The Levkojen flowers, reminiscent of snapdragons, are wonderfully fragrant and present throughout the summer. Over the course of the weeks, they develop into small pods containing the seeds for propagation.
What do Levkojen seeds look like and when can they be collected?
Levkojen seeds are tiny, rounded, flat and black and are found in pods about 1 cm long. You can harvest the seeds from September when the pods are fully ripe and dried. The ideal sowing time is between February and April.
Where do I get the seeds of Levkojen?
InGardenries Seeds from a wide variety of varieties are available. You can also order them online. However, it is more exciting to collect the seeds from your own Levkojen. Then, with a bit of luck, you'll even have the chance to get completely new varieties.
What do the seeds of Levkojen look like?
After the flowering period, pods about 1 cm long form in which theinconspicuous seeds are located. These are tiny, roundish, flat and black in color.
When can the Levkojen seeds be collected?
You can get the seeds of these popular cut flowers fromSeptember. Matthiola produces its seeds in elongated pods. Once they are fully ripe and dried, you can harvest them from the plant, open them and remove the seeds they contain. The seeds can be stored in a container until they are sown. They can germinate well for about 2 years.
When is the perfect time to sow the Levkojen?
BetweenFebruaryandApril you can sow the Levkojen seeds at home. Direct sowing outdoors is only recommended from May onwards, as the seeds require a soil temperature of at least 18 °C and the young plants are sensitive to frost.
What is important when sowing the seeds of the Levkojen?
Sow the seedsthinlyin agrowing tray in nutrient-poor soil. They should not be covered with soil as they require light to germinate. All you have to do is press them lightly into the soil and then moisten them with a spray bottle. Place the seed tray in the window so that the seedlings can grow well. At a temperature between 18 and 21 °C, the seeds germinate after 7 to 14 days.
What is important after the seeds have germinated?
After the Levkojen seeds have germinated, they should beplanted into small pots after about 3 to 4 weeks. Whether in the cottage garden, in the flower bed, on the balcony or somewhere else outdoors - you should only plant the Levkojen from mid-May. Plant them in a sunny location in nutrient-rich, sandy and well-drained soil. A distance of 30 cm is recommended between the individual berths. All you need to care for it is fertilize it every 2 weeks.
Tip
Allow self-seeding of Levkojen
In autumn, the pods of the Levkojen open on their own and the seeds fall out. If they remain in the bed, they will sow themselves next year. This means you can get new Levkojen every year without having to do anything.