How to Sow
Sow seeds 1/4" deep in a shady area in early summer. Keep soil moist and protect from sun.
How to Grow
Seedlings emerge in 14-28 days. In fall, transplant seedlings to a permanent sunny or partially shady location, spacing plants about 18" apart. Lupines are cool-season plants that are at their best in areas with cool summer nights. They prefer rich, cool, moist, lightly acidic soil with good drainage. Lupines often require staking. If you cut the spent flower stalks back after blooming, the plants may reward you with a second flush of bloom in late summer or fall.
Harvesting
These spiky plants are dramatic at the back of the border and beautiful for cut flowers. They also naturalize well in wildflower meadows. Combine them with iris, phlox, and bellflowers. The flowers attract hummingbrds and beneficials.