Keep It Alive

Love-in-a-mist is a prolific re-seeder. One packet will start your obsession and then you can redeem your rewards for years to come.

Tip: Harvest the seed pods while still firm and before they split open; hang upside down in a cool, dark place.

In the spring, sow your seeds about 1/8-inch deep in a spot that gets full to part sun and keep the soil moist until sprouts appear in from two to three weeks. After it gets going, this annual takes average to little water. Love-in-a-mist does not transplant well because of its long taproot; sow seeds directly in a prepared planting bed or container.

Few pests or problems afflict this annual. Actually, this honeybee attraction is a trouble-free plant that appreciates a little neglect. And while deadheading will prolong flowering, it also will prevent the plant from developing decorative seed pods, so it is best to let this ornamental alone.