Lupines are a popular butterfly host and nectar plant for many species. In addition to being a great butterfly plant, lupines attract other pollinators like our bees. Seeing that lupines provide a variety of benefits to our environment, we should increase the plant populations while we are in the perfect season for it.
Lupines should be planted in early to mid winter for full growth and spring bloom. To plant these seeds, choose a location that will receive full sun to partial shade. They like moist, but well draining soil. After planting these seeds, you can cut back the plants after the bloom and propagate them from basal cuttings in spring.
One of the ways we start our lupine seeds here at Wings of Change is through germination methods. To yield a successful and quick outcome of sproutlings, we experimented using a germination method. We started several different varieties of lupine: Sky Lupine, Miniature Lupine, Ed Gelding Lupine, and Arroyo Lupine. To germinate, we warmed water up in a glass jar. Then, we dropped each type of seed into their own container of warm water. We allowed the seeds to soak for 24 hours before planting in peat pellets.
After we planted each type of seed, we documented how long it took to sprout. After only 48 hours, some of the seedings of each variety had already sprouted and begun to grow. We will continue to monitor the seedlings and watch how quickly we can yield a whole tray of sproutlings.
From this experiment, we concluded that by a germination process, we can have quick success in sprouting many lupine varieties. It’s very simple and can be done in just a few steps! If you would like to try to start your own lupines at home to attract bees and butterflies, purchase your seeds now from our website! We have Arroyo Lupine, Sky Lupine, Miniature Lupine, and Ed Gelding Lupine for sale now. What are you waiting for? Purchase some seeds now and get to germinating!