Forget-me-nots (Myosotis spp.) are flowering plants known for their delicate, often blue blossoms that appear in gardens and naturalized landscapes. They are frequently used in borders, pathways, and containers. The genus name Myosotis, meaning “mouse ear” in ancient Greek, refers to the fuzzy, rounded shape of their leaves.
Understanding Forget-Me-Not Varieties
Forget-me-nots include annual, biennial, and perennial types. Annual varieties, such as Myosotis arvensis, complete their entire life cycle—from germination to flowering and seed production—within a single growing season before dying. Biennial forget-me-nots, like Myosotis sylvatica, establish foliage in their first year and then flower, produce seeds, and die in their second year. Perennial types, such as Myosotis scorpioides (water forget-me-not) and Myosotis alpestris (alpine forget-me-not), live for multiple years, often returning from their rootstock even if their foliage dies back in winter.
Seed Germination
Seed germination requires specific environmental conditions. Seeds need light to germinate, so they should be sown on the soil surface or covered lightly with soil or vermiculite, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Ideal soil temperatures for germination range between 60°F and 65°F (15°C to 18°C), and consistent moisture is crucial, though the soil should not be waterlogged. Some varieties benefit from a cold stratification period of 2 to 4 weeks, which mimics natural winter conditions and improves germination rates. Seeds germinate within a few days to two weeks under favorable conditions.
Seedling Development
After germination, forget-me-not seeds develop into young seedlings. Initially, the plant produces cotyledons, the first leaves to emerge from the seed. Shortly after, true leaves appear, signaling robust vegetative growth. During this phase, the root system strengthens, and the plant gradually increases in size.
If started indoors, seedlings require ample light, either from a sunny window or under a grow lamp, and consistent moisture. Seedlings can be transplanted outdoors once they have developed a few sets of true leaves and all danger of frost has passed. When transplanting, ensure proper spacing, 6 to 12 inches apart, to allow for adequate growth and airflow, which helps prevent issues like powdery mildew.
Flowering and Seed Production
As forget-me-not plants mature, they form flower buds and bloom. Most varieties produce small, five-petaled flowers, commonly bright blue with yellow centers, though pink and white varieties are also available. These blossoms appear in clusters on branching stems. The timing of flowering varies by type: biennials bloom in their second year in late spring to early summer, while perennials have a longer blooming period extending through summer. After pollination, the flowers develop into tiny, tulip-shaped seed pods containing small, dark nutlets.
Post-Bloom and Lifecycle
After flowering, forget-me-nots focus on seed maturation. For annual and biennial types, the plant declines and dies once it has set seed. Many forget-me-not varieties, particularly Myosotis sylvatica, are prolific self-seeders. They drop their seeds, which then germinate and establish new plants for the following season. This natural dispersal allows them to re-establish and create continuous displays year after year, even if individual plants are short-lived.
Perennial types die back to the ground in winter but return from their rootstock in spring. If unchecked, self-seeding can lead to wide naturalization. Gardeners can manage this spread by collecting seeds or deadheading spent flowers before they drop their seeds.