How to grow Trailing Lobelia

Lobelia erinus

Naturally bog plants, so need to be kept moist at all times. Does not like hot, dry weather – rejuvenate in midsummer by cutting back by half their height, after the first flush of flowers has faded, which also will help them become bushier. Reapply fertilizer and water them well 2.

Growing Trailing lobelia from seed

Sow in spring or autumn.

Sow seeds as thinly as possible – the finer you sow them, the easier pricking out will be. Lightly press the seeds into the compost/potting medium but do not cover them with soil as they need light to germinate. Place in warmth 15 to 20°C (60 to 70°F), and keep moist at all times 2.
In cooler climates it is also possible to start the seeds inside to get them off to an early flowering. Sow the seeds thinly into pre watered, compost filled trays.Firm in lightly but do not cover with compost. Top the tray with a sheet of glass or perspex or cling film and keep at15 to 20C. Remove the cover when the seeds germinate in 14 to 21 days

Try to aim for a seed spacing of at least 1.95 inches (5.0 cm) and sow at a depth of around 0.08 inches (0.2 cm). Soil temperature should be kept higher than 15°C / 59°F to ensure good germination.

By our calculations*, you should look at sowing Trailing lobelia about 105 days before your last frost date .

Transplanting Trailing lobelia

When large enough to handle (usually after 5 to 6 weeks) transplant 5cm (2in) apart into trays of potting compost. It is easier to transplant little clumps of Lobelia seedlings than to try to transplant single seedlings 2. Keep the seedlings in a light, but cool, position, but shade from bright sun.
When all danger of frost has past, harden off the plants
Plant at 15 cm apart in final position, as the plants will spread 3.

Ensure that temperatures are mild (minimum night temperatures should be around 10°C / 50°F) and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Trailing lobelia is a half hardy plant.

Seed Saving Trailing lobelia

Do not allow annuals to run to seed, as this will reduce the time that the plant will remain in flower

How long does Trailing lobelia take to grow?

These estimates for how long Trailing lobelia takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

Days to Germination How long does it take Trailing lobelia to germinate?
12 days

Average 12 days | Min 6 days | Max 39 days (9)

Days to Transplant How long until I can plant out Trailing lobelia?
+ 61 days

Average 61 days | Min 43 days | Max 80 days (3)

Days to Maturity How long until Trailing lobelia is ready for harvest / bloom?
+ 90 days

Average 90 days | Min days | Max days (0)

Total Growing Days How long does it take to grow Trailing lobelia?
= 163 days

When should I plant Trailing lobelia?

Our when to plant Trailing lobelia estimates are relative to your last frost date.

When to sow The number of days to sow Trailing lobelia before or after your last frost date.
105 days before Last Frost Date

Other names for Trailing lobelia

Lobelia

Lobelia erinus L.

Footnotes

1 Wikipedia entry on Lobelia erinus

2 Lobelia erinus on Seedaholic


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