How to Grow Blue Knoll Chrysanthemums
The blue knoll chrysanthemum (Heteropappus meyendorfii) grows 12 inches in height with a spread of 18 inches. These hardy plants can survive challenging weather such as heavy rain, snow or frost. It is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 1 through 11. When other plants are having trouble blooming, these flowers usually look bright and cheerful in the garden. Sow the seeds during January or February, and you'll have flowers in October through November. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Seeding tray
- Potting soil
- Drainage rack
- Low-sided pan or tray
- Vermiculite
- Plastic
- 3-inch pots
Instructions
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Fill a seeding tray with well-drained potting soil. Water the soil until it comes out the bottom drainage holes. Place the seeding tray on a rack where the water can freely drain out. Place the draining rack over a sink or bucket so the water doesn't ruin anything. It usually takes 15 minutes for the water to drain away. Place the seed tray into a low-sided pan without drainage holes. This contains water leakage.
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2
Scatter the seeds over the top of the potting soil. Do not allow the seeds to clump in any one location. Try to spread them out evenly. This helps to keep the roots from tangling as they grow, making it easier to transplant without causing them undue stress.
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3
Sprinkle 1/8 inch of vermiculite over the top of the seed tray. Don't cover the seeds completely with vermiculite, because the seeds need light to germinate.
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Cover the seed tray with plastic or place it into a large plastic bag. Place the seed tray in a warm, brightly lit area that remains a constant 64 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The plastic provides the necessary humidity for the seeds to germinate.
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Inspect the soil daily for moisture. The soil needs to be kept moist, but not soggy. It takes 10 to 21 days for the seeds to germinate.
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6
Transplant the seedlings when they have their second set of leaves. Plant only one seedling per 3-inch pot filled with well-drained potting soil.
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Place the pots in a brightly lit but cool area that remains 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Leave them there for 15 days, checking the soil for moisture.
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8
Transplant the plants into the garden after all risk of frost is past. Find an area with full sun exposure to partial shade. Space each plant one foot apart.
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