How to Start Moonflower Seeds

Start moonflower seeds in the spring for a colorful summer display.

Planting vining flowers to climb up a trellis or support is a simple yet elegant way to add vertical interest and beauty to any landscape. Moonflowers are an annual climbing vine that will grow prolifically in any sunny garden area. Because moonflowers bloom in the evening and nighttime hours and close up again when the sun shines brightly, their name suits them perfectly. Start moonflower seeds in the spring after all threat of frost is over, and they will germinate within three weeks.

Things You'll Need

• Small cup
• Tepid water
• Moonflower seeds
• Garden spade
• Trowel
• Support system

Instructions

1. Fill the small cup with tepid water.

2. Add the moonflower seeds to the water and set the cup aside. Allow the moonflower seeds to soak for up to eight hours. Drain the seeds after the soaking time elapses.

3. Prepare the planting area while the seeds soak. Cultivate the soil with a garden spade down to a depth of approximately 4 inches.

4. Plant the soaked moonflower seeds in the prepared planting area along the support system. Position the seeds approximately 4 inches away from the trellis or support and space each moonflower seed 3 inches apart. Cover the seeds with 1 inch of soil.

5. Water the newly planted moonflower seeds lightly immediately after you plant them to moisten the soil. Keep the planting area evenly moist while the seeds germinate.

6. Thin the moonflower seedlings to a spacing of 6 to 10 inches when the seedlings reach 2 inches in height.

References

• Texas Cooperative Extension: A Garden From Seeds