Re: Seedlings downunder
From: "J.F. Hensler" <hensler@povn.com>
Hi Jan,
Don't worry if the babies want to go dormant or if they're small the first year. And don't worry if some don't make it. Since they're a bit unstable anyway this is normal. (I'm not sure about wintering them in a pot. I've never had good luck here, but then we can drop to -29 with or without snow.) I'd like to see your winters if they're worse than ours!
I've had the best luck just planting them out and letting them fight for survival. If they can get their roots down, they'll be better off..... both types, since almost all have the Sib type root systems. Plant them anywhere and don't coddle them.
Had planted about two dozen from the JI line in the X zone (no water, no fertilizer, no shade in a mostly sand area) last spring. About 1/2 came through the mice and cold and some are looking exceptionally good in spite of the neglect. Odd to see something so JI looking growing next to the beardeds in what amounts to desert!
Candies can bloom as early as 6 months from germinating if they're started in the spring. Look for yours to bloom as adults next fall.
TB babies here are going wild as well though not as far along as yours. Free seeded Missouriensis kids are popping up like wild.
Take care not to work too hard if you're battling the flu. Gardening can always wait for the gardener.
Later,
Christy
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