediately and plant them in soil.
Germination Conditions
- Maximum Germination Time: Up to 28 days
- Optimal Temperature: 15–20°C (59–68°F)
- Light Requirement: Seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil. Gently press them onto the surface of moist soil or seed-starting mix.
Sowing Instructions
- Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost.
- Outdoors: Sow in late spring or early fall.
Steps:
- Fill a seed tray or small pots with fine, well-drained seed-starting mix.
- Mist the soil to moisten it.
- Sprinkle the stratified seeds on the surface.
- Lightly press them down without covering.
- Mist gently and keep moist but not soggy.
Post-Germination Care
- Light: Provide bright indirect light indoors or full sun outdoors.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist—avoid overwatering.
- Thinning/Transplanting: Once seedlings have at least 2–3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden, spacing 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart.
- Soil: Prefers loose, well-drained soil—lightly sandy or loamy.
- Fertilizing: Not required for wildflower growth but a light, balanced fertilizer can be applied after transplanting for better root development.
Life Cycle Tips
- This is a biennial: In the first year, it produces leafy rosettes and stores energy; in the second year, it blooms and sets seed.
- If grown for edible roots, harvest at the end of the first season.