Its officially go time.
A big bonus is that their seeds can be harvested by drying the flower heads.
In either case, it takes about 70 to 100 days for them to reach maturity.
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(Many seed packets offer color blends for a dazzling show).
Thesecool-season bloomersthrive when started early and can handle light frosts, making them perfect for an early start.
They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in temperatures between 60 and 75F.
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Given their vining habit, Hooper says that a single plant is usually enough for a garden.
Growing Tips:Hooper recommends directly sowing nasturtium into the ground after the last frost.
The seeds benefit from soaking in water overnight, and then planted in well-drained soil, she says.
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They should be topped with a half inch of soil, and theyll want direct sunlight.
Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out so they are spaced by at least a foot apart.
I plant them in soil that drains well, and carefully control watering which promotes their healthy growth.
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Another strong attribute is the range of blue colors and sizes they now come in.
There are more than 60 different cultivars to choose from.
They need eight to 10 weeks of growth indoors.
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These plants give a tranquil appearance which complements any garden while thriving across different environmental conditions, Sons adds.
Theyll start producing flowers about 70 to 80 days later.
They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, growing quickly and often self-seeding for blooms year after year.
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TheCosmos sulphureusspecies (usually yellow or orange) is considered invasive in the Southeast.
Always check local laws and guidelines before introducing any plants to your garden.
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