To grow Ammi majus, commonly known as Green Mist, you will need to follow a few simple steps. As an annual plant, it needs to be sown every year, although it does have the ability to self-sow easily, which can be quite convenient.
First and foremost, it is important to choose the right location for your Ammi majus. This plant thrives in well-drained soil, so make sure to select an area with good drainage. It also prefers full sun to partial shade, so keep that in mind when deciding where to plant it. If you have a garden or border that receives a lot of shade, this might not be the best choice.
Once you have chosen the perfect spot, it’s time to prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the area to create a clean surface for planting. Loosen the soil using a garden fork or a tiller, breaking up any clumps and ensuring a loose texture. Ammi majus prefers a slightly alkaline soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
Now it’s time to sow your Ammi majus seeds. The ideal time for planting is in early spring, after the last frost has passed. Scatter the seeds evenly over the prepared soil, aiming for a spacing of about 12 to 18 inches apart. Lightly press the seeds into the soil, but avoid covering them too deeply, as they require light to germinate. A depth of around 1/8 inch should be sufficient.
Water the seeded area gently, making sure not to wash away the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes around 7 to 14 days. As the seedlings emerge, thin them out to provide enough space for each plant to grow. Aim for a final spacing of about 18 to 24 inches between each Ammi majus plant.
Once your Ammi majus plants have reached a height of about 6 inches, you can start providing them with a balanced fertilizer. A slow-release granular fertilizer can be applied according to the instructions on the packaging. This will help promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Throughout the growing season, make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Ammi majus is relatively drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering. It’s also a good idea to mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
As the plants grow, you may need to provide support in the form of stakes or cages to prevent them from bending or falling over. This is especially important if you live in an area prone to strong winds.
Ammi majus usually starts flowering in mid-summer, producing clusters of delicate white flowers that resemble lace. These flowers attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any garden. Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from going to seed too quickly.
Towards the end of the growing season, you may notice the formation of seed heads. If you wish to collect seeds for future planting, allow the seed heads to dry on the plant. Once they have turned brown and are fully dry, you can cut them off and store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to sow them again.
Growing Ammi majus, or Green Mist, is relatively easy and rewarding. By following these steps and providing the right conditions, you can enjoy the beauty of this delicate plant in your garden year after year.
