I usually sow seeds in ground, but last year bunnies got all but one plant. So this year I started some under florescent lights, and after about three weeks this is how they look. Probably still going to put out some screening around them until they take off. The hummers sure do like them. George
This message was edited May 4, 2005 11:58 AM
Here is a close-up.
cool setup
Hi, George - I grew some under lights this year too for the first time. I have moved mine out to my portable greenhouse now and I am just waiting for warmer weather to finally arrive here in CT and I will plant them out. I think what I will do is plant several of them in a large container and train them up a trellis. It sounds like you have grown them before - how tall do they climb and and how long does it take them to take off once you plant them out.
Diane Krny
Hi Diane they usually grow at least six feet or so, if you have them in a sunny spot. I am not in any hurry to get them outside until weather is a lot warmer. Seems like they thrive in the heat around here in my zone. Every year I try and collect seed, but haven't had any luck. Have to get a greenhouse someday or thinking of building a cold frame, so I don't have to bring in and out while I am hardening off. Good luck with them. George
Oh that is so inspiring! I am growing some in my garage, and some are still alive, but I have yet to invest in lighting, but have a south/west facing window. Most things are growing ok, but not all. This says to me that I need to get a light to build on my setup.
The few climbers that I have put outside have not made it. Texas can be brutal on seedlings. Too hot too quick!
I will give them another shot, and get some lights over them!
mel
I'm growing them for the first time this year, too! In fact, I guess I'm behind schedule since the seeds are still soaking. I hope they will have time to take off! Your's look fabulous - I am totally jealous!
I planted these several years ago. My sister gave me the seeds. I saved seeds from the first year. Planted them again the next year. I didn't need to save the seeds. They are self seeding. Oh Lordy are they self seeding. One of my favorite plants. They vine a lot more than 6 feet. I'm pretty sure they could consume the earth if we didn't have cold temps. Such delicate foliage and dainty blooms. I just love them.
I'm planting some for the hummers around my house. I have a couple that are in hanging baskets. Just testing this out...because I really haven't thought of a good place for this vine to grow that would privy me to a view of hummers feasting from them...sooooo they're in hanging baskets near my kitchen window LOL.
Finally really starting to bloom nice.
The hummers are all over it.
Another shot
Oh I would love to try these from seeds if anyone can save some! This is a pretty plant, love the leaves too and I know my hummingbird regulars would love it too!
Did you plant some in a hanging basket too? How did they do?
Oh, George! They are beautiful! I love what you've done with them. Mine never made it - every time they'd get to about 2" some critter would eat 'em up! I'll try again next season - in a different spot!
George, how many plants did you use around your trellis? I planted two on each side and they still haven't bloomed - although they have climbed to the top. They haven't bushed out like yours.
The biggest pain is that 3 yrs ago, I had it looking just like yours. The past 2 yrs I planted cyress seeds instead and they didn't cover the trellis so I was so excited to finally get true Cardinal Climber seeds. But I haven't recaptured that look from 3 yrs ago.
I'll try again next year and start them like you did and plant four on each side.
Still haven't been able to get seeds, but If I do I will share. I see were seed pod is going form and then by time it starts getting ready it falls off. Calalily I didn't plant any in baskets and I think there better for growing on structures. Sequee I had same thing two years in a row, so I started them indoors and made sure I had extra cause the bunnies still got some. They have definitely grown larger than six feet. I gave three to my neighbor and only one made it, others were eaten. She has it on and arbor and it just full of blooms. She has a rain barrel that she waters with and boy does that make a difference.
I started mine inside, too - the critters were happy that they could eat them right away instead of having to wait for them to grow. LOL!
Still don't know if it was insects or animals - guess it doesn't matter. They ate everything I tried in that area. I finally put potted vines out and they are doing fine. Too little, too late, I fear, but at least I know how to approach this area next year!
