The Germination of Mustard Flower Seeds

Mustard Seeds

• Mustard is an annual herb. About half of a plant's flowers produce dark, reddish-brown seeds in pods 1/2 to 3/4 inch in length. Most seeds are produced by flowers pollinated in the flowering period's first 15 days.

Seed Germination

• Mustard is a cool-season plant that likes full sun and fertile, well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. Sow mustard seeds after soil temperatures reach at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit; however, seeds germinate best at 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid sowing when temperatures are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, as this reduces seed germination. Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep in firm soil that leaves only a shallow depression of a heel when someone stands on it. Seedlings emerge quickly, between seven and 10 days. Thin bed when plants have three to four true leaves.

Plant Variety

• Because mustard comes in a variety of leaf types, colors and textures, the Utah State University Cooperative Extension recommends planting different types to make salads more interesting. This makes garden beds more interesting, too.