How to Grow Lupins From Seed

How to sow lupin seeds

There are a couple of different methods available to germinate and grow lupins from seeds. The first of which is to soak the seed for 24 hours in clear water before sowing in a peat-free compost or growing medium of choice.

Another method involves germinating the seeds in a piece of damp kitchen towel. Lupin seeds are relatively thick-skinned, including the dwarf varieties. By rubbing the seeds between 2 pieces of sandpaper, little grazes are created on the surface of the seed which allows moisture to get in, speeding up the germination process.

Follow the steps below for fast germination:

1. 1. Give one side of a piece of kitchen towel a spray.
2. 2. Place the lightly grazed seeds on top and then fold the kitchen towel up. Make sure there’s good contact between the kitchen towel and lupin seeds.
3. 3. Place the parcel into a clear plastic bag and store it on a warm windowsill and leave for 2 to 3 days.
4. 4. Check the seeds daily after this to see if they have germinated. It can take around 5 days to germinate.

How to grow lupins from seed

Leave the lupin seedlings somewhere bright and warm to grow such as a greenhouse or windowsill. Once the lupins outgrow their initial seedling trays, pot them on into deep pots as they grow long taproots. Once the weather begins to warm up and the last frost has been, it is time to plant them outside. Before doing so, ensure you harden the off for 7-10 days, so they acclimatise to the outdoor weather.

Lupins like moist, well-draining soil, in an area with full sun or partial shade. They also prefer neutral to slightly acidic soil. As they are tall flowers they would benefit from a sheltered position. If you have no choice other than to grow them in an exposed area, use a stake to support them.

How to care for lupins

Routinely deadhead lupins to encourage a second bloom. At the end of the season, cut the flowers right back to the ground ready for them to return the following year. Lupin’s expected lifetime value is 6 years. To aid the plant’s growth, feed them weekly with a high potassium feed like Seafeed Xtra.

Problem Solving

Lupins are prone to slug and snail damage in their early growing phase so use an effective slug deterrent such as Feed and Protect. Feed and Protect slightly changes the taste of the leaves to slugs and snails, making them slightly bitter. Therefore, the molluscs simply leave the plant alone.