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USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 3-10 - Grown as a fast-climbing, warm-season annual. The plant will complete its entire life cycle in one season and is killed by the first hard frost.

Best Performance - Achieved in Zones 5-10, where long, hot, and sunny summers provide the perfect conditions for vigorous growth and a prolific blooming season that lasts for months.

Northern Zones (3-4) - Starting seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost is highly recommended to give the vines a necessary head start. Transplant out only when all danger of frost has passed and the soil is thoroughly warm.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - An outstanding performer. Plant seeds directly in the garden in spring after the last frost date. In frost-free Zone 11, it can grow as a short-lived perennial vine.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil to germinate. The soil temperature must be consistently 65 degrees F or warmer. Optimal germination occurs between 70-80 degrees F.

Growing Season - Requires a frost-free growing season of at least 120 days to reach its full potential. Plants will begin blooming in mid-summer and continue nonstop until the first frost of autumn.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

Planting Tips

Seed Preparation (Important):
Morning glory seeds have a very hard seed coat. To ensure good germination, you must prepare the seeds before planting. Nick the hard outer shell with a nail file or clippers, and then soak the seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours.

When to Sow:
Start seeds indoors in peat pots 4-6 weeks before your last expected frost date. Or, direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is reliably above 65 degrees F.

Sowing and Germination:

Support: It is crucial to set up your trellis or support structure before planting.

Seed Depth: Plant the pre-soaked seeds 1/2 inch deep.

Soil: Morning glories prefer average, well-draining soil. Avoid overly rich soil or heavy fertilization, which will encourage lots of leafy vine growth but very few flowers.

Germination: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur in 5-21 days.

Transplanting and Spacing:

Hardening Off: If you started seeds indoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.

Transplanting: Morning glories have sensitive roots, so handle them gently. If you used peat pots, you can plant the entire pot.

Spacing: Space plants 6-12 inches apart at the base of their support structure.

Ongoing Care:

Light: Plant in a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). This is essential for abundant blooming.

Water: Water regularly until the plants are established. They are fairly drought-tolerant once mature but will perform best with consistent moisture.

Fertilizing: Use fertilizer sparingly. If you must feed, use a low-nitrogen formula (like a 5-10-10) to promote blooms over leaves.

Safety: All parts of the morning glory plant, especially the seeds, are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets.

Morning Glory Seeds - Clarke's Heavenly Blue - Ipomea tricolor

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