Ageratum Seeds - Dondo Blue

Ageratum Dondo Blue is a popular variety of the Ageratum plant known for its stunning clusters of blue, fluffy flowers. This ornamental plant is perfect for adding vibrant color to flower beds, borders, and containers. With its long blooming period and attractive foliage, it’s a great choice for any garden looking to add a touch of elegance and charm.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Blue Flowers: The bright, fluffy blue flowers are sure to capture attention, adding vibrant color to any garden.
• Long Blooming Period: Dondo Blue Ageratum flowers continuously from spring to fall, providing long-lasting beauty in the garden.
• Compact Growth Habit: This variety has a compact growth habit, making it ideal for small spaces, containers, and borders.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, helping to support local pollinator populations.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Ageratum is easy to care for, requiring minimal effort to thrive.

Variety Features

• Plant Type: Annual, but can be grown as a perennial in warmer climates.
• Flower Color: Soft, fluffy blue flowers.
• Height: Grows to a height of 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm).
• Spread: 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm).
• Bloom Period: Flowers bloom from late spring to fall, offering months of color.
• Foliage: Dark green, dense foliage that complements the vibrant blue flowers.

Planting Instructions

Best Planting Season

• Spring: After the last frost has passed, when the soil has warmed up.

Ideal Location

• Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade (preferably 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
• Temperature: Ideal for USDA hardiness zones 2-11, with a preference for warmer temperatures above 60°F (16°C).

Planting Details

• Sowing Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch (3 mm) deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.

Germination

• Temperature: Optimal germination occurs at around 70°F (21°C).
• Time to Germinate: Germination typically takes 7-14 days.
• Moisture: Keep soil moist but not soaked until seedlings emerge.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Watering Needs: Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Avoid over-watering as Ageratum does not like soggy soil.
• Watering Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilizing

• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time to promote healthy growth and blooming. You can also use a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season for additional nourishment.
• Organic Options: Use compost or organic fertilizers to provide a steady supply of nutrients.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
• General Care: Prune back any leggy growth to keep the plant compact and bushy.

Harvesting

• Flowers: Harvest flowers once they are fully open for bouquets. Ageratum flowers can last for up to a week in water.
• Seeds: Allow the plant to produce seed heads at the end of the season. Collect seeds once they have fully matured and dried for next season's planting.

Storage

• Seeds: Store seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Properly stored, seeds will remain viable for up to 1-2 years.

Culinary Uses

• Edible Flowers: While Ageratum is typically grown for ornamental purposes, its flowers are sometimes used as decorative garnishes, though they should be consumed in moderation.

Conclusion

Ageratum Dondo Blue is an excellent choice for adding color, texture, and beauty to your garden or landscape. With its compact size, vibrant blue flowers, and easy care requirements, it’s ideal for borders, containers, and hanging baskets. It’s also a great plant for attracting pollinators, helping to support a healthy garden ecosystem. Whether you're a beginner gardener or an experienced horticulturist, this charming variety is sure to enhance your garden with its long-lasting blooms and low-maintenance care.