Alyssum

Growing Tips: Alyssum

Quick Reference:

Annual, a plant that completes it’s life cycle in one season. Germinates in 7-8 days with an optimum soil temperature of 70 degrees F. Seed needs light for germination, DO NOT Cover. Space seed on the soil surface ¾ to 1 inch apart. Ideal plant spacing in the garden is 6 to 8 inches. Plant height: 4 to 6 inches.

When and where to plant:

In Alaska it is recommended that alyssum be started indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost for bloom over a long season. Fill a container that has drainage holes with a sterilized potting soil, sprinkle seed on soil surface, DO NOT cover, seed needs light to germinate, water well for good seed-soil contact. Cover container with clear plastic to reduce evaporation and keep moist until seedlings emerge. Remove plastic as soon as seedlings start to sprout. When seedlings show their first green leaves water with a liquid solution of plant food. As soon as the seedlings have 3 or 4 true leaves transplant to individual plastic pots, water with a liquid solution of plant food every two weeks and grow in a sunny area until the garden is ready. Select sunny location, alyssum tolerates light shade, with a good, well drained garden soil, enrich with plant food and plant seed or transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost is past.

Care:

Shear plants after peak blooming period to improve appearance and extend blossom period.