The delicate, sky-blue flowers of the forget-me-not (Myosotis genus) are a beloved sight in spring and early summer gardens. Known for their prolific self-seeding habit, these charming, low-growing plants create a soft carpet beneath larger shrubs or trees. This guide details the necessary steps for successfully establishing forget-me-nots, whether planting seeds or nursery transplants, ensuring a beautiful display.
Choosing Location and Preparing the Soil
Forget-me-nots thrive best in conditions that mimic their natural woodland habitat, preferring partial shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. While they can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, they will quickly wilt and struggle in hot summer regions without afternoon shade. The ideal temperature range for robust growth is cool, between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The soil must be consistently moist, yet possess excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Forget-me-nots flourish in soil rich in organic matter, such as compost, which helps retain moisture while allowing excess water to pass through. A slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically ranging from 6.0 to 7.0, is preferred for optimal nutrient uptake. If your native soil is heavy clay or sandy, incorporate several inches of well-rotted compost to improve fertility and drainage before planting.
Starting Forget-Me-Nots (Seeds vs. Transplants)
Starting forget-me-nots from seed is a common and highly successful method, often done by direct sowing in the garden during fall or early spring. Fall sowing allows the seeds to undergo natural cold stratification over winter, which helps break dormancy and encourages vigorous spring germination. For spring planting in colder climates, starting seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last expected frost provides a head start.
Some varieties benefit from cold stratification, which involves refrigerating seeds in a moist medium for two to four weeks before planting. When starting indoors, use a well-draining seed-starting mix and provide a warm environment until the seedlings develop a few sets of true leaves. Transplants purchased from a nursery are best planted in late spring or early summer after all danger of frost has passed. If these plants were grown in a greenhouse, they should be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions over a week (hardening off) before being placed in the ground.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Preparation for direct seeding involves clearing the area of weeds and lightly raking the surface to create a fine, level soil bed. The tiny seeds should be scattered thinly over the prepared soil and then lightly pressed into the surface; they do not need deep burial. Avoid overcrowding, as it can lead to issues like powdery mildew later in the season.
When planting transplants, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than the container. Gently loosen any tightly packed or circling roots before placing the plant in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, lightly firming it around the base to eliminate air pockets. Proper spacing is important for air circulation and should range from 6 to 12 inches between individual plants to allow for future growth and self-seeding. Immediately after planting seeds or transplants, water the area thoroughly until the soil is saturated. This helps settle the roots and begin the establishment process.
Essential Ongoing Care
Consistent moisture is the primary requirement for healthy forget-me-nots, especially during dry spells or if they are planted in a sunnier location. Keep the soil evenly moist without allowing it to become waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as aged compost, around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool.
Forget-me-nots are not heavy feeders and require minimal fertilization, particularly if the soil was amended with compost before planting. A light application of a slow-release, balanced fertilizer early in the spring can support growth, but avoid over-fertilizing. To encourage a longer bloom period, remove spent flower stalks (deadheading) by cutting the entire stem at the base. If you prefer the plants to self-seed, leave the blooms on the plant after they fade so the seeds can naturally drop into the soil. Manage aggressive self-seeding by pulling up unwanted seedlings or mowing the area once the plants have finished blooming.