The Four O'Clock, known botanically as Mirabilis jalapa, is an exceptional annual plant that is sure to attract attention in any garden. With its bushy form and sturdy stems, it presents a solid presence, reaching heights of 60 to 75 cm. The flowers of the Four O'Clock are particularly notable—large, white, and intensely fragrant, they open in the evenings and on cloudy days, filling the air with a delicate aroma. This plant is ideal for flower beds and group plantings on lawns, creating striking compositions.

Sowing

The Four O'Clock prefers sowing in well-prepared soil. It's best to use a mix of garden soil with added sand to ensure proper drainage. The seeds can be gently pressed into the soil to ensure adequate contact, which promotes germination.

Sowing Depth

The optimal sowing depth for Four O'Clock seeds is about 2 cm. This depth provides the seeds with the right amount of moisture and access to warmth, speeding up the germination process. It's important to cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil to protect them from drying out.

Direct Sowing Period

When should Four O'Clock seeds be sown directly into the ground? The best time is May when the risk of frost is minimal. It’s crucial to ensure the soil is already warmed, which favours rapid plant development.

Sowing Period Under Cover

When should Four O'Clock seeds be sown under cover? April is the ideal month. Sowing under cover allows for an earlier start to the growing season and better preparation of seedlings for transplantation to their permanent garden location.

Planting Time

It is best to plant the Four O'Clock in May when the temperatures are stable. The plant quickly adapts and begins to grow vigorously, contributing to abundant blooming later on.

Plant Spacing

The recommended spacing for Four O'Clock is 30x40 cm. Adequate distance between plants allows them to develop freely, ensuring access to light and air, which minimises the risk of diseases.

Companion Planting

The Four O'Clock pairs well with plants of contrasting colours, such as red geraniums or blue lobelias. It is worth planting it alongside plants with similar soil and light requirements.

Site Conditions

The Four O'Clock thrives best in sunny or slightly shaded locations. It prefers fertile, well-drained, and moderately moist soils. It is best to avoid waterlogged areas where roots may be prone to rot. Regular watering during dry periods is key to ensuring abundant flowering.

Growing Tips

Caring for the Four O'Clock is straightforward. Regularly removing spent flowers encourages the plant to continue blooming. It is also recommended to fertilise every few weeks to promote healthy growth. It is important to monitor the soil to prevent it from becoming too dry, especially during peak flowering periods.

Plant Height

The Four O'Clock reaches a height of 60 to 75 cm. It is a plant with balanced growth, presenting well both in single plantings and in groups.

Flowering Period

The Four O'Clock blooms from July to October. Its long flowering period makes it an excellent choice for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of flowers throughout summer and autumn.

Usage

The White Four O'Clock is a versatile plant that works wonderfully in home gardens, flower beds, or as a decorative element on lawns. Its fragrant flowers attract butterflies and bees, adding extra dynamism to the garden. It can also be grown in pots on balconies and terraces, where its charming flowers will delight for a long time.

Resistance to Diseases

The Four O'Clock is characterised by good resistance to most plant diseases. It is rarely attacked by pests, making it relatively easy to cultivate. It tolerates dry spells well, but regular watering is advisable to maintain optimal health.

Good to Know

The Four O'Clock thrives best in moderate climates. Its flowers open in the evenings, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to enjoy their garden in the evening hours. It is an annual plant, but through self-seeding, it may reappear in the garden in subsequent years.

Why Buy from Garden Seeds Market

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The package contains 2 g of seeds. The packaging includes information on cultivation guidelines and the sowing expiration date.