- Ipomoea alba, otherwise known as Moonflower, is a lovely vine with flowers that bloom in the evening--hence the name. It usually grows about 15 feet tall. This vine has attractive blue-green leaves with a smooth texture, and it is sometimes grown just for its foliage.
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The flowers are large, measuring between 4 and 6 inches in diameter. They are usually white, but some varieties have pink flowers. They have a pleasant scent. Gardeners often grow Moonflower in areas where people will stroll or sit during evening hours to get the greatest possible pleasure from these plants.
Moonflower vines need at least six hours of sunlight each day to produce flowers, even though the flowers open at night. A fertile, evenly moist, slightly acidic soil is most conducive for growth. -
Moonflowers are tender perennials, which means they will not survive a hard frost. They can be grown as annuals in colder regions, because the vines grow quickly and will bloom during their first season. The best method for growing Moonflowers in the garden is determined by the climate of the area.
In areas with mild winters, Moonflower seeds can be sown directly in the garden in the fall. The hard shell of the seeds will soften over the winter months, and the seeds will sprout in the spring. Moonflower will self-sow for the following years if you don't deadhead the flowers.
In colder climates, Moonflower seeds should not be sown directly in the garden until after the last frost of the spring, when the soil is warm. The seeds should be prepared for planting by nicking the hard shell before sowing. Seeds should be spaced 6 to 12 inches apart and covered with 1/4 to 1/2 inch of soil. Traditional gardeners plant Moonflowers during the new moon.
Seeds normally germinate in seven to 10 days. Once the vine begins to bloom, flower production will continue until the plant is killed by frost.
Gardeners often start Moonflower seeds indoors four weeks or so before the last frost date. The seeds should be nicked and then soaked in warm water overnight before planting. They can be individually planted in small pots filled with a good potting mix. Keep the mix evenly moist. After the seeds have germinated, grow the seedlings in a warm, sunny spot until they are ready to set out in the garden. Grow lights can be substituted for sunlight if they are left on for about 14 hours a day.
Moonflower vines grow quickly and are quite lightweight. A portable trellis is usually enough to support the vine through the growing season. - Moonflowers are not a good choice for planting near a children's play area. The seeds are poisonous if they are eaten.
