Love-in-a-Mist, Ragged Lady, or Devil-in-a-Bush—no matter what you call *Nigella damascena*, this charming flower is a total multitasker. Not only does it look stunning with its feathery foliage and dreamy blooms, but you can actually harvest the seeds to sprinkle over your favorite dishes! If you’re looking for a versatile addition to your garden, sowing some Nigella is a no-brainer. Here is everything you need to know to get started.
Sowing Love-in-a-Mist
Finding the Perfect Spot
One of the best things about Love-in-a-Mist is that it’s incredibly low-maintenance and will grow in almost any soil. That said, if you want a real showstopper, give it plenty of sunlight and a spot that stays relatively dry. The more sun it gets, the more lush the blooms will be. For the best results, try to pick a spot with soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients.
When to Plant
You’ve got a lot of flexibility when it comes to timing. You can actually sow the seeds as early as September the previous year for extra-early blooms, though a very wet spring can sometimes dampen their spirits. Since these beauties thrive in the warmth of summer, I usually recommend sowing in March or April. Don’t worry if you miss that window, though—you can still get them in the ground through late May or even June.
Pro tip: Once you’ve planted them once, you’re usually set for life! Love-in-a-Mist is a prolific self-seeder, so it’ll likely pop up on its own year after year.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by loosening the soil in your chosen sunny spot.
- Break up any large clumps of dirt with your hands until the texture is fine.
- Scatter the seeds broadly across the area.
- Lightly press the seeds into the soil (don’t bury them too deep!).
- Once the seedlings emerge (usually after 10 to 20 days), thin them out so there is about 4 inches (10 cm) of space between each plant.
Pro tip: If you want a garden that stays green and colorful all season long, try “staggered sowing.” Plant a fresh batch of seeds every few days over a couple of weeks. This way, the plants will bloom at different times, keeping your flower beds looking fresh all summer!
