Spring planting doesn’t start when the air feels warm, It...Read More
Lacy Phacelia is a fast-growing annual wildflower known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and beautiful clusters of lavender-blue, bell-shaped flowers that bloom from spring through early summer. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, this low-maintenance plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Phacelia is often used as a cover crop for its soil-building properties and ability to suppress weeds. Its striking flowers and pollinator-friendly nature make it a great addition to wildflower gardens, borders, or as a beneficial companion plant.
NAME: Phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia)
VARIETY: Lacy
DAYS TO MATURITY: 60 – 90 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Annual / Tender Perennial
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 3 – 10
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun
SOIL: Sandy/loam soils with a pH 6.0 – 7.0
PLANT HEIGHT: 1 – 3 feet
SPACING: 12 – 18 inches apart
TEMP: 45 – 90ºF
These seeds do not require stratification and germinate readily without any cold treatment. However, they prefer darkness for germination, so ensure that seeds are lightly covered.
To learn more about Stratification, click here!
Direct sowing is generally recommended for Lacy Phacelia, but you can start seeds indoors if desired.
If starting indoors, begin 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost.
Sow seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with a well-draining mix. Cover lightly with soil as the seeds require darkness to germinate.
Maintain a soil temperature around 60-70°F. Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days.
Thin seedlings to one per cell, and gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions over about a week before transplanting.
When transplanting, space plants 10-12 inches apart to allow for full growth and airflow.
Direct sowing is ideal for Lacy Phacelia, especially in early spring or late summer.
Choose a sunny, well-drained site and sow seeds on the soil surface at a depth of 1/8-1/4 inch, covering them lightly to block out light.
Sow seeds in rows or broadcast thinly for a mass planting. Aim for approximately 6 seeds per for larger areas.
Keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge, which should occur within 7-14 days.
Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.
Soil: Thrives in moderately fertile, well-draining soil and adapts well to poor soil conditions, including sandy or rocky soils.
Water: Water regularly during establishment. Once mature, Lacy Phacelia is somewhat drought-tolerant but performs best with moderate moisture.
Fertilization: Not necessary, as it grows well without additional nutrients.
Pruning: If grown as a cover crop, cut back before it sets seed to prevent self-seeding.
