Lupins and Lupin Seeds
Growing and Planting Lupin Seeds for the home garden

Lupins are clump forming and the tall flower spikes are a showy addition to the garden border. Smaller growing hybrids are suitable for growing in pots. Seeds collected in the home garden may not come true to colour.

Most Lupins are hybrids bred for colour and size as well as plant formation. Species Lupins are also avaialble including : Lupinus nanus, a dwarf or 'low growing species'. Lupinus elegans, a slightly taller than nanus. Lupin regalis is a taller growing species, although dwarf cultivars are available. Lupinus chamissonis is a bushy species.

Lupins being a perennial, die back in winter to reappear in spring, some protection from snails is needed when new shoots begin to appear.

GROWING LUPINS FROM SEED
Lupin seeds can be planted in spring outdoors or earlier indoors, germination will take 4 - 10 days. Soaking seeds in warm water before planting is said to enhance germination. Seeds planted indoors or in a cold frame can be transplanted to the garden after 2-3 weeks. Remember to protect young plants from snails and slugs.

Lupin Flowers