Senecio cineraria (Dusty Miller)

Seed Treatment: • Seeds are very fine and need light to germinate • Soak in lukewarm water for 2–4 hours to soften seed coat and encourage faster germination  When to Sow: • Indoors: Start seeds 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost • Outdoors: Sow after the last frost in spring or in mild climates where frost is minimal Sowing Instructions: • Surface sow — do not cover with soil • Press seeds gently into moist soil or seed-starting mix • Mist lightly to avoid displacing seeds • Ideal germination temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C) • Germination occurs in 10–20 days Light Requirements: • Prefers full sun • Can tolerate light shade in hotter climates Soil Requirements: • Grows best in well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil • Tolerates poor soils • pH range: 6.0–7.5 Watering: • Keep soil evenly moist during germination • Once established, water moderately — Dusty Miller is drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot in soggy soil Spacing: • Thin or transplant seedlings to 9–12 inches (23–30 cm) apart Growing Tips: • Grown for its silvery, fern-like foliage • Makes an excellent border plant, container filler, or contrast plant in flower beds • Can be grown as an annual in cooler zones or a short-lived perennial in USDA Zones 8–10 • Deadhead flower stalks to maintain compact growth and enhance foliage • Heat- and deer-tolerant once established