Wildflowers are the hippies of the natural world; full of color and bursting with life these wonderful beings are always sure to put a smile on someone’s face. Catchfly, sometimes overlooked is a wonderful addition to any garden or flowerpot.
Finding and Preparing a Site for Catchfly
Clear the selected site of all debris, till in organic matter to help heavier soils drain better. Rake the entire planting area clear of large clumps of soil and any other obstructions. Water the area well before planting seeds or seedlings. An all-purpose slow release fertilizer can now be added and then raked into the soil gently.
Planting Catchfly Seeds
Directly broadcast seeds over the entire planting area and cover lightly with sand or some other such fine soil. The seeds will germinate better when sunlight is permitted to hit them. Carefully water the seeds in and keep the seedbed from drying out until the plants have gained several true leaves.
When the seedlings have true leaves pinch the top growth of each one to create a bushier plant. The addition of a light shade cloth can help prevent the sun from scorching tiny seedlings. Once the plants are established, they are very drought tolerant.
Transplanting and Planting Catchfly Plants
Carefully dig each plant leaving a goodly amount of soil intact around the roots so they stress less while being moved. Plant them at the same level to just a little deeper then how they were growing originally. Water in very well and apply a light mulching to help retain water the addition of a shade cloth will also be helpful in preventing water loss and heat stress on the newly transplanted flowers.
Once the plants are established, remove the shade cloth, as the plants should take full sun by then. The addition of a slow release fertilizer for blooming plants can also be applied around each plant or in its planting hole.
Additional Notes on Catchfly
- Catchfly love full sun and well draining soil, they will grow best if planted in such a site.
- Catchfly seeds need to be cold stratified before planting in the garden; doing so will aid in the best germination rates possible.
- The strikingly bold hues of catchfly look best when planted in large masses.
- Catchfly gets its name for the sticky substance it produces at the base of its flowers. This goo catches small insects.
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