Alyssum Seeds - Basket of Gold

Alyssum 'Basket of Gold' is a unique and vibrant variety of Alyssum known for its bright yellow flowers and sweet, honey-like fragrance. This variety is perfect for adding a pop of color to any garden, whether used in hanging baskets, containers, or as ground cover. 'Basket of Gold' thrives in sunny spots and blooms profusely, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, beautiful flower. With its long-lasting blooms and attractive scent, it’s sure to be a favorite in any garden.

Key Benefits

Bright Yellow Blooms: Produces vibrant yellow flowers that bring sunshine to any garden.
Fragrant Flowers: Offers a sweet, honey-like fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Low-Maintenance: Easy to grow and care for, making it ideal for beginner gardeners.
Long Blooming Period: Blooms continuously from early spring through the first frost, providing months of color and fragrance.
Versatile: Perfect for borders, containers, hanging baskets, and ground cover.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Clusters of small, bright yellow flowers, complemented by dark green foliage.
• Bloom Period: Blooms from early spring until the first frost, providing extended color and fragrance.
• Growth Habit: Low-growing, spreading plant that forms a dense mat, ideal for borders and containers.
• Size: Grows 4–6 inches tall with a spread of 6–10 inches.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• When to Plant: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after the last frost.
• Ideal Temperature: Germinates best at 65°F–70°F (18°C–21°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep in light, well-draining soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 6–8 inches apart for optimal growth and air circulation.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilization

• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Pruning

• Regularly deadhead spent flowers to promote continued blooming. Trim back any overgrown or leggy stems as needed to maintain a neat appearance.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Generally resistant to pests, but keep an eye out for aphids or whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
• Diseases: To prevent fungal diseases, ensure adequate spacing and good air circulation. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Harvesting

• Maturity: Alyssum 'Basket of Gold' typically begins flowering 6–8 weeks after sowing.
• Cut Flowers: For fresh cut flowers, harvest in the early morning when blooms are fully open. These flowers last well in a vase.

Storage

• Seed Collection: Allow flowers to dry naturally on the plant, then collect seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Culinary and Practical Uses

• Pollinator-Friendly: Great for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it ideal for pollinator gardens.
• Ground Cover: Its spreading habit makes it an excellent choice for ground cover or filling in garden gaps.
• Container Gardening: Perfect for adding color and fragrance to containers, window boxes, and hanging baskets.

Conclusion

Alyssum Seeds – Basket of Gold is a striking and fragrant variety that will brighten any garden. With its cheerful yellow blooms, sweet fragrance, and ease of care, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether used in containers, hanging baskets, or as a ground cover, 'Basket of Gold' will fill your garden with beautiful color and attract pollinators throughout the season.