How to Plant Cleome Seeds From the Previous Year

Cleome, also known as Spider flower, is an annual that will reseed itself when grown in USDA growing zones 8 through 11 where the winters are mild. Cleome grows as a tender annual in USDA growing zones 4 through 7. The plant produces 5-foot foliage spikes with a cluster of flowers at the top. Propagate cleome through seed collection at the end of growing season when the flowers produce seed pods. Sow the seeds directly outdoors the following spring as the plants do not transplant well due to their single stem structure.

Cleome seeds
Paper envelope
Refrigerator
Shovel
Rake
Compost
Water

Instructions

- 1
  Collect cleome seed pods after the blossoms have gone to seed. Split the pods open and save the inside seeds in a paper envelope. Store the seeds in a dry location for planting the following spring.
- 2
  Place the seeds in the refrigerator approximately one week prior to planting.
- 3
  Choose a planting location that has well draining soil and full sun to partial shade light conditions.
- 4
  Loosen the soil in the flower bed where the seeds will be planted in spring once there is no longer a danger of frost. Work compost into the soil to increase the nutrient value and moisture retention. Rake the area smooth.
- 5
  Sow the seeds in the soil by scattering several seeds in each planting area set at a distance of 12 inches apart. Gently cover the seeds with ¼-inch of soil and pack lightly.
- 6
  Water the soil after planting to moisten without making it wet. Continue to water the seed area during germination to prevent the soil from drying out.
- 7
  Pinch off seedlings that are growing on top of each other to prevent root competition from plants growing too close together.

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