Lupins (P)
Lupinus polyphyllus
Perennial. Hardy in zones 4-9.
Start inside 6-8 weeks before last frost in peat pots. Chip seeds or soak in warm water for 24 hours before sowing 1/8 inch deep. Provide cool temperatures; 13-18°C (55-65°F) and seed should germinate in 1-2 weeks. May also be direct seeded in very early spring or late fall. Frost will help break the hard seed coat. Transplant outside after last frost into full sun or light shade 12-18 apart. Plant in groups for best show. Water and deadhead regularly. Feed with a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer. Do not disturb once planted. Lupins are short-lived (3-4 years), but they self-seed reliably although the new plants often revert to blue.
Seeding Rate of Lupins: 1 pound /1000 square feet or 5 grams per square meter
