Alyssum flower seeds

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The colors contrast beautifully with edibles too.

Thanks to self-seeding, once established, alyssums often come back each year. Press the seeds lightly into the surface of the soil, says Johnny’s Seeds.

  • Thinner spacing:

    If you want more space between plants, you can thin out the seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they have developed a few true leaves, says Johnny’s Seeds.

    • How do you plant Alyssum?

    2.

    Alyssum grows best where it can receive ample sun throughout the day. Growing the plant in especially rich soil may lead to lush, green plants that produce very few flowers. Shear back leggy growth to encourage fullness.

    Ongoing Care of Alyssum Plants

    • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote new flowers.

    • Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly.

    • Improve airflow and treat any signs of powdery mildew.

    • Pinch back plants by half after initial blooming for a second flush of flowers.

    • Pull up expired plants after frost or leave some to self-seed next year.

    With proper sowing and care, alyssums are easy to grow from seed and provide endless delicate blossoms to enjoy.

    Tips for Growing Different Alyssum Varieties

    Many color and form options exist beyond classic white alyssum:

    • Easter Bonnet Mix – Vibrant blend of purple, pink, lavender and white large blooms.

    • Clear Crystal White – Masses of bright white flowers on mounding 6″ plants.

    • Carpet of Snow – The standard tiny white blooms; very compact and long blooming.

    • Rosie O’Day – Unique soft pink trailing blooms perfect for hanging baskets.

    • Purple Prince – Rich royal purple flowers on dense 8″ mounds.

    With countless varieties, it’s fun to experiment with growing different types of alyssums from seed.

    Using Alyssums as Companion Plants

    Interplant alyssum throughout the vegetable garden.

    Plant alyssum in a location that gets plenty of sunlight – at least 6 hours. Getty Images

    To sow seed where alyssum is to flower, take out shallow drills and water the ground thoroughly before sowing, then cover with 0.5cm of soil. Shear plants back after bloom to promote further flowering. However, periods of high heat and humidity may cause the plant to stop blooming during the height of summer.

    Known for its immense flurry of blooms, the plant is valued for its ornamental value and its unique ability to attract beneficial insects. Place the tray under your grow lights or in a very bright, warm south-facing window. Scatter seeds into prepared soil and lightly cover.

    In fall, sow alyssum seeds in containers or garden beds about 8 to 10 weeks before your first expected fall frost.

    Includes coastal Queensland and northern NSW from north of Mackay to just south of Coffs Harbour. However, fungal issues and stem rot may occur in beds that drain poorly or have been overwatered.

    Though aphids can sometimes become a problem, healthy alyssum plantings are likely to attract a wide range of beneficial insects that commonly combat them.

    Once seedlings start to appear, gently thin so seedlings are about six inches (15 cm) apart.

    Planting alyssum seedlings in the garden

    I add sweet alyssum to the edges of my raised beds, in my ornamental containers, and any leftover seedlings usually fill any other holes I have in the garden among my perennials and any annuals I may have planted.

    In the summer, plants are always abuzz.

    Because it’s low growing, you don’t have to worry about sweet alyssum shading anything out (something that’s happened to me when I haven’t read the seed packet on taller blooming annuals). In the garden, it can be planted as a beautiful annual groundcover or edging plant. Many have white blooms, some are mauve or violet hues, and I’ve even seen peach-coloured alyssum flowers.

    If you’re starting alyssum seeds indoors, count back about six to eight weeks from your last frost-free date.

    Alyssum flowers are very attractive to pollinating and beneficial insects so it makes a good edging plant to sow around vegetable beds to entice insects to pollinate flowers and help control pests.

    Alyssum is a hardy annual flower that is beloved for its sweet fragrance, delicate clusters of blooms, and versatility in the garden. As a valuable groundcover, experts take special note of its use in companion planting and its role in thriving pollinator gardens.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does Sweet Alyssum Come Back Every Year?

    Alyssum will return to your garden beds, provided they are grown within their hardiness zone.

    alyssum flower seeds

    But you may want to lightly mist the soil until a seedling appears.