Cerinthe Major, commonly known as Honeywort, is an herbaceous annual that features vivid, drooping purple flowers, and equally interesting mottled leaves. Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to this plant!

Honeywort can be planted directly outdoors after the last frost, or started indoors 6 weeks before the last expected frost.

Honeywort should be planted in a sunny location in moderate soil that drains well.

• Soaking these seeds overnight before planting will assist in germination. It is recommended to start indoors for later transplanting.
• If starting indoors, sow seeds into trays or small pots 6 weeks before the last expected frost. If sowing outdoors, prepare a seedbed by weeding and breaking up soil.
• Sow 1-2 seeds per plant at a depth of 1/8 - 1/4 inch, and cover with soil.
• Keep seeds moist and maintain a temperature of 65F-85F degrees until germination. Under proper conditions, germination should occur in 1-3 weeks.
• Once placing seeds or seedlings in final growing location, space plants 12-18 inches apart.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• Water Honeywort regularly, and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once per month.
• Remove spent blooms to encourage futher flowering.
• For cut flowers, harvest when blooms are purple and bracts have darkened to blue. Stems need to be flamed or dipped in boiling water to prevent loss of sap.
• Honeywort is a vigorous self-sower, so deadhead blooms to prevent this, or allow seeds to fall for new plants.