SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Seed To Bloom:
12-14 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Sow in pots about 4 weeks before last frost. Keep at 65-80°F. Cover with vermiculite or a humidity dome to retain moisture until germination occurs.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow about two weeks after last frost.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last frost, when soil has warmed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
This member of the morning glory family hails from tropical regions and shares morning glory's dislike for cold temperatures, preferring to bask under the warm summer sun. Patience is needed when sowing direct into the garden, for it sulks if exposed to chilly nights. To support its climbing habit, provide a trellis for it to twine upon gracefully. Enjoy the summer blooming vibrant red flowers, each bright spark dabbed with honey-colored centers, which serve as irresistible beacons to bees and hummingbirds. Caution: seeds contain some toxic alkaloids.
Watering Details:
About 1" per week, more during especially dry, hot spells. Drought tolerant when fully established.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Fertilizer:
Mix in 2" of compost prior to planting and apply a flower fertilizer at bud set for more abundant blooming. Avoid nitrogen fertilizers that favor foliage growth over flower development.