Saponaria - Key Growing Information

Saponaria flowers; this crop prefers sandy soil and good drainage; partial shade or bright filtered light to sunny locations.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

7-10 days at 70°F (21°C).

SOWING:

Performs best in areas with cool summers. Sow at 2-3 week intervals until midsummer for continuous bloom. Blooms July to August. Direct seed (recommended) - Sow in early spring when the soil is cool and a light frost is still possible. Sow 2-3 seeds every 2", 1/8" deep. Thin to stand 2-9" apart when the first true leaves appear. Transplant - Sow directly into 72-cell plug flats, 2-3 seeds per cell, 2-3 weeks before last frost. Lightly cover seed. Thin to 1 plant per cell. harden off and transplant outdoors after last frost.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Average, well-drained soil.

PLANT SPACING:

2-9".

HARDINESS ZONES:

Annual.

HARVEST:

When 1-2 flowers in a spray are open.

USES:

Excellent cut-flower filler. Cottage gardens.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Gypsophila vaccaria

ALTERNATE NAMES:

Soapwort, cow soapwort

Saponaria