Chinese forget-me-not (Cynoglossum amabile) is a delightful annual flower that produces lovely blue blossoms in spring and early summer. Though easy to grow, getting forget-me-not seeds to sprout can be tricky. Here are some tips for successfully sprouting Chinese forget-me-not seeds.
When to Plant Seeds
Chinese forget-me-not thrives in cool weather. In most regions, seeds can be sown in early spring about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost.
In warmer regions, you may plant seeds in fall for spring germination. Cover seeds with a quarter-inch layer of soil and keep the soil evenly moist. Seeds should sprout within seven to ten days.
Though it’s not officially designated as invasive, Chinese forget-me-not will readily reseed itself once established. If you don’t want it to spread, deadhead spent blooms before they go to seed.
Seed Starting Mix and Containers
Chinese forget-me-not seeds need light to germinate, so a starting mix containing vermiculite or perlite is ideal. This will prevent the tiny seeds from being buried too deeply.
Sow seeds in cell packs, flats, or directly in the garden. If starting indoors, use containers that are at least 2-3 inches deep to accommodate the long taproot.
Seeding Indoors
When starting forget-me-not seeds indoors, use warm soil temperatures (70-75°F) to encourage germination. The growing medium should be kept evenly moist but not soggy.
Lightly press seeds into the soil surface and cover very lightly with vermiculite or more starting mix. Chinese forget-me-not seeds require light to germinate.
Young sprouts will emerge in 7-14 days. Provide plenty of light as soon as shoots appear. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
You can sow Chinese forget-me-not seeds directly in the garden once the soil has warmed up to at least 50°F. Prepare the planting bed by loosening the soil and removing any weeds. Rake the soil smooth.
Sow seeds by lightly sprinkling them over the soil surface. Gently press them into the soil, but do not cover completely. The seeds require light to germinate.
Water the seeds in with a fine spray to avoid washing them away. Keep the soil moist until sprouts appear. Thin seedlings to 6-12 inches apart.
Caring for Seedlings
Young forget-me-not seedlings need consistent moisture and cool conditions. Water when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
When plants have two sets of true leaves, begin fertilizing every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Forget-me-nots prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8.
Seedlings can be transplanted outdoors after hardening off for 7-10 days. Gradually expose them to longer periods outdoors. Space transplants 12 inches apart in an area with partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.
Common Problems
Poor germination: Old seeds, improper planting depth, overly wet/dry soil, and high temperatures can prevent seeds from sprouting. Always use fresh seed and create optimal germination conditions.
Leggy seedlings: Insufficient light causes weak, leggy growth. Provide 14-16 hours under grow lights or a sunny window until transplanting.
Wilting: Forget-me-nots wilt easily from too much sun/heat, dry soil, or drought stress after transplanting. Acclimate plants and keep soil evenly moist.
Fungal diseases: Powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot can be problematic in humid climates. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage.
Insect pests: Aphids, thrips, cabbage worms, and slugs/snails may be attracted to plants. Use row covers to exclude pests and hand pick or use insecticidal soap.
Tips for Success
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Purchase fresh seed and sow twice as many seeds as needed. Germination rates are low.
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Provide 70-75°F soil temperatures, light, and consistent moisture for best germination.
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Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings to prevent fungal disease.
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Give seedlings 14-16 hours under grow lights or 4-6 hours of direct sun daily.
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Harden off transplants for 7-10 days before planting outdoors.
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Deadhead spent blooms to prevent self-seeding.
With proper sowing and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of charming Chinese forget-me-not flowers. Pay close attention to their preferences, and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of delightful blue blooms.
Why You Must Kill Chinese Forget-Me-Nots
FAQ
Do Chinese forget-me-nots come back every year?
How to germinate Chinese forget-me-not seeds?
Do Chinese forget-me-nots need light to germinate?
What is the difference between forget-me-nots and Chinese forget-me-nots?
How long does it take a Chinese Forget-Me-Not to sprout?
Cover seeds with a quarter-inch layer of soil and keep the soil evenly moist. Seeds should sprout within seven to ten days. Though it’s not officially designated as invasive, Chinese forget-me-not will readily reseed itself once established. Chinese forget-me-not doesn’t typically have problems with insects or plant diseases.
Is Chinese Forget-Me-Not a perennial?
Chinese forget-me-not (Cynoglossum amabile) is a flowering plant that’s typically grown as a hardy annual or biennial for its attractive sprays of tiny blue, pink, or white blooms. This plant is a favorite of flower farmers and gardeners because it blooms the year it is planted, unlike woodland forget-me-nots (Myosotis sylvatica).
Do Chinese Forget Me Nots grow well in spring?
There is also a darling pink variety called ‘Mystic Pink’ which has a much higher seed germination rate than the blues and its stems often reach a solid 2ft. I grow both in abundance. It’s ideal to get seeds going as early as possible because Chinese Forget Me Nots are a little slow to start and also thrive in cooler spring weather.
Are Chinese Forget Me Nots Hardy?
Chinese forget me nots are hardy annual plants in colder climates, and a perennial herb in warmer climates. The plants are very easy to grow, even for a beginner gardener, and will flower in the year that they are planted from seed.
How do you grow Chinese Forget Me Not seeds?
Chinese forget me not seeds grow best when they are sown directly into the garden. Sow seeds directly in the garden 8mm deep and 30cm apart. Keep soil moist but never wet or dry. Seeds should germinate in around 5-8 days at a soil temperature of 18-21°C. Young seedlings will need protection from pests, pets and weather until they are established.
Is Chinese Forget Me Not a good plant?
First, Chinese Forget Me Not’s can be grown as an annual crop unlike the traditional biennial types which require a year or more to properly bloom. Second, they have nice tall, sturdy stems that often reach 18″ or more. Perfect for bouquet work and solid bunches to the floral design trade. Lastly they are extremely productive!