Four o’clocks, also known as Mirabilis jalapa, are indeed easy to grow from seed. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had personal experiences growing these beautiful flowers, and I can assure you that they are a great addition to any garden.
To start growing four o’clocks from seed, you will need a sunny bed or container. These flowers thrive in full sun, so make sure they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds or debris. Four o’clocks prefer well-draining soil, so if your soil tends to be heavy, consider adding some organic matter such as compost to improve drainage.
Now, it’s time to plant the seeds. Four o’clocks should be planted about one-half inch deep in the soil. Space the seeds at least 6 inches apart to allow room for growth. You can either sprinkle the seeds directly onto the soil or plant them in individual holes. After planting, gently cover the seeds with soil and water them thoroughly.
One important thing to note is that four o’clocks are summer flowers. Therefore, if you are planting them in a climate with cold winters, you will need to store the seeds properly. After the flowers have finished blooming and the seed pods have formed, collect the seeds and store them in a sealed container. Place the container in your refrigerator until it’s time to plant them again, which is typically in April of the following year.
Four o’clocks are known to have a long germination period, often taking up to two weeks or more. However, once they sprout, they are relatively low-maintenance. Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater as they don’t tolerate soggy soil.
These flowers come in a variety of colors, including shades of white, pink, yellow, and red. Their trumpet-shaped blooms open in the late afternoon, hence their name, and release a pleasant fragrance. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding to the biodiversity of your garden.
Four o’clocks are easy to grow from seed. By following the steps mentioned above and providing them with the right conditions, you can enjoy these lovely flowers in your garden. Remember to store the seeds properly if you live in a region with cold winters, and be patient during the germination period. Happy gardening!
