Hello,
I sawed morning glory seeds and modt of them have successfully geminated.
Now that we had heavy rain or storm, some of the leaves got slightly damaged probably by slugs…
*Are they still okay? Should I eliminate those leaves or entire seedling that has damaged leaf?
I’m planning to transfer them to planters (with stakes) and a hanging basket (to let it go down)
*When is the best time to transfer seedlings?
*Would it be fine to plant 4 seedlings in a 13-inch planter/ hanging basket? Or too crowded?
Thank you in advance!
Thank you for contacting the Toronto Master Gardeners with questions about your morning glory seedlings. The common morning glory (Ipomoea purpurea), native to Mexico and Central America, is a twining vine grown for its attractive flowers and broad heart-shaped leaves. In spite of leaf damage due to wind and or pests, your seedlings will benefit if you keep the leaves on until they naturally yellow, as they will continue to manufacture energy for the plant through photosynthesis. During the aging process, the plant reabsorbs nutrients from the older leaves so these too can be left on to benefit the plant.
From your photos, it appears that your seedlings are growing either in a pot, or garden. The best time to transplant your seedlings is now (i.e. 2 weeks after the last frost) while they are still young. The concern is that these plants do not like their roots being disturbed so care must be taken to get as much of the intact root ball with as little disturbance as possible to give your seedlings the best chance for survival. Water well after transplanting. It is best to provide some sort of trellis support when growing in planters. Three to four seedlings per 33 cm (13 inch) hanging basket would be suitable. The hanging baskets will likely require at least 2 waterings per week.
For further information:
See Morning Glory Growing Guide
Wishing you all the best with transplanting your morning glory seedings.