Wild indigo (Baptisia sp.) – Open Pollinated
Baptisias are trouble-free, easy-to-grow, late spring bloomers. These seeds were collected from plants here at Jenkins. Because there are several different species and cultivars of Baptisia in the garden, and pollinators visit many plants in a day, cross pollination with other cultivars is highly probable. These seeds will produce plants that bloom in various shades of blue and yellow with hints of pink, maroon and purple.
Natural Habitat: Woodland edges, prairies
Light Requirements: Sun to part shade
Soil Requirements: Moist to dry
USDA Hardiness: Zones 4-9
Size: Height of 3′ to 4′
Wildlife Value: Butterflies
Deer Resistance: Resistant
Germination Requirements
Most Baptisia species require a light sanding followed by 10 days of Cold Moist Stratification (abbreviated as CMS in many reference guides). Stratification is the process of pre-treating seeds to overcome the seeds’ natural inhibitors that prevent germination in less-than ideal circumstances. Cover the seeds lightly when you sow them. A general rule is to cover seeds to a depth equal to their height.
To sand the seeds, set them between two sheets of sandpaper and move the top piece back and forth across the seeds that are sandwiched between the two layers. Don’t press so firmly that it is difficult. It is a light motion.
Cold Moist Stratification can be accomplished by sowing the seeds and setting them outside when temperatures are consistently below 40 degrees. Seeds can always be kept cold longer than the required number of days, so it is fine to sow these in December and leave them outside for the entire winter. They will germinate when the soil warms up in spring. A refrigerator can also be used to provide the 10 days of cold conditions.
Plants in the pea family benefit from the use of an inoculant if you have access to some from a vegetable gardening friend. It is not required.
You must be logged in to post a comment.