SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Sprout Time:
7-21 days; germinates in several periods
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Sow indoors 2 months before last frost. Keep at 75-80°F. Retain moisture by covering with humidity dome until germination occurs.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow about 2 weeks after last frost in warmer climates (zones 8-10).
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
2-3 weeks after the last frost, when the soil has warmed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Angel's trumpet carefully pleated buds swirl open at dusk, the freshly opened flowers releasing a sweet fragrance that attracts nighttime moths. During the day, bumblebees pry open these buds to rob it of its pollen. Datura is a bountiful patio plant that transforms at night into a luminous beacon in moon and tropical themed gardens. It thrives in warm summer weather and should be grown in a warm, protected spot in northern gardens to enhance its growth and night fragrance. Caution: all parts are toxic. Be aware of its poisonous qualities when placing in the garden.
Watering Details:
Water regularly—about 1" or so per week. While somewhat drought tolerant, greater moisture availability will increase blooms.
Soil pH:
Prefers more acidic soils but will tolerate neutral settings.
Fertilizer:
Mix in an organic granular fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote flowering.
Diseases & Pests:
Spider mites may be an issue—hose down plants with a heavy stream of water regularly until the pest is gone. May also be damaged by Hummingbird Moth caterpillars (hornworms). Monitor plants July-August and remove caterpillars promptly.
