The Charming Blue Bird Forget-Me-Not
Few flowers capture the essence of spring as beautifully as forget-me-nots These delicate blossoms in shades of sky blue are harbingers of the warming weather ahead There are many lovely forget-me-not varieties, but one of the most captivating is the Azure Bluebird. With its prolific blooms and ease of growth, this long-blooming forget-me-not brings a touch of spring magic to gardens and containers.
What are Forget-Me-Nots?
Forget-me-nots belong to the genus Myosotis, which includes over 50 species They are herbaceous perennials or biennials with a mounding habit and petite green leaves Tiny five-petaled flowers in blue, white, pink or yellow appear in spring on delicate stems.
Native to Europe and Asia, forget-me-nots grow wild along stream banks and woodlands. The name refers to the flowers’ resemblance to eyes, hence “forget-me-not” means “forget-me-not in your eyes.” They became linked to romance and remembrance.
These hardy, short-lived plants thrive in zones 3-9. They prefer partial shade and moist, rich soil. Forget-me-nots readily self-sow, making them excellent for naturalizing. Pinching back spent blooms encourages reblooming.
Introducing Azure Bluebird Forget-Me-Not
Azure Bluebird is a top choice among gardeners for its vivid blue flowers and long bloom time. This compact forget-me-not was bred by a German nursery as an improvement on the popular Blue Bird variety.
Key facts about Azure Bluebird:
- Herbaceous perennial, may be grown as an annual in some zones
- Floriferous with bright blue blossoms from spring to early summer
- Forms a mound 12-18 inches tall and wide
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil
- Attracts butterflies and bees
- Deer and rabbit resistant
- USDA zones 3-9
The 1/2-inch flowers of Azure Bluebird shine like a clear blue sky against the bushy, deep green foliage. The blossoms appear in such profusion that they positively smother the plant. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering for up to 10 weeks in spring and early summer.
In the garden, mass Azure Bluebird along walkways, near patios, and at the front of flower borders for an eye-catching display. Use in containers or hanging baskets on porches and decks. It combines beautifully with spring bulbs and other early bloomers.
Growing Azure Bluebird from Seed
Starting Azure Bluebird from seed is an easy, inexpensive way to add drifts of heavenly blue to your garden. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Cover the tiny seeds lightly and maintain a temperature of 65-70°F until germination.
Once seedlings emerge, provide plenty of light. Transplant into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Space plants 8-12″ apart in an area with morning sun and afternoon shade. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Forget-Me-Not Companion Plants
The soft blue flowers of forget-me-nots blend pleasingly with many other garden plants. Here are some ideal companions:
- Spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths
- Other blue flowering plants – lobelia, delphinium, cornflower
- Summer perennials like Shasta daisy, yarrow, coreopsis
- Roses, peonies, iris, columbine
- Ornamental grasses, ferns, hostas
- Lavender, catmint, salvia, thyme
- Vegetables like lettuce, brassicas, carrots
Caring for Forget-Me-Nots
Give forget-me-nots partial shade, especially in hot summer climates. They appreciate morning or late afternoon sun. Avoid hot, dry sites.
Keep the soil moist with weekly watering. Mulch around plants to maintain cool roots. Avoid wet feet, which can cause root rot.
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer when planting and again in early spring. Prune off spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Watch for slugs, snails, and aphids. Remove by hand or use organic methods of control. Avoid chemical pesticides which may harm pollinators.
Overwintering Forget-Me-Nots
In zones 3-6, Azure Bluebird may die back to the ground after flowering. Mulch plants for winter protection. Perennial plants will resprout the following spring.
In warmer zones, Azure Bluebird may be grown as a short-lived perennial or self-sowing annual. Allow some flowers to go to seed for naturalizing. Thin out seedlings in fall or spring to control spread.
Captivating Azure Bluebird Forget-Me-Not
With its compact habit and abundant sky-blue flowers, Azure Bluebird forget-me-not lives up to its heavenly name. This long-blooming, easy care plant is ideal for flower beds, rock gardens, borders, and containers. It works beautifully in cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, or informal, naturalized plantings. Give it partial sun, rich soil, and consistent water for the best display. Let this heavenly blue forget-me-not charm your garden this spring!
Forget-Me-Not Meaning and Symbolism
Woodland forget-me-nots (Myosotis sylvatica) are different from Chinese forget-me-nots (Cynoglossum amabile). The word “myosotis” in the species name comes from Greek words meaning “mouse ear. ” The plants foliage has short, pointed leaves resembling mouse ears. One type of forget-me-not is called Myosotis scorpiodes, and its flower clusters curl up like a scorpion’s tail, giving it the unique common name “scorpion grass.”
Forget-me-nots are a popular bridal flower for their symbolism. They historically symbolize true love, respect, fidelity, and devotion.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
Garden pests mostly leave forget-me-not alone, but aphids, slugs, and snails can sometimes become problematic. Aphids feed on sap, and you can get rid of them by spraying them with water or wiping them off with your hand.
Slugs and snails are best eliminated by hand-picking and dropping them in soapy water. If the problem is extensive, use traps made of sunken bowls of beer around the plants. The fermentation smell entices the pests and drowns them. Reset and repeat until these traps no longer capture new slugs or snails.
Forget-me-nots are susceptible to two diseases: powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew is that light-colored, powdery covering on a plants leaves. Seldom fatal, it temporarily ruins plants appearance. Minimize it by avoiding overhead watering.
Growing Forget Me Not Flower From Seed Time Lapse (72 Days)
FAQ
What is the blue plant that looks like forget-me-not?
Where is the best place to plant forget-me-nots?
What does forget-me-not Blue mean?
Is forget-me-not a perennial or annual?