When to Plant Cleome Seeds
Cleome seeds are like that chill friend who’s super easy to hang out with and doesn’t require much attention. You can sow these annual wonders from early spring to mid-summer, and they’ll keep blooming until the first frost tries to crash the party. If you live in a breezy area, you might need to give them some support (like a good friend holding up the dance floor), but fear not—cleomes are tough cookies when it comes to diseases and pests. Plus, they’re a hit with butterflies and hummingbirds, so expect some colorful guests!
Where to Plant Cleome Seeds
Cleome seeds are versatile—they can be started indoors or outdoors, depending on your gardening style. They love basking in full sun, and with temperatures between 70 to 80°F, you’ll see those little sproutlings pop up in about 8 to 12 days. It’s like a speedy race to the sunshine!
How to Plant Cleome Seeds
Now, while it’s not strictly necessary, you might want to give cleome seeds a little cold stratification treatment for 7 to 14 days. Think of it as a mini spa day before planting! When it’s time to get those seeds in the ground, remember: they need light to germinate, so don’t cover them up like they’re taking a cozy blanket nap.
Plant those seeds about 1/8th inch deep and leave them uncovered—no blankets here! Space them 3 inches apart, with 18 inches between the rows, like they’re enjoying personal space at a concert. Once they grow to about 3 inches tall, give them a little thinning and spread them out to 18 to 24 inches apart. If you started them indoors, you can transplant them in about 21 to 25 days, making them ready for the big show outdoors!
How to Care for Cleome
If you’re growing the taller varieties of cleome, don’t forget to stake them up so they don’t end up doing the splits! Once your cleomes reach about 6 inches tall, it’s time to thin them out a bit and give them room to strut their stuff. These beauties are ready to shine, so let them show off their colorful blooms!