Morning Glories: Growing Romantic Vines for Summer-to-Frost Blooms

Where to buy morning glory seeds: Burpee Gardening

Morning glories are annual climbers with slender stems, heart-shaped leaves, and trumpet-shaped flowers in pink, purple-blue, magenta, or white. Their beautiful pre-dawn buds and romantic tendrils lend old-fashioned charm.

In warm areas, train them over pergolas or arches, or use as dense groundcover. Vines grow quickly to 15 feet in one season and self-seed readily. Blooms run from early summer to frost, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds with their big, fragrant, colorful flowers.

Important: Seeds are highly toxic if ingested.

Planting Morning Glories

• Grow in a sunny, sheltered site—they need lots of sun.
• Plant in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.
• Choose a spot protected from cold, drying winds.
• Sow seeds once ground reaches 64°F.
• File seeds just enough to break the coat; soak 24 hours before planting (they resemble tiny worms).
• Cover lightly with ¼ inch soil. Space 6 inches apart. Water thoroughly.

Low-Maintenance Care

• Apply balanced liquid fertilizer after planting and monthly.
• Provide support for climbers and trailers.
• Water during dry periods.
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pests and Diseases

• Pests: Aphids, leaf miners, spider mites, caterpillars (leaf cutters)
• Diseases: Rust, fungal leaf spots, Fusarium wilt
• Critters: Deer can be problematic.

Recommended Varieties

• 'Heavenly Blue' – Classic rich azure (blue) flowers with white throats; climbs to 12 ft.
• 'Scarlett O'Hara' – Bright red flowers with white throat; climbs to 15 ft.
• Explore more morning glory varieties.

Wit & Wisdom

Morning glories are one of September's birth flowers.