Lupine Russell Seeds For Planting (Lupinus polyphyllus)

Sowing The Seed

You will notice that Lupine seeds have a very hard outer shell. The seeds will need to be prepped for germination by either soaking them in warm water for 24 hours, or scarifying them with sandpaper or a knife. In the end, It may be beneficial to try both methods, to see which works best for you. Start the seeds indoors, in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost, or directly outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Sow at a shallow depth of 1/8" under topsoil, to allow direct lighting to reach the seeds. This is a crucial step in the germination process. Transplant or direct sow after all danger of frost has passed.

Growing Conditions

These gorgeous, perennial flowering plants will require an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day. Temperatures should be kept around 60F to 70F for optimal growth. Provide a medium that is neutral to poor. Lupine plants thrive in poor, sandy soils because this allows them to produce high amounts of nitrogen. To increase drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to areas containing hard, compact soil. The soil can be watered daily until the seeds germinate, later lessening the amount of moisture provided daily.

Germination & Growth

Lupine Russell seeds will begin to germinate in roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of roughly 12 to 36 inches tall & can be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. Lupine Russell is known to attract an array of beneficial insects to the garden, such as bumblebees, honeybees, hummingbirds & butterflies as well. Their brightly colored flowers will bloom all through the summer months, until the Autumn season arrives.

Notes:

Lupine is often mispelled "Lupin" or "Loopin"

Pronounced: Loop-in or Loo-pine