If you’re looking for a show-stopping annual climber, you can’t go wrong with the Mexican Morning Glory. Even though these beauties only last for one season, their stunning, trumpet-shaped flowers make them a favorite for brightening up balconies and garden beds alike. Ready to get growing? Here is everything you need to know about sowing Morning Glory seeds.
A Quick Look at Morning Glory Seeds
Morning Glory seeds are relatively small—you’ll usually find about 35 to 45 seeds per gram. One important thing to remember is that these seeds are “dark germinators,” meaning they need to be fully covered by soil to sprout. They are also just as sensitive to frost as the adult plants. For the best results, you’ll want to keep them at a cozy temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F), and you can expect to see sprouts in about two weeks.
Pro Tip: To give your seeds a head start, soak them in a bowl of water for a few hours before planting. This softens the hard outer shell and speeds up germination. To save yourself some thinning work later on, try sowing three or four seeds directly into their final spot or into individual starter pots.
By the way, Morning Glories come in an almost endless variety of colors—from deep blues and vibrant pinks to crisp whites. Make sure to check the specific variety when you’re seed shopping to get the look you want!
Starting Seeds Indoors
Because Morning Glories grow fast but absolutely hate the cold, you can’t move them outside until the very last threat of frost has passed (usually mid-May). If you want to get a jump on the season, you can start your seeds indoors on a sunny windowsill.
Aim to sow your seeds between late March and early April. Keep the soil consistently moist, and after a few weeks, your sturdy little seedlings will be ready to transition to your garden or balcony.
Sowing Directly in the Garden
If you’d rather skip the indoor pots, you can sow the seeds directly into the ground starting in late May. When picking a spot, look for a sunny area that offers a bit of protection from heavy wind and rain.
One quick safety note: some varieties of Morning Glory can be toxic if ingested. If you have curious toddlers or pets running around, it’s a good idea to plant them in hanging baskets or high balcony boxes where they stay out of reach but can still be enjoyed!
