Tight, blue flower clusters. Use as a classic filler for mixed bouquets or plant to attract bees and butterflies to your garden. Ageratum is also known as flossflower or blue mink.
DAYS TO GERMINATION:7-10 days at 75-80°F (24-27°C).
SOWING:
Transplant (recommended): Sow 6-8 weeks before planting out. Do not cover seed as light aids germination. Bottom water or mist to avoid covering seed with displaced soil. Transplant to cell packs or larger containers when the first true leaves appear. Harden off and transplant after the danger of frost has passed. No pinching or support is needed. Direct seeding is not recommended.
LIGHT PREFERENCE:
Sun. Ageratum will tolerate part shade where summers are hot.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS:
Fertile soil with good drainage, and a pH of 5.0-6.0.
PLANT SPACING:
9-12".
HARDINESS ZONES:
Annual.
HARVEST:
Fresh: Harvest when flower spikes 3/4 open. Dried: Harvest when flowers are completely open; hang. May be air-dried, but the flower color often fades.
USES:
Cut flower or dried flower. Back of beds, borders, and mass plantings.
SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Ageratum houstonianum
ALTERNATE NAMES:
Flossflower, blue mink