Columbine Seeds,
Leprechaun Gold

Columbine germinates best after a cold period, so sow outdoors in fall and let winter supply the chilling, or chill the seed in a moist medium for 3-4 weeks before starting it indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost. Press the seed into the surface and barely cover it, as light aids germination; expect 21-36 days to sprout. It usually blooms in its second year after establishing strong roots in its first growing season. If you're unsure of your last frost date, consult our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

If starting indoors, place seeds in moistened trays and refrigerate for 3-4 weeks before sowing. Once stratified, sow seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep in seed trays or directly in the garden. Keep the soil consistently moist during germination, which may take 21-36 days. The ideal soil temperature for germination is 65-70 F. Space the plants 10-12 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation.

Water deeply when the top inch of soil dries out, especially during hot or dry periods. Fertilize lightly in early spring using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming and prevent aggressive self-seeding. In late fall, cut back dead foliage to encourage fresh spring growth.

• Mature flower petals will fall off exposing the seed pod.
• Harvest the mature seed pods when they have turned from green to brown.
• You may open and empty the pods or place them in a brown paper bag and shake them to release the seeds from their pods.
• Each pod will encase many small, shiny, black seeds.
• Store the seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place until you are ready to plant.