How to Grow Moonflower

This delightful annual (grows just one year) vine grows rapidly and covers itself with creamy-white flowers that swirl open in late afternoon with a sweet scent.

Things You'll Need

• Moonflower Seeds
• Compost Makers
• Fertilizers
• Garden Hoses
• Garden Spades
• Garden Trowels
• Mulch
• Plants

Instructions

1. Choose a site in full sun with average to rich, well-drained soil.

2. Erect a support at planting time, if there isn't already a support such as a fence, arbor or tall trellis.

3. Plant moonflower seeds in spring after all danger of frost has passed.

4. Soak seeds in warm water for 8 hours or slightly longer. Then plant about 1 inch deep, directly in soil.

5. After the plant is 1 or 2 inches high, gently help it twine around the support - use your fingers. Check on it every day or two for a few days afterward, to redirect it if needed.

6. Keep soil evenly moist. Mulching is a good idea.

7. Fertilize every four to six weeks, or work in a slow-release fertilizer (or plenty of compost) at planting time.

8. Tear out and discard plants in fall, after frost fells them.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant moonflower next to morning glory - which opens in the morning - for a whimsical morning-blooming/evening-blooming combination.

• Moonflower's afternoon scent is a treat for gardeners who like to spend time in their gardens after work or in the evenings.

• Growing 12 to 20 feet high, depending on growing conditions, moonflower needs a sturdy support to accommodate its rapid growth.

• Overfertilization produces plants with plenty of lush foliage but few flowers.