Forget-Me-Nots (Myosotis species) are cherished for their delicate, small flowers, most often found in a classic sky-blue hue with a tiny yellow or white center. These blooms symbolize remembrance and enduring love, making them a popular choice for gardens and memorials. The plants are generally low-growing and easy to manage, which contributes to their widespread appeal among gardeners of all skill levels. Acquiring these flowers is straightforward, whether you prefer to plant seeds or start with established plants for immediate color.
Identifying the Right Variety
The name “Forget-Me-Not” refers to the Myosotis genus, which includes over 50 species; buyers should distinguish between annual, biennial, and perennial varieties. The Woodland Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis sylvatica) is the most popular type; it is technically a biennial that self-seeds prolifically, often appearing perennial. True perennial species, such as the Water Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis scorpioides), are available and suited for consistently moist or boggy areas. Knowing the difference is important because annual varieties bloom the same year they are planted. Biennials are typically sown in mid-summer for flowers the following spring, though cultivars are available in shades of pink and white.
Retail Locations for Immediate Purchase
For immediate planting, physical retail locations offer the most direct way to acquire Forget-Me-Nots. Local, independent garden centers and nurseries are reliable sources, especially in the spring when they stock established plants or plugs ready for transplanting. These centers often carry regional varieties best suited for the local climate. Large chain home improvement stores also stock Forget-Me-Nots, typically as small potted plants or six-packs in the early spring. These stores offer convenience and often have packaged seeds, including the common Myosotis sylvatica, available year-round for mass planting.
Sourcing Seeds and Specialized Plants Online
Sourcing Forget-Me-Nots online provides access to a wider range of specialized and heirloom varieties compared to local stores. Specialty seed banks and horticultural suppliers offer bulk seeds, which is useful for naturalizing large garden sections. Online searches can yield seeds for less common types, such as the color-changing Myosotis discolor or the compact Alpine Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis alpestris). Large e-commerce platforms also sell pre-packaged seeds, bare-root plants, or plugs shipped directly for fall or spring planting. When buying online, reviewing the seller’s documentation ensures you receive the correct life cycle (perennial or biennial) and helps locate specific colors like rose or indigo blue cultivars that may not be stocked locally.
Post-Purchase Care and Propagation
Forget-Me-Nots thrive in soil rich in organic matter, consistently moist, and well-drained, performing best in partial shade where intense afternoon sun cannot damage the foliage. When planting, ensure the soil stays damp but not waterlogged to prevent root issues. The primary method of perpetuating Forget-Me-Nots is through prolific self-seeding. After the spring bloom, the flowers set and drop seeds, which germinate to produce the next generation of plants. To manage their spread, you can remove the flower stalks (deadheading) immediately after the blooms fade, or allow the spent flowers to remain for self-seeding in subsequent seasons.