How to Propagate Lupine
Lupine (lupinus) is a perennial flowering plant and a member of the pea family. These fast-growing summer bloomers come in a variety of colors and shapes, although most of the more familiar lupine bloom on tall spikes. Lupine thrive in cool, moist environments with full sun. Plant the lupine seeds directly into the garden in spring, when all danger of frost has passed. The experts at North Dakota State University suggest that the best time to plant lupine seed is mid-April.
Moisten a paper towel and place it in a zipper-type plastic sandwich bag. Place the seeds on top of the paper towel, secure the bag and place it in the refrigerator for seven days.
- Lupine (lupinus) is a perennial flowering plant and a member of the pea family.
- Plant the lupine seeds directly into the garden in spring, when all danger of frost has passed.
Pull all weeds and turf from the planting bed.
Use the long-handled garden fork to dig into the soil to a depth of 12 inches. Crush the removed soil with the back of the tool and remove any rocks or other debris from the planting bed.
Pour a 2-inch layer of compost, a 2-inch layer of peat moss and a 2-inch layer of coarse sand onto the planting bed and mix it into the soil to a depth of 12 inches. Level the planting bed with the rake.
Water the planting bed until the water puddles. Allow it to drain and then water again, allowing the bed to drain completely until the soil is moist but not saturated.
- Pull all weeds and turf from the planting bed.
- Water the planting bed until the water puddles.
Push the lupine seeds, 1-inch deep and 4 inches apart, into the soil and cover with soil, tamping down firmly over the seeds with your hands.
Water the lupine seed bed often enough to keep the soil moist at all times during germination.
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Writer Bio
Based in the American Southwest, Bridget Kelly has been writing about gardening and real estate since 2005. Her articles have appeared at Trulia.com, SFGate.com, GardenGuides.com, RE/MAX.com, MarketLeader.com, RealEstate.com, USAToday.com and in "Chicago Agent" magazine, to name a few. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing.
