Last year I germinated lupin seeds and successfully planted them, They were admired by all and everyone around.
This year I guess I did a very big mistake.
I germinated the seeds that I collected with different colors from friends this August.
If I plant them now will they survive or have I lost my seeds already.
I feel so sad please help.
I live in. Toronto,
I do not remember when I planted them last year I thought if I plant them before fall I would get flowers next summer.
Thank you for contacting the Toronto Master Gardeners with your inquiry.
How lucky you are to be able to grow these stunning plants. Lupines are in the class of short-lived perennials. They put all their energy into it’s large tap root and those magnificent flower stalks as a result, Lupines usually live in the range of two to five years.
Lupine seed are generally started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, which is usually May 9th. Germination should occur within 10-14 days. Seedlings are then transplanted outside.
Lupine seeds may also be chilled for a week in the refrigerator prior to planting. This may also be accomplished by planting lupine seeds in the fall (September-November) and letting Mother Nature do the chilling through the winter.
There is no way of telling whether your seedlings will survive the winter. Because lupines need at least some exposure to cool temperatures to develop their roots the cool autumn mornings and evenings will definitely be a benefit. If you have more seeds I would suggest sowing them directly in the garden and you will be rewarded with flowers the following year.