CHINESE FORGET-ME-NOT
Cynoglossum amabile
The Chinese forget-me-not is a charming annual flower that produces an array of tiny , indigo-blue,
from mid-spring to late summer. It is a fast-growing bushy plant that reaches 50 cm in height.
Cut the buds containing the seeds once the flowering is finished or let it reseed itself!
It grows well in containers and planters and will flower even in partial shade.
PERIOD
Direct sow in early spring when a light frost is still possible. Otherwise start indoors 6-8 weeks before planting out.
Seeds will sprout in 5-10 days, particularly if maintained at their optimal soil temperature of 18-24°C (65-75°F).
LOCATION
Ordinary, well-drained garden soil with a neutral to slightly acid pH range will work well. Weak plants result from rich soil.
This species is well suited to xeriscaping. Deadhead to avoid self sowing.
SOW
Sow seeds shallowly at 5mm (¼”) deep, and thin or space to 20-30cm (8-12″) apart.
If starting indoors, keep seeds in total darkness until they sprout, and then provide bright light.
A LITTLE GARDENER GLOSSARY
A seedling (sowing) | A plant (plant)
When you sow seeds you get seedlings.
Seedlings are made in small pots indoors (or in a greenhouse outdoors).
Once the plant has grown sufficiently, several weeks later, we speak of a plant that we can put in the ground.
to complete its growth.
When and how to seed?
Most of the seeds are made between February and April, when nature awakens. Planting is usually done at this time.
Sow your seeds in small containers placed inside (or in a greenhouse outside), in the light, with a soil always slightly moist. You will then see your plants appear.
When outdoor temperatures are above 10 degrees at night, you can place your plants directly in the ground.
NOTE: When the temperature allows it, you can also sow directly in the ground (without sowing inside),
however this will delay flowering, since you will not be able to do this step before May-June, depending on the region
and the vagaries of the weather.
To sow in pots/pockets: Place several seeds in a hole.
Broadcast sowing: Spread the seeds as homogeneously as possible over the entire surface to be sown.