growing lobelia cardinalis from seed

Start at least 5 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 10 C (50 F) range. Place seed on the surface of a slightly moistened, sterile, soil-less growing mix. Put this in a labelled, sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator for one day. The next day place this in the freezer for one day.

How do you germinate Cardinal seeds?

Propagation by seeds: The seeds will germinate without cold stratification, but they need light, so sow the seeds in a flat with a damp fine grade peat light mix. Keep the flats moist and under lights or in a greenhouse. They should green up in a few weeks.

How long does lobelia take to grow from seed?

The germination can take 14-20 days. Sow the seeds from February onwards, generally about 7 weeks before you want to transplant the seedlings. Placing the seeds into a polythene bag can aid germination by keeping these flower seeds warm and moist.

How long does it take for lobelia to grow?

Perennial lobelia

Flowering season(s)	Summer, Autumn
Soil moisture	Moist but well-drained, Poorly drained
Ultimate height	Up to 1.5m (5ft) depending on variety
Ultimate spread	Up to 60cm (2ft) depending on variety
Time to ultimate height	4-6 months

Do Cardinals reseed themselves?

Under the right conditions cardinal flower will readily self seed. Use cardinal flower in borders, rain gardens, and native gardens, especially on the edges of streams or ponds. They will naturalize in moist meadows and can be grown in a shallow water garden or in containers.

How do you propagate a red cardinal?

You can propagate the cardinal flower from seeds, divisions, and stem cuttings. Seeds usually ripen in the fall about seven weeks after forming. Harvest the brown seed capsules from the lower portions of the flowering stalk even when the flowers are still in bloom or bud farther up the stalk.

Is the cardinal flower a perennial?

This 1-6 ft. perennial has showy, red flowers in 8 in., terminal spikes. ... Since most insects find it difficult to navigate the long tubular flowers, Cardinal Flower depends on hummingbirds, which feed on the nectar, for pollination. Its common name alludes to the bright red robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals.

Do Lobelia grow back every year?

Lobelia is a perennial plant that is often considered an annual because growing conditions must be perfect for it to survive to rebloom another year. ... More than 360 species of lobelia are grown as annuals, perennials or shrubs.

Does lobelia like sun or shade?

Annual lobelia is a cool-season plant that can tolerate most light conditions, including shade. Light: Shade, part sun, or full sun. Water: Plant in well-drained, moist soil. Size: Up to 3 feet tall.

Why do my lobelia keep dying?

Too Little Water

During warm weather, lobelia leaves and flowers can dry out. If the dehydration is too severe, the plant may die. Water your lobelia in pots consistently so the soil stays moist and never draws away from the side of the container.

Is Lobelia a perennial or annual?

Lobelia erinus is the annual variety of the plant and comes in many species. It is not hardy in cold temperatures and will not survive being frozen. The Lobelia x speciosa varieties are perennials.

Does lobelia bloom all summer?

Lobelia is an easy-to-grow, carefree plant that enjoys cool weather. This summertime bloomer will continue to produce flowers on up through the first frost. Growing lobelia is an asset to the garden.

When can lobelia be planted outside?

Sow seed in late winter or early spring, under glass, at 16-18°C. Prick out into pots and plant out in late May, once all danger of frosts has passed.

Is the cardinal climber invasive?

Further north the Cardinal Climber has shown no invasive tendencies.

Should I deadhead cardinal flowers?

Deadhead for a neat appearance, to encourage rebloom or prevent any undesired reseeding. Pinch back for bushier and more compact plants. Cut back after flowering. Divide plants every 2-3 years.

Do cardinal flowers spread?

Cardinal flower is a member of the Lobelia family and Lobelia like rich, moist, well drained soil. In their natural setting they are found near streams, ponds, and boggy areas. ... The blooms rise above the leaves 3 to 4 feet, and the plant will spread 1 to 2 feet.

Do deer eat Cardinals?

Deer do not eat plants that have a bitter taste

The Lobelia Red Cardinal Flower contains a bitter taste that will make the deer think twice before eating that one again!

How much sun does a cardinal flower need?

Cardinal flowers grow best in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade, except in cool areas where they need full sun. They need a moist, fertile soil and perform best if you work plenty of organic matter into the soil before planting. Set out new plants in spring, spacing them about a foot apart.

How do you overwinter a cardinal?

Bring potted cardinal flowers indoors and drain the excess water from the pots. Store them in a refrigerator or other very cool spot where the crowns won't freeze until spring. Water enough to keep the soil soggy to prevent them from drying out.

Is Cardinal Flower toxic to dogs?

What is Cardinal Flower Poisoning? Although these beautiful red perennials have been used for medicine, the cardinal flower is actually very toxic to people as well as dogs and other animals.

Do hummingbirds like cardinal flowers?

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The Cardinal Flower is named for its thrillingly cardinal-red flowers. For attracting hummingbirds, the Cardinal Flower gets our bird-friendly seal of approval because it is an excellent source of nectar for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds mid-August through October.

How do you take care of a cardinal bird?

Square, open platform feeders are ideal as well. They want to feel protected while eating, so it is best to place the feeder about 5-6 feet above the ground and near trees or shrubs. Cardinals are also ground feeders and will appreciate food being left below the bird feeder as well.