Firmament Seed (Annual Forget me not) (Cynoglossum amabile)

Description

Firmament Seed (Annual Forget me not) A Captivating Addition to Alaskan Gardens

Firmament Seed (Annual Forget me not) meet a bloom to cherish.

Distinctive and radiant, these flowers are gems. They produce clusters of blue blossoms. Each petal is a splash of sky. Great for beds, borders, or pots.

Planting Guide: Sow post-frost. Choose a sunny to semi-shaded spot. Keep the soil moist, but not drenched. Watch as your garden transforms.

Garden tips and stories: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/category/alaska-seed-company/

A hardy annual that is perfect for the cottage flower garden!

Tall stems require staking as plants reach over 3′ under the midnight sun.

Start seeds indoors 8 weeks prior to your last frost date. Sow seeds 1/4″ deep (for proper germination- darkness is required).

Space plants 12″-24″ in the cottage garden. Pinch when plants are 8″-10″ tall.

Roughly 30 seeds per packet

The Firmament Seed, a captivating variety of the Annual Forget-Me-Not, brings a celestial touch to any garden with its delicate, sky-blue flowers that seem to mirror the heavens above. This charming plant, known scientifically as Myosotis sylvatica, is celebrated for its vibrant clusters of tiny blooms, each centered with a subtle, eye-catching yellow or white eye, creating a stunning contrast against the lush green foliage. Ideal for adding a splash of color to borders, rock gardens, or as a heartfelt addition to a memory garden, Firmament Forget-Me-Nots symbolize true love and remembrance, making them a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

Easy to grow and maintain, these annuals thrive in cooler climates and prefer well-drained soil with partial shade to full sun. The Firmament variety is particularly prized for its more compact growth habit and profuse blooming, ensuring a long-lasting display of floral beauty. By planting Firmament Seeds, gardeners can expect a sea of tranquil blue that not only beautifies their outdoor space but also serves as a living tribute, embodying lasting memories and enduring bonds.

Planting Guide for Growing Firmament

Materials Needed:

• Firmament seeds
• Seed trays or small pots
• Seed starting mix
• Black plastic or light-blocking material
• Garden bed or large containers
• Compost or organic matter
• Garden tools (trowel, rake)
• Watering can or hose with a gentle spray nozzle

Starting the Seeds Indoors

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare Containers:
   • Fill seed trays or small pots with a high-quality, well-draining seed starting mix. Ensure the soil is loose and not compacted.
2. Sow the Seeds:
   • Sow firmament seeds on the surface of the soil. Press them lightly into the soil but do not cover them completely, as they require darkness to germinate.
3. Provide Darkness:
   • Cover the seed trays or pots with a layer of black plastic or another light-blocking material. This creates the necessary dark environment for seed germination.
4. Watering:
   • Water the soil gently using a spray bottle or a watering can with a fine nozzle. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
5. Temperature:
   • Place the covered containers in a location with temperatures around 65-70°F (18-21°C). Firmament seeds need moderate warmth to germinate.
6. Germination:
   • Check the seeds daily and keep the soil moist. Firmament seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days. Once seedlings begin to appear, remove the light-blocking cover.
7. Light:
   • After germination, place the seedlings under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill where they can receive at least 6-8 hours of light daily.
8. Thinning:
   • When seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them to ensure proper spacing. Leave the strongest seedlings and space them about 4 inches apart in the tray or transplant them into individual pots.

Transplanting Firmament Outdoors

Timing:

• Transplant the firmament seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.

1. Choose the Right Spot:
   • Select a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Firmament prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
2. Prepare the Soil:
   • Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches, removing any rocks or debris. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
3. Transplanting:
   • Dig holes large enough to accommodate the root balls of the seedlings. Space the plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for their spreading habit. Place the seedlings in the holes and backfill with soil, gently firming around the base.
4. Watering:
   • Water the transplanted seedlings thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until the plants are established.

Growing and Caring for Firmament

Growing Tips:

1. Watering:
   • Firmament prefers regular watering, especially during dry periods. Ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.
2. Mulching:
   • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
3. Fertilizing:
   • Firmament typically does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, organic fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.

Harvesting Tips:

1. Timing:
   • Firmament can be harvested when the flowers are in full bloom, which usually occurs about 8-10 weeks after planting.
2. Harvesting Method:
   • Use clean scissors or garden shears to cut the flower stems. Harvesting in the early morning when the plants are hydrated ensures the best quality flowers.
3. Drying and Storage:
   • If desired, firmament flowers can be dried for later use. Hang the cut stems upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area until they are completely dry.

By following these planting and care tips, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and healthy display of firmament in your garden. Happy gardening!