FREE: 50 Moonflower Seeds

The listing, 50 Moonflower Seeds has ended.

Moonflowers will thrive in nearly any soil condition, from very poor to very rich, although they exhibit a preference for rich soil. They require very little care once started. Insect and pest damage is not usually a big problem, although ants may be attracted to the trumpet-shaped flowers.

Moonflowers produce large white flowers. Some gardeners like to grow them alongside various colors of morning glories, especially the "heavenly blue” strain. This commingling results in an abundance of flowers both day and night in one garden spot, blue in daylight and white by moonlight.

The fragrant moonflowers are often considered ornamental, and each flower remains open no longer than one night. In some areas of the world, however, Ipomoea alba is classified as an invasive species, and growing moonflowers is not a good idea in those locations. It is a good idea for any gardener to research a list of indigenous plants and invasive species in their region of the world.

Dead blooms should be removed in a process called deadheading, in which the spent bloom is removed from the plant. Deadheading ensures that the moonflower vine remains healthy and productive during its growing season. If moonflowers are not deadheaded, they will easily self-sow their seeds and a gardener may end up with moonflowers the following spring in an area he had not intended.

Caution should be taken when growing moonflowers in areas with small children or pets. While moonflowers are not harmful if touched, the plant is not meant for ingestion and is considered toxic. Side effects of moonflower seed ingestion include hallucinations and, in rare cases, respiratory distress. If these side effects appear in someone who has ingested part of the plant, it is advisable to call a local poison control or emergency services center immediately.