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Growing from Seed

Growing penstemon from seed in the Northeast?

Rick (zone 6b, MA)

7 years ago

last modified: 7 years ago

Has anyone else grown Penstemon from seed in the fall in the northeast? I know most species are native to the west and prefer arid climates and sandy-gravely soils low in organic matter, but there are some species that are native to here or the Midwest where we have richer soils and more precipitation. I do want to plant now and take advantage of winter stratification. I could winter-sow in plastic jugs as many are doing nowadays, or in pots with window screening on top, or even direct-seed. Curious to know what experience others have had.

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Comments (5)

Skip1909
7 years ago
I grew Penstemon digitalis, put them outdoors in January in 5" deep plug trays covered with row cover fabric. A pot and window screen would be similar. They had one of the best germination and survival rates of anything I sowed.
Rick (zone 6b, MA)
Original Author
7 years ago
Thanks, Skip1909. That’s fantastic. Where are you located? And where do I get 5” deep plug trays? Is there anywhere online you can recommend?
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Skip1909
7 years ago
Im in NJ but they grow in colder zones. I got the plug trays at the greenhousemegastore website but I've bought penstemons in 3.5 square pots that are 3.5" deep, so you dont need the deep tray.
Rick (zone 6b, MA)
Original Author
7 years ago
Curious to know what kind of potting soil or mix you used.
Skip1909
7 years ago
Last year I used Vigoro potting mix from homedepot, which was bought while frozen solid in the middle of the winter haha

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