Siberian Bugloss (Brunnera macrophylla) is a shade-loving perennial admired for its striking foliage and clusters of delicate blue flowers. Often called False Forget-Me-Not, this plant features heart-shaped leaves, sometimes variegated, adding visual interest to garden spaces even when not in bloom. Growing Siberian Bugloss from seed offers a rewarding and economical way to expand your garden.
Acquiring and Preparing Siberian Bugloss Seeds
Obtaining high-quality Siberian Bugloss seeds is the first step toward successful cultivation. You can purchase seeds from reputable online seed suppliers or local garden centers. Alternatively, if you have an existing plant, you can collect seeds from spent flower heads in late summer or early fall, though seeds from cultivars may not produce plants identical to the parent.
Siberian Bugloss seeds require cold stratification to break their natural dormancy. This process mimics the plant’s natural winter conditions, which is essential for successful germination. Mix the seeds with a moist substrate like sand or vermiculite. Place this mixture in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate for four to six weeks. This cold, moist treatment helps break down germination-inhibiting phytohormones.
Sowing Siberian Bugloss Seeds
After the stratification period, sow Siberian Bugloss seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. If you prefer natural stratification, sow seeds directly outdoors in late fall, lightly covering them with soil. Prepare seed trays or small pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
Sow the stratified seeds by lightly pressing them onto the surface of the growing medium or covering them with only a very thin layer of soil. Seeds may benefit from light for germination, so avoid burying them deeply. Maintain consistent moisture in the planting medium, ensuring it is damp but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for germination is between 55 to 60°F (13 to 16°C), and sprouting can be erratic, taking one to three months.
Caring for Siberian Bugloss Seedlings
Once Siberian Bugloss seeds germinate and young seedlings emerge, consistent care is important. Maintain a consistently moist environment for the seedlings, avoiding overwatering, which can lead to damping-off disease. Providing proper air circulation around the young plants can also help prevent fungal issues.
Place the seedlings in a location that receives bright, indirect light, or use supplemental grow lights to ensure adequate illumination. Brunnera thrives in cooler temperatures, so aim for a room temperature range between 59-68°F (15-20°C) for optimal growth during this stage. As the seedlings grow and develop their second set of true leaves, thin them or repot them into individual containers to prevent overcrowding and allow for better root development.
Before transplanting your Siberian Bugloss seedlings outdoors, they need a gradual acclimation process called “hardening off.” Over a period of seven to fourteen days, expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions for increasingly longer durations each day. Begin in a shaded, sheltered spot and gradually introduce them to more sunlight and wind, returning them indoors at night or during harsh weather. This process toughens the plants, preparing them for the outdoor environment and reducing transplant shock when they are finally moved to their permanent garden location after the last frost.