The delicate, sky-blue blossoms of the forget-me-not flower, belonging to the genus Myosotis, are popular among gardeners for their charm and symbolism of remembrance. These low-growing plants create a soft, naturalized look, often weaving through borders or carpeting partially shaded beds. Successfully growing these flowers depends on understanding the particular species you wish to cultivate and sourcing healthy seeds or plants.
Understanding Forget-Me-Not Varieties
The common name “forget-me-not” applies to numerous species, but two are most frequently available for purchase, each with distinct growth habits. The Woodland Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis sylvatica) is often seen in cottage gardens and is typically grown as a self-seeding biennial or annual. This variety prefers higher, drier sites, thriving in rich, well-draining soil. It produces characteristic five-petaled blue flowers on stems reaching six to twelve inches in height, blooming primarily in spring.
The other common type is the Water Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis scorpioides), a true perennial with different moisture requirements. This species is best suited for planting near water features, such as pond edges or streams, as it tolerates consistently wet or slightly standing water. It spreads through creeping rhizomes and self-seeding, creating dense colonies in boggy areas. Knowing the difference between the woodland and water types is crucial, as planting the wrong species in the wrong location will result in poor growth.
Locating Reputable Sources for Purchase
When acquiring forget-me-nots, you have several options, with the choice often depending on whether you prefer immediate planting or greater variety and lower cost. For established, ready-to-plant specimens, local nurseries and garden centers are excellent resources, especially in the spring when plants are actively growing. When selecting potted plants, inspect them for firm, green foliage and a healthy appearance. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves, moldy soil, or signs of pests. A healthy root system should fill the container but should not be excessively root-bound.
Online seed retailers offer the widest selection of Myosotis species and cultivars, including rarer colors like pink or white. Seeds are an economical choice for large plantings, allowing you to start many plants for a fraction of the cost of transplants. However, they require patience, as biennial types often flower in the second year. Purchase seeds in dated, sealed packets from reputable sellers to ensure high viability and accurate labeling. Direct-sowing seeds in late spring or summer is an easy method, allowing plants to establish a rosette of leaves before flowering the following season.
Specialty growers and heirloom seed companies are useful for locating specific varieties, such as the compact Myosotis alpestris for alpine or rock gardens. Regardless of the source, confirm the botanical name to ensure you get the correct species, as different varieties have dramatically different soil moisture requirements. Buying plug plants—small, young seedlings—is a good middle-ground option, providing a head start over seeds while being cheaper than mature nursery stock.
Planting and Care Requirements
Successfully cultivating the common woodland forget-me-not requires a site with partial shade to filtered sun, as intense, direct sun can scorch the foliage, particularly in warmer climates. The plants thrive in organically rich soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0 that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Incorporating compost before planting helps achieve this balance of fertility and drainage, ensuring roots have sufficient water while preventing root rot.
Consistent soil moisture is important throughout the growing season. Water the plants deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, directing the water toward the base to keep foliage dry. Providing good air circulation is helpful in preventing fungal issues like powdery mildew, which can develop in humid conditions. Since many forget-me-nots are biennials, they will die back after flowering and setting seed in their second year.
To manage the plant’s spread, deadhead the spent flowers before they produce seeds, or allow them to self-seed for a naturalized effect. If permitted, self-seeding plants will return reliably each year, giving the appearance of a perennial. For a continuous display the following spring, sow new seeds or transplant seedlings in late summer or early fall.