Saponaria ocymoides (Rock Soapwort)

Seed Treatment:

Cold Stratify seeds for 2–4 weeks at 1–4°C (34–39°F) using one of these methods:
Paper Towel Method: Moisten a paper towel, place seeds inside, fold, and seal in a labeled plastic bag. Refrigerate.
Alternative: Mix seeds with moist sand or vermiculite and refrigerate in a sealed bag.

Check weekly for mold or sprouting.
If seedlings emerge, remove immediately and plant.

Best Time to Sow:
Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
Outdoors: Direct sow in early spring or late fall for natural stratification.

Optimum Temperature for Germination:
15–20°C (59–68°F)

Germination Time: 10-28 days

Light Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade. Surface sow or gently press seeds into soil—do not cover deeply, as light aids germination.

Sowing Instructions:
• Use well-draining, moderately fertile soil
• Sow on the surface or barely cover with fine soil
• Water gently and keep soil moist, not soggy

Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist during germination. Once established, moderately drought-tolerant.

Post-Germination Care:
• Thin seedlings to promote airflow
• Harden off indoor seedlings before transplanting
• Mulch lightly to retain moisture and prevent weeds

Growing Tips:
• Easy-care low-growing perennial ideal for rock gardens, edging, and walls
• Blooms spring to early summer with a cascade of pink flowers
Pollinator-friendly and deer-resistant
• Trim after flowering to tidy up and encourage light rebloom
• Tolerates poor soils and grows well in temperate zones