Growing Guide

STATICE

a bunch of flowers that are in a pot

Growing Statice from seed:

  • Long-lasting Blooms: Statice flowers are known for their long vase life. When cut and properly cared for, they can remain fresh and vibrant for an extended period, making them an excellent choice for both fresh and dried arrangements.

  • Dried Flower Arrangements: Statice is one of the best flowers for drying due to its ability to retain color and shape. Dried statice flowers are popular in everlasting bouquets, wreaths, and other decorative crafts, providing beauty that lasts well beyond the growing season.

  • Wide Range of Colors: Statice flowers come in a variety of colors including purple, blue, pink, white, and yellow. This diverse color palette allows for creative and eye-catching floral designs, catering to various themes and preferences.

  • Ease of Cultivation: Statice is relatively easy to grow from seed. It is a hardy plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Once established, statice requires minimal maintenance, making it a suitable choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

  • Pollinator Friendly: Statice flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. By growing statice, you can support the local ecosystem and promote biodiversity in your garden while enjoying the benefits of beautiful cut flowers.

Quick Guide

Start Indoors:
  • Timing: 5-6 weeks before last spring frost

  • Seed Depth: Barely Cover

  • Germination time: 7-10 days

  • Transplant out: On last frost date

Plant Specifications

Step-by-Step Instructions - Starting Seeds Indoors

Collect Supplies:

  • Seeds

  • Seed starting trays or pots

  • Seed starting mix (sterile)

  • Labels and a marker

  • Plastic wrap or a humidity dome

  • Spray bottle or watering can with a fine nozzle

  • Grow lights or a sunny windowsill

    Timing

    • When to Start: Begin the process about 5 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.

    Preparation

    • Clean Containers: Sterilize your seed starting trays or pots to prevent disease.

    • Moisten Seed Mix: Slightly moisten your seed starting mix so it's damp but not soggy.

    Planting Seeds

    • Fill Trays: Fill each cell in the seed tray with the moist seed starting mix.

    • Sow Seeds: Place 1-2 seeds each cell.

    • Label Trays: Label each tray or pot with the variety and the planting date.

    Germination

    • Cover Seeds: Add a thin layer of fine vermiculite to prevent algae growth on soil surface.

    • Moisten Surface: Use a spray bottle to mist the top of the soil.

    • Create Humidity: Cover the seed trays with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.

    • Warmth: Place the trays in a warm location (70-75°F or 21-24°C). A heat mat can help.

    Light and Watering

    • Lighting: Once the seeds germinate (about 7-10 days), remove the cover and place the seedlings under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill. Provide 12-16 hours of light per day.

    • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom if possible to prevent damping-off disease.

    Take Care of Seedlings

    • Thinning: Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin them to one plant per cell or pot.

    • Hardening Off: About a week before transplanting outdoors, start to harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for increasing time periods each day.

    Transplanting Outdoors

    • Timing: Transplant the seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

    • Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Amend with compost if needed.

    • Planting: Plant seedlings 4-6 inches apart, depending on the variety. Use netting or a trellis to support plants for straight cut flower stems.

    • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.